Ibiza Boat Trip to Formentera | Full-Day Experience

Planning a day out on the water in Ibiza? This full-day boat trip to Formentera promises a relaxed, intimate experience with just a handful of travelers, perfect for those who want to escape the busy beaches and enjoy some of the most gorgeous spots in the Med. While it’s not a party boat with loud music, it’s an experience that offers stunning scenery, relaxing swims, and the kind of personal touch you might miss on larger, more commercial tours.

What we really love about this trip is how it combines beautiful, quiet beaches like Ses Illetes and Cala Sahona with the added comforts of snorkeling gear, snacks, and drinks all included. Plus, with a small group of only nine passengers, you get a much more relaxed, personalized vibe—no crowded decks here. On the flip side, one thing to consider is that the trip’s pace might feel slow for those craving more activity or excitement.

All in all, this journey suits travelers looking for a calm, scenic day on the water—whether you’re a couple, a small group of friends, or someone who appreciates a less commercial, more intimate experience. Now, let’s dig into what makes this trip tick, what you can expect at each stop, and whether it’s worth your time and money.

Key Points

• Small-group experience: With only up to 12 guests, it offers a more personal vibe than larger tours.
• Stunning beaches: Stops at Ses Illetes and Cala Sahona showcase some of the best shores in Formentera.
• Inclusive amenities: Snorkel gear, paddleboards, snacks, and drinks are all included, making it convenient and enjoyable.
• Relaxed pace: The itinerary is designed for comfort and leisure, not high-energy adventure.
• Great for quiet days: Perfect for travelers wanting to unwind and soak up peaceful scenery.
• Mixed reviews: Overall high ratings, but a few negative experiences remind us to set realistic expectations.

Starting the Day: Meeting and Departure

The adventure begins at Es Xarcu (Restaurante Playa) in Cala Es Xarco, around 11:00 am. The meeting logistics are straightforward—most travelers find it easy to locate, and the provided instructions via WhatsApp make it simple to coordinate. The boat itself is described as comfortable, with enough space for everyone, which adds to the relaxed feel.

The captain and crew are known for their friendliness and attentiveness. Reviews frequently mention how the team, especially guides like Miki and Fernando, go out of their way to ensure everyone feels welcomed and comfortable. This personal touch is what elevates this trip above some larger, more impersonal tours.

The Itinerary in Detail

Stop 1: Playa de Ses Illetes

This first stop is the star of the trip for many travelers. Known as the most famous beach in the Balearic Islands, Ses Illetes is often called a slice of paradise. The clear, shallow waters are ideal for swimming, snorkeling, or just lounging with a good view. Expect to spend around two hours here, giving enough time to relax, snap photos, and enjoy the beautiful scenery.

What you’ll love: The reviews highlight the breathtaking beauty of the beaches, with one guest describing the waters as “very amazing.” The snorkeling gear and paddleboards are available here, so you can get in the water easily. It’s a perfect spot for a refreshing dip or floating in the tranquil sea.

A small consideration: Since this is a popular and busy spot, it can get crowded if larger boats arrive, but because of the limited group size, you’ll likely find this area more peaceful than on some of the larger tours.

Stop 2: S’Espalmador

After a couple of hours at Ses Illetes, the boat heads to S’Espalmador, often called the “jewel of the Mediterranean.” Its white sands and crystal-clear waters are just as stunning, with the added bonus of being less crowded and more pristine. Here, you’ll again have about two hours to swim, snorkel, and paddleboard.

Highlights: Guests frequently mention how beautiful the waters and scenery are, making it an excellent place to relax or explore. Plus, a simple fruit platter is provided, which adds a nice touch to the experience.

Reviewer insights: Several visitors noted how beautiful the beaches and the water quality made the stops memorable, with one describing it as “crystal clear” and “paradise on earth.” It’s a good chance to unwind and soak in the quiet.

Onboard Comforts and Extras

Throughout the day, you’ll benefit from snorkeling equipment, paddleboards, and drinks, which are all included. Snacks involve salty treats in the morning and fresh fruit later on. The crew’s hospitality shines through in reviews that mention how well they cater to guests’ needs and how friendly and attentive they are.

Reviewers have praised the good quality food and plentiful drinks, noting how these little touches enhance the overall experience. The provided snacks, combined with the scenic stops, make the day feel well-rounded and satisfying.

What the Experience Feels Like

From the positive reviews, you get the sense that this trip is all about relaxation and enjoying the scenery. Guests mention how much they appreciated their guides’ friendliness and knowledge, with some describing their captains as “polite,” “considerate,” and “professional.” Many reviewers also call this one of their favorite days in Ibiza, especially because of the beautiful beaches and snorkeling.

