Imagine spending a perfect day on a private sailboat in the crystal-clear waters of Formentera, visiting the iconic Playa de Ses Illetes and the tranquil S’Espalmador. For about 7 hours, you can enjoy an intimate, customizable adventure with up to nine friends or family members, all for a flat fee of approximately $1,548. Led by a knowledgeable skipper, this trip offers a mix of sunbathing, snorkeling, paddleboarding, and tasty local dining—what more could you ask for?
What we love most about this experience is the personalized service and the flexibility it offers. You’ll enjoy the comfort of your own group, with the liberty to choose how long to stay at each stop and whether to dine onshore or bring your own supplies. Plus, the inclusion of snorkeling gear and paddleboards means plenty of chances to get active or just float and soak up the scenery.
One thing to consider is that food and drinks are not included in the price, so if you want a gourmet lunch or extra snacks, you’ll need to bring your own or plan to dine at the beachside restaurants. This trip suits travelers who value authentic, relaxed experiences and love the idea of sailing on a private boat with a friendly, seasoned skipper guiding the way.
If you’re someone craving stunning coastal views, flexibility, and a personal touch in your island adventures, this tour could be just what you’re looking for.
Key Points
- Private & Personalized: Only your group participates, ensuring a tailored experience.
- Flexible Itinerary: Choose how long to stay at each stop, whether for lunch or activities.
- All-Inclusive: Skipper, fuel, snorkeling gear, paddleboards, and cool box included.
- Ideal for Water Lovers: Snorkeling, paddleboarding, and swimming are front and center.
- Great for Small Groups: Up to 9 people, perfect for family or friends.
- No Food & Drinks Included: Bring your own supplies or plan to eat at local spots.
Setting the Scene: Why Choose a Private Sailing Day in Formentera?
Formentera, the tiny sister island of Ibiza, boasts some of the most stunning beaches in the Balearics. The Playa de Ses Illetes is often called the Caribbean of Europe, thanks to its soft white sand and clear, shallow waters. This trip offers an unbeatable way to explore these beaches without the crowds or noise often found on land.
Opting for a full-day private sailboat means you control your experience. You’ll cruise smoothly across the water, with a skipper handling all the navigation, allowing you to relax and focus on the scenery, your company, or trying out the included gear. From the moment you leave the dock, you’re in for an adventure that combines comfort, fun, and authentic coastal beauty.
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The Itinerary: What You Can Expect
First Stop: Playa de Ses Illetes
Arriving here, you’ll quickly see why this beach is a highlight. Its long stretch of soft sand and shallow, turquoise waters make it perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and taking selfies. You’ll have around three hours on the beach, a good amount of time to grab lunch at one of the local restaurants or simply set up your own beach picnic.
According to reviews, many guests appreciate the freedom to disembark and explore at their own pace. “We had the most beautiful memorable day sailing over to Formentera,” one reviewer recalls, praising their skipper Tincho for making the day so special. Whether you prefer to relax on the boat or step ashore for some tapas, this stop caters to both.
The Second Stop: S’Espalmador
Following a relaxing lunch at Ses Illetes or on the boat, your skipper might take you to S’Espalmador, a tiny island just off Formentera’s coast. Known for its mud baths and unspoiled natural beauty, this island provides a peaceful retreat. Guests say it’s “such an incredible experience,” especially for those interested in swimming or paddleboarding in serene surroundings.
With about two hours here, you’ll have the chance to snorkel (gear provided), paddle around on the SUP, or just float and enjoy the views. Many reviewers mention that the skipper’s local knowledge enhances the experience—guiding them to the best spots and sharing insights about the area.
What’s Included & What to Bring
The tour’s listed inclusions are comprehensive: your skipper, fuel, snorkeling equipment, stand-up paddleboards, a Bluetooth speaker for your tunes, a large cool box for supplies, and final cleaning. These amenities ensure you’re well-equipped for a fun-filled day.
However, food and drinks are not included, so you’ll want to bring your own snacks, beverages, and possibly a picnic. The cool box makes it easy to keep perishables fresh throughout the day. Some guests have taken advantage of the flexibility to stock up in advance, enjoying a relaxed meal on the boat or at a beachside restaurant.
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The Skipper: Your Trusted Guide
The reviews consistently highlight the skipper’s enthusiasm, knowledge, and friendly attitude. “Tincho was a fantastic guide,” one guest shares, noting how he made the day so much more enjoyable by sharing his passion for the area and ensuring everyone’s comfort. Many reviewers mention that a good skipper can turn a good trip into an unforgettable one.
The Experience: Why It’s Worth the Price
At around $1,547 for up to nine people, this trip offers great value for a private, all-day adventure. When compared to group tours or day trips that might be less flexible and less intimate, this option stands out as a luxury that doesn’t break the bank—especially considering the inclusions like snorkeling gear and paddleboards.
The seven-hour duration is ample time to see the highlights without feeling rushed. Plus, the chance to customize your stopovers and activities makes every trip unique—whether you want to spend more time snorkeling, go ashore for lunch, or just soak up the sun.
The Balance: Pros vs Cons
While the trip scores highly in reviews and overall ratings, keep in mind that food and drinks are extra. If you’re used to all-inclusive experiences, this might require a bit of prep. Also, the success of the trip heavily depends on good weather; poor conditions could lead to cancellations, though you’ll be offered a different date or a refund.
Another consideration is the group size—up to nine people—making it ideal for families or friends, but perhaps less suited for larger groups or solo travelers.
Who Will Love This Trip?
This private sailing experience is perfect for travelers seeking a flexible, intimate day on the water. If you’re passionate about sailing, snorkeling, and exploring beaches at your own pace, you’ll find this trip rewarding. It’s especially suited to those who want a trusted guide to show them the best spots, and who appreciate a personalized touch.
It’s also a good choice if you’re traveling with children or a small group, as the boat’s size and private setting make it easier to keep everyone comfortable and engaged.
If you crave stunning views, water-based activities, and a relaxed, private atmosphere, this sailboat trip offers a memorable way to experience Formentera’s coast. It’s a perfect option for those who enjoy being on the water, want flexibility in their day, and value good company and knowledgeable guidance.
While you’ll need to plan for your own meals, the overall experience — with snorkeling, paddleboarding, and scenic stops — offers excellent value for a full-day adventure. The positive reviews reinforce its reputation as a fantastic choice, especially for those looking to escape the crowds and enjoy the genuine beauty of this Balearic paradise.
In summary, this trip suits water lovers, small groups, and travelers who love custom experiences. If that sounds like your kind of day, go ahead and book — you’ll return home with plenty of stories and memories of a truly special day on the sea.
What is the duration of this trip?
The trip lasts approximately 7 hours, giving you plenty of time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed.
How many people can join?
Up to 9 guests can participate in this private tour, making it ideal for small groups or families.
What is included in the price?
Your skipper, fuel, snorkel equipment, stand-up paddleboards, Bluetooth speaker, large cool box, and final cleaning are included.
Are meals included?
No, food and drinks are not included. You’ll need to bring your own supplies or plan to buy at the beachside restaurants.
Can I disembark at each stop?
Yes, guests can disembark at Playa de Ses Illetes and S’Espalmador to explore, dine, or relax onshore.
What if the weather is bad?
The experience requires good weather. If canceled due to poor conditions, you will be offered an alternative date or a full refund.
Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, and the boat’s relaxed atmosphere makes it suitable for families with children, especially those who enjoy water activities.
In essence, this private day sail in Formentera offers a flexible, intimate way to enjoy some of the most beautiful beaches and waters in the Balearics. With top-notch guides, excellent amenities, and the freedom to customize your day, it’s a memorable choice for water enthusiasts and those seeking a more personal connection to this stunning island.