Marseille: Evening sailboat trip to the Calanques du Frioul with buffet and organic wine

If you’re craving a blend of stunning scenery, relaxing vibes, and a touch of gourmet indulgence, this evening sailboat trip in Marseille ticks all those boxes. The experience combines a scenic cruise through the Calanques du Frioul, a swim stop in a pristine cove, a fresh vegetarian buffet, and organic Provençal wine—all wrapped up in 3.5 hours of pure pleasure. The boat itself is described as beautiful, and the crew’s enthusiasm adds a welcoming touch to this memorable outing.

What stands out most is the chance to see Marseille from a different angle—by water, at sunset, with a glass of chilled rosé in hand. The combination of scenic views, good food, and the calming sound of the sea makes this a favorite for travelers seeking a laid-back yet authentic experience. A minor consideration is that some guests found the sunset obscured by clouds or walls, but even then, the ambiance and other elements of the trip shine through.

This tour is ideal for those who love scenic vistas, enjoy tasting local organic food and wine, and want a chance to relax away from busy city streets. It’s especially suitable for couples, small groups, or anyone eager to enjoy Marseille’s coastline in style—without the cost of a fancy dinner or a full-day tour.

Key Points

• Stunning Views of Marseille: Offers some of the best vantage points of the city’s skyline and harbor at sunset.
• Relaxed and Intimate Atmosphere: Small group setting with friendly, enthusiastic crew.
• Gourmet Vegetarian Meal & Organic Wine: Emphasis on seasonal, locally-sourced ingredients for a quality dining experience.
• Swim and Snorkel in a Wild Cove: Perfect for cooling off amid natural beauty, with opportunities to take photos and enjoy the water.
• Flexible Timing: Departure times vary seasonally, with an early evening start that allows you to soak in the sunset.
• Authentic Experience: Less about a narrated tour, more about enjoying the scenery, food, and company on the water.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive: What to Expect on the Tour

This sailboat trip from Marseille is a well-rounded experience, carefully designed to showcase the region’s natural beauty while offering moments of relaxation and indulgence. Let’s break down the itinerary and what you’ll likely encounter.

Starting Point: Quai d’Honneur, Marseille

The adventure begins at 70 Quai du Port, right opposite the town hall. The location is both convenient and scenic, providing a lovely view of the old port as you gather with your fellow travelers. The check-in process is straightforward, and the crew is typically welcoming and bilingual (French and English), ensuring smooth communication.

Cruise Through Marseille Harbor

Once aboard, you’ll set sail through the bustling harbor of Marseille. This initial stretch offers a chance to get comfortable on the boat and admire the lively port scene. The boat itself is described as beautiful, and the relaxed pace means you can settle in with your drink and take in the sights.

En Route to the Frioul Archipelago (25 minutes)

The journey toward the Frioul Islands takes around 25 minutes. During this time, you’ll enjoy scenic views of the coastline, passing by iconic spots and possibly catching glimpses of Marseille’s urban skyline blending into nature. The boat cruises steadily, giving you plenty of time to snap photos or simply enjoy the sea breeze.

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The Anchor in a Wild Cove in the Frioul Islands

This is the highlight for many. The boat will anchor in a serene, untouched cove—perfect for a swim, snorkel, or just relaxing with your toes in the water. Several reviews mention this as a key moment, with the natural setting being breathtaking and the water inviting. Some guests also appreciated the opportunity to take pictures of the rugged cliffs and turquoise waters.

Gourmet Vegetarian Dinner & Organic Provence Rosé

While anchored, a vegetarian cold buffet called “La Casa Consolat” is served. Made fresh daily with seasonal and local ingredients, it’s a thoughtful touch that aligns with eco-conscious travelers. The meal is described as tasty, flavorful, and paired with a chilled glass of organic rosé from Provence, enhancing the authentic regional experience. Reviewers frequently mention the quality of the food, with some noting it as “awesome” and “delicious.”

Sunset, Music, and Relaxation

As the sun begins to dip (weather permitting), the atmosphere gets even more magical. The crew plays music, creating a laid-back vibe that encourages guests to unwind and soak in the view. Although some reviews mention the sunset was hidden behind clouds or walls, many still found the setting beautiful, especially with the city lights coming into view as night falls.

