Formentera isn’t just a pretty face in the Balearic Islands; it’s a place where boat trips unlock the island’s true charm. Unlike crowded bus tours or self-driving, these full-day boat excursions let you experience Formentera’s rugged coastlines, pristine beaches, and secluded coves from the water—where the real magic happens. We’re especially fond of the Playa de Ses Illetes Full Day Catamaran Trip for its balance of comfort and fun, and the Explore Formentera with a Full-Day Private Sailboat Trip for a personalized experience tailored to your interests.
In this guide, we’ll outline the top six full-day boat tours, highlighting what makes each one special. Whether you’re after an all-inclusive day with snorkeling and paddleboarding or a luxurious private sailing experience, we’ll help you find the best fit.
1. Playa de Ses Illetes Full Day Catamaran Trip
At number one, the Playa de Ses Illetes Full Day Catamaran Trip earns top marks with a perfect 5.0 rating from 58 reviews. This seven-hour adventure is designed for groups of up to 11, making it ideal for families or friends wanting a social yet relaxed day on the water. The price —around $3,370—reflects the exclusive feel, with everything from snorkel gear to paddleboards included.
What sets this tour apart is the focus on hands-on fun and flexibility. Your skipper expertly navigates while you enjoy the onboard megaboom Bluetooth speaker, snorkel, or paddle around to your heart’s content. You can disembark at Playa de Ses Illetes, one of the most famous beaches in the Mediterranean, for a beachside lunch at one of the restaurants, or with supplies stored in the large cool box you bring along. The optional dinghy ride to shore adds a playful touch, perfect for those wanting an active day or just to relax in the sun.
Bottom Line: This trip offers a luxurious, all-in-one day of sailing, swimming, and relaxing, perfect for those who want the full Formentera experience without sacrificing comfort.
2. Explore Formentera with a Full-Day Private Sailboat Trip
At number two, the Explore Formentera with a Full-Day Private Sailboat Trip is a standout for its intimate, customizable approach. Priced at around $906 for a group of up to seven, this tour is run by a family-owned business that aims to share their daily life on the water.
This trip emphasizes discovering hidden coves, cliffs, and caves, tailored to your preferences. The guides are passionate about the local environment and are happy to shape the day around your interests—whether that’s swimming at S’Espalmador, exploring the caves at Cala Saona, or just soaking in the scenery. The itinerary includes stops at S’Espalmador, a protected island with no bars or hotels, and Playa de Ses Illetes for lunch or swimming.
Many reviewers note the relaxed pace and personalized attention, making this ideal for couples, small families, or groups seeking a more authentic, less touristy experience. Because the boat is yours for the day, there’s flexibility to linger or move quickly as you wish.
Bottom Line: This private sailboat tour delivers a personalized, relaxed day exploring Formentera’s natural beauty—perfect for those who want to avoid crowds and enjoy a tailor-made adventure.
3. Playa de Ses Illetes Sailboat Full Day Private Trip
Number three features the Playa de Ses Illetes Sailboat Full Day Private Trip, which is similar in spirit to the previous option but with a slightly different setup. Priced at about $1,548 for up to nine people, this tour offers a private sailing experience to the same iconic beach.
This trip includes a three-hour stop at Playa de Ses Illetes, where you can enjoy lunch at a local restaurant or bring supplies to eat onboard. The second stop takes you to S’Espalmador, known for its stunning sandbar and coves, perfect for snorkeling or paddleboarding. The focus here is on comfort, privacy, and quality time with your group.
Guests often mention the attentive skipper and the flexibility to set your pace. If you’re looking for a private, intimate day on the water with plenty of time to relax or explore, this tour delivers. It’s especially suited for families or small groups who value exclusivity and personalized service.
Bottom Line: For those wanting a private, all-encompassing day with flexible plans and excellent scenery, this sailboat tour hits the mark.
4. Playa Es Arenals Catamaran Private Full Day Trip
Number four on our list is the Playa Es Arenals Catamaran Private Full Day Trip. This seven-hour tour is perfect for larger groups up to 12 and costs around $3,500, making it another premium option for privacy and comfort.
The tour cruises past Migjorn Beach and ends at Playa Es Arenals, where you can anchor and enjoy swimming, snorkeling, or just relaxing in the sun. The boat is equipped with snorkel gear and paddleboards, and your skipper handles all the sailing. The cool box allows you to stock up on your favorite snacks and drinks for the day.
What makes this tour special is the combination of scenic cruising and ample time onshore. It’s ideal for travelers who want to experience the coastline from the water but also enjoy a longer beach stay. The reviews highlight the professionalism of the crew and the quality of the boat, making it a luxurious choice.
Bottom Line: This tour offers a relaxing, scenic day with plenty of water sport options and enough time to enjoy the beaches at your own pace.
5. Platja de Migjorn Private Catamaran Full Day Trip
Number five offers the Platja de Migjorn Private Catamaran Full Day Trip, perfect for those seeking a peaceful, private escape. Priced at about $3,500 for up to 12 people, this tour is tailored to your group, with a focus on comfort and exploration.
The trip includes a short sail to the beautiful Migjorn area, where you’ll have several hours to explore the beach and enjoy water activities like paddleboarding and snorkeling. The skipper takes care of navigation, so your time is spent relaxing or exploring at your pace. The cool box lets you bring along drinks and snacks to enjoy throughout the day.
This option is great for travelers who prefer a leisurely pace and the privacy of a dedicated boat. The flexibility lets you choose how long to stay at each stop, making it well-suited for families or groups wanting a more tailored experience.
Bottom Line: If privacy, flexibility, and a laid-back day on one of Spain’s most beautiful beaches are what you’re after, this trip is a top choice.
6. Playa de Llevant Catamaran Private Full Day Tour
Finally, the Playa de Llevant Catamaran Private Full Day Tour provides a spectacular northern journey. The price of around $3,498 covers up to 12 guests and offers a full day exploring the north coast, including Espalmador and Playa de Llevant.
This tour is tailored to those wanting to see a different side of Formentera, with sailing along the coast, passing Espalmador, and enjoying the scenic northern beaches. The guide is knowledgeable about the local spots, and the boat’s amenities make for a comfortable day.
Ideal for nature and scenery lovers, this trip’s flexible itinerary and private setting make it suitable for families or groups looking for a peaceful, scenic escape. The five-hour sailing segment combined with stops for swimming and relaxing offers a well-rounded day.
Bottom Line: For a quieter, scenic exploration of Formentera’s northern coast, this private trip balances sailing, sightseeing, and beach time beautifully.
How to Choose the Right Full-Day Tour in Formentera
Picking the best boat tour depends on your budget, group size, and what kind of experience you want. If you prefer a glamorous, all-in-one day with snorkeling and paddleboarding, the Playa de Ses Illetes Catamaran Trip is a solid choice. For a more intimate, customizable experience, the Explore Formentera with a Full-Day Private Sailboat Trip or the private sailboat options suit smaller groups seeking privacy and flexibility. For those wanting a scenic, relaxed trip along the northern coast, the Playa de Llevant Catamaran offers a peaceful alternative.
Consider your physical activity level—if you love snorkeling or paddleboarding, look for tours that include those options. Also, check the reviews for insights on skipper expertise and boat quality. Booking early is recommended in high season, especially for private or small-group tours, since they fill quickly.
Final Thoughts
Formentera’s full-day boat tours offer a range of options—from lively shared trips to serene private charters—each revealing different sides of the island’s stunning coastline. If you want to experience the iconic Playa de Ses Illetes in style, the catamaran trips are hard to beat. For a more personalized, flexible adventure, private sailboats let you craft your perfect day. And for scenic exploration of quieter northern shores, the Llevant tour provides a peaceful escape.
No matter your choice, enjoying Formentera’s waters is the best way to see its true beauty. Book early, plan your day around what excites you most—whether snorkeling, relaxing, or exploring—and get ready for a memorable island experience.