Are you thinking of taking a cruise from Marseille? Sumptuous offers await you, with a variety of itineraries to the Mediterranean, Italy, Greece, the Greek islands and many other destinations. Treat yourself to an unforgettable experience on board the finest MSC or Costa Cruises ships. Whether you're planning a mini-trip, a transatlantic or a round-the-world cruise, there's always a cruise to suit you. So pack your bags and set sail for adventure in 2024!
The port of Marseille: an ideal point of departure
The port of Marseille, reputed to be the leading cruise port in France and the 4th largest in the Mediterranean, is an ideal departure point for your sea voyages. Accessible by plane, train and car, it is ideally located just 2.5 km from the city centre, offering travellers easy access before boarding.
In 2021, the port welcomed over 3 million passengers, including 1.43 million cruise passengers. It is therefore equipped to handle a large number of passengers and offers many amenities for a comfortable departure.
The port of Marseille Fos stands out for its proximity to various services, which makes it much easier for travellers to arrive and depart. Whether you're a regular cruiser or a first-timer, the port of Marseille is an ideal starting point for all your adventures at sea. As you leave Marseille, you'll be able to admire the magnificent Parc National des Calanques, so you'll immediately feel like you're on holiday!
All-inclusive cruises from Marseille
All-inclusive cruises are the perfect option for those looking to relax without worrying about the details. The concept is simple: you pay a fixed price that includes not only your accommodation on board the ship, but also food, drinks and sometimes even excursions during stopovers.
Here are a few things to consider:
Companies: Among the most popular departing from Marseille are MSC and Costa Cruises. Each offers a variety of all-inclusive cruises, with varied itineraries and sometimes even discounts of up to -50%.
Destinations: The Mediterranean is the most common destination, but other options include the Greek Islands, Croatia, Spain and Italy.
Extras: Some packages include extras such as tips, flights and even free accommodation for children.
All-inclusive cruises departing from Marseille can be booked from €396, with the option of paying in instalments.
Popular itineraries: Greece and the Greek islands
Greece, with its picturesque islands, is a popular destination for cruises departing from Marseille. Many companies offer exciting itineraries, from MSC to Costa Croisières, via Celestyal Cruises.
These itineraries take you to emblematic destinations such as :
Crete: Greece's largest island, famous for its sandy beaches and archaeological sites.
Santorini: famous for its whitewashed houses, blue domes and spectacular sunsets.
Mykonos: an island renowned for its festive atmosphere and magnificent beaches.
Rhodes: rich in history, with a mix of Greek, Roman and Ottoman architecture.
Corfu: a verdant island with golden sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters.
You can also explore the islands of the Cyclades archipelago on a cruise.
Cruises vary in length, from 4 days for a quick getaway to over 9 nights for those seeking a more in-depth experience. Prices start from €399.
All-inclusive packages are very popular, including accommodation, food, drinks and sometimes even excursions during stopovers. This is an ideal option for those who want to relax and enjoy their trip to the full without worrying about the details.
4-day mini cruises: a quick getaway
If you're short on time but dreaming of a maritime getaway, a 4-day mini cruise from Marseille could be the ideal solution. These short trips give you the chance to discover some key Mediterranean destinations in a short space of time.
Several companies offer this type of itinerary. You can, for example, board an MSC or Costa ship for a mini Mediterranean cruise. Itineraries vary, but generally include stopovers in Spain and Italy. There may also be stopovers in Provence, at Nice or Monaco.
Fares generally start at around €300. This may vary depending on the company, the season and the services included. It's also possible to find last-minute deals to save money.
Last but not least, even if your time on board is short, you'll still enjoy top-quality services. You'll be able to enjoy comfortable accommodation, a wide range of food and drink, and plenty of on-board activities.
Discover the Mediterranean from Marseille
Discover the wonderful Mediterranean on a cruise from Marseille. Renowned companies such as MSC and Costa Croisières offer a variety of itineraries to discover this region rich in history, culture and natural beauty.
You'll have the chance to visit iconic cities such as Barcelona, Palma de Mallorca, Palermo, Rome, Civitavecchia, Savona and many more. Take advantage of days at sea to relax and enjoy the beauty of the Mediterranean.
Prices vary according to the length of the cruise and the services included, but you can find offers starting at €439 for 8 days.
For a more luxurious experience, opt for a 14-day cruise on board the Costa Diadema, with prices starting at €1199.
Take a look at the offers available for 2024 and book your Mediterranean cruise from Marseille.
Transatlantic cruises: an unforgettable journey
Transatlantic cruises are a unique experience, combining the heritage of the era of the great sailing ships with the modernity of luxury liners. These voyages offer the chance to cross the Atlantic Ocean, setting sail from Marseille to exotic destinations such as Miami or Rio de Janeiro. This adventure generally lasts between 15 and 35 nights, depending on the itinerary chosen.
Companies such as Costa Croisières and MSC offer transatlantic cruises departing throughout the year. Prices start from €1039 for a 21-night cruise aboard the Costa Fortuna and can rise to €1279 for a 35-night cruise aboard the Costa Smeralda. Each voyage offers a variety of onboard activities, from spa treatments to group classes, as well as a range of dining options to suit all tastes.
Time at sea allows you to take full advantage of the ship's facilities, while having the chance to observe the gradual transformation of the seascape, from the Mediterranean coast to the shores of America and South America.
The best companies and their most beautiful ships
Of all the cruise lines operating from Marseille, some stand out for their excellence in terms of service, comfort and itineraries. Costa Cruises and MSC Cruises are two of the biggest companies offering a wide range of voyages. Their ships, such as the Costa Smeralda and the MSC Grandiosa, are renowned for their luxurious design and numerous amenities.
Costa Crociere offers a variety of itineraries, including unforgettable transatlantic cruises. The Costa Smeralda, with its elegant design and extensive leisure facilities, is one of the most popular ships in the fleet.
MSC Cruises is also the preferred choice for cruises departing from Marseille. The MSC Grandiosa stands out for its itineraries to Spain, Tunisia and Italy.
Other companies worth mentioning include Norwegian Cruise Line and Regent Seven Seas Cruises, each offering a unique experience for their passengers.
Prices and last-minute offers in 2024
For 2024, prices for cruises departing from Marseille vary according to duration, destination and chosen line. Prices start from €199 for a mini-cruise and can reach €1,279 for a 35-night transatlantic cruise.
Several companies offer last-minute deals to save on the cost of your cruise. These offers apply to both mini-cruises and transatlantic cruises. Don't hesitate to check the companies' websites regularly for these bargains.
Here are some examples of fares for 2024:
Mini cruise: from €199
Mediterranean cruise: from €439
Transatlantic cruise: from €1039
Please note that these prices are given as an indication only and may vary according to the booking period and the services included.
Access and information about the Marseille cruise terminal
The Marseille cruise terminal, also known as the Marseille Provence Cruise Terminal (MPCT), is a state-of-the-art facility designed to welcome passengers with complete peace of mind. Created in 2009, it welcomes more than a million passengers a year, making it the number 1 cruise terminal in France.
There are several options for getting here:
If you are arriving by plane, the cruise terminal is around twenty kilometres from Marseille-Provence international airport, about 25 minutes by taxi. Some cruise companies organise transfers between the airport and the terminal.
If you are coming from Marseille city centre, you can take bus number 35T to the terminal.
Finally, if you are arriving by car, the terminal has a large covered car park directly linked to the check-in area. It is advisable to reserve your parking space online to make boarding easier.
The terminal address is as follows Môle Léon Gourret, Marseille Europort - 13016 Marseille. To geolocate it, here are the GPS coordinates: 43.3051959,5.3653287.
Within the terminal, you will find all the services you need for trouble-free boarding.
Your questions about cruises from Marseille
You have sent us a number of questions about cruises departing from Marseille. Here are our answers to your most frequently asked questions, so that all our readers can find out more.
Which is the best cruise line?
The best cruise line is subjective, since it depends on the preferences of each traveller. However, some companies stand out for their reputation and the quality of their services.
Costa Cruises and MSC Cruises are often cited for their modern ships and varied itineraries.
Norwegian Cruise Line is appreciated for its varied restaurant offer and its dinner shows.
Rivages du Monde and Regent Seven Seas Cruises offer a more intimate, upmarket experience.
It is advisable to compare the offers and services of each company to find the one that best meets your expectations.
Which is MSC's most beautiful ship?
Choosing the most beautiful ship can be subjective, as it depends on individual tastes and preferences. However, two ships are often cited for their luxurious design and range of amenities: the MSC Meraviglia and the MSC Grandiosa.
The MSC Meraviglia, inaugurated in 2017, is a true masterpiece. With a length of 315.83m and a beam of 43m, it offers spaciousness and elegance. Passengers can enjoy a wide variety of activities, including Cirque du Soleil shows.
The MSC Grandiosa is the largest ship in the MSC fleet. Inaugurated in 2019, its dimensions are impressive at 331m long and 43m wide. She offers more public space than her sister ships, MSC MERAVIGLIA and MSC BELLISSIMA. Her cabins, ranging in size from 15m2 to 25m2, offer stunning sea views.
Ultimately, beauty is in the eye of the beholder, and each MSC ship has its own unique appeal.
How much does a Mediterranean cruise cost?
The price of a Mediterranean cruise varies according to a number of factors. Offers generally start from €439 for an 8-day cruise, with companies such as Costa Toscana. Shorter, 3-day cruises start from €129 with MSC Fantasia.
Costa Toscana: from €439 for 8 days
MSC Fantasia: from €129 for 3 days
Some companies offer staggered payment options, making this type of trip more accessible. For a more luxurious offer, such as a 14-day cruise aboard the Costa Diadema, prices start at €1199.
It's important to note that these prices can vary depending on the period, the cabin chosen and the services included. What's more, last-minute promotions and offers may mean you can take advantage of lower fares.
Which port in Marseille does Costa Croisière use?
Costa Crociere mainly uses the Marseille Provence Cruise Terminal (MPCT) for its departures and arrivals in Marseille. This modern, well-equipped cruise terminal, created in 2009, is jointly managed by Costa Crociere and MSC Cruises SA.
With over a million passengers a year, the MPCT is Marseille's main cruise terminal. It is located at the Môle Léon Gourret, in the Europort district.
For passengers wishing to drive to the port, a car park is available close to the terminal. Rates are €15 per 24 hours for cars, motorbikes and camper vans, with a long-term rate of €150 per month (10 to 30 days).