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My name is Sarah (or Miss Tatane 😛), a cruise enthusiast and cruiser just like you. I’m here to share my experiences and tips so you can fully enjoy your stopover or embarkation in Marseille.
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On this page, I’ve selected two of the most affordable partners. You can book with Civitatis 🔴 or GetYourGuide 🔵, whichever you prefer. I’ve compared the prices for you and picked the cheapest options for each activity.
Enjoy your reading, have a fantastic cruise… and most of all: have fun! ONE LIFE!!!
Marseille airport port transfer
How to get to the Marseille cruise port from the airport
You’ve just landed at Marseille Provence Airport and your cruise is waiting? The big question every traveler asks is: how do you best arrange your Marseille airport to port transfer?
The distance between Marseille Provence Airport and the cruise port is about 16 miles. Whether you’re looking for a Marseille airport to port transfer by taxi, public transportation, or private service, there are several options available to suit every budget and preference.
→ This guide helps you choose the best solution to reach your cruise ship on time and stress-free.
Options – Marseille airport port transfer
Shuttle & Connections
How does it work?
The transfer from Marseille Provence Airport to Saint-Charles train station and the cruise port can be done in one simple step. Follow our guide for a quick and stress-free journey.
Step 1 – The Airport Shuttle L91
To reach the train station directly from the airport (non-stop), the L91 shuttle is the most convenient option.
- From the airport, at MP1 between halls 3-4 and 1, take the L91 to Saint-Charles station. The trip takes about 25–30 minutes and shuttles run every 15 minutes starting at 4:10 AM.
- One-way fare: $12 per adult → $8 for ages 12–25 → $6 for ages 6–11
The shuttle drops you in the heart of Marseille, at Saint-Charles station, with a comfortable and reliable ride.
Step 2 – From Saint-Charles Station to the Port
From Saint-Charles station, follow these steps to reach the cruise port:
By public transportation
- Take Metro Line 2 (red) toward Capitaine Gèze and get off at Joliette.
- At Joliette square, catch bus no. 35T (stop located near the Docks Village building). It takes you close to your ship, at the entrance of the Cruise Port (Gate 4). The stop is called: “Terminal Croisières”.
- From the bus stop, it’s between 600 m and 2.5 km to your exact embarkation pier, depending on where your ship is docked.
Important! Bus 35T only runs on days when a cruise stopover is scheduled.
Taxi
- Price: €40–50 depending on traffic and time
- Duration: 20–25 min (30–40 min during rush hours)
- Advantages: fast, direct, convenient with luggage
- Disadvantages: more expensive, possible surcharges (+$1.5 per bag, +$4 night/Sunday) + potential waiting time. Book in advance to avoid delays.
Available 24/7, taxi stands are located right in front of the airport.
Private transfer
Marseille airport port transfer
Looking for a simple, comfortable, and stress-free way to get from Marseille Provence Airport to the cruise port? A private transfer is the ideal option for a smooth journey.
Upon arrival, your driver will be waiting with a sign bearing your name. They’ll handle your luggage and take you directly to your cruise terminal in a spacious, premium vehicle. No waiting, no stress—just a pleasant ride to start your cruise the right way.
Why choose a private transfer?
- Simplicity – Door-to-door service, from the airport to your cruise terminal.
- Comfort – Travel in a clean, air-conditioned, well-maintained vehicle.
- Reliability – Your driver will wait even if your flight is delayed. You’re guaranteed to arrive on time.
- Flexibility – Perfect for families or groups, with plenty of space for all luggage.
Marseille airport to port transfers
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Prices for this service start at $117 for up to 4 passengers. Beyond that, the rate is adjusted according to the number of travelers. This option guarantees you direct pickup, no waiting, and a driver who will be ready to meet you upon arrival.
Price per person → $117
Comparison table – Which option to choose?
Marseille airport port transfer
To choose the transfer option that best suits your needs, compare the main solutions at a glance. This table summarizes key information (price, duration, simplicity) to help you make the best decision for getting to your cruise from Marseille.
| Option | Price | Duration | Simplicity | Best for… |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Shuttle + connections L91 + bus 35T | $12 (regular fare) + $2.35 | 50–70 min | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Budget travelers, solo or light luggage, stress-free |
| Taxi | $60 depending on traffic + possible surcharges (+$1 per bag, +$3 night/Sunday) | 20–25 min (30–40 min at rush hours) | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Families, luggage, speed, direct service |
| Private transfer | $117 | 20–25 min | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Premium comfort, groups, door-to-door, zero stress |
Cruise parking at the port of Marseille
By car
- The Grand Port Maritime de Marseille is located at exit 5 on the A55 (Gate 4 – La Calade – L’Estaque).
- The Port de la Joliette (J4), at the foot of La Major Cathedral, can be reached via exit 4 on the A55: Joliette / Les Arnavaux / Arenc / Les Ports.
Cruise parking – Marseille Provence Cruise Terminal (MPCT)
- Standard rate: $17 per vehicle for 24h.
- Long-stay package: after 10 days, $164 per vehicle per cruise (all taxes included).
- Payment: credit card or cash at the automatic machines located on the ground floor of the MPCT, baggage area.
- Capacity: 2,000 spaces available. Reservation is no longer required, but parking is guaranteed for all passengers.
Downtown Marseille parking
Marseille airport port transfer
If you prefer not to leave your car directly at the port, you can park in the city center or nearby. Several secure and well-located car parks allow you to reach the port quickly by public transport or taxi.
This is also a great option to enjoy the center of Marseille before boarding: visit the Old Port, La Canebière, or simply have a coffee on a terrace, while keeping peace of mind before your cruise.
Cruise parking in Marseille
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Activities
Make the most of your stopover in Marseille by discovering the city’s top activities. From cultural visits to historic walks and gourmet experiences, there’s something for everyone. Whether you stay in the city center or explore the surroundings, your stopover will be rich and memorable.
Popular activities for cruise passengers with Get Your Guide:
- Old Port (Vieux-Port) – Walk along the port, local market, departure point for ferries and excursions.
- La Canebière – Iconic avenue with shops and historic cafés.
- Cathedral of La Major – Remarkable architecture, mosaics, panoramic views.
- MUCEM – Museum of European and Mediterranean Civilizations, permanent and temporary exhibitions.
- Corniche Kennedy – Sea views and the Frioul islands, accessible by bus from the cruise terminal.
- Vallon des Auffes – Picturesque small port, seafood restaurants, accessible by bus from Old Port or Joliette.
- Château d’If – Ferry crossing from the Old Port + castle visit , with a view of the bay.
- Le Panier District – Old streets, artisanal shops, cultural visits, accessible by bus or taxi.
- Hop-on Hop-off Bus – Discover all main sites at your own pace, departing from Joliette.
Prefer booking with Civitatis? So do we!
Discover all the tours and guided visits they offer for your Marseille stopover.
FAQ – Marseille airport → port transfer
Questions we often get
❓ How long does it take to reach the port from the airport?
The journey takes between 25 and 40 minutes depending on traffic and the transport option chosen. Taxi and private transfer are the fastest (20–25 minutes), while the L91 shuttle + metro line 2 + bus 35T can take up to 1h.
❓ Is there a free shuttle between the airport and the cruise port?
No, there is no free direct shuttle. You must use a paid service: L91 shuttle, taxi, or private transfer. The 35T bus connects Saint-Charles station to the cruise terminal, but it only runs on cruise days.
❓ What is the cheapest option?
The combination L91 shuttle + metro + bus 35T is the cheapest: around $12 per person. However, it requires a bit of planning and some walking between stops.
❓ Should I book my transfer in advance?
L91 shuttle and the 35T bus, no reservation is needed. For taxis, booking is advised if you are on a tight schedule. For private transfer ($117), it is highly recommended to book in advance for a guaranteed, stress-free service.
❓ What is the price of a private transfer Marseille airport → port?
A private transfer starts at $80 per vehicle. Perfect for families or groups with luggage, it offers door-to-door comfort with no waiting time.
MTT recommendation
After many cruises departing from Marseille, here is my personal advice depending on your traveler profile:
| Profile | Recommended option | Price | Why? |
|---|---|---|---|
| In a hurry? | Private transfer or taxi | $60-80 | Save time and arrive relaxed, stress-free door-to-door |
| On a budget, light luggage | L91 shuttle + metro + bus 35T | $14 | Affordable option for solo or couples, some walking required |
| Traveling with family | Private transfer | $117 | Maximum comfort and simplicity, especially with kids and luggage |
| Have time and want to explore Marseille | L91 shuttle + walk in the city center | $14 | Enjoy the Old Port or Joliette before reaching the cruise terminal |
Bonus tip 🎁 – If you arrive the day before your cruise, take the L91 shuttle to Saint-Charles station and enjoy the city! The next morning, take a taxi or private transfer to the port.
Things to do and see in Marseille
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MTT wishes you the most beautiful cruises departing from Marseille!
