Ibiza: VIP boat tour to Formentera with sports and option for paella and drinks

Travelers dreaming of sun, sea, and a touch of luxury often find themselves drawn to Ibiza’s stunning coastline and nearby island treasures. While many tours promise a taste of paradise, this VIP boat trip to Formentera really aims to deliver an elevated experience — blending comfort, adventure, and delicious food in one seamless package.

We haven’t personally taken this exact tour, but through detailed reviews and the experience descriptions, it’s clear that this journey offers a well-rounded escape. The luxury catamaran, two beautiful stops, and customizable ticket options make it stand out.

What we love? The spectacular beaches like Ses Illetes, the water sports options, and the chance to relax in style. On the downside, the scheduled stops don’t include disembarking onto Formentera itself, which might disappoint some wanting to explore the island up close.

This tour suits travelers who value comfort, scenic views, and a mix of relaxation and activity — perfect for groups, couples, or even solo travelers ready for a well-organized day at sea.

Key Points

• Luxury Experience: The VIP catamaran features 40 VIP beds and multiple decks for lounging and sunbathing.
• Flexible Options: Five ticket types cater to different budgets, with upgrades for food, drinks, and beds.
• Unmatched Stops: The tour visits the top-rated Ses Illetes beach and the private Espalmador Island, with opportunities for swimming, paddleboarding, and snorkeling.
• Water Sports Included: Paddle boards, snorkel gear, and water scooters are available, adding excitement to your day.
• Food and Drinks: Options vary from no food to full gourmet breakfasts and paellas, plus open bars with cocktails and soft drinks.
• No Formal Formentera Disembarkation: To step onto the actual island, an extra fee applies, and the stop is limited to 5-8 hours.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Journey: What to Expect on This VIP Ibiza to Formentera Tour

This half-day adventure spans approximately five hours, starting mid-morning and returning by early afternoon. The trip is designed to blend relaxation with activity, aboard a luxurious VIP catamaran that comfortably accommodates up to 40 guests.

Boarding and Facilities

The experience begins at the Ibiza VIP Cruises stand, where you’ll check in and receive a wristband granting access to the boat. The vessel boasts a main deck with tables, comfy seating, and beanbags, perfect for soaking up the sun or enjoying a drink. The second open-air deck provides space for sunbathing or chilling on VIP beds — some inclusive in higher-tier tickets, with the option to purchase more. Reviewers highlight that the beds fill up quickly, so arriving early is advised.

First Stop: Espalmador Island (Approx. 1 hour)

Once underway, the boat heads to Espalmador Island, a true highlight. This private island, often compared to Caribbean spots for its pristine vibe, is the first major stop for swimming, snorkeling, or paddleboarding. Guests can watch marine life in crystal-clear waters or just float around.

Reviewers mention that the water scooters and snorkeling gear make for fun, active moments, with one noting that the opportunity for marine life viewing is a real plus. The boat anchors just 100-150 meters from the shore, allowing quick access to the beach and a sense of exclusivity.

Second Stop: Ses Illetes (Approx. 1.5 hours)

The second major stop takes you to Ses Illetes, ranked the 4th best beach in Europe and 10th worldwide. Its powder-soft sands and shallow, turquoise waters create a picture-perfect scene. Guests can paddleboard, snorkel, or simply lounge and soak in the views.

A reviewer described this as a “relaxing trip” with good food options, highlighting that the atmosphere with the DJ added a fun touch, although some noted that more seating could improve comfort. The boat anchors close enough to the beach for guests to swim or paddle to shore.

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Water Sports and Activities

Throughout the day, water sports are on offer, including paddleboards for groups of 2-4, snorkel goggles for everyone, and water scooters shared among all guests. Some reviews point out how these add a fun, energetic element, with one guest remarking, “We loved the jet skis and snorkeling, it really made the trip more lively.”

Final Sightseeing Cruise & Return

After exploring the beaches, the boat cruises for about 1 hour and 45 minutes, offering scenic views of Ibiza’s coastline and nearby islands. The trip concludes back at the starting point, giving travelers a chance to reflect on a day filled with sun, sea, and good company.

Ticket Options and Their Value

What sets this tour apart is the variety of tickets, designed to suit different budgets and desires:

Admission Ticket

• No drinks or food included.
• Perfect for budget-conscious travelers who want the experience without extra costs.

Basic Ticket

• Includes one drink from the “Premium” open bar.
• Suitable for casual travelers who want to enjoy a drink or two.

Standard Ticket

• 5 hours of “Standard” open bar (sangria, beer, soft drinks, juices)
• Includes a “Standard” breakfast of tropical fruits, pastries, coffee, and tea.
• Great for those who want a balanced experience of drinks and breakfast without breaking the bank.

Advance Ticket

• Everything in the Standard ticket, plus “Advance” open bar with white wine sangria and cava
• Paella made onboard, with seafood, chicken, or vegetarian options, plus bread and aioli
• A step up for food lovers and those wanting more variety in their drinks.

Premium Ticket

• All-inclusive: premium open bar (7 cocktails, sangria, beer, soft drinks, juices)
• Gourmet breakfast with eggs, pancakes, tropical fruits, and pastries
• Paella with seafood, chicken, or vegetarian, plus dessert
• This ticket delivers the most complete experience, ideal for celebrating a special occasion or indulging in everything the tour offers.

