Ibiza: Formentera Cruise w/ Open Bar, Paella & Water Sports

Discovering Ibiza’s Best-Kept Secret Beaches on a Luxurious Cruise

Sailing along Ibiza’s coast to Formentera is a popular way to see some of the most stunning beaches in the Mediterranean. This half-day VIP cruise offers a taste of luxe with stops at Ses Illetes, ranked 4th best beach in Europe, and Cala Saona, known for its white sands and underwater caves. The tour, costing around $76 per person, lasts about five hours and is operated by Ibiza VIP Cruises, a well-reviewed company with a 4.5-star rating from over 118 travelers.

What makes this trip especially appealing are two things we love: First, the all-inclusive offerings—which range from breakfast to premium cocktails—mean you can relax without worrying about extra costs. Second, the water sports: paddleboarding and snorkeling gear are included at each swim stop, making the experience interactive and fun, especially for active travelers.

A potential consideration is that this tour doesn’t include a visit to Formentera itself, so if your focus is exploring the island, you’ll need to plan a different excursion. This cruise is ideal for those who enjoy a combination of scenic sailing, good food, drinks, and water activities without the hassle of organizing each detail.

If you’re seeking a lively, comfortable, and well-organized day on the water—especially if you love gourmet food and drinks, stunning beach views, and a knowledgeable crew—this cruise is a fantastic choice. It’s particularly suited for couples, small groups, or families who want a taste of the Mediterranean luxury without the full-day commitment.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• All-Inclusive Luxury: Breakfast, paella, and open bars tailored to your ticket level ensure a worry-free experience.
• Stunning Swim Stops: Visit Ses Illetes and Cala Saona, two of the most beautiful beaches in Europe, for swimming, snorkeling, and paddleboarding.
• Water Sports Included: Paddleboards and snorkeling goggles are available at each stop, allowing for active fun in the water.
• Multiple Ticket Options: Standard, Advance, and Premium tickets cater to different budgets, with the Premium offering the most drinks and food options.
• No Island Visit: The tour stays at sea, so if exploring Formentera itself is your goal, this isn’t the right choice.
• Relaxed, Social Atmosphere: Music by a DJ during the return adds to the festive, vacation vibe.

Detailed Review: What to Expect and Why It Works

Setting out on a Luxurious Catamaran

Starting at 9:15 am, the cruise departs from a designated meeting point in Ibiza, where you’ll show your ticket and receive a wristband for access. The vessel itself is a premium, stylish catamaran, designed for comfort and ease of movement. Expect a relaxed, social environment with plenty of space to lounge or enjoy the views as you set sail.

The multilingual guide, fluent in Spanish, English, and Italian, will keep everyone informed and entertained. Based on reviews, guides like Alex, Angie, and Antonella are praised for their friendliness and attentiveness, making the trip feel more personalized.

The Voyage and Stops

The cruise lasts for about five hours—a perfect length for a relaxed yet engaging day on the water. The boat will anchor twice, each time for roughly an hour, giving you time to swim, snorkel, or paddleboard.

• The first stop is at Cala Saona, a rocky beach with underwater caves. This area is perfect for exploring the marine environment with provided snorkeling gear. It’s also a quieter spot, ideal for families or those seeking a peaceful escape.

• The second stop is at Ses Illetes, renowned as one of Europe’s best beaches. The expansive white sands and shallow waters make it a favorite for swimming and lounging. This is the most Instagram-worthy part of the trip, and the reviews suggest many guests enjoy taking photos and savoring the scenic views.

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Water Sports and Active Fun

At each stop, paddleboards and snorkeling masks are available. Even if you’re a beginner, the water sports are straightforward and supervised, or at least easily accessible. Travelers like Sabrina and “GetYourGuide” reviewers highlight the water sports as a major highlight, especially praising the friendly staff like Antonella and Angie who handle equipment and ensure safety.

Food and Drinks – A True All-Inclusive

Depending on your ticket, you’ll enjoy a delicious breakfast buffet with tropical fruits, pastries, and coffee. If you choose the Advance or Premium tickets, you’ll also get a special onboard paella—seafood, chicken, or vegetarian—served with salad, bread, and dessert.

The Premium ticket truly shines here, offering a premium open bar with seven cocktails, including Mojito, Bellini, and Caipiroska, as well as wine, cava, beer, and soft drinks. Several guests, including Connie and Lisa, mention the quality of drinks and the friendly service. The standard open bar still covers plenty, with wine, beer, and juices, making it a good value for those on a tighter budget.

The Return and Atmosphere

As the cruise winds down, a DJ spins music on the way back to Ibiza, wrapping up the experience on a lively note. Many reviews mention how friendly and attentive the crew is, making the entire trip feel special.

What’s Not Included

It’s worth noting that the tour does not include a stop in Formentera itself—if that’s your goal, you’ll need to look for a different excursion. Also, the standard ticket excludes the paella and premium drinks, so if you’re craving a more gourmet experience, the higher-tier tickets are a worthwhile investment.

Authentic Experiences from Travelers

Multiple reviews mention how knowledgeable guides like Alex, Angie, and Antonella made the trip memorable. Sabrina, celebrating her birthday, called her experience “the nicest ever,” thanks to attentive staff. Laura appreciated the “good service,” and Joubert echoed that sentiment, calling it “the best tour ever.”

Guests also rave about the water sports—especially paddleboarding—and the quality of the drinks and food. Many mention how the paella was delicious and the drinks generous and well-made.

Some travelers noted that, although weather conditions can vary, the staff responded well and still delivered a memorable experience. For example, Connie appreciated the drinks and the overall vibe, despite less-than-ideal sea conditions on a particular day.

Practical Tips for Your Trip

• Bring swimwear, a towel, and sunscreen—the stops are perfect for swimming and relaxing.
• If you want to enjoy the water sports, arrive early to secure equipment.
• Consider the ticket type: If you love cocktails and gourmet food, the Premium option is worth the extra.
• Arrive early at the meeting point to avoid rushing and ensure smooth boarding.
• Remember, no island visit is part of this tour, so plan separately if exploring Formentera is on your list.
• If you prefer a more casual experience, the Standard ticket still offers plenty of fun with basic drinks and a tasty breakfast.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This cruise appeals most to travelers who appreciate luxe comfort, delicious food, and active water fun. It’s perfect for couples or groups who want to relax in style while enjoying spectacular views. If you’re seeking an outing where you don’t have to worry about organizing meals or drinks, this all-in-one package delivers.

It’s also ideal for those who love social atmospheres, music, and lively crew. While not a historical or cultural tour, it excels at giving you a break from land-based sightseeing and the chance to enjoy Ibiza’s gorgeous coastline from the water.

FAQ

Does this tour include a visit to Formentera itself?
No, the cruise does not visit the island of Formentera. It stays at sea and makes two scenic stops at beaches on Formentera’s coast.

What is included in the different ticket options?
The Standard ticket includes a breakfast buffet and a 5-hour open bar with wine, beer, and soft drinks. The Advance adds a paella lunch and a more extensive open bar with white wine and cava. The Premium offers all of that plus a premium open bar with cocktails, premium breakfast options, and dessert.

How long is the cruise?
The total experience lasts about five hours, with two stops of approximately one hour each for swimming and water sports.

What water activities are available?
Guests can enjoy paddleboarding and snorkeling masks at each stop. Equipment is provided, and the staff is helpful with safety and tips.

Is the tour suitable for families?
Yes, the tour is family-friendly, especially for those who enjoy water activities and scenic boat rides. Just keep in mind the duration and the need for some basic swimming ability.

Can I cancel or change my booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it flexible if your plans change.

What should I bring?
Swimsuit, towel, sunscreen, and ID or passport are recommended. Bring your camera—this trip offers plenty of photo-worthy views.

Is the crew multilingual?
Yes, guides speak Spanish, English, and Italian, ensuring most travelers feel well looked after.

Final Thoughts

This Ibiza to Formentera cruise, with its luxury boat, stunning beaches, and inclusive food and drinks, offers a well-rounded, memorable day on the water. It combines comfort with adventure, making it a fantastic choice for travelers wanting to enjoy Ibiza’s coastline without the hassle of planning every detail themselves.

You’ll love the chance to swim in clear waters, sip on excellent cocktails, and enjoy gourmet meals—all aboard a stylish catamaran. Plus, the friendly guides and lively atmosphere ensure it feels more like a celebration than just another boat tour.

Ideal for those who prioritize comfort, quality, and a lively social scene, but perhaps less suited to travelers seeking a full-day island exploration or a quiet, secluded experience. Overall, it’s a memorable way to add a splash of luxury to your Ibiza holiday.

You can check availability for your dates here: