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If we unfortunately have to make the decision to cancel, you will be able to:
- receive a 100% refund
- Reschedule your outing to another date
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Responsible tourism at sea, in the heart of the Calanques
On board the Goélette Alliance, we believe that exploring the Mediterranean can be done while respecting its fragile beauty and natural heritage.
Our sea outings favour sailing primarily under sail, gentle and quiet, with small groups and constant attention paid to protecting the coastline and marine wildlife.
Every experience is designed to combine the pleasure of sailing, discovery and respect for the environment , because preserving the Calanques is inseparable from the authenticity and sustainability of our outings.
The Phocaean city, with its exceptional coastline, magnificent islands and majestic calanques, is the ideal place to experience a unique adventure with a sailboat rental in Marseille. Set sail for an exceptional voyage and discover the region's hidden treasures with the expert advice of your skipper. Whether you're a sailing enthusiast or simply looking for an original holiday experience, you'll find all the information you need in this article to plan your stay.
The benefits of sailboat rental in Marseille
Renting a sailboat in Marseille offers many advantages:
A prime destination: The city of Marseille offers an idyllic setting for sailing the Mediterranean and exploring this culturally and naturally rich region.
A wide choice of sailboats: Numerous rental companies offer boats of different sizes and ranges, to suit every preference and every budget.
Professional skippers: For those who aren't confident sailors, it's possible to rent a sailboat with a skipper, to make the most of the experience without worrying about manoeuvres or safety.
Attractive rates: Sailboat rental in Marseille offers excellent value for money, especially compared with rates in other areas along the Mediterranean coast.
The different types of sailboat rental in Marseille
There are several options for renting a sailboat in Marseille, depending on your level of experience and preferences:
Bareboat sailing yacht charter: for experienced sailors who want to be their own skipper, chartering a sailing yacht without a skipper is the ideal solution. However, you will need to hold the appropriate boating licence (coastal or offshore).
Skippered sailing yacht charter: this option lets you make the most of your stay without worrying about manoeuvres or the safety of the boat. The skipper takes care of sailing the boat and organising life on board, while sharing their knowledge of the region.
Flotilla sailing charter: if you are travelling as a group, a flotilla charter can be an appealing option. You sail in convoy with other boats, which encourages meeting other crews and exchanging experiences. A professional flotilla leader also ensures that the sailing runs smoothly and offers activities and visits ashore.
Must-see stops when chartering a sailing yacht in Marseille
Here are a few stopovers not to be missed during your sailing trip in Marseille:
The Calanques National Park
This natural gem is one of the most iconic sites in the region. Sailing through the heart of the Calanques, you will discover breathtaking scenery and wild coves with crystal-clear waters, accessible only by sea.
The Frioul Islands and Château d'If
Made up of two islands, Frioul is a true haven of peace just a few miles from the Vieux-Port. Don't miss a visit to the famous Château d'If, which inspired Alexandre Dumas' novel "The Count of Monte Cristo".
The Côte Bleue
Located between Marseille and Martigues, the Côte Bleue offers a string of picturesque little harbours and secret coves, where you can drop anchor to relax or enjoy a refreshing swim.
Tips for planning your sailing yacht charter in Marseille
Before setting off on your adventure, here are a few tips to help you organise your sailing charter in Marseille:
Choose the right charter company: take the time to compare different offers and check the reputation of charter companies, for example by reading customer reviews online.
Plan your budget: in addition to the cost of chartering the boat, don't forget to factor in additional expenses (provisions, fuel, mooring fees, etc.).
Check the weather conditions: sailing conditions can vary considerably depending on the season. Check the weather forecast and adjust your itinerary accordingly.
Prepare your kit: remember to bring suitable sailing clothing (waterproof jacket, non-slip shoes, sunglasses, etc.), as well as all the necessary documents (boating licence, passport or ID card).
By following this advice, you are now ready to embark on an unforgettable sailing charter experience in Marseille. So hoist the sails and enjoy fair winds!
When visiting Marseille, it is impossible not to be captivated by the beauty of the Calanques National Park. Located between Marseille and Cassis, this park offers a unique experience for nature lovers and watersports enthusiasts. In this article, we will give you all the information you need to plan your visit to the Calanques of Marseille.
What is a calanque, and why visit the ones in Marseille?
A calanque is a geographical term for a valley carved out by a river and then submerged by the sea, forming a narrow, deep inlet. Calanques are especially common along the French Mediterranean coast, particularly around Marseille.
The Calanques of Marseille offer breathtaking scenery, with steep cliffs and crystal-clear waters. They are also the ideal place for a range of activities such as hiking, climbing, scuba diving and kayaking.
How to get to the Calanques of Marseille
By car
To reach the Calanques by car, simply follow the coast road running from Marseille to Cassis. You will find several car parks near the main calanques, such as the one at Callelongue for Calanque de Marseilleveyre, or the one at Port-Miou for the calanque at Cassis.
By public transport
Public transport is also an option for reaching the Calanques from Marseille. You can take bus 20, 21 or 22 from Rond-Point du Prado metro station to the "Calanque de Samena" stop, just a few minutes' walk from the first calanques.
By boat
Finally, one of the best ways to enjoy the Calanques is undoubtedly a boat trip. Several companies offer sea excursions departing from Marseille or Cassis, with a range of itineraries that sometimes include stops for swimming in the turquoise waters of the Calanques.
Which are the main calanques to visit in Marseille?
Calanques National Park has more than 20 inlets, some more accessible than others. Here is a selection of the main calanques not to be missed during your visit:
Calanque de Sormiou: Just 10 km from the centre of Marseille, this calanque is accessible by car and boasts a fine sandy beach that is ideal for a family day out.
Calanque de Morgiou: Nestled against the Marseilleveyre massif, this calanque is a true haven of peace where you can swim and picnic in the shade of the pines.
Calanque d'En-Vau: Probably the most famous of the calanques, this inlet is only accessible on foot or by boat. The soaring cliffs that surround it create a majestic setting, and its beach is a real paradise for divers.
Calanque de Port-Miou: Located within the town of Cassis, this calanque is home to a former Roman harbour and offers an exceptional view over the town and Cap Canaille.
What activities can you do in the Calanques of Marseille?
Calanques National Park offers a wealth of activities to help you make the most of your visit. Here are a few of them:
Hiking: Numerous waymarked trails run through the park, letting you explore the calanques on foot while enjoying breathtaking views over the Mediterranean.
Climbing: The limestone cliffs of the Calanques are a popular playground for climbers, with hundreds of routes ranging from beginner to advanced.
Kayaking: Kayak hire is available in some calanques, such as Port-Miou or Morgiou, letting you explore these Mediterranean gems from the water.
Scuba diving: The crystal-clear waters of the Calanques form a natural aquarium where you can observe exceptional wildlife and marine plants. Several diving clubs offer guided outings, whether you are a beginner or an experienced diver.
Tips for your visit to the Calanques of Marseille
To make the most of your visit to the Calanques of Marseille, here are a few tips to follow:
Respect the environment: Calanques National Park is a protected area, so it is important to respect the wildlife and plants by avoiding picking flowers or disturbing animals. Please also remember not to leave any litter behind.
Bring suitable footwear: If you plan to explore the calanques on foot, don't forget comfortable walking shoes suited to the terrain, which can be uneven in places.
Bring plenty of water: Temperatures in the Calanques can be high, especially in summer. Remember to bring enough water with you to avoid dehydration.
Check the weather conditions: Before heading to the Calanques, check the weather and sailing conditions if you are planning a boat trip. Some activities may be cancelled in bad weather.

