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We curate the best ways to experience
We partner with the best
All the best options, in one place
Book with complete peace of mind

TL;DR

  • Ways to sail: Sightseeing (1 hr) or dining cruises (1.5–2.5 hr), by day or sunset.
  • Routes: Choose the Underwater Museum dive or Frioul Archipelago snorkel route.
  • Boats & seating: Semi-rigid boats with open seating; compact and adventure-ready.
  • Boarding: From Vieux-Port, arrive 15–20 min early.
  • When to book: Sunset and weekend slots sell out fast, book 1–2 weeks ahead in summer.
  • Good to know: Multilingual audio guide in 8–14 languages, operates in light rain.
  • Best upgrade: Add the onboard meal at Frioul: local flavors with coastal views after snorkeling.

Find your best Marseille boat tour match here

Tour typeDurationHighlightsActivitiesMealsIdeal for

1 hour

Scenic boat ride along Marseille’s coastline.

Snorkeling available for 30 minutes at one spot or exploring the Underwater Museum.

A quick, scenic escape with beautiful coastal views.

1.5–2.5 hours

Scenic cruise with multiple stops.

Snorkeling for 30 minutes, followed by a meal, then 30 more minutes of exploration at a second spot.

1–2 hours of onboard lunch included.

Combining adventure and relaxation with a delicious meal.

2.5 hours

Sunset views over Marseille’s coastline.

Snorkeling for 30 minutes, followed by dinner, then 30 more minutes of cruising.

1–2 hours of onboard dinner included.

Enjoying a sunset while exploring the sea and savoring a meal.

What to expect on a Marseille boat tour?

Vieux Port de Marseille with boats docked along the harbor, France.
Hiker overlooking cliffs and sea at Calanques National Park, Marseille.
Underwater scooter riders exploring marine life in Marseille.
Diver examining sculpture at Underwater Museum of Marseille.
Seafood platter and soup served on a table at Marseille Boat Experience dining.
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Front-row views of Marseille’s coast

As you sail out of the Old Port, you’ll get a front-row seat to the city’s dramatic coastline and landmarks like the historic Château d'If and the rugged Frioul Islands. The sweeping vistas of towering limestone cliffs, crystal-clear Mediterranean waters, and the city’s colorful harbor create a perfect backdrop for an experience to remember.

Cruise through Calanque’s hidden gems

The Calanques National Park is a must-see, and there's no better way to explore it than from the water. With its jagged cliffs and hidden, turquoise coves, the Calanques are a paradise for nature lovers. Whether you’re cruising by or stopping for a swim, this protected area offers some of the most stunning landscapes you'll find in the Mediterranean.

Thrill-seek with underwater scooters

For something truly unique, take the plunge with an underwater scooter. These eco-friendly, electric scooters allow you to glide effortlessly through the clear waters, exploring the marine life in hidden coves. You’ll discover a whole new world beneath the surface, perfect for those looking to add a bit of adventure to their day.

Dive into Marseille’s underwater art

Marseille’s Underwater Museum is one of the few places in the world where art and nature collide. As you dive beneath the waves, you'll find submerged sculptures that have naturally become part of the marine ecosystem.

Dine with breathtaking sea views

No Marseille boat tour is complete without indulging in some local flavors. Whether you’re enjoying a midday lunch with a view of the Calanques or savoring a sunset dinner as the sun dips below the horizon, the experience of dining on the water adds a special touch. With fresh local ingredients and the soft glow of golden-hour light, it’s a truly unique way to enjoy Marseille’s beauty.

Things to know before booking a Marseille boat tour

What all is included?

  • All Marseille boat tours include sightseeing on the round-trip to and from the snorkeling spots, with the captain providing fun and informative commentary along the way. At the diving spots, you’ll be equipped with everything you need for the experience, including underwater scooters and snorkeling gear for easy exploration.
  • While these underwater tours are suitable for first-timers as well, it’s important to know how to swim. Once you’re on board, you’ll have the chance to choose between the beginner-friendly Sublue Navbow or the more powerful Vapor scooter. You can’t pick your scooter beforehand during ticket selection—they’re both priced the same, and you’ll get to decide which one suits you best on the day.

Underwater Museum vs. Frioul Archipelago: what should I choose?

You have the option to choose between diving to explore the Underwater Museum or a snorkeling-only experience at the Frioul Archipelago. Both experiences come with an underwater scooter, but each offers a different experience:

  • Diving to the Underwater Museum: This experience is perfect if you're interested in both art and nature. You'll dive to explore submerged sculptures, which have naturally become part of the marine ecosystem. It’s an immersive experience where you get to witness the beauty of underwater art in a unique, cultural setting.
  • Snorkeling at the Frioul Archipelago: If you prefer a more relaxed, yet equally thrilling experience, this option lets you snorkel through crystal-clear waters around the stunning Frioul Archipelago. The added bonus? You can upgrade to include a meal onboard. Whether you opt for lunch or dinner , you’ll get to relax and enjoy local flavors while taking in the beautiful coastal views.

When and how should I book?

  • While you can book your tour on-site at the port, it’s highly recommended to book online, especially during busy seasons. Tours often sell out fast, and you might find yourself standing in long queues. Moreover, you may be denied entry if the boat reaches full capacity. When you book online, you can easily choose your activity, know exactly where to go, and get all the details about what time to arrive and what to bring, letting you be prepared for the day to follow.
  • If you’re planning to visit in July or August, it’s a good idea to book at least two weeks in advance. These months are the busiest, and tours can fill up quickly, especially with so many tourists around. August, in particular, is a peak time due to French holidays, so locking in your spot early will help ensure you don’t miss out on this incredible experience.

Your visual guide to Marseille’s islands, ports and boarding points 

Marseille Boat Tours Map

What will you see on your Marseille boat tour?