The boat ride itself is described as very beautiful, with guests often quoting the turquoise waters and the calm, slow pace as highlights. It’s not a high-energy party tour, but rather a peaceful cruise with plenty of time to unwind and take in nature’s beauty.

A couple of reviewers mention how the beauty of the beaches and the overall experience make it worth the price, especially considering what’s included. But it’s worth noting that one guest found the trip to be “long and slow,” which could feel less appealing if you prefer faster-paced adventures.

Who Will Love This Trip?

This tour is ideal for those looking for a relaxed, scenic escape. If you enjoy quiet beaches, snorkeling, and comfortable, small-group settings, you’ll likely find this to be very fulfilling. It’s great for couples, small groups of friends, or even travelers who prefer a more laid-back day than a loud, bustling party cruise.

However, if you’re craving more active fun or a party atmosphere, this might not be your best fit. The focus here is on peaceful exploration and scenery rather than high-energy entertainment.

Pricing and Value

At around $174 per person, this trip falls in the mid-range for boat excursions in Ibiza. Reviewers generally agree that the value is good, especially considering the inclusion of snorkel gear, paddleboards, snacks, drinks, and a knowledgeable crew. The small group size, which offers a more intimate experience, is a big plus at this price point.

Some reviews highlight how the staff’s hospitality and the quality of the stops make it worth the cost. It’s definitely a more relaxed, exclusive-feeling experience compared to larger, more crowded tours, which justifies the price for many travelers.

The Downsides to Keep in Mind

While most reviews are glowing, there are a few less favorable comments. One reviewer described the skipper’s behavior as unprofessional, with the boat becoming dirty during the trip. Thankfully, that crew member is no longer working with the company, which suggests improvements have been made.

Another negative review mentioned feeling that the trip was disorganized and unprofessional and expressed frustration about a refund request. It’s important to remember that cancellation policies are in place, and the tour can be canceled for weather or low bookings, with options for rescheduling or refunds.

These reviews remind us to have realistic expectations and recognize that, like any tour, experiences can vary.

The Sum Up

This Ibiza to Formentera boat trip offers a beautiful, calm day on the water, perfect for anyone craving tranquility, scenic beauty, and small-group intimacy. From the stunning beaches of Ses Illetes and Cala Sahona to the attentive crew who go out of their way to make guests comfortable, it’s a solid choice for a relaxed, scenic escape.

It’s best suited for travelers who value peaceful scenery and personalized service over high-energy adventures or big-party vibes. The inclusion of snorkel gear, paddleboards, snacks, and drinks makes it a good value for those wanting a hassle-free day of exploring.

If you’re after a more exclusive, laid-back experience that highlights some of Ibiza’s best beaches with a friendly crew, this trip could very well be your ideal day out. Just keep in mind the pace might feel slow if you’re used to more action-packed tours, and be prepared for peaceful waters and scenic views that truly highlight Formentera’s charm.

FAQ

How long is the boat trip?
It lasts about 7 hours and 30 minutes, starting at 11:00 am and ending back at the meeting point.

What’s included in the price?
Snorkeling equipment, paddleboards, snacks (salty in the morning and fruit in the afternoon), drinks (soda and pop), fuel, and the captain.

Where does the tour start?
It begins at Es Xarcu (Restaurante Playa) in Cala Es Xarco. The meeting instructions are straightforward, with a WhatsApp link for details.

Are there age restrictions?
Most travelers can participate. The tour is not recommended for those more than 5 months pregnant or weighing over 130 kg.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Cancellations less than 24 hours before the trip are not refunded.

Is the boat comfortable?
Yes, the boat is described as nice with enough space for all passengers, and reviews mention how comfortable the seating and setup are.

How many people are in the group?
The tour operates with a maximum of 12 travelers, ensuring a small and intimate experience.

Can I bring my own towels or sunscreen?
While towels are not provided, it’s recommended to bring your own, along with sunglasses and sunscreen.

What if the weather is bad?
The trip requires good weather. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Is this tour good for families or children?
It’s suitable for most travelers, but since it’s a relaxing day at sea, it’s best for those comfortable with boat rides and the water.

This trip is a lovely way to experience some of Ibiza’s quieter, more beautiful spots without the crowds. Whether you’re after serene beaches, snorkeling, or just a relaxing day on the water, it’s worth considering—just keep expectations aligned with the laid-back vibe.