Marseille water jousting takes place on and in the waters of the old port on the 28th August 2011.

Water jousting dates back to the middle ages in Marseilles and in the late nineties it became an official sport with its own governing body, the Federation Francais de Joutes et Sauvetage Nautique and the sport has become nationwide.

The colorful jousting boats sail past each other and from the elevated ramp the combatants joust with the loser taking a dip in the sea. It is a spectacle in the beautiful context of the famous old port of Marseille.

Marseille has much to offer the day visitor, its many bars and restaurants surrounding the old port have an undeniable charm and local dish bouillabaisse is worth a try at least once (its loaded with garlic so best not be the only one eating!). The fish market is extraordinary, not just for the fish but the fabulous Provencal characters manning the stalls. Beyond the old port there are beautiful traffic free squares and excellent shopping areas.

If you are on holiday in Provence it is well worth taking a day in Marseille and the water jousting is an exceptional event from 15.00 to 17.30 on the 28th August.