Ibiza: Formentera Cruise w/ Open Bar, Paella & Water Sports

If you’re considering a day on the water in Ibiza, this Formentera cruise promises a mix of luxury, fun, and stunning scenery. While I haven’t been on it myself, the detailed reviews and tour descriptions paint a picture of a well-balanced, enjoyable experience that most travelers will find worth the price.

One of the standout features is the all-inclusive setup, which means you can relax without constantly reaching for your wallet. The visit to Ses Illetes, ranked as the 4th best beach in Europe, is a major highlight, offering postcard-worthy views. The second stop at Cala Saona, with its underwater caves, adds a touch of adventure. Water sports like paddleboarding and snorkeling give you a chance to get wet and explore beyond the boat. Plus, the delicious onboard paella and diverse open bar cater to those who enjoy great food and drinks while cruising.

However, a key thing to keep in mind is that this tour doesn’t include a visit to Formentera itself—it’s strictly a cruise with stops for swimming and water activities. That might be a downside if you wanted to explore the island more deeply. Still, for those looking to enjoy the best beaches from a comfortable, luxurious setting, this cruise hits the mark.

This experience is especially suited for travelers who want a luxurious, all-in-one day out with friends or family, combining scenic views, water fun, and good food without the hassle of planning every detail themselves.

Key Points

• All-Inclusive Experience: Breakfast, paella, and open bar options tailored to your ticket choice.
• Visit Top Beaches: Stops at Ses Illetes and Cala Saona, both famous for their natural beauty and clear waters.
• Water Sports Galore: Paddleboarding and snorkeling gear included for added fun.
• Flexible Ticket Options: Standard, Advance, and Premium tickets to suit different budgets and preferences.
• Expert Guides: Multilingual hosts ensuring everyone feels comfortable and informed.
• Short but Sweet: 5-hour cruise, ideal if you’re short on time but want a taste of Ibiza’s waterside allure.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Detailed Review of the Ibiza: Formentera Cruise

The Itinerary Breakdown

Starting Point and Embarkation:
The adventure begins early at 9:15 am at the Ibiza VIP Cruises stand. Guests receive a wristband, and from there, you’re set for a relaxed, scenic cruise aboard a luxurious catamaran. The vessel is designed for comfort and style, with plenty of space for lounging and socializing.

The Journey to Formentera:
As the boat departs, a multilingual guide (speaking Spanish, English, and Italian) shares interesting tidbits about the islands and what’s ahead. The 5-hour trip includes a mix of cruising, swimming, and enjoying the onboard amenities. Music from a DJ sets a lively tone as you sail across the waters, with the promise of a good time ahead.

First Swim Stop at Cala Saona:
After cruising for about 1.5 hours, the first anchoring spot is Cala Saona, celebrated for its white sands and caves. This rocky beach in a nature reserve offers underwater caves to explore, making it an exciting spot for snorkeling or just floating in the calm, clear water.

Second Swim Stop at Ses Illetes:
The highlight for many is the visit to Ses Illetes, ranked 4th best beach in Europe. The shallow, warm waters and pristine sands are perfect for relaxing or taking photos. Reviewers mention that the water sports add an extra layer of enjoyment here, with paddleboarding and snorkeling masks available for guests to share.

Water Sports and Activities:
Both stops feature water sports, which the reviews praise highly. Guests love trying paddleboards and snorkeling, with Antonella and Angie assisting guests and ensuring everyone gets a turn. Even if conditions aren’t ideal (sometimes the sea isn’t perfect), the team’s friendliness and flexibility shine through. As one traveler noted, “the water sports are the best,” and even with rougher seas, the service remained top-notch.

Food and Drinks

Breakfast and Paella:
Depending on your ticket type, your onboard meal can range from a standard buffet of tropical fruits, pastries, and coffee to a delicious onboard paella. The Premium ticket offers a choice of seafood, chicken, or vegetarian paella served with salad, bread, and dessert. Guests raved about the quality of the food, with some saying, “the paella was fantastic,” and appreciating the freshly made taste.

Open Bar Options:
The open bar is one of the standout elements. The Standard ticket includes a 5-hour open bar with sangria, beer, soft drinks, and juices. The Advance and Premium tickets offer more variety, with premium cocktails such as Mojitos, Bellinis, and Caipiroskas. Reviewers particularly liked the unlimited drinks, calling it a “great value,” especially since it included options like cava and a variety of cocktails.

Guides and Staff

The guides, like Alex, Angie, and Antonella, are frequently praised for their friendliness and attentiveness. One review mentioned Alex as being “so nice” and making the whole experience even more enjoyable. Guests appreciated the multilingual service, making it accessible for all nationalities.

