Gliding across the tranquil waters of Marseille’s iconic harbor, the sunset sailing cruise offers a truly immersive experience. As the traditional wooden schooner sets sail, guests are treated to breathtaking views of the city’s stunning coastline, from the towering Château d’If to the majestic Notre-Dame de la Garde. Anchoring in a secluded cove within the Frioul archipelago, the journey only becomes more captivating, with a locally-sourced organic buffet dinner and a complementary glass of rosé waiting to be savored as the sun dips below the horizon, creating an unforgettable and serene atmosphere.
Key Points
- The Sunset Sailing Cruise departs from Vieux-Port, offering panoramic views of Marseille’s iconic landmarks like Château d’If and Notre-Dame de la Garde.
- Guests can snorkel in the crystal-clear waters of the Frioul archipelago, a serene collection of four islands off the Marseille coast.
- The cruise includes a light buffet dinner featuring organic, locally-sourced produce, complemented by a glass of refreshing rosé wine.
- Passengers can relax on the traditional wooden schooner and enjoy the gentle sounds of music while admiring the breathtaking sunset.
- The cruise provides a unique opportunity to experience the natural beauty and tranquility of Marseille’s coastline from a sailing perspective.
Overview of the Sunset Sailing Cruise
The sunset sailing cruise aboard a traditional wooden Schooner offers passengers a unique opportunity to experience the beauty of Marseille’s coastline.
Departing from the Vieux-Port near the city hall, the boat will sail past iconic landmarks like the Château d’If and Notre-Dame de la Garde, providing stunning views of the city’s picturesque skyline.
Once anchored in a secluded cove within the Frioul archipelago, guests can enjoy swimming in the crystal-clear waters and indulge in a light buffet dinner made from organic, local produce.
Throughout the journey, passengers will be able to relax on board and admire the breathtaking sunset, accompanied by soothing background music.
Highlights of the Experience
Aboard the traditional wooden Schooner, passengers can look forward to a host of captivating highlights that elevate the sunset sailing experience in Marseille.
They’ll board the boat at the Vieux-Port, near the city hall, and sail past iconic landmarks like the Château d’If and the Notre-Dame de la Garde.
Once anchored in a secluded cove of the Frioul archipelago, guests can dive into the crystal-clear waters for a refreshing snorkel.
As the sun begins to dip below the horizon, they’ll indulge in a light, locally-sourced dinner buffet and sip on a complimentary glass of rosé, all while savoring the breathtaking sunset and relaxing to the gentle sounds of music.
Boarding the Traditional Schooner
Passengers eagerly board the traditional wooden Schooner at the Vieux-Port near Marseille’s city hall, anticipation building as they step onto the deck and take in the sights and sounds of the historic harbor.
The captain and crew welcome them aboard, guiding them to their seats and pointing out the vessel’s impressive sails and rigging.
As the boat casts off, guests gaze in awe at the iconic Château d’If and Notre-Dame de la Garde, their silhouettes framed against the shimmering Mediterranean.
The gentle rocking of the waves and the crisp sea breeze create a sense of tranquility, setting the stage for an unforgettable sunset sailing adventure.
Sailing Past Marseille’s Landmarks
As the Schooner slices through the shimmering waters, passengers marvel at the iconic landmarks that dot the Marseille coastline. The majestic Château d’If, with its imposing stone walls, stands tall against the azure sky, while the ornate spires of the Notre-Dame de la Garde basilica rise majestically on the city’s highest point, commanding the attention of all who gaze upon it. The crew points out these landmarks, providing fascinating insights into the city’s rich history and architecture. Passengers find themselves transfixed by the beauty of Marseille’s skyline, the wind in their hair, and the gentle rocking of the Schooner beneath them.
The highlights along the way include:
- Admiring the striking Château d’If, a 16th-century fortress that has become a symbol of the city.
- Marveling at the impressive Notre-Dame de la Garde basilica, a Neo-Byzantine church that dominates the Marseille skyline.
- Enjoying the unique perspective of Marseille’s landmarks from the comfort of the sailing Schooner.
Exploring the Frioul Archipelago
The Schooner gracefully navigates towards the Frioul archipelago, a serene collection of four rugged islands nestled just off the Marseille coastline. Guests eagerly anticipate exploring this natural paradise, which promises stunning vistas and the chance to enjoy the tranquility of the Mediterranean.
As the boat anchors in a hidden cove, guests have the opportunity to don their snorkeling gear and discover the vibrant marine life teeming beneath the surface. The crystal-clear waters offer a captivating glimpse into the underwater world, while the surrounding islands provide a dramatic backdrop for this one-of-a-kind experience.
| Island | Area (km²) | Highest Point (m) |
|---|---|---|
| Ratonneau | 1.76 | 102 |
| Pomègues | 2.92 | 170 |
| Château d’If | 0.06 | 29 |
| Tiboulen | 0.14 | 46 |
Dining on Local Organic Fare
After working up an appetite from the refreshing swim, guests eagerly make their way back to the schooner, where a tempting light dinner buffet awaits them.
The spread features an array of organic, locally-sourced delights:
- A vibrant salad brimming with crisp greens, juicy tomatoes, and tangy olives, dressed in a zesty vinaigrette.
- Freshly-baked bread, still warm from the oven, accompanied by a selection of rich, creamy cheeses and fragrant olive tapenade.
For the main course, grilled marinated seafood skewers, each morsel bursting with the flavors of the Mediterranean.
As the sun dips below the horizon, guests savor every bite, relishing the combination of local flavors and the serene ambiance of the Frioul archipelago.
Relaxing and Enjoying the Sunset
With the last of the day’s warmth fading, guests settle back on the schooner’s deck, their senses captivated by the vibrant hues blanketing the horizon.
Sipping their chilled rosé, they bask in the tranquil rhythms of the waves and the soothing melodies drifting from the onboard sound system, fully immersed in the magic of the sunset.
As the fiery orb dips below the distant line of the sea, the sky erupts in a breathtaking display of oranges, pinks, and purples, casting a warm glow over the Frioul archipelago.
Guests revel in the serenity of the moment, savoring the peace and beauty that only a Marseille sunset can provide.
Important Information and Booking Details
Guests can snatch up remaining spots on this sought-after sunset sailing cruise, which often sells out quickly. Priced at Kč 2,013 per person, the experience includes a boat tour, cold buffet dinner, and a glass of rosé wine.
To secure a reservation, travelers must check availability and book in advance, as the cruise operator doesn’t offer refunds for no-show customers. Arriving 15 minutes prior to departure is advised, and guests should bring swimwear and a towel for the chance to take a dip in the crystal-clear waters during the voyage.
This sunset sailing cruise is likely to sell out, so book early.
Arrive 15 minutes before departure to ensure a smooth boarding process.
Bring your swimsuit and towel to enjoy a refreshing swim during the voyage.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Cruise?
No, bringing your own food and drinks is generally not allowed on this type of cruise. The package includes a light dinner buffet and one glass of rosé, ensuring a complete dining experience while sailing at sunset.
Is There an Option to Extend the Cruise Duration?
The cruise company offers an option to extend the duration of the sailing tour, allowing guests to soak up more of the stunning sunset views and leisurely enjoy the peaceful ambiance out on the water.
Do I Need to Know How to Swim for the Snorkeling Activity?
While swimming skills are not required, knowing how to swim would enhance the snorkeling experience. The calm waters allow for easy floating and exploration of the marine life below the surface.
What Happens if the Weather Is Bad on the Day of the Cruise?
If the weather is poor, the cruise operator will likely cancel or reschedule the activity for the safety of participants. Guests will be notified in advance and may have the option to receive a full refund or rebook for another date.
Can I Bring My Pet on the Cruise?
Unfortunately, pets are not permitted on the sunset sailing cruise due to safety and space constraints. The cruise is designed for the comfort and enjoyment of all passengers, so bringing pets would not be feasible.
Recap
Sailing away from the bustling Vieux-Port, the sunset cruise offers a peaceful escape. Guests can bask in the golden glow, sipping rosé and savoring local delicacies as the wooden schooner glides past Marseille’s iconic landmarks.
Anchored in a secluded cove, the tranquil experience creates lasting memories of the city’s stunning coastline and breathtaking natural beauty.
