This is where every visit to Frioul begins, whether you’re heading for a quick swim or planning a full day of exploring. Boats come and go, hikers set off, and the islands slowly reveal their quieter sides as you move away from the harbor.

Port du Frioul, located between the islands of Ratonneau and Pomègues just off Marseille, is the main access point to the archipelago. Built as a quarantine port in the 19th century, it played a key role in protecting Marseille from epidemics, with ships required to stop here before entering the city.

Today, it’s a well-equipped marina with hundreds of berths, welcoming both local and visiting boats. The harbor is also the arrival point for ferries from the Vieux-Port, making it the starting point for all hikes, calanques, and historic sites across Frioul.

Beyond its practical role, the setting is striking. Surrounded by white limestone, dry vegetation, and intense Mediterranean light, the port sits at the center of a landscape shaped by wind and sea. The nearby Berry dike, which connects the two islands, is a reminder of the massive engineering work that transformed the archipelago.

From here, you can easily reach Saint-Estève beach, Pomègues calanques, and the island’s historic fortifications, making it the natural base for exploring.

👉 Local Tip: Don’t stay around the port too long. Walk just 10–15 minutes in any direction, and you’ll leave most visitors behind and start seeing the real Frioul.