Sailing on a cruise sailboat for a vacation in the Mediterranean.

Marseille is a prime destination for setting sail, and for good reason! The Phocaean city boasts the largest cruise port in France and has many attractions that justify its renown. Its museums, alleyways, and beaches have a lot to offer, and you'll have plenty to do during the few days before or after your sailing trip.

3 REASONS TO TAKE A CRUISE FROM MARSEILLE

1. Explore each beach along the Marseille coast

Marseille and the cities of the French Riviera in general are popular destinations for the beauty of their beaches. From the Old Port, set sail and you'll find yourself in the Baie des Singes, a characterful cove located south of Marseille just after the port of Les Goudes.

2. Admire the wild landscape of the Frioul Islands

Departing from the Old Port, head for the Frioul Islands. The archipelago consists of 4 islands: Pomègues, Ratonneau, If, and Tiboulen. The beaches and sandy coves are the charm of these islands. To add romance to your voyage, don't miss visiting the Château d'If, thus retracing the famous adventures of the Count of Monte Cristo.

3. The feeling of freedom

On board a sailboat, the pace slows down, and the vastness of the Mediterranean Sea invites you to escape. Time seems to stand still during these relaxing vacations. Sailing in the sun promises sun, relaxation, and plunges into warm water.

WHAT TO EXPECT DURING YOUR CRUISE FROM MARSEILLE?

Southern France will unveil its beauty to you at the pace of the wind during your sailing cruise. Between the calanques of Marseille and Cassis, the landscapes unfold, and you'll see them from the deck of your boat, calm and far from the crowds. A luxury few tourists can enjoy in the south of France. On the agenda: swimming in turquoise waters, sunbathing under the Marseille sun, all in an extraordinary natural setting.

From Marseille, you can simply cruise along the French Riviera, or head to Sardinia or Crete. Croatia is also among the most coveted destinations.

EXAMPLE ITINERARY FOR A FOUR-DAY EXTENDED WEEKEND

Day 1 : From Marseille to Cassis

Departing from the old port or the Port de Pointe-Rouge, you'll find numerous rental boats. Then, hoist the sails and set course for Cassis.

Day 2 : From Cassis to Bandol

During your stopover in Bandol, you'll find delicious local products to prepare meals worthy of the finest chefs on your boat!

Day 3 : From Bandol to Île des Embiez

This small island invites relaxation and tranquility. Take some time for yourself, read in the sun, and take a dip in the warm waters of the Mediterranean.

Day 4 : Return to Marseille

During your sail back to Marseille, we invite you to pass by the island of Riou. If you have time, take a little break to snorkel and observe the different marine species that inhabit these turquoise waters.

WHAT IS THE BEST TIME OF YEAR FOR A MEDITERRANEAN CRUISE?

For ideal weather conditions, we recommend sailing between the months of April and October. However, if you want to be sure to enjoy high temperatures and warm water, it's best to go between June and September. These months also correspond to the summer season, so there will be more vacationers.

Regardless, before embarking on your sailing cruise, don't forget to check the weather forecast and continue doing so throughout your navigation.

WHAT IS LIFE LIKE ON BOARD A CRUISE SAILBOAT?

You have two options:

Renting with a skipper: If you don't have a boating license or you're not accustomed to sailing for several days on a sailboat, it's best to be accompanied by an experienced sailor. You'll share the common areas, but the skipper will have their own cabin. It's usually located at the front of the boat.

Do you want to be the captain of your own boat? No problem, you'll take the helm. Bring family and friends to let them experience this sense of freedom.