Kayak trip on the Etang de Berre
Presentation
Kayaking in Martigues: An Unforgettable Canal Trip
With friends or family, embark on a unique adventure in the heart of Martigues, the "Venice of Provence." Paddle in hand, glide along the calm waters of the canals and discover the city from a perspective few visitors experience. Guided by a passionate instructor, you'll navigate through the historic districts, uncovering anecdotes and secrets of this exceptional city. No prior experience is necessary: simply follow the guide and let yourself be carried away.
The highlight? Entering the famous Miroir aux Oiseaux (Mirror of Birds), this picturesque and colorful site that has inspired generations of painters. From your kayak, you'll enjoy a privileged view of this living tableau: fishing boats, houses with pastel shutters, and shimmering reflections on the water. Then, paddling along, you'll leave the canals to reach the western shore of the Étang de Berre (Berre Lagoon) and its wild, unspoiled landscapes. Two experiences in one, combining urban heritage and authentic nature.
This guided tour is accessible to everyone, from age 8 and up, even without kayaking experience—equipment is provided, safety is ensured, and good times are guaranteed. Spots fill up quickly, especially during peak season: don't miss this opportunity to see Martigues like you've never imagined. Ready to set sail? Book online in just a few clicks.
With friends or family, embark on a unique adventure in the heart of Martigues, the "Venice of Provence." Paddle in hand, glide along the calm waters of the canals and discover the city from a perspective few visitors experience. Guided by a passionate instructor, you'll navigate through the historic districts, uncovering anecdotes and secrets of this exceptional city. No prior experience is necessary: simply follow the guide and let yourself be carried away.
The highlight? Entering the famous Miroir aux Oiseaux (Mirror of Birds), this picturesque and colorful site that has inspired generations of painters. From your kayak, you'll enjoy a privileged view of this living tableau: fishing boats, houses with pastel shutters, and shimmering reflections on the water. Then, paddling along, you'll leave the canals to reach the western shore of the Étang de Berre (Berre Lagoon) and its wild, unspoiled landscapes. Two experiences in one, combining urban heritage and authentic nature.
This guided tour is accessible to everyone, from age 8 and up, even without kayaking experience—equipment is provided, safety is ensured, and good times are guaranteed. Spots fill up quickly, especially during peak season: don't miss this opportunity to see Martigues like you've never imagined. Ready to set sail? Book online in just a few clicks.
Practical information
- Schedule :
- Departure time (This is an approximate time. Please check the time indicated at the time of booking and/or on your voucher) : 9h30/13h30
- Duration : 2h30
- Date(s) :
- At 6 July 2026
- To 30 August 2026
- By reservation :
- Yes
- Supervised visit :
- Yes
- Place of departure :
- Meeting point indicated on your reservation
- Prices :
- Single price : 30 €
- Important to know :
- Pets aren't allowed
- Forbidden to children under 8 years old
Accessibility
- Welcoming all audiences :
- Not accessible
About
Conditions of saleAll participants (including children) must be able to swim.
All minors must be accompanied by an adult.
The tour is not accessible to children under 8 and people with reduced mobility.
For your comfort, we advise you to arrive about 15 minutes before the start of the tour.
Bring a hat, sun cream, a bottle of water and a swimming costume.
By purchasing tickets on our website, participants undertake to comply with the health protocol in force on the date of the tour.
Cancellation policy: if a customer is unable to attend the tour, it will not be refunded or postponed. Only the cancellation of the tour by the organisers due to insufficient numbers of participants or other reasons may lead to a refund or postponement. No refund will be given to latecomers.
Why is this activity not accessible to everyone?
Boarding and physical posture: Accessing the kayaks from the shore or an unstable dock requires good agility, flexibility, and excellent balance. Prolonged sitting close to the water (legs extended) also requires strong core muscles.
Swimming ability required: In accordance with regulations for water sports and the terms and conditions of sale, it is strictly mandatory to know how to swim to participate, which automatically excludes certain types of disabilities.
