Set Sail with l’Etoile de Thau IV

L’Étoile de Thau IV, based in Marseillan, is a family-run company offering a selection of quality trips around the Thau lagoon and this spectacular part of the southern French coast. The company is already open for the 2024 season, with the boat Diane I in operation, while the Nino Évasion returns to service on March 30. Here are 10 reasons to set sail this summer.

1. Enjoy an authentic experience with local French people

L’Étoile de Thau IV is a family company dating back to 1997 with a background in fishing and shellfish farming, a trade synonymous with the Thau basin. Made up of mother Claudia Azaïs, father Jean-François Marino, son Mathieu Marino, son-in-law Mickaël Larret and daughter Mélanie Marino, they are passionate about their profession and this extraordinary marine environment, and love nothing more than to share their know-how with visitors to the area. 

2. A cut above the rest

The members of this close-knit family offer a unique experience for visitors, more authentic than companies which specialise purely in tourism because they can share their experience in the traditional local fishing trade, as well as pointing out famous local landmarks, of course! A friendly welcome awaits, whether you’re looking for a one-hour tour of the area or are holding a private party to celebrate a special occasion. And you can choose from two boats – the 96-seat Diane I and the more intimate nine-seater, the Nino Évasion, a fast and comfortable motor boat.  

3. Location, location, location

L’Étoile de Thau IV is based on the Port of Marseillan Ville (Quai Antonin Gros, Left Bank) in Marseillan, which is in the Hérault department on the southern French coast, 30km east of Béziers. 

As well as the Étang de Thau with its remarkable wildlife (look out for flamingos!), it’s the perfect base from which to explore the world-famous Canal du Midi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. 

4. The coastline is your oyster

Relax on the waters of the Canal du Midi and sail as close as possible to the oyster beds while discovering the savoir-faire of the oyster farmers on The Getaway excursion aboard the Nino Évasion. 

Departing from the port of Marseillan, you will spend an hour discovering the Étang de Thau, its oyster beds and the Canal du Midi. The tour includes a commentary and can be scheduled in the morning or afternoon, depending on which best suits your itinerary. There is also the option to enjoy a tasting of local products too. 

5. Sail into the sunset

What could be more magical than a sunset cruise aboard the Nino Évasion? The Authentic excursion is an unforgettable sunset experience with the added option of oyster-tasting on board with a glass of white wine (or soft drink if preferred). Or you could choose a delicious aperitif-style supper of local products including oysters, cold meats, pizza, cheese, cake, and wine or soft drinks. 

6. The Breakfast Club

Want to start the day off right ? Board the Nino Évasion for a morning cruise and enjoy your breakfast on the water in the most idyllic of settings. Gaze at the stunning scenery as you tuck into your croissant and jam, washed down with coffee, tea or hot chocolate and a glass of fresh orange juice.  

7. Tomorrow Belongs to Us

If you’re a fan of French soap opera Demain nous appartient, board the Nino Évasion for a special treat. This 90-minute trip will take you to filming locations used in the popular TV series, such as the Onglous de Marseillan lighthouse, at the end of the Canal du Midi on the Étang de Thau. Prepare to do a bit of star-spotting too should it happen to be a filming day! 

8. Gourmet St Barth

Set off to discover the Solar Tide aboard the Nino Évasion. Visit the oyster beds, which are equipped with solar panels thereby making it possible to produce the famous pink oyster of Tarbouriech, and enjoy a gourmet experience in St Barth. 

9. The Escape

Choose from a one-hour or 1.5-hour excursion aboard the Diane I on the Thau lagoon, with a commentary by a local fisherman who will share his passion for the Canal du Midi and its oyster beds. And, of course, you can enjoy a tasting of four oysters with a glass of white wine (or soft drink) as you sail (for an extra fee). 

10. Private Party

Book out the Diane I for a private party and create an unforgettable experience with your family, friends or colleagues. Whatever your special occasion – birthday, hen party, wedding, seminar – choose the theme and celebrate with wine, soft drinks and an aperitif dinner of oysters, cold meats, pizza, cheese and cake.

For more information, visit promenade-bateau-marseillan.com