A private sail day in Formentera feels like a cheat code for the coast. I love how the route mixes sea-only nature (Espalmador) with super-swimmable beaches (Ses Illetes). I also like that you’re not stuck on a single stop—there’s a steady rhythm for SUP, snorkeling, and paddling. The one drawback to weigh is that the itinerary needs good weather, so conditions can affect whether you get the exact day you planned.

This trip is run by Nomad Sailing Trips and takes you around Formentera with a small group—private for up to 7 people. It’s about 7 hours on a 35-foot boat, starting at Platja de Ses Illetes and ending right back where you began. If you want variety without the stress of transfers, this is built for that.

Finally, the day is more active than a standard “sit on the boat” cruise. If you prefer a slower pace with minimal water time, you may want to pace yourself and plan for some stops that are better for swimming and paddling than for hanging around land.

Key things to know before you go

• Sea-only Espalmador: no buildings allowed in the protected natural park, so it’s raw and quiet.
• SUP + flat-water practice potential: two paddle surf boards are included, and you’ll often be in calmer bays.
• Big-view beach time at Ses Illetes: 360-degree views toward Ibiza and Es Vedrà.
• Rocky-cove variety: Cala Saona and Es Caló trade sand for caves, cliffs, and color.
• Private means your pace: up to 7 people, so you’re less likely to feel rushed.
• All the essentials on board: restroom, WiFi, and bottled/filtered water are included.

A private 35-foot sail day around Espalmador

This is the kind of Formentera trip that makes sense when you care about access. The big headline is Espalmador: it’s only reachable by sea, which naturally limits crowds and keeps the island feeling special. You get an hour there, plus a real sense of stepping into a protected area where the rules prevent the usual tourism buildout.

I also like the “micro-itinerary” style. You’re not trying to do everything in one place. Instead, you rotate through distinct vibes: a sea-only nature stop, an iconic beach, a rocky section for caves, then two more bays that shift from wind-protected to quieter.

For context, this is a private tour, English offered, and you’re using mobile tickets. The boat has a restroom onboard, plus WiFi and water, so you don’t have to hunt for basics mid-day.

Stop 1: S’Espalmador and the El Paso sandbar

S’Espalmador is the opening act that sets the tone: clean, remote, and built for water time. Since the island is accessible only by boat, it already feels different from the main island. You’ll learn about El Paso, a natural sandbar that functions like a bridge—an eye-catching feature and a great reference point for where the water changes.

One of the best parts here is what you don’t see. There are no bars, restaurants, or hotels on the island, and no buildings are allowed because it’s a protected natural park. That means you’re going somewhere that stays simple. Bring the mindset of a nature stop, not a seaside town stop.

If you’re into paddle surfing, this is also a promising start. The plan specifically points out flat water and ideal conditions for practicing this sport, which matters because SUP feels easier when the sea is calmer.

Practical consideration: because there’s no food or services on the island, plan to use this time for walking, swimming, and paddling—not for “we’ll grab a snack here” convenience. If you’re the kind of person who needs lots of on-land downtime, you might find the lack of amenities takes a bit of adjusting.

Stop 2: Playa de Ses Illetes with 360 views and beach time

Ses Illetes is where the day turns scenic in a big way. This stop is centered on one of the Mediterranean’s most famous beach scenes, and you get up to two hours there. The standout is the view: you can see around in a 360-degree way with Ibiza and Es Vedrà in the picture.

This stop is also flexible for how you want to eat and move. You can hop off for lunch at beach restaurants, or you can have lunch onboard. That’s useful because not everyone wants the same kind of break—some people enjoy the beach meal atmosphere, while others just want to maximize swim time.

Water activities here are the core. Expect snorkeling opportunities (snorkeling equipment is included), swimming, and SUP/paddling. There’s also time noted for walking around the very beginning of Formentera, which gives you a quick land moment without turning the trip into a hike.

Watch-outs: Ses Illetes is a high-visibility beach area, so if you’re hoping for total seclusion, you might not get that exact feeling. You’ll still get the special views and water access, just know you’re going somewhere with real reputation.

Stop 3: Cala Saona for caves and paddling in rocky water

After the iconic beach, Cala Saona brings the texture back: rocky and a little more rugged. You’ll get about 1 hour 30 minutes here. The emphasis is on discovery—hidden caves are mentioned, and the idea is to paddle around the area and explore what the coastline offers.

If you like “different geography” more than “another sandy beach,” this is the stop that can feel most interesting. Rocky reds and strong water clarity make it easier to feel connected to the coastline, especially when you’re moving slowly in SUP or near the waterline.

Practical consideration: rocky areas can mean more careful footing if you step out for short stretches. If you’re planning to spend lots of time at the water’s edge, wear footwear that works on uneven surfaces and be ready for a little scrambling.

Stop 4: Es Pujols bay protection, paddling comfort, and cliff-jump options

Es Pujols is a short-but-fun stop at about one hour. This bay mixes rocky and sandy areas, which often creates a good balance: you can have a bit of everything depending on where you settle in the water. The plan calls out protection from wind in most cases, and that matters because calmer water makes SUP and paddling feel easier and more enjoyable.

There’s also a more adventurous note here: cliff jumps around the corner. The inclusion isn’t a “do this” instruction, but it tells you the area has the right coastal angles for confident swimmers who want that kind of thrill.

If you want food and a more “town-adjacent” feel, this is the stop where lunch options come up more clearly. You can eat on board, or you can check out some of the best restaurants of Formentera in this bay area.

Real-world tip: if you’re traveling with people who have different comfort levels—one group loves jumping, another group just loves swimming—Es Pujols is often the easiest compromise spot because you can choose your level of action.

Stop 5: Es Caló for a quieter, colorful wrap-up

The last stop is Es Caló, timed at about 1 hour 30 minutes. The theme here is less crowding and more relaxed hanging out by the water. You get a combination of great colors and rocky scenery, which is a nice way to end a day that started with nature and moved through sand and caves.

This is a strong finale if you want to finish the day without pushing harder and harder. By the time you reach Es Caló, you’ve already done the major “wow” beats—Espalmador’s sea-only access, Ses Illetes’ views, and Cala Saona’s rugged interest—so Es Caló can feel like your chance to exhale.

Practical consideration: this stop is still about water time, not a structured sightseeing block. If you run low on energy, aim for a simple routine: swim, paddle a bit, snorkel briefly if you want, then take a calm rest when the group regroups.

What’s included on board (and what to plan for)

This trip is built around comfort plus water gear. Here’s what’s included:

• Two paddle surf boards
• Use of snorkeling equipment
• WiFi on board
• Restroom on board
• Bottled water and filtered water
• Fuel surcharge
• A 35-foot sailboat

So you’re not paying extra for the main activities. That’s a real value point because SUP and snorkeling can add costs on other tours—especially private ones.

What’s not included:

• Alcoholic beverages
• Brunch

Since brunch isn’t included, you’ll want to think about when you’ll eat. The itinerary gives you an opportunity at Ses Illetes to grab lunch on shore or onboard, and you can also eat onboard or at restaurants around Es Pujols. If you like having control over snacks, pack some light non-messy items for between stops, especially if you tend to get hungry before lunch.

Also, because the trip requires good weather, it’s smart to plan for a backup day in your mental schedule. If weather forces changes, the operator offers a different date or a full refund.

Price and value: when $941 per group makes sense

The price is $941.32 per group, up to 7 people, for about 7 hours. That sounds steep if you think in per-person terms—but it changes fast when you fill the boat.

• If you have 7 people, it works out to roughly $135 per person.
• If you have only 2 or 3 people, the per-person cost climbs quickly, and at that point you’re paying for the privacy and flexibility more than the activity budget.

Here’s what makes it feel worth it: you’re getting a full day with multiple distinct coves, plus SUP boards and snorkeling equipment included. You’re also on a small boat with a restroom onboard, water provided, and a route that hits both sea-only nature (Espalmador) and major Formentera swimming areas.

I’d view this as a “split it with friends” type of day. If you’re traveling solo or as a couple, you should only book if privacy and a customized small-group feel are genuinely important to you.

Who this trip fits best in Formentera

You’ll probably love this day if:

• You want a private sail experience without a huge crew around you.
• You enjoy being on the water often—swimming, snorkeling, and paddling.
• Your group includes people with different energy levels, since stops mix sandy swimming, rocky exploration, and wind-protected paddling.
• You’re into SUP practice and want boards included rather than renting separately.

You might not love it as much if:

• You expect a lot of time in cafés and on walking streets. The route is water-forward.
• You dislike weather-dependent plans. This one runs best with good conditions.

One small human detail that matters: the guide experience seems to be a strong part of why people feel satisfied. A name that shows up in the background is Augustin, praised for being kind and for driving the day toward paradisiacal beaches. That kind of calm, thoughtful guiding can be the difference between a chaotic day and a smooth one.

Should you book this Formentera private sailing day?

Book it if you want a day that feels like Formentera’s best parts in one loop: Espalmador’s sea-only peace, Ses Illetes’ world-class views, then rocky variety at Cala Saona, Es Pujols, and Es Caló. The included SUP boards and snorkeling gear make this less “pay as you go” and more “go enjoy.”

Skip it or reconsider if your group prefers long stretches on land or if you don’t like weather-based uncertainty. Also, if you’re booking as a small party (not filling up near 7), check whether the private cost fits your budget.

My practical bottom line: this is a high-value pick when you can share it with friends or family and when you’re excited to spend serious time in the water. If that’s you, you’re in the right place.

FAQ

How long is the Formentera and Espalmador private sailboat trip?

The duration is about 7 hours.

How many people are on this private tour?

It’s private for your group, up to 7 people.

Where does the tour start?

The meeting point is Platja de Ses Illetes, 07871 Formentera, Illes Balears, Spain.

Does the tour include Espalmador?

Yes. There is a stop at S’Espalmador.

What water activities are included?

The trip includes 2 paddle surf boards and the use of snorkeling equipment.

Is there a restroom on board?

Yes, there is a restroom on board.

Is WiFi available during the trip?

Yes, WiFi is available on board.

What food and drinks are included?

Bottled water and filtered water are included. Alcoholic beverages and brunch are not included.

What language is the tour offered in?

The tour is offered in English.

What happens if the weather is poor?

This experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Are service animals allowed?

Yes, service animals are allowed.

Is there free cancellation?

Yes. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

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