Sanary-sur-Mer

Sanary-sur-Mer, a jewel on the sunlit coast of France, offers a cruise-call that feels more like a Provençal welcome than an ordinary port stop. Its charm lies in the human scale: a sheltered, postcard-perfect harbor framed by pastel façades, a strollable seafront lined with cafes, and a weekly market that fills the air with aromas of fresh sardines, herbs, and roasting chestnuts. What sets it apart from larger cruise ports is the sense of immersion: you can step ashore and be mingling with locals, or set out on signature experiences that showcase the region’s soul. Guests can sail to the Île des Embiez for walking trails, crystal-clear coves, and a marine reserve teeming with life, or wander the narrow lanes of Sanary itself to discover bougainvillea-draped alleys, wind-swept esplanades, and a harbor-side lunch of bouillabaisse or moules frites. Wine lovers can enjoy a private Bandol tasting just a short ride from the quay, while nature enthusiasts might opt for a coastal hike to a lighthouse and Calanque-inspired viewpoints. For deeper adventures, shore excursions can combine a visit to Toulon’s museums, a ferry crossing to Cassis, or a day trip along the Bandol wine route’s olive groves and vineyards. The port’s fleet-friendly features are equally appealing: a compact, easily navigable berth configuration that suits mid-sized cruise ships and expedition vessels, short transfer times, and a modern passenger terminal that makes embarking and disembarking a breeze. Onboard services, often curated by the visiting line, blend Provençal flavors, language- and culture-inspired enrichment, and exclusive shore experiences—allowing guests to savor a memory-filled taste of Provence without sacrificing the comforts of the ship.