The 5 Kayak Trips in France We Would Book Again

1.Côte Bleue Calanques Half-Day Kayak Tour

★★★★★★★★★★4.7 · 877 reviews · 3 hours · from $64Our pick

Set out from Sud Kayak at Port de la Lave with a French or English-speaking guide such as Loup, Jordan, or Audrey. Paddle a two-person sea kayak along Establon and Aragnols, stop for swimming, and possibly reach Figuerolles. Bring water, swimwear, sunscreen, and closed-toe shoes.

“Very nice kayak tour that is suitable for absolute beginners. Our guide Jordan made sure that the tour was an amazing experience for all of us. We had kayaks for two people which is helpful if on the way back your muscles feel a bit tired because you don't do the work alone. I am definitely not a fit person but the 3 hour trip was absolutely perfect both for people like me and people who are more into sports. It is a wonderful way to explore the coastline, the local animals and the beautiful sea.”

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2.Calanques Catamaran Tour & Standup Paddle

★★★★★★★★★★4.8 · 411 reviews · 3 - 4 hours · from $93Top rated

From Marseille’s Vieux-Port, sail with a friendly English and French speaking crew toward Vallon des Auffes, Château d’If, and the Frioul Islands. You get swim stops, snorkels, paddle boards, soft drinks, light snacks, and a GoPro, with guides such as Nico, Julie, and Marie sharing local stories.

“We had an amazing time on the afternoon tour around the Frioul archipelago. The catamaran was spacious and comfortable and the two stops to swim and paddle in the calanques were great fun. Our Captain Nico (Nicotine) was friendly, funny and informative, giving us a glimpse into the history of the area. There are some drinks provided but I would recommend bringing some with as well as snacks.”

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3.3 Hour of Sea Kayak Trip in the Creeks of Sete

★★★★★★★★★★4.5 · 220 reviews · 3 hours (approx.) · from $60

Set out from KayakMed with a guide such as Sylvain, Nicolas, or Olivier for three hours on a single or double sit-on-top kayak. Paddle along Sète’s Corniche, explore small cliffs and marine caves when conditions allow, and switch to the city canals if the sea is rough.

“It was a lovely day, our guide was very friendly and was very conscious of our safety, always ensuring our party were enjoying the trip”

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4.From Vitrac: Dordogne River Canoe Rental

★★★★★★★★★★4.8 · 162 reviews · 3 hours · from $34Best value

You paddle your own canoe or kayak from the Canoes Loisirs base near Domme toward Beynac, passing La Roque-Gageac, Castelnaud, Beynac, and several castles. There is no guide, but the calm river is easy to follow. Stop for a picnic, swim, or village visit, then take the shuttle back.

“The trip down the Dordogne River was beautiful and just as you’d expect. As for Canoës Loisirs, their employees were very kind and helpful, and I felt comfortable kayaking down the river with their guidance. The shuttle pick up was very prompt and on time, and the driver was also kind and help. 10/10.”

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5.Kayak Tour at Calanques National Park (Ciotat)

★★★★★★★★★★4.5 · 124 reviews · 3 hours (approx.) · from $82

Paddle from ExpéNature in La Ciotat toward the Calanques, Grand Mugel, and Île Verte on a stable sea kayak. Guides such as Elle, Romuald, and Raphaëlle lead small groups in English or other languages, with safety instruction, photos, lockers, and showers included.

“They called less than 24 hours before tour to try to reschedule for later in the day. Which i could not do becaise of departure reservations.They pffered a remtal and i could “go on my own”why would i have made a tour reservation? So disappointing. They say my refund is in process”

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