Sail Ibiza Formentera enjoy a swim in paradisiacal coves

Sail Ibiza Formentera enjoy a swim in paradisiacal coves

Imagine gliding across calm, turquoise waters on a private catamaran, with the warm Mediterranean sun overhead and the scent of salt in the air. That’s what you get with this full-day sailing tour starting from the beaches of Ibiza and heading to the equally breathtaking island of Formentera. For a cost of around $335.70 per person, you’ll enjoy approximately 6 hours of cruising, swimming, and soaking in some of the most iconic spots in the Balearics. Led by a professional skipper, this trip promises a relaxed yet adventure-packed day, perfect for families, friends, or anyone eager to see Ibiza’s scenic coastlines from a different perspective.

Two features we particularly love: first, the opportunity to paddle surf and snorkel at S’Espalmador, which gives an authentic taste of the local marine beauty. Second, the stop at Playa de Ses Illetes, a place renowned for its crystal-clear waters and pristine beaches, ideal for a refreshing swim and some snacks in the sun.

However, one consideration to keep in mind is that the tour can sometimes be affected by weather conditions or logistical issues, as noted by at least one disappointed reviewer who faced difficulties with attendance and communication. This underscores the importance of confirming your booking and understanding the cancellation policies.

This experience suits travelers who appreciate a leisurely pace, natural beauty, and a small-group atmosphere—perfect for those wanting to avoid crowded boat parties and instead enjoy a more intimate sailing adventure.

Key Points

Beautiful Stops: The tour visits S’Espalmador and Playa de Ses Illetes, both renowned for their striking waters and beaches.
Inclusive Equipment: Paddle boards and snorkeling gear are included, enhancing your exploration of the marine environment.
Professional Skipper: A knowledgeable skipper ensures safety and local insights throughout the trip.
Flexible Cancellation: Free cancellation available up to 24 hours in advance, offering peace of mind.
Limited Group Size: Max of 11 travelers, making for a more personalized experience.
Potential for Disappointment: Be aware that some reviews mention logistical issues, so confirm your booking beforehand.

An In-Depth Look at the Ibiza-Formentera Sailing Experience

Setting the Scene: What’s Included and How It Feels

This 6-hour sailing adventure offers a chance to see some of the most evocative spots in the Balearic Islands. Starting at Carrer de Porroig in Ibiza, the trip is designed for comfort and flexibility, with a professional skipper steering the vessel. The price covers essential expenses such as fuel, crew insurance, and water, meaning your main job is to relax and enjoy.

A notable perk is the inclusion of paddle boards, which open up a fun way to explore shallow coves or just enjoy a paddle in the calm waters. Snorkeling gear is also provided, allowing you to discover underwater life that hides just beneath the surface.

While the online description mentions a mobile ticket, the true value comes from the chance to experience a private, intimate setting—small groups of up to 11 ensure you won’t be jostling with large crowds.

The Itinerary: What You’ll Visit and What to Expect

Stop 1: S’Espalmador (Approx. 2 hours)

The first stop is at S’Espalmador, a tiny island with waters so clear you’ll feel like you’re in a dream. Here, the main attractions are snorkeling and paddleboarding, thanks to the calm, heaven-like waters. This spot is one of the highlights for those wanting a taste of the quiet, natural side of the Balearics. The free admission means you can spend your time exploring rather than worrying about extra costs.

This location is perfect for unwinding and enjoying the scenery. It’s often described as heavenly, with dreamy beaches that invite you to linger. We loved the way this stop combined water activities with the chance to just relax on the sand.

However, it’s worth noting that weather can impact your experience—rough seas or overcast skies might limit water activities or even lead to cancellations, which the provider states will be managed with a full refund or rescheduling.

Stop 2: Playa de Ses Illetes (Approx. 2 hours)

Next, the boat cruises to Playa de Ses Illetes, a celebrated beach on Formentera famous for its incredibly clear waters and soft sands. Here, you’ll have time to take a swim, relax on the beach, or enjoy some snacks onboard (although lunch is not included). The admission is included in your fee, making this a hassle-free stop for a scenic break.

This part of the trip embodies the postcard-perfect image of the Mediterranean. The shallow, transparent waters lure swimmers and snorkelers alike, providing excellent opportunities to observe marine life close to shore.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour covers a professional skipper, crew insurance, fuel, water, paddle boards, and snorkel gear. These inclusions emphasize the value of the experience—you’re paying for a well-equipped, guided trip with safety and comfort as priorities.

On the other hand, lunch and snacks are not included, so you might want to bring some provisions or plan to purchase food during the stops. This can be a positive for those wanting control over what they eat or to keep costs down.

Practicalities and Considerations

Meeting points are straightforward: the tour begins at a central Ibiza location and ends back there, making logistics easier. The maximum group size of 11 helps ensure a more personalized experience but also means last-minute bookings or cancellations might be more impactful, especially in the case of weather issues.

The tour is near public transportation, which is helpful for those staying in Ibiza town. The mobile ticket system simplifies check-in, and most travelers will find it accessible. The tour is suitable for most travelers—including service animals—as long as you’re comfortable on a boat.

What the Reviews Say

Out of eight reviews, most are positive, giving a 4 out of 5 rating. Travelers appreciate the chance to see Ibiza from the water and enjoy the stops at beautiful beaches. The inclusion of paddle boards and snorkeling gear is consistently praised as a highlight.

However, there’s a notable negative review from Fabrice, who described their experience as “Lamentable”, citing issues like no boat arriving and poor communication from the provider. While such experiences are rare, they remind travelers to confirm bookings and perhaps consider flexible cancellation policies.

Value and Pricing Analysis

While $335.70 per person might seem steep for a half-day trip, it’s important to consider the inclusions—equipment, insurance, and a private boat experience. Compared to larger, less personalized tours or party cruises, this trip offers a quieter, more relaxed alternative. It’s ideal for travelers who want a balance of scenic beauty, water activities, and a small-group setting.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This sailing experience suits travelers seeking a peaceful escape from busy beaches and large crowds. If you enjoy water sports like paddleboarding and snorkeling, you’ll find plenty of opportunities here. It’s especially good for those wanting to see the natural beauty of Ibiza and Formentera without the party atmosphere.

However, if weather conditions turn bad or if your expectations lean toward a lively, loud boat party, this might not be the best fit. Also, if you’re looking for a luxury experience with gourmet food, you’ll need to plan separately, as lunch isn’t included.

The Sum Up

This full-day sailing trip offers a wonderful way to explore some of Ibiza’s most picturesque spots with a small, intimate group. The stops at S’Espalmador and Playa de Ses Illetes give you a taste of peaceful, crystal-clear waters and soft sands—perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing. The included paddle boards add fun and versatility, allowing you to explore at your own pace.

For travelers who value a relaxed, authentic experience rather than a party cruise, this tour provides a calm, scenic adventure with breathtaking views and natural beauty. The professional skipper and small group size contribute to a feeling of safety and personalization, making it a memorable part of any Ibiza holiday.

Just remember to confirm bookings, be prepared for weather variability, and bring along some snacks if you want to supplement what’s provided. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion, looking for a peaceful day on the water, or simply want to see Ibiza from a different angle, this trip offers a practical and enjoyable way to do just that.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, most travelers can participate, and the small group setting makes it family-friendly. Just ensure your children are comfortable on a boat.

What should I bring on the trip?
Bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, sunglasses, and possibly some snacks or drinks, especially since lunch is not included.

Can I cancel if the weather is poor?
Yes, the tour has a full refund if canceled due to bad weather or other issues, as long as you cancel more than 24 hours in advance.

Is snorkeling gear included?
Yes, snorkeling equipment is provided so you can explore underwater life during stops.

How many people will be on the boat?
The maximum group size is 11 travelers, ensuring a more personal experience.

What if I have special needs or service animals?
Service animals are allowed, and most travelers can participate, but it’s best to inform the provider beforehand to ensure accommodations.

All in all, this sailing trip combines natural beauty, water fun, and small-group comfort for a memorable day in Ibiza. It’s a good choice for those wanting to escape the crowds, enjoy the sea, and relax in a beautiful setting.