Formentera Small-Group Day Trip by Sailboat from Ibiza

Experience the Formentera Small-Group Day Trip by Sailboat from Ibiza

If you’re looking to explore the beautiful coastlines of Ibiza and Formentera without dealing with large crowds or commercial tour chaos, this small-group sailboat trip might just be your perfect fit. We haven’t personally been on this exact tour, but based on the glowing reviews and detailed itinerary, it promises a relaxed, personalized experience with some truly standout moments. What makes this trip special? Two things we love are the intimate size of only six guests maximum, which enhances the feeling of being cared for and having space to enjoy, and the variety of activities—swimming, snorkeling, paddleboarding—that keep things lively and fun.

That said, a possible consideration is the weather dependency—good weather is a must for smooth sailing and beach stops. If you’re someone who prefers structured, all-inclusive days or has specific dietary needs (though the tour does mention catering to special diets like vegan), you might want to plan accordingly. This trip seems best suited for travelers craving a chill, authentic sea-breezy adventure with excellent guides and breathtaking scenery.

Whether you’re celebrating a honeymoon, looking for a peaceful day out, or just want to see Formentera’s iconic beaches from the water, this tour offers a flexible, friendly way to do it. Let’s unpack what’s on offer and why it might be a standout part of your Ibiza holiday.

Key Points

• Intimate Experience: Small groups of just six people on a cozy sailboat mean more personalized attention and a relaxed vibe.
• Two Stunning Stops: You’ll visit S’Espalmador, accessible only by boat, and Playa de Ses Illetes, one of Formentera’s most famous beaches.
• Activities Galore: Swimming, snorkeling with provided gear, and paddleboarding make this more than just a scenic cruise.
• Flexible & Refreshing: You can bring your own lunch, or go ashore at the beaches to eat at local restaurants.
• Excellent Value: At around $162.55 per person for 7 hours, it offers a great balance of activities, scenery, and personalization.
• Highly Rated: With a perfect 5-star rating from nearly 100 reviews, most travelers find it memorable and worth every penny.

A Romantic, Relaxed Escape on the Water

This sailboat trip around Formentera offers a wonderful way to see some of the Mediterranean’s most beautiful waters without the hustle of larger tourist boats. We love how the experience emphasizes a personalized, small-group atmosphere—something that’s becoming increasingly hard to find in popular holiday destinations. With a maximum of six guests, the crew can give more attention, making it feel like a day spent with friends rather than a crowded tour.

The trip begins at around 11:00 am from the meeting point in Ibiza. From there, it’s a leisurely pace—ideal for soaking in the sun, chatting with hosts Irene and Alberto, and just unwinding. The boat itself looks lovely, with space to sit in the shade or lay out in the sun, and it’s equipped with a speaker for your favorite tunes. The crew also keeps drinks and snacks on hand, which is perfect for staying refreshed without having to pack a lot.

The Itinerary: Highlights and Expectations

First Stop: S’Espalmador

The journey kicks off with a visit to S’Espalmador, a tiny island only accessible by boat. This spot is famous for its pristine beauty and relative seclusion. We love the way many reviews highlight it as a “beach reachable only by boat,” which adds a sense of adventure and exclusivity. Here, you’ll have about two hours to swim, snorkel, walk along the soft sands, or simply snap photos of the incredible scenery.

The experience of jumping into crystal-clear waters and exploring this secluded corner is why many travelers choose this tour. As one review puts it, “Absolutely recommend it to anyone visiting Ibiza,” and that feeling of discovering a hidden gem is a recurring theme among happy guests.

Second Stop: Playa de Ses Illetes

Next, you’ll sail to Playa de Ses Illetes, often called one of the best beaches in Formentera. The long stretch of white sand and calm, transparent waters make it perfect for relaxing, swimming, or even stopping at one of the popular beachfront restaurants if you want to indulge in some local cuisine.

Guests rave about the scenery here, with many describing the water as “gorgeous” and the beach as “superb.” The two-hour stop allows enough time for a leisurely swim, a paddleboard session, or just soaking up the sun. Several reviews mention how the guides are flexible and respectful of guests’ wishes to stay on the boat or head ashore, which adds to the relaxed vibe.

Activities That Make the Day Special

Snorkeling and Paddleboarding: The tour provides all the necessary equipment, so you’re free to explore the underwater world and paddle along the coast. Many reviews appreciate the opportunity to use the paddleboard and snorkel gear, which adds a fun, active element to the day.

Swimming & Beach Exploration: The boat’s dinghy makes it easy and safe to disembark on the beaches—something reviewers have found particularly enjoyable. One guest described feeling like they “were alone in a desert island,” which captures the exclusive feel.

Snacks & Refreshments: The crew keeps bottled water and snacks on hand, making the experience more comfortable and convenient. Some reviews also mention the deliciousness of the provided food and drinks, with the crew catering to vegan and other dietary needs.

Flexibility & Freedom: Guests love that they can choose how much time to spend on the boat or on land, and the guides are attentive without being overbearing. Whether you want to lounge in the sun or explore every nook, you’re in control.

The Value and Price: Is it worth it?

At roughly $162.55 per person for about 7 hours, this tour is a solid value if you’re after a more personal, activity-rich day at sea. The price covers the boat, snorkel gear, paddleboards, fuel, and the dinghy to access beaches—plus, most reviews hint at excellent hosts who go out of their way to make everyone comfortable.

Compared to larger group tours that can feel rushed or crowded, this experience offers more space and a tailored approach. The reviews reflect high satisfaction, with many describing it as a “perfect” day, especially for honeymooners or travelers seeking a peaceful escape.

You’ll also save space in your bag since the tour provides snorkel gear and paddleboards, which are included in the price. If you decide to bring your own lunch, that’s up to you, but you can also explore local restaurants ashore during the stops.

The Hosts and Atmosphere

In many reviews, Irene and Alberto shine as the type of hosts who make guests feel truly welcomed. They are praised for their attentiveness, kindness, and local knowledge. Guests mention how they “treated us as family,” which hints at a warm, genuine atmosphere onboard.

The boat itself looks cozy and well-maintained, with space to relax, chat, or listen to music. It’s clear that the guide’s approach is laid-back but attentive—perfect for travelers who want to enjoy their day without feeling rushed or crowded.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour?

This trip is best suited for those who value small-group intimacy and flexibility. If you enjoy the idea of discovering beautiful beaches at your own pace, with attentive hosts in a relaxed setting, you’ll love it. It’s particularly appealing to honeymooners, couples, or friends who want a more personal experience.

If you’re traveling with children or prefer a more structured day, you might find the flexible approach a bit unpredictable, but most reviewers say the activity is family-friendly, especially with older kids who enjoy swimming and snorkeling.

Final Thoughts

For anyone wanting a memorable day on the water that balances stunning scenery, active fun, and a cozy atmosphere, this small-group sailboat trip offers a genuine slice of paradise. The combination of beautiful beaches, the chance to snorkel and paddleboard, and the friendly, knowledgeable guides make it a standout.

While weather can influence the day, most reviews highlight how well the guides handle conditions and make adjustments, ensuring a positive experience even when the seas aren’t perfectly calm. And considering the overall value, it’s well worth the investment for a peaceful, scenic escape that feels exclusive rather than touristy.

If you’re after a flexible, friendly, and scenic way to see Formentera from Ibiza, this trip checks all the boxes. It’s a calming, beautiful way to connect with the sea, the islands, and some like-minded travelers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to bring my own lunch?
You’re welcome to bring your own food for the day, but there’s no included meal. Alternatively, you can head ashore to enjoy lunch at one of Formentera’s restaurants during the stops.

What is included in the price?
The tour includes the boat, snorkel equipment, paddleboards, bottled water, a dinghy to reach the beaches, restroom on board, and fuel. It’s pretty comprehensive for a day on the water.

How big are the groups?
The maximum is six guests, which provides a very intimate experience. This small size is often praised for making the day more relaxed and personalized.

What should I wear or bring?
Bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and a hat. If you want to take photos or explore the beaches ashore, a light backpack is handy. Don’t forget your ID or passport if needed.

Is this trip suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the reviews mention families and kids enjoying swimming and jumping off the boat, so it seems family-friendly for older children.

What happens in bad weather?
The tour is dependent on good weather. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellations are allowed up to 24 hours in advance. Make sure to cancel in time to get a full refund.

What makes this tour stand out compared to others?
The intimate size, flexible schedule, friendly hosts, and the chance to visit secluded beaches are what many guests highlight as the top reasons to choose this experience.

This sailboat trip offers a peaceful, scenic, and personal way to enjoy Formentera’s stunning beauty, making it a memorable highlight of your Ibiza getaway—especially if you love the sea and the simplicity of small-group adventures.