Return to Marseille (End of Tour)

After about 2.5 hours at sea, the boat departs the cove and heads back to the Old Port, arriving around 10:30 p.m. (or earlier in the off-season). The return leg offers a different perspective of Marseille illuminated at night, rounding out the experience with stunning cityscapes.

The Food & Drink: A Focus on Quality & Authenticity

The vegetarian buffet is a notable feature. It emphasizes seasonal, locally sourced ingredients, and some reviewers think it’s a surprisingly gourmet offering for a boat trip. It’s a cold buffet, so expect a variety of fresh vegetables, cheeses, maybe some bread or tapenade, and plenty of flavor.

Accompanying the meal is a glass of organic Provençal rosé, which many guests appreciated as a perfect pairing. The emphasis on organic and local wines underscores the eco-friendly approach of the tour, appealing to environmentally conscious travelers.

The Crew and Atmosphere

Guests often mention the crew, notably Thibault, as passionate and welcoming. Many reviews highlight the crew’s enthusiasm and professionalism, which enhances the overall atmosphere. The boat’s size and setup foster an intimate, friendly environment—ideal for those who prefer meaningful conversations over large group tours.

While the experience isn’t heavily narrated, the crew’s relaxed, approachable attitude encourages guests to enjoy the scenery at their own pace. The music adds to the vibe, making it feel more like a friendly gathering than a formal tour.

Pricing & Value for Money

At $80 per person, this tour offers a great blend of scenic beauty, good food, and a touch of luxury—especially considering the organic wine and gourmet buffet included. Compared with full-day excursions or private yacht charters, this is a cost-effective way to enjoy Marseille’s coast without sacrificing quality.

The inclusion of the meal and wine, along with the scenic stops and swimming opportunity, makes this a well-rounded value. Reviews support this, with many guests calling it “worth the price” and praising the authentic experience over more commercialized options.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Timing: Departure times change seasonally—7:00 p.m. until August 17, 2025, and 6:00 p.m. afterward. Be sure to check your reservation.
• Clothing: Dress comfortably for sailing; layers are recommended as evenings can cool down.
• Water Activities: Bring your swimsuit, towel, and perhaps snorkeling gear if you want to explore under the water.
• Seasickness: The boat is stable, but if you’re prone, consider taking precautions.
• Accessibility: The tour involves boat boarding and a moderate walk to the meeting point—inform the provider if assistance is needed.
• Pregnancy & Infants: Pregnant women past six months need a medical certificate, and infants should be notified in advance.

The Sum Up

This evening sailboat trip from Marseille offers a balanced mix of scenic beauty, delicious food, and a relaxed atmosphere that appeals to travelers seeking authentic maritime experiences. The views of the city at sunset, combined with the chance to swim in a wild cove and enjoy some organic Provençal wine, create a memorable outing. It’s especially suitable for couples, small groups, or anyone wanting a gentle, scenic escape that combines nature, gastronomy, and a touch of adventure.

While weather can occasionally block the sunset view, the overall experience remains charming and genuine. The friendly crew and high-quality food add a personal touch that makes this trip stand out among Marseille’s many water activities.

If you value good value, authentic regional flavors, and scenic relaxation, this sailboat excursion is likely to be a highlight of your stay in the South of France.

FAQ

What time does the tour start?
The departure time varies seasonally—7:00 p.m. until August 17, 2025, and 6:00 p.m. afterward. Always check your booking details.

Where do I meet the boat?
The boat is moored at Pier 2 in Marseille’s Old Port, directly opposite the town hall.

Is the meal vegetarian?
Yes, the buffet served on board is vegetarian, prepared with fresh, seasonal, and local ingredients.

Are drinks included?
Yes, a glass of organic Provençal rosé is included with the meal.

Can I swim or snorkel?
Absolutely. The boat anchors in a wild cove ideal for swimming, and some guests enjoy snorkeling in the clear waters.

Is there music during the trip?
Yes, the crew plays music to enhance the relaxing, festive atmosphere.

Is this experience suitable for pregnant women or infants?
Pregnant women past six months require a medical certificate, and infants under one year should be notified to the provider in advance.

How long is the cruise?
Total duration is about 3.5 hours, including time at sea, the swim stop, and the return journey.

What is the overall value?
Given the scenic views, gourmet meal, organic wine, and the intimate setting, many find the price of $80 per person to be a worthwhile investment for a memorable Marseille experience.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby