From Ibiza: Sailing Tour to Formentera with Beach Stops

Experience a day on the water exploring Formentera’s gorgeous beaches with a classic sailing tour from Ibiza. For around $159 per person, you’ll spend approximately 7 hours aboard a charming sailboat, with plenty of time to relax, swim, and enjoy some fantastic scenery. The tour departs from Cala Jondal, and guides Alberto and Irene are praised for their friendliness and local knowledge.

Two things we particularly love about this experience are the opportunity to visit private and less crowded spots like Espalmador Island—a true sanctuary—and the versatility of activities onboard, including snorkeling and paddleboarding, which can turn a simple cruise into a playful adventure. It’s a great way to get a taste of the stunning beach life that makes Formentera so special.

One possible consideration is that this tour is weather-dependent—favorable conditions are necessary for a smooth, safe trip. It’s also worth noting that lunch and towels aren’t included, so packing accordingly is advised. This trip suits travelers who love the sea, appreciate expert guides, and are looking for a relaxed, intimate experience away from the crowds.

If you’re someone who values stunning coastal views, a chance to swim in clear waters, and enjoying the company of small groups or private settings, this sailing trip is a fantastic choice. It’s especially ideal if you want a day of laid-back exploration, not just sightseeing but truly experiencing the water and beaches of Formentera.

Key Points

• Relaxing sailing experience: Cruise from Ibiza to Formentera aboard a classic sailboat, feeling the breeze and sun.
• Beach and water activities: Swim at Espalmador Island, explore with snorkeling gear or a paddleboard.
• Exclusive spots: Visit private Espalmador Island and the famous Ses Illetes beach with fewer crowds.
• Authentic guides: Alberto and Irene earn high praise for their friendliness, local knowledge, and attentive service.
• Value for the price: Includes all sailing, snorkeling gear, paddleboards, water, fuel, and a dinghy for shore access.
• Weather considerations: Sailing is weather-dependent, so keep an eye on forecasts for the best experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Sailing to Formentera Experience

Starting Point and Duration

We begin our day at Cala Jondal, a lively beach area known for its beach clubs and relaxed vibe. Meeting in front of Tropicana, the initial 1-hour sail to Formentera sets the mood. The boat itself is described as a classic sailing vessel, which adds a nostalgic, cozy feel—no giant party boat here, more like a floating retreat.

The entire trip lasts about 7 hours, which feels just right. It’s long enough to enjoy multiple stops and soak in the scenery without feeling rushed. Check the available times when booking, as start times vary, and weather conditions can influence schedules.

First Stop: Espalmador Island

A highlight of this tour is the visit to Espalmador, a privately owned island that’s often overlooked by mass tourism. We loved the way guides Alberto and Irene took us there, as the reviews mention the exclusivity. The crystal-clear waters invite you to swim, and the quiet beaches are perfect for unwinding. As one reviewer put it, “they took us to two beautiful beaches and we had lots of time to swim and relax.”

Espalmador feels like your own little piece of paradise, far from the crowds. Be prepared for it to be somewhat unspoiled—there’s no resort or commercial activity, just nature at its best.

Exploring Formentera: Ses Illetes Beach

The second main stop is Ses Illetes, often hailed as one of Europe’s most beautiful beaches. Here, you can step ashore and walk along the sands or explore the coastline with snorkeling gear and a stand-up paddleboard, both provided on the trip.

We loved the way guides encourage small groups to explore at their own pace. The water is remarkably clear, and the scenery is breathtaking. As one review states, “The beaches on Formentera are breathtaking,” and it’s easy to see why. The shallow waters and gentle waves make it perfect for swimming and floating around.

Activities Onboard

What makes this tour special is the combination of relaxing sailing with active options. Snorkeling equipment and paddleboards are included, which means you can turn a simple swim into a fun workout or a peaceful float—whatever suits your mood.

Guests also mention the sound system playing Spotify, which helps set a relaxed, joyful tone. The onboard toilet and water are appreciated comforts during the long day at sea.

Catering and Comforts

While the tour includes water and fuel, it does not provide lunch or towels. Some reviews suggest bringing snacks or a small meal, especially for a full day on the water. The hosts are attentive, and one review even mentioned they helped arrange transportation back to the hotel—a small but thoughtful touch.

Returning to Ibiza

The return sail offers a chance to reflect on the day, enjoy the sea breeze, and maybe spot some dolphins. The trip concludes back at Cala Jondal in the late afternoon, giving you plenty of time to relax afterward or explore nearby spots.

Authentic Experiences and Genuine Praise

What truly elevates this tour are the guides, Alberto and Irene, who are consistently praised for their friendliness, knowledge, and eagerness to make everyone’s day memorable. As one guest wrote, “They are friendly, knowledgeable, and eager to make sure you have a great day,” which really speaks to the personalized service.

Guests also appreciate the small group or private options, which foster a more intimate vibe. Reviews describe their hosts as “fantastic” and “superb,” often mentioning that they helped with everything from swimming tips to securing transportation after the tour.

The views and beaches also get high marks. Multiple reviewers mention the “breathtaking beaches” and “magical places,” which underscores how authentic and stunning the scenery truly is. The sense of unspoiled nature and off-the-beaten-path exclusivity makes this a memorable experience.

Pricing and Value

At $159 per person, this tour offers a lot in terms of value. It includes the boat, guides, snorkeling gear, paddleboards, water, and fuel—covering most essentials for a day on the water. Considering the personalized experience and the vessel’s charm, many find it worthwhile, especially when compared to larger, more commercial options.

The fact that you’re visiting private or less crowded beaches adds a layer of exclusivity that many travelers cherish. It’s a chance to enjoy the beauty of Formentera without fighting the crowds, which is often a challenge during peak season.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This sailing adventure suits travelers who enjoy relaxing in beautiful surroundings, swimming in clear waters, and having small-group experiences. It’s ideal for those seeking authenticity over big party cruises, and who value guided local insights.

It’s also perfect for couples, friends, or small families looking for a laid-back day that combines sailing, beach time, and water activities. If you’re someone who appreciates stunning scenery and quiet moments away from tourist hotspots, this trip will appeal.

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The Sum Up

This tour delivers a peaceful, scenic escape from Ibiza, blending the charm of classic sailing with the stunning natural beauty of Formentera’s beaches. It’s especially well-suited for travelers who want a personal touch—friendly guides, less crowded beaches, and the chance to swim, paddle, or just unwind on soft sands.

While weather conditions can influence the day, the overall experience is highly praised for its authenticity and value for money. It’s a wonderful way to see a different side of the Balearic Islands—quiet, beautiful, and utterly relaxing.

If you love the idea of a small-group sailing trip with excellent guides and memorable scenery, this tour is a terrific choice. Just remember to pack sun protection, a towel, and maybe some snacks to round out your day.

FAQ

Is transportation to the meeting point included?
No, hotel pickup is not included. You meet directly at Cala Jondal beach in front of Tropicana.

How long is the sailing portion of the trip?
The sailing from Ibiza to Formentera takes about 1 hour, with the entire day lasting around 7 hours including stops and activities.

Are snorkeling and paddleboarding equipment provided?
Yes, both snorkeling gear and stand-up paddleboards are included in the tour fee.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and an ID. Note that towels and lunch are not included, so pack snacks if desired.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly mentioned, the relaxed nature and water activities suggest it could be kid-friendly, especially if children enjoy swimming and being on boats. Always check with the provider for specific age restrictions.

What if the weather is bad?
The trip is weather-dependent. In case of unfavorable conditions, the activity may be canceled or rescheduled, and you can get a full refund if you cancel 24 hours in advance.

This sailing tour to Formentera offers a genuine, laid-back way to experience the island’s most famous beaches, with friendly guides and plenty of water-based fun. It’s perfect for those wanting to combine scenic cruising with authentic beach exploration—an experience that’s hard to forget.

You can check availability for your dates here: