Marseille: Calanques National Park Eco-Friendly Cruise

Nestled along the stunning Mediterranean coast, Marseille’s Calanques National Park beckons nature enthusiasts with its breathtaking landscapes. Exploring this protected paradise on an eco-friendly cruise provides a unique opportunity to take in the park’s vibrant biodiversity. From an intimate boat ride to guided hikes and refreshing swims, this tailored experience promises an unforgettable adventure for those seeking to connect with the great outdoors. But what hidden gems await discovery within this natural sanctuary?

Key Points

• 6-hour eco-friendly cruise from Marseille’s Old Port, with a focus on the biodiversity and conservation of Calanques National Park.
• Personalized small-group experience (max 2 participants) with a 3.5-hour hiking and swimming excursion within the park.
• Boat cruise, guided exploration, and learning about the park’s unique limestone cliffs and turquoise waters.
• Includes food and drinks, but not hotel pickup/drop-off, and not suitable for those with mobility issues or non-swimmers.
• Comfortable clothing, essential items, and adherence to guide’s instructions are recommended for this nature-focused adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Eco-Friendly Cruise Through Calanques National Park

Though Calanques National Park is known for its stunning natural beauty, the best way to experience it’s through an eco-friendly cruise.

This 6-hour tour departs from the Old Port of Marseille and takes guests on a river boat ride to the national park. The cruise is limited to just 2 participants, ensuring personalized attention from the live tour guide available in French and English.

During the 3.5-hour hiking and swimming excursion, visitors can admire the limestone cliffs, turquoise waters, and hidden coves while learning about the park’s biodiversity and conservation efforts.

Itinerary Details: Calanques National Park Exploration

The eco-friendly cruise begins with an 80-minute river boat ride from the Old Port of Marseille to the stunning Calanques National Park.

An 80-minute river boat ride from the Old Port of Marseille to the stunning Calanques National Park marks the start of this eco-friendly cruise.

Once there, guests can spend 3.5 hours hiking and swimming amidst the park’s limestone cliffs, turquoise waters, and hidden coves. The tour guide provides insights into the park’s biodiversity and conservation efforts.

After the exploration, the group enjoys an 80-minute return boat ride back to the Old Port.

While the main sites passed are for reference, the itinerary may change to accommodate weather and other factors. The cruise is ideal for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

Highlights and Experiences: Discovering the Park’s Natural Wonders

Visitors can admire the breathtaking limestone cliffs, serene turquoise waters, and hidden coves that characterize Calanques National Park.

This eco-friendly cruise offers the opportunity to learn about the park’s unique biodiversity and conservation efforts from the knowledgeable live tour guide. The personalized attention from the crew ensures an immersive and memorable experience for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

Key highlights include:

• Discovering the diverse flora and fauna of the park

• Hiking through scenic trails and swimming in the pristine waters

• Gaining insider insights from the crew about the park’s ecology

• Experiencing the tranquility and beauty of this protected natural wonder

Inclusions and Exclusions: What’s Covered and What’s Not

This eco-friendly cruise through Calanques National Park includes the boat cruise, a live tour guide who provides insights in French and English, as well as food and drinks throughout the day.

However, hotel pickup and drop-off aren’t included. The tour isn’t suitable for those with mobility issues, non-swimmers, or those prone to seasickness.

Guests should come prepared with hats, swimwear, cameras, sunscreen, and water. Smoking, plastic bottles, littering, feeding animals, and touching plants are prohibited.

Comfortable clothing and biodegradable sunscreen are recommended, and participants should be ready for weather changes and follow the guides’ instructions.

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Important Information: Preparing for Your Eco-Adventure

To ensure a seamless and safe eco-adventure, guests should be aware of a few important considerations.

The activity isn’t suitable for those with mobility issues, non-swimmers, or those prone to seasickness. Participants are advised to wear comfortable clothing and shoes, and bring a hat, swimwear, camera, sunscreen, and water.

This eco-adventure may not be suitable for those with mobility issues, non-swimmers, or those prone to seasickness. Bring comfortable clothing and essential items.

Smoking, plastic bottles, littering, feeding animals, and touching plants are prohibited. Guests should be prepared for changing weather conditions and follow the guides’ instructions closely.

The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and a reserve now & pay later option is available.

Starting Point: Exploring the Old Port of Marseille

Where does the eco-friendly cruise in Calanques National Park depart from?

The cruise begins at the Old Port of Marseille, a historic harbor dating back to ancient Greek and Roman times. Visitors will board a small, eco-friendly boat and embark on an 80-minute journey to the Calanques National Park.

The Old Port offers picturesque views of the Mediterranean coastline, sailboats, and towering limestone cliffs. It’s an ideal starting point for this adventure, allowing easy access to the stunning natural wonders of the Calanques.

Participants can explore the lively waterfront before setting off on their eco-friendly cruise.

Personalized Attention From the Crew

The crew aboard the eco-friendly cruise provides personalized attention to each participant. They offer:

• Knowledgeable insights about the park’s flora, fauna, and conservation efforts

• Assistance with equipment and activities, ensuring everyone’s comfort and safety

• Tailored recommendations based on individual preferences and abilities

• Responsive communication in both French and English to enhance the experience

The crew’s dedication and attentiveness create an intimate and enriching journey through the stunning Calanques National Park. This allows participants to fully enjoy the natural wonders of this protected area.

Ideal for Nature Lovers and Adventure Seekers

The eco-friendly cruise through Calanques National Park caters perfectly to nature enthusiasts and adventure-seekers alike. Travelers can admire the stunning limestone cliffs, turquoise waters, and hidden coves. The guided hikes and swimming opportunities allow visitors to intimately explore the park’s biodiversity. Onboard, the crew shares insights into the region’s conservation efforts. Guests enjoy personalized attention in a small group setting. This unique experience immerses travelers in the natural beauty and wonder of the Calanques.

| What You’ll See | What You’ll Do |

| — | — |

| Limestone cliffs | Hiking |

| Turquoise waters | Swimming |

| Hidden coves | Learning about conservation |

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring a Pet on the Cruise?

No, pets are not allowed on the eco-friendly cruise. The cruise is limited to a small group of 2 participants and excludes pets for the safety and comfort of all passengers.

Is There an Age Limit for Participants?

There’s no stated age limit for participants. The cruise is limited to 2 people in a small group, so it’s likely suitable for a range of ages. However, it may not be appropriate for very young children due to the activity level.

How Accessible Is the Hiking Portion for Individuals With Disabilities?

The hiking portion may not be fully accessible for individuals with mobility impairments. The activity is not suitable for those with disabilities, as it involves uneven terrain and physically demanding activities like hiking and swimming.

Can I Purchase Additional Food or Drinks During the Cruise?

Yes, additional food and drinks can be purchased during the cruise. The cruise includes complimentary food and drinks, but participants can also buy extra items from the crew throughout the 6-hour excursion.

Do I Need to Have Prior Boating Experience to Join the Tour?

No, prior boating experience is not required to join the tour. The small group size and live tour guide provide personalized attention, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for participants of all skill levels.

The Wrap Up

This eco-friendly cruise offers a unique opportunity to take in the stunning natural beauty of Calanques National Park. Combining a scenic boat ride with an exhilarating hiking and swimming adventure, the tour provides an unforgettable experience for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. Led by an informative guide, this personalized excursion showcases the park’s rich biodiversity and conservation efforts, leaving a lasting impression on participants.

You can check availability for your dates here: