Cala Salada and Unspoiled North Beach Tour. Snorkelling and Aquarium

If you’re considering a day out on the water while visiting Ibiza, this Cala Salada and North Beach Tour might just be what you’re looking for. It’s a mix of relaxing beach time, snorkeling, and a bit of educational fun with an aquarium visit, all aboard a comfortable double-decker catamaran. From what travelers seem to say, it’s a solid choice for those wanting a taste of Ibiza’s stunning coastline without too much hassle or expense.

What we especially like about this tour is how flexible it feels—whether you want to lounge on deck, explore the underwater world, or just enjoy the scenery, it offers options. Plus, the inclusion of the aquarium visit and free drinks makes it feel like good value. The main caveat? The tour can be a bit rushed, and some travelers have experienced delays or limited time at certain stops. So, if you’re a laid-back traveler who loves to relax and really soak in the views, you’ll want to read on.

This experience is best suited for people who enjoy a mix of gentle adventure, scenic cruising, and beach lounging. It’s ideal for those who value guided sightseeing with some free time, and it might be less perfect if you’re looking for a long, leisurely day with ample free movement. But overall, it’s a reliable, well-reviewed way to see a slice of Ibiza’s coast.

Key Points

• Balanced Day Out: Combines sightseeing, snorkeling, and beach time, offering a well-rounded experience.
• Inclusive Activities: Snorkeling and bodyboarding gear are included, along with entry to the aquarium.
• Scenic Route: Cruise along Ibiza’s north coastline with views of iconic beaches and landmarks.
• Flexible Experience: You can choose to relax or get actively involved in water sports.
• Good Value: For about $48.66, you get multiple stops, entertainment, and beverages.
• Some Rushed Moments: Travelers note that certain stops feel hurried, and delays can happen.

The Itinerary: A Closer Look

Departure from San Antonio

The tour kicks off from San Antonio, a popular west-coast harbor. It’s a beautiful starting point, with a lively vibe and plenty of options to grab a quick breakfast or coffee beforehand.

Stop 1: Aquarium Cap Blanc

Your first stop is the only aquarium in Ibiza, right in front of Cala Salada. You’ll spend about 25 minutes here, which most reviews suggest is a decent amount of time to peek in. The aquarium offers a chance to learn about local marine life, adding an educational touch before heading out onto the water.

Some travelers, like Asha, enjoyed the visit, mentioning that it was “such a wonderful day with my girlfriends,” although she wished for more time to enjoy onboard drinks. The entry is included, which adds to the value, especially considering the aquarium’s uniqueness.

Passing Cala Gracio and the Hippy Spot

As the boat cruises along, you’ll pass Cala Gracio and a famous hippy spot. These sections aren’t stops but give you a glance at Ibiza’s diverse coastal scenery. It’s a good way to appreciate the landscape from a different perspective, even if you’re not hopping off.

Stop 2: Cala Salada Beach

The highlight for many is docking at Cala Salada, a beach that’s notoriously difficult to reach by car. The guide will walk you to the beach restaurant where a traditional paella awaits. If you prefer, you can stay on the boat or explore the area independently.

Most reviews highlight this as a three-hour stop, giving you plenty of time to swim, sunbathe, or grab a bite. The water here is often described as beautiful, with clear, inviting waves. However, some travelers note that the beach can be crowded, and the rocky shoreline might make entry into the water a little tricky. The paella is a popular feature, and many enjoy the relaxed vibe of this spot.

Stop 3: Cala Saladeta

Next is Cala Saladeta, a local favorite and one of Ibiza’s most photographed beaches. It’s a small, intimate spot with stunning turquoise water. Visitors typically get about an hour to enjoy the sand and water here, although some reviews mention the beach is pebbly rather than sandy, which might not suit everyone.

If you’re up for it, this is a good chance for another swim or to take photos of the gorgeous scenery. Some travelers advise arriving early to avoid the crowds, as it’s quite popular.

Stop 4: Ses Balandres at Cala d’Aubarca

The final stop is at Ses Balandres for a swim or snorkel. The water is usually calm and clear, perfect for a quick dip before heading back to San Antonio. Reviewers say this swim stop is one of the highlights, giving a peaceful ending to the day’s ocean adventures.

What’s Included and What to Expect

Snorkeling and Water Equipment

You’ll have access to snorkeling and bodyboarding gear, which many travelers find handy. However, a few reviews mention that, contrary to expectations, snorkels were not always available during swim stops, so it’s worth bringing your own if you’re keen.

Aquarium Entry

The aquarium visit is included in the ticket price, and it’s mostly appreciated for its uniqueness and educational value. The short visit is enough to get a glimpse of Ibiza’s marine life, making it a nice add-on without feeling like a long detour.

Food and Drinks

Included in the tour is fruit and drinks, with some reviews mentioning a decent selection of soft drinks, beer, sangria, and wine. The onboard drinks are generally considered adequate for the price, although a few travelers wished for more variety or snacks.

Duration and Pacing

The entire tour lasts around 6 hours, with specific stops lasting from 1 to 3 hours. The itinerary is fairly packed, and some reviews indicate that the stops can feel rushed, especially if the boat experiences delays or waits to dock. Arriving early and being prepared for some tight timing can help.

The Pros and Cons

The Positives

• The scenic cruising along Ibiza’s north coast offers fantastic views of beaches and cliffs, which you can enjoy from the comfort of the boat.
• The aquarium visit adds a bit of educational fun and is included in the ticket price.
• Multiple beach stops at Cala Salada and Cala Saladeta let you dip into the water, relax, or explore at your own pace.
• The free drinks and snacks onboard are a nice touch, especially considering the price point.
• Reviewers frequently mention the friendly and knowledgeable crew, which makes the experience more enjoyable.

The Challenges

• Some travelers report rushed stops or delays, which can cut into your leisure time.
• The check-in process can be chaotic, with long lines and unclear instructions, particularly if you arrive early or late.
• The beach stops might not be ideal for those seeking a quiet, uncrowded experience—especially Cala Salada and Cala Saladeta can become busy.
• A few reviews mention that certain activities or amenities (like snorkels or umbrellas) weren’t available despite being advertised or expected.
• If you’re not comfortable with rocky beaches or pebbly entries, some stops might be less enjoyable.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re someone who enjoys scenic boat rides combined with beach time and light snorkeling, this tour offers a good balance of activities for a reasonable price. It’s particularly suited for those who want a guided experience that covers some of Ibiza’s renowned beaches without the hassle of organizing transport or multiple bookings.

This trip is also a good pick if you appreciate educational stops like the aquarium and prefer guided commentary about the coastline and landmarks. Families, couples, or groups of friends will find plenty to enjoy here, although those seeking a completely relaxing, unhurried day might find it a bit hectic.

Final Thoughts

All in all, the Cala Salada and North Beach Tour provides a solid introduction to Ibiza’s coast with enough variety to keep most guests engaged. The mix of sightseeing, water activities, and beach lounging makes it a versatile trip that offers good value, especially with included drinks and the aquarium visit.

While the tour isn’t perfect—rushing at some stops, occasional delays, and busy beaches are points to consider—it remains a popular choice among travelers who want to see Ibiza from the water without breaking the bank. If you’re prepared for some time management and enjoy a bit of guided adventure, you’ll likely find this tour rewarding.

This experience is especially suitable if you’re after a fun, social day on the water with a blend of relaxation and activity. Just keep in mind some of the logistical quirks, and you’ll be set for an enjoyable day exploring Ibiza’s coast.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children? While not explicitly designed for families, children who enjoy water activities and are comfortable on boats will likely find it enjoyable. However, the beaches can be rocky, and some stops may be crowded.

How long is the tour? The entire experience lasts approximately 6 hours, including traveling, stops, and onboard time.

What is included in the price? The ticket includes aquarium entry, snorkeling and bodyboarding gear, fruit and drinks onboard, and guided cruising along Ibiza’s north coast.

Can I choose not to eat the paella? Yes, if you didn’t select the paella menu, you can stay on the boat or find other options at the beach restaurant.

Are there any age restrictions? The tour is open most travelers, but small children or strollers might find some beaches difficult to access. The experience is generally suitable for most ages.

What should I bring? Pack sunscreen, a hat, water shoes if you prefer, and your own snorkel gear if you want extras. Bringing a towel and some cash for additional snacks or souvenirs might also be handy.

Is the tour weather-dependent? Yes, it requires good weather. Poor weather can lead to cancellations or rescheduling, with full refunds offered if that happens.

How crowded does it get? Beaches like Cala Salada and Cala Saladeta can get busy, especially in peak season, so arriving early or being prepared for crowds is wise.

Is there free time at each stop? Yes, generally around 1-3 hours depending on the location; some reviews mention the time feeling a bit rushed.

How is the onboard music and atmosphere? Most travelers enjoy the lively music and friendly crew, which helps set a relaxed mood for the day.

If you’re after a lively, scenic, and reasonably priced way to experience Ibiza’s coastline, this tour ticks many boxes. Just remember to manage expectations about timing, and you’ll leave with plenty of great memories.