Ibiza Boat Trip to Formentera | Full-Day Experience

Traveling from Ibiza to Formentera by boat offers a beautiful change of scenery, but how does this specific tour stack up? Based on numerous reviews and detailed descriptions, we’ve put together a comprehensive look at what you can expect from this full-day sailing adventure. Whether you’re after gorgeous beaches, intimate boat time, or a flexible, relaxed itinerary, this trip has a lot to offer.

What we love about this experience:

• The small-group setting with only nine passengers, which guarantees a more personal vibe.
• The chance to snorkel, paddleboard, and swim in Formentera’s pristine waters.
• The friendly, attentive guides, especially praised for their knowledge and hospitality.

One possible consideration: The trip takes about 7.5 hours, so it’s best suited for those comfortable with a full day on the water. If you’re looking for a quick hop or a more structured tour, this might feel a bit leisurely.

This experience is ideal for travelers who enjoy a relaxed, intimate atmosphere, love exploring beaches off the beaten path, and appreciate outstanding service and tasty snacks. If you want to escape the crowds and enjoy hidden corners of Formentera with dedicated guides, this boat trip could be a perfect choice.

Key Points

• Small Group: Limited to nine passengers, creating a cozy, less crowded experience.
• Beautiful Stops: Two main stops at Ses Illetes and Cala Sahona, famed for their crystal-clear waters and white sand.
• Inclusive Activities: Snorkeling gear, paddleboards, drinks, and snacks included, making it easy to relax and have fun.
• Guide Quality: Recognized for attentive, friendly guides who enhance the trip with their knowledge and hospitality.
• Value for Money: Considering the personalized experience, stunning scenery, and included amenities, the price is fair.
• Booking in Advance: Most travelers book around 15 days ahead, showing its popularity.

A Detailed Look at the Full Day

Checking In and Departure

You’ll start your day at Es Xarcu (Restaurante Playa) at 11:00am, a convenient meeting point in Cala Es Xarco. The check-in process appears straightforward, with most travelers finding it easy to locate via WhatsApp directions or a Google Maps pin sent beforehand. The boat is described as comfortable, with enough space for all nine passengers, ensuring you won’t feel cramped during the ride.

The Sailing Experience

The boat ride itself is a highlight, often praised for its scenic beauty. As one reviewer notes, the cruise “in itself was very beautiful,” with the turquoise waters of Formentera providing an incredible backdrop. The small group size enhances the intimacy, allowing everyone to enjoy the ride and chat with the captain, often Lorded as friendly and attentive — especially noted for guides like Miki and Fernando.

Stop 1: Playa de Ses Illetes

This stop is a major highlight, often described as the most famous beach of the Balearic Islands. Expect around two hours to swim, snorkel, and paddleboard in the incredibly clear waters. Several reviews mention the beauty of this beach, with one saying, “the beaches were beautiful in Formentera,” and another praising the “amazing views.” The snorkeling equipment provided means you can explore the underwater world easily, with some reviewers mentioning they loved the quality of gear supplied.

You might also enjoy snacking on board, as salty snacks and fresh fruit are included. One guest noted that “snacks on board were delicious,” which adds a nice touch of hospitality to the adventure.

Stop 2: S’Espalmador

This second stop is often considered the jewel of the trip. It features white sand and turquoise waters that attract many reviewers, describing it as “crystal clear” and “a paradise.” Here, you’ll have another two hours for swimming, snorkeling, or paddleboarding. Several visitors mention that bringing water shoes is a good idea, as some rocky patches can be present when disembarking.

Guests also rave about the fruit platter and refreshments, emphasizing how well the crew caters to their needs. This stop allows ample time to relax, soak up the sun, and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.

The Onboard Experience

Throughout the day, snacks and drinks are abundant, with salty snacks in the morning and a fresh fruit platter in the afternoon. Reviewers also mention the quality of the snacks, describing them as “refreshing” and “plentiful.” Drinks like sodas and water are available, keeping everyone hydrated after swimming in the warm Mediterranean sun.

Service and Guides

A standout feature, based on multiple reviews, is the guides’ friendliness and professionalism. Captains like Miki, Fernando, and Paul are frequently praised not just for their sailing skills but also for their engaging personalities. Guests mention feeling well cared for, with guides asking about individual needs and making the day feel personalized. One reviewer called Miki “a very friendly captain,” emphasizing the importance of good leadership on a boat trip.

The Return and Overall Duration

The tour lasts about 7.5 hours, allowing plenty of time for the two main stops, swimming, and relaxing. Most travelers appreciate the balance between activity and leisure. The trip ends back at the initial meeting point, and reviews consistently mention how smoothly everything runs from start to finish.

Analyzing the Value

At $174.43 per person, this tour might seem pricey at first glance, but the inclusions—snorkeling gear, paddleboards, snacks, drinks, fuel, and an attentive captain—add considerable value. Compared to larger, more crowded tours, the small-group approach allows for a quieter, more personalized experience, which many reviewers describe as “amazing” and “well worth the money.”

The consistent praise for guides’ friendliness, the quality of the beaches visited, and the overall relaxed vibe suggest that this trip delivers its promises of a luxurious, intimate day. The fact that most travelers book about two weeks in advance indicates high demand, further supporting its reputation as a worthwhile experience.

What Travelers Love Most

Many reviews highlight the professionalism of the guides, with some describing their hosts as “genuine” and “attentive.” The stunning scenery and beaches regularly get top marks, with guests appreciating the chance to swim in crystal-clear waters away from crowds. Snacks and drinks are consistently praised for their quality, making the experience feel even more indulgent. Lastly, the flexibility and customization — from snorkeling to just relaxing — seem to be key selling points for many.

What Could Be Better?

Some guests mention that the trip is quite long, so it may not suit those seeking a shorter outing. A few comments in reviews talk about rocks near certain beaches, suggesting water shoes might be helpful for comfort. There’s also the note that the boat can sometimes feel slow, which might be a consideration if you prefer a quicker pace.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This boat trip is ideal for those who value quality over quantity and prefer a more relaxed, less crowded experience. It suits travelers who want to explore the stunning beaches of Formentera with knowledgeable guides, appreciate good food and snacks, and enjoy a bit of water fun like paddleboarding and snorkeling. It’s perfect for couples, small groups, or families looking for a private, yet sociable, day on the water.

However, if you are not comfortable with a full day or prefer a more structured, less flexible tour, you might want to consider other options. The trip’s length and leisurely pace mean it’s best suited for relaxed travelers prepared for a full day. Also, those with mobility concerns should note the rocky stops and disembarking considerations.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience is approximately 7.5 hours, including sailing time and stops for swimming and relaxing.

What’s included in the price?
You get snorkeling gear, paddleboards, drinks, snacks (salty snacks and fruit), fuel, and the captain.

Where do I meet for the tour?
The tour starts at Es Xarcu (Restaurante Playa) in Cala Es Xarco, Sant Josep de sa Talaia. The meeting details are sent via WhatsApp or Google Maps.

Is this tour suitable for children or pregnant women?
Most travelers can participate, but it’s not recommended for pregnant women more than 5 months along. Child-friendly policies aren’t explicitly stated, but check with the provider if you have concerns.

Do I need to bring anything?
Bringing towels, sunglasses, and sunscreen is recommended. Water shoes may be helpful, especially near rocky areas.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The trip requires good weather, and if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance. Less notice means no refund, so plan accordingly.

Final Thoughts

This Ibiza boat trip to Formentera offers a personalized, scenic, and relaxed way to explore some of the most beautiful spots in the Balearic Islands. The small group size and attentive guides ensure a comfortable and intimate experience, perfect for travelers wanting more than just a ride but a memorable day on the water.

While it’s a longer, leisurely experience, those who value calm, beautiful scenery, and top-notch service will likely find it more than worth the price. It’s especially suited for couples, small groups, or anyone eager to enjoy Formentera’s beaches in a more exclusive setting, away from the major crowds.

If you’re after stunning beaches, friendly guides, and a flexible, laid-back day, this tour ticks all the boxes. Just remember to bring water shoes and sunscreen for an even more enjoyable experience.