So you’re wintering in La Ciotat? Here’s the skinny on making the most of your downtime.
Between the cranes and café terraces, La Ciotat has quietly become the place to spend a Mediterranean winter. The refit capital of the Côte d’Azur is equal parts industry and intimacy - where mornings start with an espresso by the port and weekends turn into impromptu escapes through the Calanques.
Whether you’re here for a quick yard period or a full winter stretch, here’s how to make it count.
☕ Coffee & Breakfast
L’Écume des Fleurs - Tucked on the edge of the marina, this is your pre-yard ritual spot. They actually know how to make a flat white (rare, we know), and their pastries come out warm. Grab a seat outside and watch the sunrise bounce off the cranes.
Chez Bene - The vibe is unfussy, the croissants are flaky, and it’s always packed with locals. Great for a quick bite before you clock in.
Café de l’Horloge - Set in the old town square, this one’s for lazy weekend mornings. Go for the petit déjeuner completand a side of people-watching.
Crew tip: If you’re desperate for something resembling brunch, hop to Cassis (15 min drive) — Le Bonaparte and Le Grand Large both deliver proper avocado-toast energy.
🏋️ Crew Essentials
Keep Cool La Ciotat - Reliable chain gym, good machines, no fuss. Get the monthly membership if you’re around for more than a few weeks.
CrossFit La Ciotat - For those who miss that boat-deck burn. Classes in English are common and the coaches are used to crew schedules.
Body Sublim - Small local gym with a solid weights setup if you prefer something quieter.
🌿 Days Off & Escapes
Calanques de Figuerolles - A short walk from the yard and an absolute must. The cliffs look like something out of a film, and the turquoise water doesn’t care it’s January. Bring trainers - it’s steep on the way down.
Cap Canaille Hike - One of the most scenic coastal hikes in the Med. You can start from La Ciotat or Cassis and end up overlooking the whole bay. Pack water, snacks, and your best “I-actually-work-on-boats” sunglasses.
Aix-en-Provence - An easy day trip (about an hour). Swap oil and antifoul for art galleries, markets, cobbled streets and wine. Grab lunch at Les Deux Garçons for a proper French afternoon.
Marseille - For when you need noise and a proper night out. Head to Le Cours Julien for bars, La Cantinetta for dinner, and Carry Nation for speakeasy cocktails.
Cassis & Bandol - Tiny coastal towns, perfect for a slow Sunday. Cassis has charm; Bandol has wine. Enough said.
🌅 After-Work Spots
Hemingway’s - Practically a crew institution. Expect a mix of yachties, good vibes, friendly staff, and a bottle or two of wine.
The Crown - Your classic British pub away from the boat. Cold pints, sports on TV, and a proper crew crowd most nights. Great for quiz nights or catching the game after work.
La Tête à l’Envers — Still a go-to for a more local scene — tapas, wine, and the occasional spontaneous dancing.
Les Halles de La Ciotat — The newer hangout for when you want to graze, sip, and socialise without committing to a full sit-down meal. Grab a stool at one of the wine bars and people-watch till midnight.
TL;DR
La Ciotat is the winter refit hub - half shipyard, half seaside charm. Start your day with coffee at L’Écume des Fleurs, hike the Calanques de Figuerolles, and spend your nights at La Tête à l’Envers or Les Halles. Hit Keep Cool or CrossFit La Ciotat to stay sane, and take day trips to Cassis, Bandol, or Aix-en-Provence when the yard grind gets old. Slow mornings, solid hikes, good food — La Ciotat’s got you covered.