Many reviewers note the value for money in the higher-tier tickets, especially considering the gourmet food, diverse drinks, and luxury beds. Those on more basic tickets still find the overall experience enjoyable, but the upgrades significantly enhance comfort and indulgence.

The Itinerary in Detail

The tour’s itinerary is structured to maximize your time at the most stunning spots, with the flexibility to enjoy swimming, snorkeling, or just relaxing on deck.

Starting Point:
Located at the corner of Carrer de Formentera and Passeig de Ses Pitiüses, the check-in process is straightforward, and staff are friendly. The trip kicks off with a sightseeing cruise that gives you sweeping views of Ibiza’s coast for about 45 minutes, setting the scene for the day ahead.

Espalmador Island:
Anchored just outside the nature reserve, this stop is ideal for swimming and exploring marine life. Its secluded vibe makes it feel like a Caribbean escape, with the added benefit of being less crowded than popular beaches.

Ses Illetes:
Known for its powder-like sands and crystal-clear waters, this is the star of the trip. Guests often comment on its almost unreal beauty — perfect for paddleboarding or simply lounging with a drink in hand. The proximity of the boat to the shore allows for quick dips and easy access.

Final Cruise & Return:
The last stretch provides more scenic views, giving guests time to relax and take photos before heading back. The boat’s layout allows for socializing or quiet reflection, depending on your mood.

Authentic Insights from Reviews

One guest expressed their appreciation for the knowledgeable guides and friendly staff, particularly Alex, who was praised for helping throughout the trip. Multiple reviews highlight the excellent wine selection in the premium bar, which adds a touch of sophistication.

Many found the paella delicious, with some reviewers noting it was made onboard with seafood, chicken, or vegetarian options. The breakfasts were well-received, especially the tropical fruits and pastries, which provided a good start to the day.

Guests appreciated the well-organized timing, feeling they had ample time to enjoy each stop. However, some mentioned that the beds fill quickly, so arriving early is wise. Others pointed out that weather can influence the experience, with some activities or stops altered or canceled if conditions are poor.

Practical Tips for Your Trip

• Arrive at least 45 minutes early to secure better spots and VIP beds, especially if you’re interested in upgrading.
• Bring swimwear, sunscreen, and a towel — water-based fun is the main event.
• If you want to disembark on Formentera, be prepared to pay an extra 30, with a 5-8 hour stay.
• Consider the ticket upgrade if you’re a foodie or enjoy cocktails — it really enhances the experience.
• Check the weather forecast, as safety precautions mean some activities could be canceled or delayed.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This cruise appeals most to travelers seeking a luxe relaxed day with a balance of adventure and pampering. It’s perfect for couples looking for a romantic getaway, groups of friends wanting to celebrate, or even solo travelers eager to meet others in a fun, guided environment.

Those who love water sports will find plenty to enjoy, while foodies will appreciate the onboard paella and gourmet breakfast options. If your priority is disembarking on Formentera itself for a full day, this isn’t the right fit — but if you’re happy with scenic stops and luxury amenities, this tour checks all the boxes.

FAQs

Does the tour include a stop on Formentera?
No, the standard tour only visits Espalmador and Ses Illetes. To disembark on Formentera, an extra fee of 30 applies, with a stay of 5–8 hours.

What’s included in the ticket options?
Includes varying levels of food and drinks, water sports, and VIP beds. The highest-tier tickets offer gourmet breakfast, premium drinks, and onboard paella.

Can I upgrade my ticket on the day?
Yes, upgrades like the “Advance” or “Premium” tickets are available for an additional fee on the boat.

Are the beds on the boat free or paid?
VIP beds are available for around $100, with a bottle of champagne included. They fill up quickly, so early arrival is recommended.

What water sports are available?
Paddleboards, snorkeling goggles, and water scooters are included, providing plenty of fun options for active guests.

Is there any food or drink included with the cheapest ticket?
No, the admission ticket doesn’t include any food or drinks; it’s just the cruise.

How long is each stop?
Espalmador lasts about 1 hour, and Ses Illetes approximately 1.5 hours. The final cruise segment is about 1 hour and 45 minutes.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the activity provider states that the tour is wheelchair accessible.

What should I bring?
Swimwear, towel, sunscreen, and possibly a hat. Food and drinks are not allowed onboard, but water sports gear is provided.

What happens if the weather is bad?
Activities and stops might be altered or canceled without refund — safety comes first. It’s wise to check weather forecasts before booking.

Final Thoughts

This Ibiza VIP boat tour to Formentera offers a well-balanced mix of luxury, adventure, and scenic beauty. With several ticket options, it caters to different preferences and budgets, making it versatile for a variety of travelers.

The boat’s upmarket amenities, combined with the stunning beaches and included water sports, create a memorable day on the water. While it doesn’t include a full disembarkation on Formentera by default, the extra fee opens that possibility — perfect for those wanting a full island experience.

If you’re after a luxury cruise with excellent views, good food, and fun water activities, this trip is a solid choice. It’s especially suited to those who value comfort, great scenery, and a touch of indulgence, all in a relaxed, festive atmosphere.

Note: Make sure to book your tickets well in advance if you want VIP beds or specific upgrades, as they fill up quickly during peak season. Always check the weather forecast and arrive early to maximize your experience.

You can check availability for your dates here: