Catamaran cruise to the Frioul Archipelago from Marseille — half-day sailing, snorkel & paddle
Difficulty
easy
Duration
5–6 hours
Fitness Level
Light to moderate: must be able to move on a boat, climb small ladders and stand for portions of the trip
Overview
Set sail from Marseille’s Old Port for a 5–6 hour catamaran cruise that circles Château d’If, explores the Frioul islands and drops anchor in turquoise coves for snorkeling, paddle boarding and a catered Provençal lunch with unlimited rosé. Ideal as a cruise-ship-compatible shore excursion or a relaxed half-day escape from the city.
Catamaran cruise to the Frioul Archipelago from Marseille — half-day sailing, snorkel & paddle
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You step onto the Elba 45 at the old port while the city hums behind you — gulls wheel over the quay, the Major Cathedral’s pale façade catches the sun, and the Palais du Pharo slides away as the captain eases into the channel.
Adventure Photos
Adventure Tips
Bring reef-safe sunscreen
The cove and snorkeling are the day’s highlights; protect marine life and your skin with reef-safe sunscreen and reapply after swimming.
Arrive early at the meeting point
Boarding is timed; arrive 15–20 minutes ahead to avoid delays—this tour coordinates with cruise ship schedules.
Secure loose items
Wind and movement on deck can send hats and cameras overboard—use straps and dry bags for phones and cameras.
Take seasickness precautions
If you are prone to motion sickness, take medication before boarding and sit mid-ship where motion is gentlest.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Mediterranean damselfish and wrasse
- Audouin’s gulls and occasional cormorants
History
Château d’If was built between 1527–1529 on royal orders and later became famous as the prison in Alexandre Dumas’s The Count of Monte Cristo.
Conservation
Frioul’s islands host fragile maquis vegetation and seagrass beds; prioritize reef-safe products and avoid anchoring on seagrass where marked.
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Adventure Hotspots in Marseille
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Swimsuit and quick-dry towel
You’ll be swimming and paddle boarding; a quick-dry towel saves space and weight.
summer specific
Reef-safe sunscreen and hat
Protects skin and local marine life during prolonged sun exposure on deck and in coves.
Light wind layer
Sea breeze can be cool on the return; a packable jacket is useful beyond summer.
spring specific
Waterproof phone case or dry bag
Keeps electronics and documents safe while you’re on deck or in small watercraft.