Technical navigation in an urban environment: The route crosses the canals of the city center and leads to the Étang de Berre (Berre Lagoon). Navigating under low bridges and passing other boats requires precise steering maneuvers with the paddle and constant visual vigilance.
Propulsion time: The outing lasts 2 hours and 30 minutes. The sustained physical effort of paddling against the wind or current (especially on the Étang de Berre) requires complete physical fitness and muscular endurance in the upper limbs.
Expert opinion: While this activity offers a magical and unique perspective on the Miroir aux Oiseaux (Bird Mirror), it remains a strenuous 2.5-hour outing. For those unable to paddle but wishing to explore the canals from the water, we highly recommend the guided boat tours, which are much more accessible and comfortable.
All minors must be accompanied by an adult.
The tour is not accessible to children under 8 and people with reduced mobility.
For your comfort, we advise you to arrive about 15 minutes before the start of the tour.
Bring a hat, sun cream, a bottle of water and a swimming costume.
By purchasing tickets on our website, participants undertake to comply with the health protocol in force on the date of the tour.
Cancellation policy: if a customer is unable to attend the tour, it will not be refunded or postponed. Only the cancellation of the tour by the organisers due to insufficient numbers of participants or other reasons may lead to a refund or postponement. No refund will be given to latecomers.
Why is this activity not accessible to everyone?
Boarding and physical posture: Accessing the kayaks from the shore or an unstable dock requires good agility, flexibility, and excellent balance. Prolonged sitting close to the water (legs extended) also requires strong core muscles.
Swimming ability required: In accordance with regulations for water sports and the terms and conditions of sale, it is strictly mandatory to know how to swim to participate, which automatically excludes certain types of disabilities.
Technical navigation in an urban environment: The route crosses the canals of the city center and leads to the Étang de Berre (Berre Lagoon). Navigating under low bridges and passing other boats requires precise steering maneuvers with the paddle and constant visual vigilance.
Propulsion time: The outing lasts 2 hours and 30 minutes. The sustained physical effort of paddling against the wind or current (especially on the Étang de Berre) requires complete physical fitness and muscular endurance in the upper limbs.
Expert opinion: While this activity offers a magical and unique perspective on the Miroir aux Oiseaux (Bird Mirror), it remains a strenuous 2.5-hour outing. For those unable to paddle but wishing to explore the canals from the water, we highly recommend the guided boat tours, which are much more accessible and comfortable.
Live the experience: Questions & Reviews"Great tour with a very friendly team and a very interesting presentation of Martigues. It's a different way to see the city. I'll definitely do it again." - Reginald
"A wonderful experience." - Sandra
"Friendly and enriching." - Jacky
"Thank you, Leo, for this well-narrated tour of Martigues on the canals. Very interesting and enjoyable. Highly recommended." - Nathalie
"A lovely time with two fantastic guides. I discovered kayaking and our city." - Inès
"A wonderful experience." - Sandra
"Friendly and enriching." - Jacky
"Thank you, Leo, for this well-narrated tour of Martigues on the canals. Very interesting and enjoyable. Highly recommended." - Nathalie
"A lovely time with two fantastic guides. I discovered kayaking and our city." - Inès
How long is the tour?
The kayak trip on the Martigues canals lasts 2.5 hours with informative breaks.Where is the starting point?
The departure point is on the shores of the Étang de Berre, near the Parc de la Rode in Martigues.What are the main sights to see during the tour?
During this outing, visitors will have access to the heart of the Miroir aux Oiseaux (Bird Mirror), paddle along the canals towards Pointe San Crist, and navigate the Étang de Berre (Berre Lagoon).Is there commentary during the trip?
Yes, Léo—your guide—will provide explanations about the history of Martigues and the tourist sites you will see.When do the trips take place?
Kayak trips on the canals take place every Wednesday. This year, we are offering you the opportunity to join a morning and afternoon tour.Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, it is recommended to book through the Martigues Tourist Office. The number of participants is limited to 8 people per trip.
Destination
Parking du gymnase Aldéric Chave
Avenue du Président Salvador Allende
13500
MARTIGUES
GPS coordinates
Latitude : 43.41064
Longitude : 5.05802