Your Ultimate Guide to Taking a Calanques Boat Tour from Cassis, France
If you’re planning a trip to the French Riviera, don’t miss the chance to take a boat tour of the stunning Calanques National Park from the charming seaside town of Cassis. This picturesque village, nestled on the coast about 18 miles east of Marseille, offers a perfect gateway to explore the rugged beauty of the Calanques. Our family recently visited Cassis during our summer vacation, and the boat tour we took was undoubtedly one of the highlights of our trip.
In this post, I’ll share everything you need to know about booking and enjoying a Calanques boat tour from Cassis, based on our experience.
Why Cassis?
Cassis may be part of the famed French Riviera, but it offers a quieter, more authentic vibe compared to other, more touristy towns like Nice or Cannes. Known for its beautiful harbor, local wineries, and proximity to the Calanques National Park, Cassis remains a peaceful retreat where you can enjoy the beauty of the Mediterranean coast without the crowds. While you’ll still find plenty of tourists, especially in the high season, Cassis retains the charm of a small fishing village, with a laid-back atmosphere that’s perfect for families.
During our visit, we stayed in this delightful town for four nights and had the chance to explore it with our two teenagers. The area’s combination of natural beauty, local culture, and adventure made it an unforgettable experience.
What are the Calanques?
Before we dive into the boat tours, let’s talk about what a “calanque” actually is. The word refers to steep, narrow inlets or coves carved into the limestone cliffs by centuries of erosion. The result is a fjord-like landscape with crystal-clear turquoise waters, dramatic cliffs, and secluded beaches. Some calanques are accessible by boat, others by foot or kayak, and all offer incredible scenery.
The Calanques National Park is home to 26 of these striking inlets, and the boat tours departing from Cassis typically focus on the most popular ones, such as Port-Miou, Port-Pin, and En-Vau, among others.
Booking Your Calanques Boat Tour from Cassis
What makes taking a boat tour from Cassis so appealing is its simplicity. The process is refreshingly low-tech compared to the more commercialized tours found elsewhere. You don’t need to make advance reservations or book online, which means you can decide on the day of your tour, making it easier to keep your travel plans flexible.
The boat tours are run by a local operator whose ticket booth is located near the harbor in Cassis, right next to a small public park. They offer a variety of tours that range from one-hour trips to longer, more in-depth explorations that last up to 2.5 hours. Depending on the tour you choose, you’ll get to see anywhere from three to nine calanques.
Tickets can be purchased directly at the ticket booth on the day of your tour, and prices generally range from €19 to €33 for adults, with discounts for children. The tours are available daily, weather permitting.
Tips for Booking
While you can buy tickets on the spot, it’s best to show up at least 30 minutes before your chosen departure time. This will ensure you have the best chance of securing your spot, especially during the busy summer months. We recommend aiming for one of the earlier tours to avoid the crowds, as day-trippers from cruise ships and nearby cities can fill up the boats by midday.
During our visit, we found that the boats were often full by late morning, so it’s a good idea to get to the harbor early to snag your preferred seat. The boats typically have both shaded and open-air seating, and the best views are from the front or right side of the boat.
What to Expect on Your Boat Tour
Once you’re on board, the boat will head west out of the harbor into the sparkling blue waters of the Mediterranean. As you cruise along the coast, you’ll pass towering limestone cliffs, lush greenery, and hidden beaches. The boat will stop at several calanques, where you’ll have the chance to see their beauty up close.
The most famous calanques that the boat tours visit include:
- Port-Miou: A scenic inlet with a marina and stunning coastal views.
- Port-Pin: Known for its tranquil beach, perfect for a quick photo stop.
- En-Vau: The crown jewel of the Calanques, with dramatic cliffs, a secluded beach, and crystal-clear waters that make it a popular spot for kayakers and cliff divers.
On our tour, we visited five calanques and saw some incredible sights, including dramatic rock formations, hidden caves, and even a few rock climbers scaling the cliffs. It was a truly unforgettable experience!
Tips for the Best Experience
- Arrive Early: As mentioned, the boats fill up quickly, especially during peak tourist season. Arriving early will give you a better chance to secure a prime seat.
- Choose the Right Side: For the best views, sit on the right side of the boat when heading out, as this side offers the best views of the calanques and cliffs. On the return journey, you’ll be able to enjoy stunning sea views as well.
- Pack Smart: There are no restrooms on board, so make sure to use the facilities at the harbor before you board. Also, bring sunscreen, hats, and a camera to capture the beautiful landscapes.
- Weather Considerations: The tours are weather-dependent, so if the forecast looks unfavorable, it’s best to check in advance to avoid disappointment.
Additional Boat Tours in the Region
While Cassis is a fantastic base for exploring the Calanques, you can also take boat tours departing from Marseille, which offers more options due to its larger harbor and proximity to the park. These tours are typically more extensive, offering opportunities to swim, picnic, and explore different areas of the Calanques.
Whether you book your boat tour from Cassis or Marseille, exploring the Calanques from the water is an experience you won’t forget.
Final Thoughts
Our Calanques boat tour from Cassis was one of the most memorable parts of our trip to France. The beauty of the park, combined with the laid-back charm of Cassis, made for a perfect family getaway. Whether you’re an adventure seeker, nature lover, or just looking for a peaceful day on the water, a boat tour of the Calanques is an experience you don’t want to miss.
Cassis itself was one of our favorite places on this trip, and I highly recommend it for families who want to enjoy the French Riviera at a slower pace. After spending four nights here, we could easily have stayed longer. It’s a place that’s definitely worth visiting, and I can’t wait to return!