Underwater statues covered in algae at the Underwater Museum of Marseille.
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Underwater Museum

Dive into the depths to explore a unique underwater art gallery. As you glide through the crystal-clear waters, you’ll discover submerged sculptures that have naturally become part of the marine ecosystem, offering an unforgettable blend of art and nature.

Château d’If

As you sail past this iconic fortress, you’ll see the dramatic structure perched on its island, made famous by The Count of Monte Cristo, with stunning views of the surrounding bay and coastline.

Explore ticket options

Frioul Archipelago

Glide past this scenic group of islands, with their pristine waters, rugged cliffs, and historical sites like the old Caroline Hospital. It’s an unspoiled corner of the Mediterranean that feels worlds away from the city.

Calanques National Park

As the boat moves along the coastline, you’ll witness the jaw-dropping cliffs and turquoise waters of the Calanques—one of the most beautiful and untouched stretches of the Mediterranean.

Calanque de Sormiou

From the boat, you’ll get a sweeping view of this large calanque, with its sandy beaches and dramatic cliffs. It’s one of the most photographed spots in the region, and it’s easy to see why.

Calanque de Morgiou

As you approach this picturesque fishing port, you’ll see the steep cliffs and peaceful waters that make it one of the most serene calanques to visit.

Calanque de Sugiton

This calanque is a stunner, with its crystal-clear waters and towering cliffs. From the boat, you’ll get a great view of this idyllic spot, perfect for swimming and soaking in the natural beauty.

Marine Park of the Côte Bleue

Cruise past this rugged coastline, with hidden coves and untouched landscapes. It’s a more remote part of the region, offering a peaceful contrast to the busy city and clear waters to admire.

Fort Saint-Jean

As you pass this historic fort, you’ll get a great view of its strategic position at the entrance to the Old Port, offering an iconic backdrop to the city.

Notre-Dame de la Garde

Visible from the water, this basilica perched high above the city provides a stunning view of both the city and the sea, especially striking as the boat cruises along the coastline.

Secret beaches and coves

As you cruise along the coast, you’ll spot some of the secluded beaches and coves only accessible by boat. They’re pristine and peaceful, perfect for a quick glimpse of untouched Mediterranean beauty.

Scenic cliffs and caves

From the boat, the limestone cliffs and sea caves along the coastline create a dramatic and rugged landscape that makes you feel like you’re in another world.

Plan your Marseille boat tour

  • When to arrive: Get to the meeting point 15–20 minutes early: boats leave right on time. There’s no assigned seating, so arriving early means you can pick your favorite spot along the sides or front.
  • 🎫 Tickets: Just show your booking confirmation on your phone at check-in; no need to print anything.
  • 👗 What to wear: Dress for a beach day: swimwear, shorts, t-shirts, and flip-flops or water shoes. Most guests wear swimsuits under light cover-ups. Don’t forget sunscreen, sunglasses, and a towel and a light jacket if it’s cooler.
  • 🛃 Boarding & security: No airport-style checks: the crew might briefly inspect bags. You’ll board directly from the quay onto a small semi-rigid open boat, so expect a bit of sea spray. Space is tight, so bring only essentials.
  • 👶 Children & pets: Kids are welcome if they can swim. For safety, under-4s aren’t allowed, and all children must be supervised. Pets aren’t permitted, except service animals.
  • 🧳 Bags: Small backpacks or waterproof dry bags are fine. No large luggage or suitcases, as space and weight are limited.
People using underwater scooters in clear waters of Marseille.
  • Operating months
    Year-round availability
    Peak season: July & August (high demand)
    Shoulder months: June & September (fewer crowds, milder heat)
  • Morning cruises
    Times: 9am & 10:30am
    Duration: 1 hour
  • Noon cruises
    Times: 2:30pm, 4:30pm, 6:30pm
    Duration: 1.5 hours
  • Lunch cruises
    Time: 12pm
    Duration: 2 hours
  • Sunset dinner cruises
    Time: 8pm
    Duration: 1.5 hours

Address: 1 Esp. J4, 13002 Marseille, France

Find on maps

  • By metro/tram: Line 2
    Nearest stop: La Joliette stop
  • By bus: Line 82, 60, 49
    Nearest stop: Fort St.Jean stop
  • By bike: Bike station no. 2031— Joliette
  • By car: Take exit 4 for La Joliette / Les Arnavaux / Arenc / Les Ports. This exit leads directly into the Vieux-Port area.
    Parking: Indigo Vieux-Port Fort Saint-Jean Car Park.
Salad with fresh cucumbers, tomatoes, feta cheese, olives, and red onions on a black plate.
  • Salad choices:
    Caesar Salad (non-vegetarian)
  • Greek Salad (vegetarian)
  • Dessert choices:
    Tiramisu
    Fruit salad

Included with all meals:

  • Cutlery
  • Bread roll
  • Bag of chips
  • Bottle of water
People using underwater scooters in Marseille.
  • Participants must be able to swim and should be comfortable in water.
  • Smoking is not allowed during the tour.
  • Touching marine life and plants is strictly prohibited to protect the ecosystem.
  • Feeding animals is not allowed during the tour.
  • This experience is not wheelchair accessible.
  • Children under 4 years old are not allowed to join the tour.
  • This activity is not recommended for pregnant women.
  • Arrive at the meeting point at least 15 minutes before the scheduled departure time.
  • Pets are not permitted, except for registered service animals.
  • Alcohol, drugs, and any form of intoxication are strictly prohibited during the activity.
  • All necessary equipment, including a shorty wetsuit, mask, and snorkel, is provided.

Frequently asked questions about Marseille boat tours

Children are generally welcome, but there are age restrictions for certain activities like underwater scooters. Children under 4 years old are typically not allowed, and participants must be able to swim.