Cassis Calanques: Kayak Tour with Local Guide & Photos

Summary

Kayak through cassis calanques national park with a local

You’ll paddle through Cassis’s famous calanques with a local guide who knows every cove and story. Expect calm seas, hidden pine-scented stops at Port-Pin, dramatic cliffs at En-Vau, and plenty of time to just float or laugh with your group. All gear is included — plus luggage holding and downloadable photos you’ll want to show off long after you’re home.

What’s the experience like?

Ever wondered what the sea smells like when you’re right down at water level, paddling past those pale cliffs near Cassis? I didn’t, not really — but that’s the first thing that hit me as we set out from Port-Miou. Our guide, Luc (who grew up here), handed us our paddles and gave this quick grin before warning us about the “600 meters of kayak-carrying.” Honestly, it sounded worse than it was. The early sun bounced off the limestone and I could hear someone tuning a guitar on a boat nearby — kind of set the mood.

Paddling was easier than I expected. The sea was calm, almost glassy, so even if you’re not some kayak pro (I’m definitely not), you’ll be fine. Luc kept pointing out little things — like how Port-Pin got its name from the pine trees clinging to impossible angles above us. We stopped there for a bit; salt on my lips, pine in the air. There were a few other groups around but it never felt crowded. At En-Vau, those cliffs just shoot up — white against blue — and I caught myself staring way too long. Someone in our group tried to pronounce “calanque” properly and Luc just laughed. It’s harder than it looks.

The best part? Maybe just floating quietly for a minute in En-Vau’s cove while Luc told us about smugglers hiding here ages ago (I guess every place has its stories). My arms were tired by then but in that good way — like you’ve actually done something real with your morning. We headed back slowly; I remember thinking how different everything looked from the water compared to hiking above last year. Oh, and they take photos along the way so you don’t have to worry about your phone getting wet — which is good because I nearly dropped mine twice.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Kayak tour of Cassis Calanques

• Depart from Port Miou
• Visit Calanque de Port-Pin
• Explore Calanque d’En-Vau with local guide
• Optional full day: visit caves and natural beaches

Top questions

How long does the Cassis Calanques kayak tour last?

The standard tour is half-day; full-day options are available if weather allows.

Is this kayak tour suitable for beginners?

Yes, stable sea kayaks are used and no prior experience is required.

What calanques do we visit on this kayaking trip?

You’ll visit Calanque de Port-Miou, Port-Pin, and En-Vau.

Is there an age limit for this Cassis kayak tour?

Children under 12 are not accepted on this tour.

Do I need to carry my own kayak?

You’ll be asked to carry your kayak about 600 meters at the start.

Are photos included in the Cassis Calanques kayak tour?

Yes, access to an online photo gallery with downloadable images is included.

Is lunch provided during the tour?

No lunch is included; bring snacks if needed.

Can people over 120kg join this kayaking tour?

This tour is not recommended for people over 120kg.

What’s included

Your day includes all sea kayaking equipment and safety gear, luggage holding inside a van while you paddle, guidance from a local expert familiar with every corner of Cassis’s calanques, and access to an online photo gallery so you can download memories without risking your phone near saltwater.