Ibiza: Formentera Full-Day Boat Tour with Lunch & Snorkeling

Experience the Best of Ibiza and Formentera in One Day

Imagine a sunny day aboard a spacious catamaran, sailing from Ibiza’s lively Figueretas to the stunning, tranquil shores of Formentera. For around 8 hours, you’ll enjoy a journey filled with good food, music, swimming, and exploring one of the Mediterranean’s most picturesque islands. The tour, offered by Ibiza Sea Tickets, is priced to be accessible for many travelers, with options to reserve Balinese beds for a touch of luxury.

What makes this trip stand out? First, the live paella show on board provides a truly authentic taste of Spanish cuisine, cooked right in front of you—something we particularly loved. Second, the free 3 hours in Formentera give you the chance to explore at your own pace, whether you’re lounging on Ses Illetes, cruising around by scooter, or enjoying the views from Mirador de Formentera.

One possible consideration? The limited size of the boat (only 40 guests) means it can fill up quickly, especially in peak season. Also, if you’re not into water activities, the focus on snorkeling and paddleboarding might feel less appealing. This tour is perfect for those craving a relaxed yet lively day with a mix of indulgence, adventure, and island charm—ideal for couples, groups, or solo travelers who want a taste of both leisure and exploration.

Key Points

• Authentic Food & Drinks: Enjoy live-cooked paella and unlimited drinks from an open bar.
• Comfortable & Intimate Setting: Small group size ensures a relaxed atmosphere with comfy seats and optional Balinese beds.
• Flexible Island Exploration: Three hours of free time in Formentera, with assistance for scooter or bike rentals.
• Water Activities Galore: Snorkeling, paddleboarding, and inflatables in crystal-clear Cala Saona.
• Beautiful Itinerary: Stops include Cala Saona and the Port of La Savina, with scenic sailing and plenty of time for relaxation.
• Multilingual Crew & Easy Booking: Friendly staff speak several languages, with options to reserve in advance and flexible cancellation policy.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Ibiza to Formentera Full-Day Tour

Setting the Scene: Starting Point and Departure

We start our day at the Yokubo Club, conveniently located right on the Ibiza waterfront. The check-in process begins around 30 minutes before departure, so arriving a bit early helps you settle in, grab a drink, and soak up the lively marina atmosphere. The small group size—no more than 40 guests—creates an intimate vibe, perfect for making new friends or enjoying the trip quietly if you prefer.

The boat itself is a spacious catamaran, designed for comfort and stability, with plenty of shaded areas and sun decks. The crew, multilingual and friendly, sets a relaxed tone with chill-out music as we cast off, heading towards the turquoise waters of the Mediterranean.

The Sailing Experience: Relaxation and Views

The first leg of the journey takes about an hour, giving you time to settle into your seat, enjoy the scenery, and perhaps sip a glass from the open bar. The unlimited wine, beer, sangria, and soft drinks keep everyone refreshed and in good spirits. Expect a leisurely sail with gentle waves—perfect for unwinding, chatting, or simply taking in the coastal views.

Cala Saona: Water, Food, and Fun

Our first real stop is Cala Saona, widely regarded as one of the most beautiful beaches in the area. Here, the clear, shallow waters are ideal for snorkeling or paddleboarding—both equipment provided. One reviewer highlighted the “immaculate vibes” and the “nice area to swim,” so if you love water-based activities, you’ll be right at home.

While you’re in Cala Saona, you’ll get the chance to see the live paella show, a highlight of the trip. Watching the chef prepare traditional Spanish paella using fresh seafood and premium meats is more than just a meal—it’s an authentic cultural experience. The paella is served hot and fresh, providing a substantial lunch that’s both flavorful and filling.

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The Island Exploration: Free Time in Formentera

After lunch and some splashy fun, we sail for about 20 minutes to the Port of La Savina, where a full three hours of free time begins. This is your chance to explore Formentera at your own pace, whether that’s lounging on Ses Illetes, wandering through Es Pujols, or enjoying panoramic views from the Mirador de Formentera.

The tour staff can help you rent scooters or bikes at discounted rates—an easy way to see more of the island without wasting time. As one reviewer noted, “not walkable and extremely hot,” so having your own wheels makes a big difference.

Back on Board: Relaxed Return Journey

After your island adventure, the boat departs for the return trip. Expect about one hour of sailing with more music, drinks, and a chilled-out atmosphere. If you’ve booked a Balinese bed, you’ll be treated to a complimentary bottle of Cava—adding a touch of luxury to the trip.

Additional Considerations

The tour offers two departure options in 2025, with slight variations in timing and luxury options like Balinese beds and decks. The “Comfort Guaranteed” experience includes reserved seats and beds, ensuring a more private, relaxed day—worth considering if you’re looking for a more indulgent experience.

The tour’s small group size makes it ideal for those who prefer a more personalized, less crowded environment, but it also means spots can fill quickly, especially during high season.

Authentic Experiences That Travelers Love

From the reviews, it’s clear that this trip offers genuine value. Sajuan appreciated the “authentic and delicious paella,” while Laura found the friendly staff and Balinese beds to be “great.” These personal touches elevate the experience from just a boat tour to a memorable day of good food, relaxing vibes, and island discovery.

Practical Details for Travelers

What’s Included & What’s Not

The tour includes unlimited drinks—wine, beer, sangria, soft drinks—plus water activities like snorkeling, paddleboarding, and inflatables. The live paella is cooked in front of you, and you have three hours free in Formentera to explore or relax. The friendly crew speaks multiple languages, and there’s assistance available for scooter or bike rentals.

You’ll want to bring comfortable shoes, a hat, swimwear, a towel, and sunscreen. Don’t forget your ID or driving license if you plan to rent a vehicle on the island. Remember, luggage or large bags aren’t allowed onboard, and luggage such as weapons or sharp objects are prohibited for safety reasons.

Price & Value

While the exact price isn’t specified here, reviews suggest that the value lies in the combination of water activities, authentic food, and island exploration—not just a boat ride. The small group size, quality food, and flexible options for comfort make this a good investment for those wanting a well-rounded day without excessive crowds or rush.

Suitability & Best Use

This tour is ideal for couples seeking a romantic escape, groups of friends wanting to share a fun day, or solo travelers looking to meet like-minded people. It’s less suited for those who need wheelchair access or prefer guided tours of the island, as free exploration is self-directed.

Final Thoughts

This Ibiza to Formentera full-day tour offers a beautiful blend of sailing, swimming, and sightseeing with genuine touches like live paella and personalized island time. The small group size and friendly crew create an intimate, relaxed atmosphere, perfect for travelers who want to enjoy the Mediterranean without feeling rushed or crowded.

You’ll love the authentic Spanish cuisine, the stunning water activities, and the chance to see Formentera’s highlights at your own pace. The comfort options—like Balinese beds—add a touch of luxury, making this the perfect day for those who want a little indulgence along with adventure.

If you’re after a balanced mix of relaxation, authentic food, and island discovery, this tour will serve you well. Just be sure to book early, especially if you want the premium options, and come prepared with your swim gear and sense of adventure.

FAQ

What time does the tour start?
Check the specific availability, but departures are generally scheduled in the morning, with two options in 2025—one earlier and one later in the day.

How long is the sailing between stops?
The initial sail from the Ibiza start point to Cala Saona takes about an hour, and the return journey from Formentera back to Ibiza is approximately an hour as well.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, a hat, swimwear, towel, sunscreen, camera, and ID if you plan to rent a vehicle on the island.

Are water activities included?
Yes, snorkeling and paddleboarding are included, with equipment provided. Inflatables are also available for fun in the water.

Can I explore Formentera on my own?
Yes, you get three hours of free time, and staff can assist with scooter or bike rentals at discounted rates to help you see the main sights.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, water activities and the relaxed pace make it suitable for older children and teens, but check with the provider for specific age restrictions.

Are vegetarian or vegan meals available?
Yes, vegetarian and vegan options can be requested with at least 24 hours’ notice.

What amenities are on the boat?
Shaded areas, sun decks, comfortable seats, and optional Balinese beds. The crew speaks several languages to assist guests.

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.

This full-day Ibiza to Formentera trip offers a well-rounded mix of relaxation, water fun, and island discovery. Whether you’re after a leisurely day in beautiful surroundings, authentic local cuisine, or a lively sailing experience, this tour packs it all into one memorable package.

You can check availability for your dates here: