Ibiza: Formentera Full-Day Boat Tour with Lunch & Snorkeling

Exploring the Ibiza to Formentera Full-Day Boat Tour: A Practical Look

If you’re considering a day trip from Ibiza to Formentera, this boat tour promises a mix of relaxation, tasty food, and exploration. It’s a well-rated option, mostly praised for its comfortable catamaran, lively atmosphere, and the chance to see some of the best spots on Formentera. But as with any adventure, there are a few things to keep in mind before booking.

What really draws us to this experience are two key points: first, the quality of the amenities – a limited-capacity boat with comfortable seating and Balinese beds, plus an open bar offering wine, beer, sangria, and soft drinks. Second, the authenticity of the food – an on-board live paella cooking show that’s a highlight for many travelers. On the flip side, a potential consideration is the duration of free time on Formentera, which might feel a bit tight for some (three hours). This tour suits travelers looking for a mix of fun, comfort, and a taste of the island life.

Key Points

• Comfortable setting with limited group sizes and optional Balinese beds
• All-inclusive drinks, food, and activities make for a worry-free day
• Three hours of free time to explore Formentera at your own pace
• Diverse activities like snorkeling and paddleboarding in Cala Saona
• Authentic Spanish paella cooked live on board
• Flexible departure options and the possibility of luxury add-ons

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from This Ibiza-Formentera Boat Trip

This tour is designed to give you a full day out on the water, with a good balance of activities and downtime. The journey begins at the Yokubo Club, where you’ll meet friendly staff ready to help you get settled. The boat itself is a spacious catamaran, with a cap of 40 guests, which means it doesn’t feel crowded, and you’ll have space to relax or socialize comfortably.

A Relaxed Departure and Smooth Sailing

Once onboard, you’ll kick off your day with some chill music and a scenic cruise across the turquoise Mediterranean waters. The boat departs from Figueretas, near Ibiza’s main areas, making it convenient for most travelers to access. During the crossing, you can enjoy unlimited drinks from the open bar—think wine, beer, sangria, and soft drinks—which is generously included. Many reviews mention the crew’s friendliness and the relaxed vibe as a highlight.

Cala Saona Stop – Swim, Snorkel, and Paddleboard

The first major stop is Cala Saona, a stunning stretch of coastline known for its crystal-clear waters and picturesque scenery. Here, you get roughly three hours to swim, snorkel, or paddleboard—equipment is provided, and the calm waters make it a safe, enjoyable experience. Reviewers have praised this part for its beauty and the opportunity to cool off after lounging on the boat. One reviewer even shared, “Nice area to swim and then got to explore Formentera,” emphasizing how this stop is a real highlight.

The Lunch – Authentic Paella Show

Back on the boat, the chef will prepare a classic Spanish paella live, right in front of you. That’s a genuine treat, especially if you love food that’s both flavorful and freshly made. The reviews are clear: the paella is delicious, and watching it being cooked adds an authentic touch. The ingredients include premium seafood and meat, making it more than just a simple lunch.

More Great Tours Nearby

Free Time in Formentera – Explore at Your Pace

Once the boat docks at La Savina, you’ll have around three hours to explore the island. Recommendations include visiting Playa de Ses Illetes—often ranked among the world’s best beaches—or strolling through Es Pujols, the lively seaside village. The tour staff assist with scooter or bike rentals at discounted prices, which is essential because walking around the island in the heat can be challenging.

A review from a traveler notes, “Definitely get the scooter on the island—not walkable and extremely hot,” which underscores how best to maximize your time. The flexibility on this part of the trip is a big plus, letting you customize your exploration.

Return Journey – Chill and Recharge

As you head back to Ibiza, the boat offers more music and drinks to keep the good vibes going. For those who booked the Balinese bed option, a complimentary Cava bottle awaits for the return sail—adding a touch of luxury. The crew’s friendly service and laid-back atmosphere help make the journey feel like a continuation of the fun day.

