Paddle along the coastline at a relaxed pace during a morning sea kayaking outing through some of the most well-known calanques near Marseille. The route focuses on enjoying the surroundings, with time for swimming, sunbathing and a picnic break along the way. It’s a friendly experience suitable for beginners as well as those with some paddling experience.
The outing begins at Port-Miou, one of the largest natural harbours along this stretch of coast. After a short introduction to paddling techniques and safety, you’ll head out onto the water and settle into a comfortable rhythm while following the coastline into the Calanques National Park. The pace remains easy, allowing plenty of time to enjoy the landscape and take in the coastal scenery along the way.
Your first stop is the Calanque de Port-Pin, a peaceful inlet surrounded by pine-covered cliffs. The guide will pause here briefly so everyone can stretch their legs and learn a little about the plants and wildlife found in the area. It’s a good moment to take photos and enjoy the calm atmosphere before continuing further along the coast.
The final destination is the well-known Calanque d’En-Vau, where towering limestone walls meet clear Mediterranean waters. Here you’ll have around 45 minutes to an hour to swim, relax on the shore, or enjoy your picnic. Once everyone has had time to rest and refuel, the group paddles back toward Port-Miou, finishing the trip with a steady and comfortable return journey.
The experience takes place within the Calanques National Park, a protected stretch of coastline between Marseille and Cassis in southern France. This area is known for its dramatic limestone cliffs, narrow inlets, and bright turquoise water. Sea kayaking offers one of the best ways to reach these secluded coves, many of which are difficult to access on foot.
The route from Port-Miou to Port-Pin and En-Vau follows one of the most iconic sections of the park. Paddling close to the cliffs allows you to appreciate the shapes of the rock formations and the natural features of the coastline while moving quietly through the water. It’s also common to spot seabirds and marine life during the journey.
Participants should be comfortable spending several hours outdoors and able to paddle at a relaxed pace for the duration of the trip. Previous kayaking experience is not required, as basic guidance and safety instructions are provided before departure.
Everyone should arrive ready for water activities and bring suitable items for sun protection and swimming. As there are no shops or facilities along the route, it’s important to bring your own food and water for the picnic break.
With more than twenty years working in outdoor tourism and guiding, the experience is led by someone who has spent much of their life in nature, both in the mountains and along the Mediterranean coast. This background brings a calm and organised approach to guiding, ensuring that guests feel comfortable on the water while learning about the area around them.
Guiding within the Calanques National Park is not only about showing visitors the coastline but also helping them understand it. Small group sizes allow time to share local knowledge about the environment, wildlife and geology while keeping the outing relaxed and enjoyable for everyone.
About the centre
Cassis
We partner with Rewilding Britain to help protect our natural spaces for future adventures.
All centres are vetted for safety and quality. Your adventure is in good hands with adventuro.
Somerset and Dorset, United Kingdom
From £55
Surrey, East and West Sussex, United Kingdom
From £60
Surrey, East and West Sussex, United Kingdom
From £50
Surrey, East and West Sussex, United Kingdom
From £89
