Exploring the stunning Frioul Islands off the coast of Marseille is a must-do activity for any visitor to the area. This guided boat tour promises an unforgettable experience, with breathtaking views of the city skyline, historic landmarks, and the serene waters of Calanques National Park. Guests can look forward to a refreshing swim stop in the pristine Mediterranean, accompanied by informative commentary in both French and English. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or simply seeking a day of relaxation, this tour offers a unique opportunity to learn about the beauty of southern France. What’s more, the convenient departure point and range of included amenities make this excursion a seamless and enjoyable way to discover the hidden gems of the Frioul Islands.
This experience made our list of the 25 Best Cruises And Boat Tours In Marseille.
Key Points
- Guided boat tour from Marseille to the Frioul archipelago, lasting 105 minutes with stunning views of the city from the sea.
- Includes a swimming stop of at least 30 minutes on Frioul Island, part of the Calanques National Park.
- Highlights such as Chateau d’If, Caroline Hospital, and serene coves, with commentary provided in both French and English.
- Flexible booking options, including advance purchase discounts and free cancellation up to 24 hours prior.
- Comfortable semi-rigid boats equipped with bimini tops, swim ladders, and snorkeling gear for a safe and enjoyable experience.
Tour Overview and Highlights
The guided boat trip from Marseille to the Frioul archipelago takes visitors on a 105-minute journey to explore the captivating islands.
Guests will admire stunning views of Marseille from the sea and witness the island’s highlights, including the historic Chateau d’If, the Caroline Hospital, and the island’s serene coves and atmosphere.
The tour includes a swim stop of at least 30 minutes on Frioul Island, part of the Calanques National Park.
A live guide is available to provide commentary in both French and English, enhancing the educational and immersive experience.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Marseille.
Pricing and Booking
Prices for the Frioul Islands boat tour start from $65.99 per person, but visitors can save up to 15% by booking in advance, bringing the cost down to $56.09 per person. The tour offers flexible booking options, including a "Reserve Now, Pay Later" option for those who need to adjust their travel plans. Visitors can also take advantage of free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Feature | Price |
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Adult (16+ years) | $65.99 |
Child (4-15 years) | $56.09 |
Infant (0-3 years) | Free |
Discounted rate | Up to 15% off |
Cancellation policy | Free up to 24 hours |
Departure and Meeting Point
The boat tour departs from the old port of Marseille at the Mucem, J4 esplanade. The meeting point is the basin with many boats behind the Mucem.
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Conveniently located, the departure point is easily accessible for travelers.
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Guests should arrive at the meeting point at least 15 minutes before the scheduled departure time.
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The friendly staff will be on hand to assist with boarding and ensure a smooth start to the tour.
Included Amenities
Comfortable semi-rigid boats with bimini tops and swim ladders provide the transportation for this tour. Onboard, guests can enjoy music as they take in the sights.
Masks and snorkels are provided, allowing adventurous travelers to explore the waters around the Frioul Islands. Throughout the journey, an experienced tour guide is on hand to provide insightful commentary in both French and English.
While food and drinks are available for purchase, the highlight of the tour remains the opportunity to swim and snorkel in the pristine waters of Calanques National Park.
With these included amenities, the tour offers a well-rounded and immersive experience for visitors to Marseille.
More Great Tours NearbyCustomer Reviews and Ratings
According to customer reviews, the boat tour of the Frioul Islands has maintained an impressive overall rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars based on 259 reviews.
Customers have highlighted several positive aspects of the experience:
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The transportation rating of 4.7/5 suggests travelers were pleased with the comfortable semi-rigid boat and its amenities.
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The value for money rating of 4.6/5 indicates customers felt the tour offered good bang for their buck.
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Reviewers often praise the friendly skippers, beautiful swimming spots, and enjoyable group atmosphere, contributing to the tour’s high customer satisfaction.
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Itinerary and Activities
Embarking on this 105-minute guided boat trip, visitors can expect to admire the stunning views of Marseille from the sea.
The tour highlights include the iconic Chateau d’If, the historic Caroline Hospital, and the picturesque coves and island atmosphere of the Frioul archipelago.
The boat will make a stop at Frioul Island, part of the Calanques National Park, where guests can enjoy a refreshing swim for at least 30 minutes.
Throughout the journey, a live tour guide will be available to provide commentary in both French and English.
The boat is equipped with a bimini top and swim ladder, ensuring a comfortable and safe experience for all.
What to Bring and Wear
Travelers should bring a swimsuit, towel, and sun protection items like hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen for the boat tour. The boat has a bimini top, but guests may want to bring an extra layer for the ride, as it can be breezy out on the water.
Additionally:
- Comfortable, closed-toe shoes are recommended for the walk around Frioul Island.
- A waterproof bag or dry bag is useful for storing personal items during the swim stop.
- A small amount of cash is handy for purchasing food and drinks on the boat.
Additional Information
The boat tour operator provides complementary water, juices, and hot beverages on board, catering to guests’ refreshment needs during the trip. The tour also includes the use of high-quality snorkeling equipment, allowing participants to explore the marine life around the Frioul Islands. To ensure a comfortable and safe experience, the boats are equipped with bimini tops for shade and swim ladders for easy access to the water.
Additional Information | |||
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Refreshments | Snorkeling Gear | Boat Features | Tour Guide |
Water, juices, hot drinks | Masks and snorkels provided | Bimini top, swim ladder | Available in French and English |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Boat?
Yes, customers can bring their own food and drinks on the boat. However, the tour operator also offers food and drinks for purchase during the trip.
How Do I Get Back to Marseille After the Tour?
The boat tour will return you to the departure point at the old port of Marseille at the Mucem, J4 esplanade. You’ll arrive back at the same meeting point where you started the tour.
Is There an Opportunity to See Wildlife on the Islands?
The tour provides opportunities to see wildlife on the Frioul Islands. Visitors may spot seabirds, such as gulls and cormorants, nesting on the rocky cliffs. However, the focus of the tour is on the islands’ natural scenery and historic sites.
What Is the Exact Duration of the Swimming Stop?
The tour includes a swim stop of at least 30 minutes on Frioul Island, part of Calanques National Park. This allows visitors to enjoy the island’s natural beauty and refreshing waters during the excursion.
Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tour?
There are no age restrictions for the tour. The tour is suitable for participants of all ages, allowing families and groups with children to enjoy the experience together.
Sum Up
The Frioul Islands boat tour from Marseille offers an unforgettable experience. Visitors can enjoy stunning views, a refreshing swim in Calanques National Park, and informative commentary in French and English. With comfortable boats, complimentary refreshments, and positive customer reviews, this tour is an excellent way to explore the natural beauty of the region.
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