Ibiza: Tour of the island of Ibiza and swimming in Formentera

If you’re considering a day out on the water to see Ibiza from a new angle, this boat tour promises an engaging way to explore the island’s highlights. While I haven’t done it myself, reviews and details from fellow travelers paint a picture of an experience that’s both enjoyable and packed with scenic beauty.

What really appeals is the chance to cruise past iconic sights like Es Vedrà, enjoy free time at gorgeous beaches, and indulge in local food and drinks throughout the day. On the flip side, some mention that the boat can get crowded, and the food options could be better, which is worth keeping in mind if you’re a foodie or seeking a little extra comfort.

This tour seems best suited for those who love a mix of sightseeing, relaxation, and socializing — especially if they’re eager to see Ibiza’s less accessible spots with a knowledgeable crew guiding the way.

Key Points

• Full-day island exploration combined with swimming in Formentera offers a balanced mix of sightseeing and relaxation.
• Scenic views of Es Vedrà and other hidden spots make it a visually memorable experience.
• Comfort and amenities vary; some reviews mention tight seating and basic food, so manage expectations accordingly.
• Great for water lovers — swimming, snorkeling, paddleboarding are all included.
• Value for the price — considering food, drinks, and a full day on the water, many find it fair despite some minor shortcomings.
• Friendly crew and guides enhance the experience, making it more enjoyable and informative.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Ibiza & Formentera Boat Tour

If you’re dreaming of a day cruising around Ibiza, discovering its most beautiful corners, and taking a dip in crystal-clear waters, this tour might just be what you’re after. It’s designed to cover a lot in one day, with a boat as your base and the open sea as your playground.

Starting Point and Overall Setup

The adventure begins at the pontoon next to the commercial docks in Botafoch, close to Playa d’En Bossa and Figueretes. This location is convenient if you’re staying in those areas or nearby. The tour lasts about 12 hours, making it an all-day affair filled with travel, swimming, eating, and sightseeing.

The boat itself offers plenty of space, according to reviews, and is equipped with snorkeling gear, paddleboards, and tubes to keep all water-loving travelers entertained. The crew is said to be super friendly, which really does make a difference when you’re out on the water all day.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Early Departure and First Stop in Formentera

The tour kicks off with a roughly one-hour cruise from Ibiza. As you glide across the waters, you’ll get to enjoy some stunning views of the coastline and open sea. Once in Formentera, the highlight is disembarking at Es Trocadors, a beach famously framed between Espalmador and Illetas. Think pristine white sands and waters so clear they seem photoshopped.

This part lasts about three hours, giving you plenty of time to swim, sunbathe, or paddleboard. It’s a chance to relax without feeling rushed, and many reviews mention how beautiful and quiet the beaches are. You get an authentic feel of Formentera’s untouched charm, far from the crowded spots.

Returning to Formentera and Free Exploration

At around 3:30 p.m., you’ll hop back on the boat and disembark again at Formentera for another three hours of free time. This gives you a chance to explore the island at your own pace, whether that’s wandering through local shops or simply soaking up the scenery.

The flexibility of this part of the tour appeals to many. You’re not tied to a strict schedule, so you can tailor your experience—whether that’s relaxing on a quieter beach or taking extra time to enjoy a seaside cafe.

Food and Drinks Onboard

One of the more talked-about aspects is the meal and beverage offering. The tour includes breakfast, lunch, and dinner, which sounds generous. Drinks are available throughout, which is appreciated on a full-day trip.

That said, some reviewers found the food options limited or basic—hot dogs, canned vegetarian options, and paella without many sides. If you’re a foodie or expecting a gourmet experience, this might be a tiny letdown. However, for many, the abundance of drinks and the convenience of all meals included outweigh these concerns.

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The Final Leg and Return

By 7:00 p.m., you’ll leave Ibiza to head back, arriving around sunset. The journey back offers a calm ending to a busy day, with some passengers mentioning the beautiful sunset views as a perfect way to conclude.

What Travelers Are Saying

Many reviews are glowing about the friendly crew and the scenic stops. Alessandra from Italy called it a “great experience,” highlighting the well-equipped boat and helpful staff. Similarly, Manuel from Spain loved the good food, fun atmosphere, and swimming spots, emphasizing how it helped him discover parts of Ibiza he hadn’t seen before.

However, some reviews point out areas for improvement. For example, a family from Germany enjoyed their day but noted that the boat was quite full, with only four berths available, leading to some uncomfortable seating on the benches or even the floor. They also felt the food could be more substantial and better organized, especially for a nearly 12-hour trip.

Another German traveler appreciated the plenty of space and friendly crew but wished the lunch menu included more vegetables or salads, suggesting a slight mismatch between expectations and reality in catering. Still, they overall found it a “nice experience,” especially swimming in less crowded beaches.

Water and Snorkeling

Swimming in Formentera is often highlighted as a major highlight—the waters are described as crystal-clear and perfect for snorkeling and wading in. Many reviewers mention their kids loved jumping off the boat and playing with the paddleboards.

Value for Money

At $187 per person, the price reflects a full-day experience with meals, drinks, and activities included. While some feel the food could be better, most agree the scenic value and overall experience justify the cost. The ability to see Ibiza’s hidden corner, enjoy local cuisine, and swim in stunning waters makes it a worthwhile outing.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip is ideal for water lovers and those eager to cover a lot of ground in one day. It’s well-suited for travelers who appreciate scenic boat rides, swimming, and casual exploration without too many rigid structures. If you’re okay with some crowding and basic meals, you’ll likely enjoy the lively atmosphere and friendly staff.

It’s also a good choice for families with older children who can handle a full day on the water and appreciate swimming and exploring at their own pace. For those seeking luxury or gourmet dining, it might fall a bit short, but for a relaxed, scenic adventure, it hits the mark.

Final Thoughts

This Ibiza island tour by boat offers a dynamic way to see parts of the island that might be tricky to reach otherwise. The stunning beaches of Formentera and the opportunity to swim in tranquil waters make it stand out. While some improvements in comfort and food could elevate the experience, many travelers find it a worthwhile and enjoyable day out.

If you’re someone who values scenery, water activities, and a friendly crew, this tour could be a highlight of your trip. It’s especially good for those who want a relaxed, full-day adventure that combines sightseeing with leisure.

FAQs

Is the tour suitable for children?
While children who enjoy swimming and boat rides will probably love it, keep in mind the long hours and limited seating options. It’s best for older kids who can handle a full day on the water.

What should I bring with me?
You’ll want to bring sunscreen and towels (not provided), plus swimwear and perhaps a hat or sunglasses. The tour includes meals and drinks, so no need to worry about food, but a camera is a good idea for those scenic views.

Does the tour run in all weather conditions?
Yes, but cancellations are possible if weather is particularly bad. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

How much time do I get in Formentera?
You have about three hours at the beach initially and another three hours later to explore or relax, giving you ample time to swim, walk around, or grab a drink.

Is the boat crowded?
Some reviews mention that the boat can get quite full, especially during peak season, with limited berths. If comfort is a priority, you might want to inquire about the current group size.

What’s included in the price?
Your ticket includes drinks, breakfast, lunch, dinner, and snorkeling gear. Additional expenses might be souvenirs or extras outside the provided meals.

If you’re seeking a lively, scenic, and activity-packed way to experience Ibiza and Formentera in one day, this tour offers a solid mix of adventure and relaxation. Just keep your expectations balanced regarding comfort and food, and you’ll likely have a memorable outing.

You can check availability for your dates here: