Rent a boat in Cassis

The south of France isn't all about the famous and expensive drinks. Ten miles from Marseille lie the hidden bays of the Calanques, accessible only by boat, so you can get away from the hustle and bustle of the crowds!

Situated close to the largest city in the South of France, Marseilles, Cassis is a great place to rent a boat for a week or so because it is much less busy with fewer commercial shipping lanes to worry about. Cassis itself is overlooked by an old château and limestone cliffs which provide shelter in stormy weather conditions. It also has a bustling market, ideal for stocking up before taking to the sea to begin your voyage of discovery. The town itself still feels very much like an authentic fishing port, unusual for this part of France which is famed for its luxurious destinations like Cannes and Antibes.

If you don't know how to rent a boat or have never done it before, then you can hire a vessel with skipper. Furthermore, if you don't have a boating license, then some navigational instruction will usually be provided for you before you set off but you will be restricted to a vessel that is no longer than five metres in length if you are not a license holder. That said, everything you need will be provided within the price of your rental – you will just need to take some provisions with you on your adventure into the Mediterranean Sea.

With the wind at your back, there are so many places you could head to from Cassis in your charter boat. Among the many highlights, a stop at the pretty port town of Sanary-sur-Mer is recommended. Further to the east is Plage de L'Almanarre, a great shallow bay to relax for an afternoon as well as offering protection from high winds. If you want to head away from the mainland a little then Île du Levant, which has some superb restaurants and rugged coast, is a sure bet.