Discover the hidden gems of the French Riviera
Set Sail from Marseille
Embark on a sailing holiday along the coastline of the famous French Riviera. Discover hidden treasures, from the historic streets of Marseille's Le Panier to the picturesque shores of Bandol and the charming villages of Sanary-sur-Mer and La Ciotat. Journey through azure waters and lush green cliffs, exploring hidden gems like the Calanques des Figuerolles and the majestic Falaises Soubeyranes. Indulge in culinary delights, explore centuries-old architecture, and immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of the French Riviera with our suggested 7-day sailing itinerary.
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step 01
Day 1: Marseille to Calanque de Morgiou (15 nautical miles)
Begin your yacht charter holiday from Marseille, the gateway to the stunning Calanques National Park. Hoist your sails for Calanque de Morgiou, a charming fishing port located on the French Riviera's rugged coastline. Relax and unwind on the beach of a small cove or the flat limestone rocks that line the shore, basking in the warm Mediterranean sun. Stroll around the inlet and discover quaint cottages. Don't miss the opportunity to visit the famous Cosquer cave, a prehistoric marvel discovered in 1991, nestled within the cliffs of Cap Morgiou. As the day draws to a close, watch the stunning sunset from your boat, the perfect start to your yacht charter holiday along the Mediterranean coast.
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Day 2: Calanque de Morgiou to Cassis (5 nautical miles)
Depart Calanque de Morgiou and sail towards Cassis, not just the French word for 'blackcurrant' but also a quaint fishing village on the fringes of the sea. As you sail towards Cassis, admire its unmatched natural beauty, with the Calanques Natural Park on one side and the imposing cliffs of Cap Canaille on the other. Explore the beauty of Calanque de Port-Miou, the closest calanque to Cassis, which boasts unique rock formations and crystal-clear waters. Hike through this natural wonder and enjoy panoramic views of the coastline. As the day transitions into the evening, unwind and relax with a glass of Cassis rosé wine, savouring the flavours of the region's renowned vineyards.
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Day 3: Cassis to Porquerolles Island (30 nautical miles)
Continue your yacht charter holiday to Porquerolles, a picturesque island located in the Mediterranean Sea, one of the four islands of Iles d'Hyeres. Dive into the clear waters surrounding the island for an unforgettable snorkelling experience amidst vibrant marine life. Explore the quaint village of Porquerolles, adorned with colourful flowers and charming streets. Rent a bike to explore the car-free island at your own pace. We recommend an electric bike as it can get tiring cycling up the many hills! Porquerolles is also a paradise for hiking enthusiasts who are seeking spectacular views! After hiking, indulge in a wine-tasting experience at one of the island's vineyards, renowned for producing organic and exclusive wines.
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Day 4: Porquerolles Island to Bandol (25 nautical miles)
Sail from the island of Porquerolles to Bandol, a coastal town and wine-growing region in the western part of the French Riviera. Stroll around the charming Place de l'Europe, where you'll find a bustling square surrounded by quaint cafes and shops. At the top of the square, marvel at the Church of Saint-François de Sales, a historic landmark that offers a glimpse into the town's rich cultural heritage. Explore the plethora of beaches that dot the Bandol coastline. We recommend Anse de Renécros, a circular beach with calm waters, perfect for a relaxing day by the sea. No visit to Bandol is complete without sampling the local wines, renowned for their exceptional quality and distinct flavours!
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Day 5: Bandol to Sanary-sur-Mer (5 nautical miles)
Leave Bandol and sail towards the charming coastal town of Sanary-sur-Mer. Discover the town's rich heritage with a visit to the Church of Saint-Nazaire. Admire the Byzantine-style facade and step inside to admire Orthodox Christian frescoes, showcasing beautiful, large, and colourful paintings that narrate tales of tradition. Take a pleasant stroll to the west of Sanary-sur-Mer, following the Stations of the Cross up Oratory Hill to reach the Chapel of Notre-Dame de Pitié. The 16th-century church is adorned with numerous ex-votos and boasts breathtaking views. In the evening, relax and unwind on Sanary-sur-Mer's pristine beaches, such as Lido, Gourgette, or Beaucours.
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Day 6: Sanary-sur-Mer to La Ciotat (10 nautical miles)
Set sail to La Ciotat, a charming seaside town surrounded by lush green cliffs. Marvel at the awe-inspiring Falaises Soubeyranes – Cap Canaille, the highest sea cliff in all of France, towering majestically at an impressive 394 metres. Take in the breathtaking vistas as you sail along the coast, surrounded by natural beauty. Explore the secluded beauty of the Calanques des Figuerolles, just a 15-minute walk from La Ciotat port. If you are feeling adventurous, hike Notre Dame de la Garde, a church perched atop a hill. It offers incredible panoramic views of the surrounding landscape and shimmering Mediterranean Sea. After a busy day, visit the world's oldest cinema, Eden Theatre, which has been entertaining audiences since 1889.
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Day 7: La Ciotat to Marseille (15 nautical miles)
On the final day of sailing, make your return journey to Marseille. Take time to clean the boat for a smooth and simple check-out. Explore Le Panier, the city's oldest district, renowned for its maze of charming streets bursting with character. Wander through this historic neighbourhood and uncover shaded terraces, vibrant street art frescoes, and quaint artisanal shops that reflect the area's rich heritage. Visit the former hospice Vieille Charité, an architectural marvel that now houses a museum of contemporary art and an archaeology centre. Indulge your taste buds with a visit to Vanille Noire, where you can treat yourself to a scoop (or two) of its signature inky black vanilla ice cream.