The Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur region (PACA) offers much more than just glamorous ports and sunny beaches. Its coastline is home to some of the richest marine biodiversity in the Mediterranean. From Port-Cros National Park to the Calanques of Cassis, PACA’s marine parks are havens for both wildlife and mindful sailors.
Navigating through these areas offers a double reward: breathtaking beauty and the satisfaction of sailing responsibly in protected zones. But what does that actually involve?
Where to sail: key marine parks and zones
1. Port-Cros national park
Located off the coast of Hyères, Port-Cros is one of Europe’s oldest marine national parks. With its strict anchoring regulations and crystal-clear waters, it’s a paradise for snorkeling and observing underwater life. Expect to see groupers, sea bream, and vibrant sea grasses.
2. Parc national des calanques
Stretching between Marseille and Cassis, this rugged coastline of limestone inlets is a visual marvel. Navigation is permitted in most areas, but anchoring is prohibited in zones with Posidonia meadows, which are vital for marine ecosystems.
3. The Embiez archipelago
Less regulated but equally enchanting, this small group of islands near Six-Fours-les-Plages offers calm waters ideal for kayaking or paddleboarding.
How to sail responsibly in protected waters
Sailing in a marine park requires more than just admiring the scenery. Here are essential guidelines:
- Anchor only in designated zones to avoid damaging seagrass beds
- Keep noise to a minimum, especially near bird nesting areas
- Avoid littering, even organic waste like fruit peels
- Use eco-friendly products (soap, sunscreen, detergents)
- Do not feed marine animals, no matter how tempting
Following these simple rules helps preserve fragile ecosystems and ensures future generations can enjoy these same pristine waters.
Wildlife encounters: what you might see
In PACA’s marine parks, you’re sailing through some of the most biologically diverse waters in the western Mediterranean. Expect:
- Dolphins, especially off Porquerolles and Saint-Tropez
- Cormorants and ospreys, particularly in cliffside calanques
- Octopuses, moray eels, and sea stars in rocky coves
- Occasionally, monk seals—though extremely rare, they have been sighted in the region
Bring a snorkel set or an underwater camera—you’ll want to remember this.
Final thoughts: sailing with purpose
A sailing trip through PACA’s protected marine areas is more than a leisurely day at sea. It’s a chance to engage with nature, understand marine conservation, and leave no trace while soaking in one of Europe’s most stunning coastal regions.