Snorkelling in Marseille

Fancy a snorkelling session? The coast of Marseille is the ideal place for underwater excursions. The Mediterranean flora and fauna are a treasure trove for the eyes. Discover all sorts of fish and plant species in crystal-clear water. For snorkelling in Marseille, head for some of the most beautiful spots on the coast: in the heart of the calanques, at Les Goudes, on the Frioul islands and along the beaches.

The equipment you need for snorkelling

To go snorkelling, you’ll need some basic equipment. First of all, you’ll need a diving mask that fits your face properly and has a good seal. Make sure it covers your nose so you can breathe comfortably. You’ll also need a snorkel, which allows you to breathe easily while keeping your face underwater, and fins to move around underwater.

As for your wetsuit, choose it according to the temperature of the water and the duration of your session. It should protect you from both the cold and the sun. You can add lycra or a rashguard for extra protection. Lycra or rashguard are lightweight garments that protect your skin from the sun’s rays, chafing and scratches. If you plan to walk on rocks or rocky beaches before entering the water, it may be useful to wear diving slippers to protect your feet.

When is the best time to snorkel in Marseille?

The best time to go snorkelling in Marseille is generally during the summer months, from June to September. During this period, the water temperature is more pleasant and visibility is generally better. The best time of day for snorkelling is generally during sunny hours when the light is at its brightest. Avoid days with high swells or strong winds, as these can make diving more difficult and reduce visibility.

The best snorkelling spots in Marseille

Discover the best places for a proper snorkelling session in Marseille.

The calanques of Marseille

Marseille’s calanques, such as the Calanque de Sormiou, Calanque de Morgiou and Calanque d’En-Vau, offer crystal-clear waters and spectacular seascapes. You can swim and snorkel along the rocky coastline and discover a wide variety of fish and marine plants.

The Calanque de Sormiou is one of Marseille’s most famous creeks. It offers crystal-clear waters and an abundance of marine life. You can swim along the cliffs and observe a wide variety of fish and marine plants. The Calanque de Morgiou is another calanque renowned for its aquatic excursions. It is home to a protected marine reserve, which means you’ll have the chance to observe exceptional marine biodiversity. The Calanque d’En-Vau is considered one of the most beautiful calanques in Marseille. Here you can discover a wide variety of fish and marine invertebrates. The Calanque of Sugiton is a popular starting point for a snorkelling session. It offers clear waters and a seabed rich in marine life. Here you can spot fish, starfish and other marine creatures.

Les Goudes
Les Goudes in Marseille also offers great opportunities for a water excursion. Located at the entrance to the Parc National des Calanques, this picturesque area is renowned for its clear waters and rich marine life. The coves of Les Goudes are small rocky bays ideal for snorkelling. You can reach these coves by walking along the coastal path from the village of Les Goudes. Once there, you can explore the seabed and discover a variety of fish and other marine creatures.
Île Maïre
Not far from Les Goudes, you’ll find Île Maïre. This small island is an ideal spot for snorkelling. You can reach the island by boat from the port of Les Goudes and explore the crystal-clear waters that surround it. You’ll see a variety of fish and maybe even schools of sars or wolffish.

Îles du Frioul
For your next snorkelling session, discover the Frioul Islands, located off the coast of Marseille. Head for two emblematic spots: the island of Ratonneau and the island of Pomègues. Ile de Ratonneau is the largest of the îles du Frioul and offers a number of great snorkelling spots. You can visit the island’s beaches, each of which offers stunning scenery. The île de Pomègues, next to the island of Ratonneau, also offers excellent conditions for discovering an exceptional marine circuit. You can venture into the island’s coves and bays to discover the marine life. The seabed around the island is teeming with life, with colourful fish, sea urchins and other marine creatures.