Wine cruise in the harbour Set sail at sunset
A magical sunset over the harbor
Whether you’re already familiar with Toulon Harbor or are just about to discover it, the wine cruise promises to take you on a journey through unique landscapes and flavors as the sun sets. From the port of Toulon to San Peyre Cove and its cliffs, from Tamaris Bay and its Moorish villas to the Saint-Mandrier Peninsula, savor Provençal wines and local appetizers set against a backdrop of hills, beaches, small ports, and fishermen’s huts—all by the sea, just a stone’s throw from the cities.
5 Great Reasons to Try a Wine Cruise
- Enjoy a spectacular sunset over the harbor
- Taste carefully selected local wines
- Meet and chat with the winemakers and fishermen on board
- Sample artisanal savory and sweet bites
- Explore Toulon Harbor in a different way, in the evening
Heading for the harbor
Toulon, late summer afternoon, you arrive at the Bateliers de la Côte d’Azur pier, ready to climb aboard the catamaran waiting for you at the quay. The still-warm sun floods the port and the building from the headlamp: you can’t resist photographing the docks and moored pleasure boats. The team of boatmen welcomes you with a big smile, and you take your place on board.
Our advice
The wine-tasting cruise is very popular in the summer, and space is limited: book your trip as soon as possible so you don’t miss out on this delicious and fun event on the water.
Toulon as seen from the sea
Leaving the port of Toulon, the boat sails quietly towards the naval base, and the captain’s first comments on the microphone are warm. Your gaze is drawn both to the waves and foam on the sea, and to the hills that gradually emerge behind the city. You’re already marvelling at this new view of Toulon.
A Culinary Cruise
The boat approaches the military vessels, their massive silhouettes standing out against the light like Chinese shadow puppets: the scene is picturesque, and you’re sure to capture it in a photo. The crew and the winemakers serve you a glass of wine accompanied by an assortment of appetizers and artisanal treats. Excitement and curiosity reach their peak in this little paradise at sunset. The tasting and cruise continue on to the Saint-Mandrier peninsula, whose peaceful harbor, dotted with numerous “pointus” (traditional fishing boats), is so photogenic. Bathed in dazzling light, you’ll leave the small harbor and cruise along the coast from Le Mourillon to the unique site of the San Peyre cave in Le Pradet. The evening atmosphere, just beginning to settle over the open sea, lends a special charm to your journey; it’s time to return to Toulon and the lights of the harbor.
ZOOM ON
Celebrating the Terroir of Provence
A wine cruise is also an opportunity to discover local terroirs: you’ll enjoy meeting the winemakers on board and discussing their work in the vineyards. The history of their wineries, their world of taste and the nuances of their cuvées will no longer hold any secrets for you.
Paired with the wines and set against a dreamlike backdrop, you’ll enjoy sampling the savory and sweet bites served on board: local delicacies from “Les Toqués.”
How do I get to the cruise departure point?
By car, from the eastern or western entrances to the city, follow the signs for “Downtown – The Port.”
Park in the harbor parking lot located between the ferry terminal and the Petit Rang pier, or in the Q-Park “Mayol” and “Lafayette” underground parking garages located behind the harbor.
The cruise departs from Quai Cronstadt, at the Bateliers de la Côte d’Azur pier, across from the “Le Chamo” ice cream shop.
By bus, from Thursday evening through Saturday evening, the Mistral network operates a night bus service (8 lines are included). One of them, Line 3, drops you off at the “Mayol” stop, which runs along the harbor. From there, it’s just a few minutes’ walk to the pier.