Formentera is a sailor’s dream — crystal-clear waters, unspoiled coves, and breathtaking coastlines make it one of the best spots in the Mediterranean for sailing. Unlike larger resorts, Formentera offers a quieter, more authentic maritime experience, especially on a private boat or group sail. We particularly love the full-day private sailboat trip because it combines personalized exploration with access to secluded spots like S’Espalmador and the iconic Playa de Ses Illetes. The ability to shape your day around your interests, plus the chance to enjoy a sunset cruise, makes it stand out. Another favorite is the Playa de Ses Illetes Sailboat Full Day Private Trip — a more spacious option that caters up to nine people and offers ample time to relax, snorkel, or have a leisurely lunch onshore. Both experiences promise a fun, intimate way to see Formentera from the sea, with different sizes and price points to suit various groups.
Below, we’ll explore these two top-rated sailing adventures, highlighting what makes each special, so you can pick the perfect maritime escape in Formentera.
1. Explore Formentera with a Full-Day Private Sailboat Trip
This full-day private sailboat trip offers a uniquely personal way to experience Formentera’s coast. Operated by a family-owned business, this tour emphasizes a relaxed, homey vibe and tailored experiences. You get to enjoy two sailboats and a catamaran, all operated by locals who live aboard year-round, sharing their knowledge of the area. The itinerary can be customized, which is perfect if you want to spend more time swimming, paddleboarding, or just soaking up the sun.
Highlights include the visit to S’Espalmador, a protected natural park only accessible by sea and free of commercial development. It’s the ideal spot for swimming and paddleboarding in calm waters; the natural sandbar “El Paso” connects the island to Formentera, offering a scenic photo op. Next, the tour heads to Playa de Ses Illetes, famous for its striking 360-degree views of Ibiza and Es Vedra. Here, you can snorkel, walk along the beach, or enjoy lunch onboard or at local restaurants. The final stop is Cala Saona, where you’ll discover caves and rocky coves perfect for paddling and exploring.
This tour is highly rated, with a perfect 5.0/5 from 52 reviews, reflecting its personalized service and unforgettable scenery. Priced at around $905 for groups up to seven, it offers excellent value for an all-day, private experience.
Bottom Line: If you want a flexible, intimate sailing day with the chance to explore pristine, untouched spots, this trip is ideal. It’s perfect for small groups or families wanting to avoid crowded beaches and enjoy personalized service.
2. Playa de Ses Illetes Sailboat Full Day Private Trip
For about $1,548, the Playa de Ses Illetes Sailboat Full Day Private Trip provides a spacious and comfortable experience for larger groups — up to nine people. The focus here is on relaxing and enjoying one of the most famous beaches in the Mediterranean. The tour includes a dedicated skipper who handles all sailing and navigation, so you can truly kick back.
This trip features a flexible itinerary that includes a three-hour stop at Ses Illetes, where you can have lunch at any of the beach restaurants or bring your own supplies, stored conveniently in the large cool box provided. The boat is equipped with snorkel gear and stand-up paddleboards, making it easy to stay active and explore the crystal waters. You can ride to the beach on the auxiliary dinghy if you prefer to skip the long swim. The second stop at S’Espalmador allows more time for relaxing or exploring caves and rocky outcroppings.
Rated 5.0/5 from 32 reviews, travelers praise the attentive crew and the ease of the experience. The inclusion of equipment like snorkel gear and paddleboards adds to the value, especially for families or groups eager to enjoy water activities. The trip’s advantage over smaller options is more space and the ability to bring a larger group comfortably.
Bottom Line: Ideal for bigger groups seeking a relaxed, all-inclusive day with plenty of options for water fun and a professional skipper to handle the sailing. It’s great for celebrating special occasions or family gatherings.
How to Choose Your Perfect Sailing Experience in Formentera
When selecting between these options, consider your group size, budget, and what kind of experience you’re after. The full-day private trip explore-formentera is perfect if you want a highly personalized day with a smaller group, ideal for couples or families. On the other hand, the Playa de Ses Illetes trip more spacious and group-friendly suits larger groups who want a more social, relaxed vibe with ample water activities.
If your priority is seeing secluded coves and pristine beaches with a flexible schedule, the first option offers a more intimate, customized experience. If you prefer a longer stop at Ses Illetes with the convenience of a larger boat and more water gear, the second trip delivers that.
Booking early is recommended, especially in peak summer months, to secure your preferred date and group size. Both tours operate around 7 hours, making them a full-day adventure that’s worth planning ahead for.
Final Thoughts
Formentera’s sailing routes combine stunning scenery with the freedom of the sea. Whether you choose a cozy private day tailored just for your family or a larger boat that facilitates group fun, both options guarantee a memorable way to enjoy the island’s best spots from the water. The family-owned private trip offers a more intimate feel and flexible itinerary, perfect for those seeking a personal touch. Meanwhile, the Playa de Ses Illetes trip caters to larger groups who want a relaxed, activity-packed day.
No matter which you pick, booking early will help you secure a spot on these highly-rated adventures. With clear waters, scenic beaches, and caves to explore, a day sailing in Formentera will undoubtedly be a highlight of your trip to the Balearic Islands.
