How to Hire a Boat in Marseille, France

The city of Marseille is often described as a quiet, sleepy town on the water. In reality, however, Marseille is a vibrant destination that is the second most densely populated city in France after Paris. Founded by the Phoenicians in 600 BC, Marseille is an old city with a rich and historical heritage. Visitors can experience the best of France and the Mediterranean in this beautiful destination that boasts ancient ruins, spectacular architecture, beautiful beaches and much more.This is the reason why tourists in large number come to Marseille and various elite and low fare airlines provide regular services to Marseille.

Shown above a view of the port of Marseille.

Image Source: http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/1/17/Port_Autonome_de_Marseille.JPG

Marseille's Connection to the Sea

Although there are hundreds of different ways for visitors to spend their time in Marseille, there is certainly an emphasis on boating in the area. The city has always had a strong connection to the sea thanks to its location along the Mediterranean Sea. The best views in Marseille are those that overlook the cliffs along the water while some of the most popular pastimes including renting a boat or even trying scuba diving in the beautiful waters.

Water transport is a popular way to get to and from Marseille as well as just to tour the region. For those interested in hiring a boat in Marseille, the rest of this article will detail the types of excursions an individual can choose from as well as why the water is so important to explore in Marseille.

Boating as Transport

Some people who visit the beautiful city of Marseille begin their trip by water. The large harbour in the city has several piers where tourists can arrive from nearby cities like Bastia or Porto Torres. Many people believe that the best way to first experience Marseille is from the water where there is a truly unique perspective to the city. The sixteen hour journey from Porto Torres to Marseille will cost roughly eighty Euros per person.

Within the city boating is used as a form of recreation more than transport, but there is one option that is the shortest commercial boat ride in Europe. Cross the Vieux Port, or old harbour, in just a few minutes by the large ferries that charge a very nominal fee.

The photo above shows a popular boating venue at Palais du Pharo Moussechan.

Image Source: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Palais-du-Pharo-moussechan.jpg

Boating as Recreation

There are many boating operators in Marseille that will hire out boats to interest travellers looking to spend an afternoon or even a full day out on the water. It is one of the most popular pastimes for visitors enjoying South of France holidays in the region. Some boats come complete with a skipper and crew so that all the passengers need to do is relax and take in the stunning scenery.

Some sailing enthusiasts might prefer to take the boat on the water alone which is also a possibility. Take a day trip to the nearby Frioul Islands for a chance to get away from the business of the city for a day. Expect to pay anywhere from two hundred to one thousand Euros per day for a boat that fits more than two people.

Boating Holidays in Marseille

Although there are hundreds of stunning French holiday homes in Marseille and the surrounding region, many visitors still prefer to spend their entire trip on the water. There are many luxury yachts available for charter for several days or weeks at a time that let tourists to the area do just that. With a crew and a cabin large enough for four people expect to pay upwards of four thousand Euros each week.

Marseille is built up along the Mediterranean and no visit to the area would be complete without a boat hire at some point in the vacation. Visit the many piers of the old harbour to inquire about prices and which boat size is appropriate for you and your travel party.

Posted in: Boating