Ibiza: Formentera Trip with Paddle, Snorkel and Lunch

Ibiza: Formentera Trip with Paddle, Snorkel and Lunch — A Detailed Review

If you’re looking to explore Formentera’s stunning coastlines without the hassle of planning, this boat trip offers a lively mix of water activities, scenic stops, and delicious local food. For around $81 per person, you’ll spend about five hours cruising from Ibiza’s Playa den Bossa Pier, with stops at Espalmador and Ses Illetes, two of the island’s most famous beaches.

What we particularly like about this tour is its inclusive setup—with paddleboards, snorkel gear, and floating inflatables all provided—making it easy to jump right into the water. Plus, the luxury of free-flowing drinks (sangria, beer, water) keeps the mood lively, whether you’re relaxing on deck or exploring the island.

One thing to keep in mind is the boat’s busy schedule—it’s a popular trip, which means space for paddleboarding and other water activities can be limited during peak times. Also, if you’re prone to motion sickness, the boat can get a little rocky, so packing some anti-nausea meds might be a smart move.

This trip is perfect for adventurous travelers who want a taste of Formentera’s famous beaches, enjoy water sports, and don’t mind a lively, social atmosphere. Families with children over age 3, groups of friends, or anyone eager for a day of fun on the water will find it particularly appealing.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

All-Inclusive Water Fun: Paddleboards, snorkel gear, inflatables, and floating mats make for an engaging day on the sea.
Delicious On-Board Meal: Expect a cooked seafood paella, chicken paella, or vegan paella, along with fresh salads, bread, and alioli, served mid-day.
Flexible Island Time: About 4-5 hours on Formentera, with free time to explore or relax on its beaches, followed by optional late afternoon return.
Good Value for Money: For roughly $81, you get transportation, meals, activities, and drinks—a packed experience for the price.
Knowledgeable Guides: Guides like Damian have received praise for their helpfulness, friendliness, and local tips, enhancing the trip.
Limited Docking in Park Areas: Stops at Espalmador and Ses Illetes are view-only, as they’re protected parks, but this still offers ample photo ops and water fun.

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A Thorough Look at the Experience

Starting Point and Logistics

The journey begins early at Playa den Bossa Pier, where check-in usually starts around 8:30 am. The meeting point is at a wooden hut stand next to Hotel Ibiza Playa, making it straightforward to find. The boat, described as comfortable, is designed to accommodate a lively crowd, with options to sit upstairs for better views and a more relaxed atmosphere.

Booking is flexible—you can reserve now and pay later—giving you the chance to plan your day once your travel dates are firm. If you’re traveling with children, they’ll need to carry ID if under 12, and the trip isn’t suitable for kids under 3 or pregnant women, or those over 70.

The Itinerary Breakdown

First stop: Es Palmador (1.5 hours)
This is where the water activities kick into gear. We loved the way paddleboards are included—an easy way to see the coastline, or just splash around. The reviews highlight that the water here is incredibly clear, ideal for floating and taking pictures. Some reviews mentioned that the boat can get a bit rocky, so if motion sickness is a concern, bringing meds is wise.

Midday lunch:
While lounging on deck, you’ll enjoy a cooked meal featuring seafood paella, chicken paella, or vegan options, complemented by salads, bread, and alioli. The quality of the food is generally good, with reviewers praising the delicious flavors and generous portions. The included drinks—beer, sangria, water—keep everyone refreshed and in good spirits.

Second stop: Ses Illetes (1.5 hours)
This stretch is perfect for snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters or relaxing on the fine sands. Guests have reported that the snorkeling gear is provided, and the water’s transparency makes it easy to spot marine life. The stop is view-only; boats don’t dock here since it’s a protected park, but the scenery is stunning enough to justify the visit.

Final free time in Formentera:
At around 1 pm, you disembark for a few hours to explore on your own—perfect for those wanting to rent a moped or just relax on the beaches. Many reviews mention renting scooters or bikes to see more of the island’s beautiful beaches, beach bars, and markets. The flexible return schedule allows you to leave at either 1:15 pm or later around 6:15 pm if you opt for the later trip, which includes an open bar and snacks on the return leg.

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Water Activities and Atmosphere

Guests rave about the fun-filled atmosphere onboard, with floating mats, pool noodles, and inflatable toys adding to the playful vibe. The boat’s crew, including guides like Damian, are frequently praised for their friendliness and attentiveness. As one reviewer put it, Damian “found us straight away and explained what we were going to do,” making everyone feel comfortable.

The boat can get lively, especially with the open bar on the return trip, which often turns into a dance party on deck. The music, the sun, and the camaraderie make this more than just a sightseeing cruise—it’s a social experience.

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Snorkeling and Water Fun

The snorkeling gear provided allows you to explore the underwater world, with many guests saying the water clarity is fantastic. The opportunity to paddleboard along the coast or float on inflatables makes this trip engaging for all ages. However, as some reviews note, the boat can be busy, and activity spots might fill up quickly during peak times, so arriving early or being flexible is advised.

Food and Drinks

The meal served on board is often highlighted as a trip highlight. The seafood paella gets high marks for freshness and flavor, and vegan options are available for those with dietary restrictions. The unlimited soft drinks, beer, and sangria help keep everyone in good spirits, especially during the warm Mediterranean day.

Who Would Enjoy This?

This trip suits adventurous souls eager for water-based fun, scenic views, and island exploration, all at a reasonable price. The lively atmosphere and social setup make it ideal for groups of friends or families with older children. If you prefer a quieter, more relaxed beach day, you might find the boat’s busy schedule and large crowds less appealing.

Final Thoughts

This Ibiza to Formentera boat trip offers a solid balance of activity, scenery, and relaxation. You’ll enjoy stunning views of the coast, crystal-clear waters, and the chance to sample authentic Spanish cuisine with a casual, fun-loving crowd. The friendly guides and included water sports ensure you get a good dose of adventure, while the free time on Formentera lets you explore at your own pace.

The value is particularly good considering the meals, drinks, and multiple water activities included. That said, if you’re looking for a more tranquil or exclusive experience, this might feel a bit crowded or hectic. But for those who want a full, lively day immersed in the island’s natural beauty, it’s a fantastic choice.

In short, this trip is best for energetic travelers who enjoy water sports, social atmospheres, and delicious food, and who don’t mind sharing the boat with other water lovers. Whether you’re new to snorkeling or a seasoned paddleboarder, you’ll find plenty to smile about on this vibrant day out.

FAQs

Is there a time limit for each stop?
Yes, each stop at Es Palmador and Ses Illetes lasts about 1.5 hours, giving you ample time for water activities or relaxing on the beach.

Do I need to bring my own towel or picnic?
Towels are not included, so bringing one for swimming or lounging is a good idea. Food is provided on board, so you don’t need to bring your own meal.

Can I rent a scooter or bike in Formentera?
While the tour doesn’t include transportation on the island, many guests rent scooters or bikes for flexible exploration during their free time.

What should I wear on this trip?
Swimwear under casual clothes, plus sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat. Remember, the boat can get breezy and sometimes rocky.

Are children allowed?
Children over 3 are permitted, but they need to carry ID if under 12. The trip isn’t suitable for very young kids or pregnant women.

Is the boat accessible for people with mobility issues?
The information provided doesn’t specify accessibility features, so it’s best to check directly if you have concerns.

What is the best time to book?
Booking in advance is recommended, especially during peak season. You can reserve now and pay later, adding flexibility.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours before the trip for a full refund.

What language do guides speak?
Guides communicate in English and Spanish, making it accessible for most travelers.

This detailed look hopefully helps you decide whether this lively, water-filled adventure fits your Ibiza and Formentera itinerary. It offers a great way to experience the island’s famous beaches, enjoy some fun water sport activities, and sample delicious local cuisine—all in one affordable, well-organized day.