The Details That Make a Difference

Group Size and Comfort

With a cap of 40 guests, the boat isn’t crowded, and the limited capacity means that you get more personalized service. The option to reserve Balinese beds—though limited—gives you a private, cushioned spot to lounge, read, or snooze, making the experience even more relaxing. These beds are a popular feature, and they must be booked in advance, so plan accordingly.

Departure Times and Flexibility

There are two main departure options, with more flexibility coming in 2025. The classic tour departs earlier, with beds available only on Fridays, while the later option departs later for more sun and comfort, with beds available except on Fridays. This makes it easier to tailor your day according to your preference for morning or afternoon sun.

Duration and Timing

The full day runs around eight hours, including the stops. Keep in mind that the return time can vary depending on sea conditions, typically around 45-60 minutes longer. It’s worth being flexible and prepared for a slightly extended day.

Price and Value

Cost-wise, the tour offers a lot of inclusions—unlimited drinks, a live cooking show, snorkeling gear, and free island time—which many travelers find to provide good value. The extra expense of optional luxury beds is justified if you prefer a more comfortable, private space. Many reviews highlight the quality of the experience relative to the price, especially considering the nice food, drinks, and activities on offer.

Real Experiences: What Travelers Say

One reviewer said, “Great crew, comfortable balinese beds on the terrace, immaculate vibes and a really authentic and delicious paella lunch. Nice area to swim and then got to explore Formentera—definitely get the scooter.” That sums up the relaxed, friendly atmosphere and highlights the practical tip to rent a scooter for island exploration.

Another shared, “Lovely boat trip, friendly staff on board. It was great that we had a Balinese bed to sit/lie on. A bit small for four people, though,” which suggests the beds are cozy but may not be spacious enough for larger groups. Still, the overall tone is positive, emphasizing a well-organized, enjoyable day.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal if you’re looking for a combination of comfort, good food, and island adventure. It’s perfect for couples, groups of friends, or solo travelers who appreciate a relaxed vibe and want to explore Formentera without the hassle of organizing transport and meals themselves. The inclusive drinks and live paella make it especially appealing for those who like a lively, social atmosphere.

However, if you’re after a more in-depth, guided tour of the island’s history or scenery, this trip might feel a little light on details. It’s best suited for travelers who enjoy a day of sailing, swimming, and casual exploration rather than structured sightseeing.

FAQs

Is the tour suitable for children?
While the experience is family-friendly in terms of activity, it’s mainly designed for adults or older children who can enjoy swimming, snorkeling, and the boat ride comfortably. The boat’s open water setting and party atmosphere may not suit very young kids or toddlers.

How long is the entire trip?
The full day runs about 8 hours, including departure, stops, free time in Formentera, and the return journey.

What’s included in the price?
Your ticket covers the full-day cruise, unlimited drinks (wine, beer, sangria, soft drinks), water activities like snorkeling and paddleboarding, a live paella cooking show, and 3 hours of free time on Formentera. A bottle of Cava is included if you reserve a Balinese bed.

Can I explore Formentera independently?
Yes, you’ll have around three hours to explore at your own pace, with staff available to help coordinate scooter or bike rentals at discounted rates.

Do I need to reserve the Balinese beds in advance?
Yes, beds are limited and must be booked ahead to secure a private spot for lounging.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, sunscreen, a hat, towel, camera, comfortable shoes, and your ID or driving license if you plan to rent a scooter or bike.

Final Thoughts

This Ibiza to Formentera boat tour offers a balanced mix of relaxation, fun, and exploration. With its comfortable amenities, inclusive drinks, and authentic food, it’s a strong choice for travelers who want to enjoy a laid-back day on the water coupled with some island discovery. The limited group size and optional luxury beds make it more intimate and customizable than many other trips.

While the three-hour free time might seem short for some, most find it enough to see the highlights or relax on the beach. The quality of the food, the friendly crew, and the overall vibe make it a trip worth considering—especially if you’re looking for a hassle-free, enjoyable day with plenty of local flavor.

If your idea of a perfect day involves good company, tasty food, and a splash of adventure in beautiful surroundings, this tour probably deserves a spot on your Ibiza bucket list.

You can check availability for your dates here: