Formentera Tour: s’Espalmador and Illetes. 9m boat. Capacity for 12 people.

Travelling to Formentera offers a chance to explore some of Spain’s most pristine beaches, and this boat tour from La Savina stands out as a solid way to do it. With a focus on comfort, authenticity, and small-group intimacy, this experience lets you soak up the island’s natural beauty from the water with plenty of extras to enhance your day.

What makes this trip particularly appealing? First, the compact 9-meter boat comfortably accommodates up to 12 guests, ensuring a cozy yet spacious environment. Second, the experienced, licensed captain with over a decade of navigation skills guarantees smooth sailing and insightful guidance. Third, the tour offers several activities—from paddle surfing to snorkeling—plus snacks and drinks, making it a well-rounded, fun-filled excursion.

One potential consideration? The tour is not designed for individuals with mobility impairments or wheelchair users, so it’s best suited for those who can comfortably hop on and off the auxiliary boat to the beaches. This experience appeals most to travelers wanting an authentic, small-group adventure with plenty of opportunities for relaxation and exploration.

Key Points

• Small Group Size: Limited to 12 people for a more personalized feel.
• Experienced Guides: Over 10 years with certified skippers ensure safety and local knowledge.
• All-Inclusive Extras: Paddleboards, snorkeling gear, snacks, and drinks included.
• Flexible Shore Access: Dinghy takes you to the beach, with opportunities to explore or relax onboard.
• Comfortable Setup: Spacious sun deck and shaded areas for lounging and sunbathing.
• Ideal for Families and Small Groups: Relaxed, friendly environment perfect for quality time.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary: What to Expect from Start to Finish

The day begins at the port of La Savina, ideally around 9:25 a.m., making for a leisurely morning without feeling rushed. Boarding is straightforward, with easy access from the pier, and once everyone is aboard, the adventure kicks off. You’ll cruise along the northern coast of Formentera, known for its unspoiled beauty, heading toward the star of the tour—s’Espalmador.

Cruising Past Formentera’s Northern Coast

The boat’s route along the coastline offers stunning views of the rugged landscape, with plenty of photo opportunities. The 9-meter vessel, with its spacious sun loungers and shaded zones, guarantees comfort during the ride. The speaker system ensures you can enjoy music or chat without disturbance, creating a relaxed atmosphere.

Reaching s’Espalmador: The Natural Paradise

Once at s’Espalmador, a dinghy takes you ashore to explore the island’s natural beauty. This small, unspoiled paradise is a natural park accessible only by boat, which makes the visit all the more special. Here, the crystal-clear waters and unspoiled beaches invite you for a swim, sunbathe, or snorkel. According to one reviewer, “The excursion allowed access to incredible beaches,” highlighting how exclusive and pristine this spot remains.

If you prefer not to go ashore, the spacious sun deck on the boat becomes your personal lounge. You can relax with a paddleboard or try snorkeling with the provided gear, both activities included in the price. The snacks, wine, beer, and water available onboard mean you can stay refreshed without needing to leave the boat.

Optional Stop at Ses Illetes

On the way back, there’s an option to stop at Ses Illetes, another iconic beach known for its shallow, transparent waters. This part of the tour gives you the chance to take more photos or dip your toes in one of the most famous beaches of the Mediterranean.

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Return to La Savina

The tour concludes around 12:30 p.m., offering a half-day adventure that’s perfect for a morning trip. The timing allows you to continue exploring Formentera or head into the town for lunch afterward.

What’s Included and What’s Not

This tour offers excellent value considering what’s included. The licensed captain ensures safety and local knowledge, while the fuel cost is covered, meaning no hidden fees on the day.

Extras like paddle surfboards, snorkeling gear, snacks, and drinks make the experience more enjoyable without additional costs. You’ll also have access to shaded areas and a spacious sun deck, critical for comfort on a sunny day.

However, travelers should bring their own sunscreen, towels, parasols, and caps—these are not provided. It’s a small logistical consideration but important for comfort and sun protection.

The Experience: Authentic and Well-Organized

Reviews highlight the professionalism of the guides, with one commenter praising Eduardo as “a great host” who made the trip memorable and accessible. Guests appreciated the small group setting, which fosters a friendly atmosphere where everyone can enjoy the scenery and activities without feeling crowded.

The comfortable boat and the ability to reach s’Espalmador—a rare privilege—are central to the experience’s appeal. The paddleboards and snorkeling gear are high-quality and easy to use, adding fun variations to the trip.

The Authenticity Factor

Guests consistently note the authentic nature of this tour. Unlike larger, more commercialized options, this experience feels intimate and tailored to those seeking a genuine connection with Formentera’s natural beauty. The knowledgeable skippers and local insights elevate the experience beyond just a boat ride.

Practical Aspects and Considerations

The timing is well thought out—departing early in the morning prevents excessive crowds, and the 3-hour window offers enough time to enjoy the beaches without feeling rushed.

The group size—up to 12 people—strikes a good balance between social interaction and privacy. The comfort of the boat and ease of boarding make it accessible and hassle-free, although it’s not suitable for those with mobility issues.

The cost of $112 per person is quite reasonable for the included activities, especially considering the personalized approach and small group size. It’s a good investment for those wanting a relaxing, activity-rich experience without the hassle of arranging logistics independently.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is perfect for small groups or families seeking a relaxed, authentic day on the water. It suits travelers who appreciate personalized service, comfort, and a mix of relaxation and active options like paddleboarding and snorkeling.

It’s ideal for those who want to visit s’Espalmador—a place usually difficult to access alone—and enjoy it in a small, friendly setting. However, it’s not suited for travelers with mobility impairments or those requiring wheelchair assistance.

Final Thoughts on Value

At $112, this tour offers a well-rounded package: a private feeling tour with knowledgeable guides, all necessary equipment, and plenty of snacks and drinks. The small boat ensures comfort, while the shore visit to s’Espalmador offers a taste of untouched paradise.

What makes this stand out is the balance of authenticity and comfort. It’s a chance to see the stunning scenery of Formentera from a well-equipped, intimate vessel while enjoying interactive activities and local insights.

For travelers who want a personalized, hassle-free way to experience the island’s best beaches, this tour delivers. The consistent 5-star reviews and the enthusiasm of past guests confirm its appeal for those seeking quality over quantity in their day.

FAQ

How many people can fit on the boat?
Up to 12 guests, ensuring a cozy, intimate experience without overcrowding.

What is included in the price?
The tour price covers the licensed captain, fuel, paddle surfboards, snorkels, snacks, 12 beers, a bottle of wine, water, and access to shaded and sunbathing areas.

What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, beachwear, towels, parasols, and caps—these are not provided.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, small groups and active options like paddleboarding make it suitable for families, provided children can handle boat transfers and outdoor activities.

What is the departure time?
It’s recommended to leave at 9:25 a.m. from La Savina for a smooth, relaxed start.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is there a specific language spoken?
Guides speak both Spanish and English, making it accessible for most travelers.

Can I customize the experience?
The tour seems to follow a set itinerary, but the small group setting allows for some flexibility, especially in choosing activities like snorkeling or relaxing on the boat.

Will I see other beaches besides s’Espalmador?
Yes, there’s an option to stop at Ses Illetes on the return trip, giving you more beach views and photo opportunities.

This Formentera boat tour from Chilloutboat offers a thoughtful blend of comfort, adventure, and natural beauty. It’s a fantastic way to experience the island’s highlights without the hassle of organizing everything yourself, especially if you value small-group intimacy and local expertise.

You can check availability for your dates here: