Formentera is the small but mighty sister island of Ibiza, renowned for its crystal-clear waters, sandy beaches, and peaceful coves. While many visitors flock to the beaches, exploring by boat offers a whole new perspective—unmatched for discovering secluded spots inaccessible from land. Among the many options, we particularly love the chance to sail along the coast, enjoy private experiences, and snorkel in untouched waters. For instance, the Explore Formentera with a Full-Day Private Sailboat Trip offers a personalized and relaxed way to see the island’s highlights, with flexible itineraries and a local family owner sharing their passion.
Whether you want a romantic sunset sail, a fun family outing, or a lively day with friends, Formentera’s boat tours deliver. The list below covers two of the best options—from exclusive private adventures to shared full-day trips—each with its own charm and appeal. Read on to find the right fit for your vacation style.
1. Explore Formentera with a Full-Day Private Sailboat Trip
This family-owned business offers a 7-hour private sailboat experience perfect for couples, families, or small groups up to seven people. What makes this trip stand out is the personalized nature—the owners live on their boats year-round and love sharing their passion for sailing and the island’s natural beauty. You’ll explore hidden coves, cliffs, and caves, with the flexibility to shape the day around your interests.
The itinerary includes a stop at S’Espalmador, a protected island only accessible by boat, where you can paddleboard or snorkel in calm waters, away from crowds. Next, you’ll visit Playa de Ses Illetes, often touted as one of the most beautiful beaches in the Mediterranean. Here, you can have lunch at a beachfront restaurant or enjoy food on board, then snorkel, walk, or paddleboard. The final stop at Cala Saona offers rocky landscapes and caves to explore. An added bonus? You’ll likely enjoy the sunset while sailing, a magical moment that’s highly recommended.
Rated 5.0/5 based on 52 reviews, this trip’s personal touch and flexibility make it a top choice for those seeking a relaxed, authentic experience. The price reflects its exclusivity, but it’s well worth it for a private day on the water—especially if you want the kind of trip that feels customized and intimate.
Bottom Line: For those wanting a tailored, more personal sailing adventure that combines swimming, snorkeling, and stunning scenery, this private full-day trip offers incredible value and a chance to feel like a local.
2. Playa de Ses Illetes Sailboat Full Day Private Trip
For around $1,548, this full-day private trip allows up to nine people to enjoy the iconic Playa de Ses Illetes and nearby S’Espalmador. This tour emphasizes a luxurious, flexible experience with a dedicated skipper handling the sailing and navigation—meaning you can relax and simply enjoy the surroundings.
The itinerary centers on spending about three hours at Ses Illetes—plenty of time for lunch at one of its well-known restaurants or packing your own supplies to enjoy on board. Afterward, you head to S’Espalmador for a couple of hours of swimming, paddleboarding, or just soaking up the sun. The boat comes equipped with snorkel gear, stand-up paddleboards, and a Bluetooth speaker to play your favorite tunes, adding to the fun.
What sets this tour apart is the larger group capacity and the option to ride the auxiliary dinghy to the beach, giving you more freedom to explore. The reviews highlight the smooth sailing and friendly service, making it suitable for families, friends, or groups wanting a private, hassle-free day on the water.
Bottom Line: If you’re traveling with a larger group and want a customizable, relaxing day at Ses Illetes with all the gear you need, this private trip offers excellent value for a top-tier experience.
How to Choose Between These Tours
In deciding between these options, consider your budget, group size, and what kind of experience you’re after. The private sailboat trip from the first tour (Explore Formentera) is ideal for smaller groups wanting a more intimate, personalized adventure. Meanwhile, the second option (Playa de Ses Illetes) caters to larger groups who value comfort, convenience, and a bit more flexibility with activities.
Also, think about your interests—if snorkeling and paddleboarding are priorities, both trips provide gear, but the second emphasizes leisure and socializing with more amenities onboard. For those seeking a romantic sunset sail, the first trip’s emphasis on that moment makes it particularly appealing.
Booking early is recommended, especially in peak season, to secure your preferred date and group size. Both tours are worth the investment for a memorable day—just pick the one that best matches your travel style and expectations.
Final Thoughts
Formentera offers fantastic options for boat trips that bring you closer to its stunning coastline. For a luxury, private experience with a personal touch, the Explore Formentera with a Full-Day Private Sailboat Trip is hard to beat. If you prefer a larger group with more amenities and flexibility to relax and swim, the Playa de Ses Illetes Sailboat Trip fits the bill.
Both tours showcase the best of what Formentera’s waters have to offer—crystal-clear swimming spots, scenic vistas, and the freedom to explore at your own pace. Whichever you choose, booking early ensures you won’t miss out on a day that could become one of your vacation highlights.