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Duration and Group Size

The 5-hour cruise strikes a good balance—long enough to enjoy the stops and onboard fun without feeling rushed. The boat capacity allows for a lively but intimate atmosphere, and reviews suggest the group sizes are manageable, allowing for personalized attention from staff.

Why This Tour Works

Luxury and Comfort:
The catamaran’s design and onboard amenities make for a relaxing trip. Whether you’re lounging in the sun or enjoying the shade, there’s plenty of space to unwind. The music and lively atmosphere add to the fun, making it feel like a floating party.

Stunning Swim Stops:
The beaches selected are among the best in Europe and the world, as rated by TripAdvisor. Ses Illetes, with its famous reputation, lives up to expectations with postcard-perfect views. Cala Saona adds a bit of variety with its caves and rocky scenery.

Water Sports:
For those who love active fun, paddleboarding and snorkeling are included, giving everyone a chance to get in the water and explore. Reviewers highlight how accessible and enjoyable these activities are, even for beginners.

Food and Drinks:
The onboard paella and open bar elevate the experience beyond just sightseeing. Many reviews contain praise for the quality of the food and the friendliness of the bar staff, making the day feel indulgent without breaking the bank.

Value for Money:
At around $76 per person, considering the luxury setting, included food, drinks, water sports, and scenic stops, the tour offers a good deal. The different ticket options allow for customization depending on your budget and preferences.

Possible Drawbacks or Considerations

While the cruise provides a lot of value and fun, it does not include a visit to the island of Formentera itself—only the surrounding beaches by boat. If you’re eager to explore the island more thoroughly or spend the entire day on land, this might not be the perfect fit.

Weather can also impact water sports, as some reviews note conditions weren’t ideal on certain days, limiting activity options. It’s always worth checking the forecast beforehand.

Lastly, the tour is a shorter half-day experience, so if you’re after a more immersive island visit, you’ll need to plan additional excursions.

Who Would Love This Experience?

This cruise is perfect for groups of friends or couples looking for a fun, stylish day on the water. It suits travelers who appreciate good food, open bars, and scenic beaches without the hassle of organizing transportation or meals.

Those who enjoy active pursuits like paddleboarding and snorkeling will find this especially appealing. On top of that, if you want a social atmosphere with lively music and friendly hosts, this cruise ticks those boxes.

It’s also great for travelers on a shorter schedule who want a luxurious, all-inclusive experience that balances relaxation and adventure.

Final Thoughts

This Ibiza: Formentera Cruise stands out as a well-rounded, value-packed option for enjoying some of the prettiest beaches in Europe without the fuss of island-hopping or complicated logistics. The combination of luxury catamaran comfort, delicious onboard food, extensive water sports, and picturesque swim stops makes it a compelling choice.

While it doesn’t include a full day on Formentera, the stops are well chosen, and the onboard experience is designed for maximum enjoyment. If you’re seeking a sociable, relaxing, and scenic day in Ibiza, this trip offers a lot of bang for your buck.

For those who love a mix of leisure, good company, and stunning views, this cruise will deliver memories and photo-worthy moments—plus, the chance to enjoy some of the best beaches in Europe from the comfort of a stylish boat.

FAQ

Does the tour include a visit to the island of Formentera?
No, this cruise focuses on scenic stops at beaches near Formentera, but it doesn’t include a land visit to the island itself.

What are the departure times?
Embarkation begins at 9:15 am, with the cruise returning around 2:15 pm.

Are water sports equipment provided?
Yes, paddleboards and snorkeling masks are included and available at both swim stops.

What is the difference between ticket types?
Standard includes a buffet breakfast and open bar. Advance adds a paella and more drink options. Premium offers all that plus cocktails, premium breakfast choices, and desserts.

Is lunch included?
Only with the Advance and Premium tickets. The Standard ticket provides a buffet breakfast but no paella or dessert.

Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, cancellations are refundable if made at least 24 hours in advance.

What should I bring?
Swimwear, towel, sunscreen, and a passport or ID.

Is there music onboard?
Yes, a DJ provides music during the return trip, adding a lively atmosphere.

How large are the groups?
The vessel accommodates a manageable number of guests, allowing for attentive service and a lively social environment.

Is this experience suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, water sports and outdoor fun typically appeal to families, but it’s best to confirm age restrictions with the provider.

In summary, this Ibiza cruise offers a bright, lively day on the water with top beaches, great food, and abundant water fun. It’s a fantastic choice for those wanting a stylish, relaxing escape that highlights the best of Ibiza’s coastal beauty.

You can check availability for your dates here: