San Antonio: Es Vedrà, Formentera Tour with Food & Drinks

If you’re looking to pack a lot into a single day in the Balearic Islands, this tour offers a fantastic opportunity to see three iconic islands—Es Vedrà, Formentera, and Espalmador—without the hassle of planning multiple trips. It’s suited for those who want a mix of sightseeing, local food, and beach relaxation, all wrapped into one seamless experience.

What truly makes this tour stand out is its combination of scenic stops, authentic paella cooking, and the chance to swim, snorkel, or paddleboard in crystal-clear waters. You also get a chance to witness the mysterious beauty of Es Vedrà, a legendary rock formation surrounded by stories and myths. On the downside, the itinerary can be quite packed, so if leisurely exploration is your priority, this might feel a little rushed.

This experience appeals most to adventurous travelers who love discovering new landscapes, enjoy delicious local cuisine, and want a well-organized day trip that includes multiple highlights of Ibiza and Formentera. If you’re okay with a busy schedule and the possibility of a full-on day, you’ll find plenty to love here.

Key Points

• Three islands in one day—Es Vedrà, Espalmador, and Formentera—delivered efficiently.
• Authentic food experience with a live cooked paella and barbecue dinner.
• Multiple water activities included, such as snorkeling and paddleboarding.
• Expert guides and friendly crew enhancing the trip’s authenticity and comfort.
• Beautiful scenic views of Ibiza’s coastline, coves, and the legendary Es Vedrà.
• Good value considering all meals, drinks, and activities included.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Up-C Close Look at the Itinerary and Experience

Starting Point and Early Morning Vibes

The tour kicks off at 9:00 a.m. from the Excursiones Ibiza ticket office in San Antonio’s harbor, a convenient starting spot for travelers based on the west coast. We loved the friendly, organized check-in process, which sets a relaxed tone for the day. Before departure, there’s a delicious breakfast served on board, giving everyone a boost of energy and a chance to meet fellow travelers. This small touch adds a friendly, communal vibe early on.

Scenic Cruise and Coastal Highlights

From the moment we set sail, the views of Ibiza’s coastline are breathtaking. The crew points out the most important coves, like Cala Comte and Cala Tarida, which are known for their clear waters and stunning cliffs. If you’re a fan of marine life, keep an eye out—many guests mention occasionally spotting dolphins during the cruise. This part of the trip is all about soaking in the sea breeze and panoramic views, making the journey as enjoyable as the stops.

Visiting Es Vedrà: The Mysterious Rock

The first major stop is Es Vedrà, a towering limestone formation shrouded in myths. Guests typically spend about 30-40 minutes here, perfect for photos and soaking up the mystical atmosphere. Our guide shares stories about the island’s legend and significance, which adds a layer of intrigue. Reviewers mention how “the views on the sea and island are out of this world,” and it’s clear why this spot is so celebrated.

While the walk around Es Vedrà isn’t extensive, it offers ample time to admire the spectacular scenery and take those must-have photos. Critics point out that the trip’s timeline means less time here than some would like, but overall, the stop’s quality outweighs the short duration.

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Espalmador and the Paella Feast

Next, the boat navigates to Espalmador, a tiny, uninhabited island known for its pristine beaches and crystal waters. Here, the boat anchors for a relaxed lunch break featuring a live-cooked Paella prepared by the crew’s chef. The reviews highlight the generous portions and authentic flavor of the paella, which is a real highlight of the day. One reviewer describes it as a “big plate for everyone,” emphasizing the value.

After lunch, you can snorkel, paddleboard, or simply swim in Espalmador’s inviting waters. With snorkeling gear provided, many guests mention how the seabed is stunningly clear, making it a worthwhile water activity. It’s a perfect way to cool off and enjoy the natural beauty of the area. The availability of paddleboards also adds fun and variety.

Formentera: Free Time to Explore

The next stop is Formentera, a small yet incredibly scenic island famous for its beaches and laid-back vibe. You’ll have some free time to explore on your own—whether that’s renting a bike, hopping into a car, or just relaxing at a beachside café. The crew offers helpful recommendations on the best spots to visit, making it easy for first-timers to navigate.

Reviewers mention how the time at Formentera is sufficient to discover some of its top sights, and the suggestions for local eateries and rental options are appreciated. It’s worth noting that some guests wish for a bit more time to explore, but the itinerary is designed to balance sightseeing with relaxation.

Sunset at Es Vedrà and Barbecue Dinner

As the day winds down, you’ll return to Es Vedrà for one of the most memorable moments—a sunset viewed from the boat. Watching the sun dip behind the legendary rock with a barbecue dinner served on deck is a highlight for many. Guests note that the barbecue is hearty, with enough to satisfy all, and that toasting to the sunset makes for an ideal end to the day.

Return Journey and Reflection

After sunset, the boat heads back to San Antonio, arriving around 8:30 p.m. The overall experience leaves many feeling satisfied, with the combination of scenery, food, and activities providing excellent value. The reviews consistently mention the friendly crew and well-organized schedule as factors that enhance the trip.

Practical Details and Why They Matter

Transportation and Group Size

The tour departs from a central, easily accessible spot in San Antonio harbor. The boat itself is comfortable and spacious enough for groups, with a friendly crew that engages guests with stories and helpful tips. The group size isn’t specified, but reviews suggest it’s a well-balanced number, avoiding overly crowded conditions while still creating a lively atmosphere.

Duration and Pacing

Running from 9 a.m. to around 8:30 p.m., the day is packed but well-structured. The timing allows for sufficient exploration of each location, even if it feels a little rushed at points. Guests who value a comprehensive experience appreciate the efficient itinerary that covers so much in a single day.

Cost and Value

Considering that the price includes meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner), drinks, snorkel gear, and paddleboards, the overall value is quite impressive. Guests mention that it feels like a good deal for a full day of activities, especially since the food portions and quality are praised.

Considerations

If you’re someone who prefers a slower pace or more free time at each stop, this tour might feel a little rushed, especially on the water activities and exploring Formentera. Still, for those who want a busy, all-encompassing day with plenty of highlights, it hits the mark.

What We Love and What to Keep in Mind

Pros include the knowledgeable guides, delicious local cuisine, and the chance to see three major islands in a single day. The inclusion of snorkel and paddleboarding gear makes it easy to enjoy the water, and the scenic sunset at Es Vedrà is genuinely unforgettable.

A possible drawback is the tight schedule, which leaves limited time at each stop. Guests have mentioned that sometimes too much time is spent on the snorkeling spot, reducing their time on Formentera. If a leisurely pace is essential, this is something to consider.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This trip is ideal for adventurous travelers eager to see multiple highlights in one day without the hassle of organizing transport or food. It’s perfect for food lovers, thanks to the authentic paella and barbecue, and for those wanting photo-worthy moments of Es Vedrà. If you enjoy water activities and are comfortable with a packed schedule, you’ll find this tour offers a great mix of sight-seeing and relaxation.

Frequently Asked Questions

What time does the tour start and end?
The tour departs at 9:00 a.m. and returns around 8:30 p.m., with the schedule designed to maximize sightseeing and activities.

Is food included?
Yes, the tour includes breakfast, a live-cooked paella lunch, and a barbecue dinner, along with drinks throughout the day.

Are water activities available?
Absolutely. You’ll have snorkel equipment and paddleboards included, allowing you to explore the waters around Espalmador and Formentera.

Do I have free time at Formentera?
Yes, guests are given time to explore on their own, with recommendations on the best spots and rental options.

What kind of boat is used?
While specific details aren’t given, reviews suggest a comfortable vessel that can accommodate the group size and water activities smoothly.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if your schedule shifts.

Is this tour suitable for children?
The experience appears family-friendly, especially with water activities and scenic views, but check with the provider for age restrictions.

How many people typically join?
The exact group size isn’t specified, but it’s designed to be comfortably social and avoid overcrowding.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a comprehensive, fun-filled day exploring three incredible islands around Ibiza. From the mystique of Es Vedrà and the tranquil beaches of Espalmador to the scenic beauty of Formentera, each stop is packed with photo opportunities and memorable moments. The inclusion of local food, snorkeling gear, and paddleboards adds to the overall value, making it a solid choice for travelers who want to experience the best of Ibiza’s maritime charm.

While the schedule is somewhat tight, the friendly crew and well-organized itinerary ensure that you’ll leave with plenty of stories—and maybe a few tan lines. If you’re after an adventurous, all-in-one day trip that combines scenery, culture, and cuisine, this tour deserves serious consideration.

Whether it’s your first time in Ibiza or a repeat visit, this trip offers a balanced mix of exploration and relaxation, perfect for those who want to make the most of their time on the Balearic Islands.

You can check availability for your dates here: