Formentera by boat is the shortcut to postcard water. This small-group catamaran day gives you snorkeling and SUP gear plus a complimentary glass of champagne, all while the crew keeps things smooth and friendly. One thing to plan for: you’ll rely on zodiac/dinghy rides to reach both the catamaran and the shore at stops, so it’s not the “step onto land from the boat” kind of tour.

You start in Ibiza (Ses Salines area) and spend most of the day hopping between coves and top beaches on the Formentera side—then you circle back for a final stop in Ibiza. If you want a relaxed, not-crowded water day with the option to bring your own snacks (and keep them cold), this is an easy “yes” kind of trip.

Key Things You Should Know Before You Go

• Small group on a catamaran: capped at 12 people, so the day feels personal, not like a cattle boat.
• Snorkel + SUP included: you’re equipped to enjoy the swimming stops instead of just watching from the deck.
• Champagne is part of the deal: 1 glass included to mark the fun.
• Cold storage for your own food: a fridge/freezer setup lets you bring snacks and drinks and keep them chilled.
• Be ready for dinghies: you get to the shore via zodiac/dinghy at key moments.
• Captains adjust to conditions: several guides are praised for choosing swim spots based on weather and sea state.

A Calm 8–9 Hour Loop: Ibiza to Formentera and Back

This is a full-day boat trip that runs about 8 to 9 hours, starting at 10:00 am. The big idea is simple: you get a catamaran day with multiple swim-and-beach stops, without the long, stressful ferry-and-transfer routine you’d deal with if you tried to DIY it.

What I like for your planning is that you’re not locked into just one beach. You’ll spend meaningful time at the standout Formentera spots (including Espalmador and Ses Illetes), plus you get at least one additional Ibiza beach stop on the way back. In other words, you’re buying variety—different coves, different swim vibes—rather than a single photo spot.

The main consideration: your schedule is weather-dependent and also depends on how everyone’s pickup and shore time goes. On a shared group charter, a late moment from someone else can squeeze things a bit.

Ses Salines Meet-Up and the Zodiac Transfer to the Catamaran

You meet in the Ibiza area near Platja de ses Salines / Sant Jordi de ses Salines, and you don’t just walk straight onto the catamaran and go. The crew uses a zodiac to get you from the beach area to the boat.

This matters because it changes your day rhythm. You’ll want to arrive with enough buffer so you can jump onto the zodiac without rushing. It also means you’ll want to keep essentials easy to grab—your swim stuff, a towel, and whatever you’re bringing for the day (snacks, water, sun protection).

Also, you’ll travel with an English-speaking setup. The tour is offered in English, and you get a mobile ticket, which is convenient if you prefer to keep everything on your phone.

Sailing the Formentera Coast: More Coves Than One Big Beach

Once you’re aboard, the day turns into moving scenery. There’s a sailing segment along the Formentera coastline, and the vibe is more about cruising between swim areas than about “racing to the next landmark.”

This is one of the best parts for value. You’re paying for a day on the water, not just a single beach entrance. When the crew picks the route well, those in-between stretches feel like part of the experience—calm boat time, open views, and frequent chances to cool off.

A heads-up: some of the fun is also in the logistics. You’ll go to shore by dinghy at the main stops, so expect a bit of back-and-forth. If you don’t love water transfers, this is the only “trade” here.

S’Espalmador Stop: Swim, Snorkel, Walk, and Paddle

About an hour into sailing, you anchor at S’Espalmador beach for around two hours. This is the kind of stop where the included gear actually changes your day.

Here’s what you can do during that time:

• Swim
• Snorkel
• Walk on the beach
• Use the SUP boards (included)

If your goal is to get active without committing to an all-day hike, this stop is a sweet spot. Two hours is long enough to do one swim session and still enjoy a relaxed walk when you come up for air.

One practical note: the most enjoyable pace is usually “use the gear early, then switch to beach time.” The included equipment is ready, so waiting around without using it can make the stop feel shorter than it is.

Playa de Ses Illetes: The Long Beach Window (Bring Your Own)

Next comes Playa de Ses Illetes, often described as one of the best beaches in the world. The sailing time is quick, and then you get a longer beach block—about four hours.

This is where you have the most choices:

• You can get to the shore by dinghy and explore on foot.
• The SUP boards and snorkeling equipment are there for you to use.
• You can bring your own food and drinks.
• You can use the boat’s freezer to keep your items cold.

If you’re the type who enjoys building your own day, this stop is your best friend. Packing simple food can be the difference between a “great boat day” and a “great boat day that doesn’t leave you hungry or broke.”

If you’d rather eat out, you can go ashore to restaurants on the Ses Illetes beach. The captain can help you with a reservation on the day (you don’t need to pre-book on your own).

The trade-off is simple: restaurants here are part of the premium Formentera experience. If you want flexibility and lower cost, bring lunch. If you want the full beach-dining moment, plan on spending more.

Beso Beach Ibiza Finish: Wrapping the Day Back in Ibiza

After your Formentera time, you return to Ibiza and finish at Beso Beach with about one hour at the end. Think of this as your cooldown stop—time to land back on Ibiza shores after a day of swimming and sailing.

It’s also a useful buffer: you’re not rushing straight into travel right after your last swim. You get a short final window to rinse off (when available) and regroup with the group.

If you’re planning your evening, keep it realistic. You’ll feel like you had an all-day outing even if it doesn’t include a formal dinner. Plan a low-key night after.

Small-Group Vibes That Actually Feel Like a Small Group

This trip caps at 12 travelers (with small-group operation where you’re typically in a group of around 11, plus crew). That number matters more than it sounds. Less crowding means:

• more room to find shade and settle
• easier help when you want to use snorkeling gear or boards
• a calmer feel during the sailing breaks

I also like that the crew plays host, not just operator. Multiple captains are praised for being friendly and attentive. Names you might run into include Fran, Nacho, Pablo, Sebastian, and Ramiro—all highlighted for making the day feel welcoming and “no stress.”

You’ll also hear about music on board—often described as mellow rather than a party blast. It’s the kind of soundtrack that supports the relaxed boat pace instead of taking over your whole experience.

Price and Value: Why $139 Can Make Sense

At $139.08 per person, you’re paying for a full day that includes:

• a full-day catamaran experience
• 1 complimentary glass of champagne
• snorkeling equipment
• SUP board use
• transfers to shore via zodiac/dinghy

What makes the price feel reasonable is the combo: you’re not just getting transportation to beaches—you’re getting gear, time on the water, and built-in access to places that are hard to reach without a boat.

The real value question comes down to how you handle food:

• If you bring your own lunch/snacks, you’ll likely get more “holiday per euro.”
• If you eat at restaurants on Formentera (especially at premium beach spots), expect it to run pricey.

Also, be aware of what you’re not buying: this is not described as a luxury yacht. It’s a catamaran charter—modern and functional, but it’s still a working boat experience. That’s not a deal-breaker; it’s just smart to align your expectations.

Tips to Avoid the Common Friction Points

Here are the small details that make or break the day, based on what’s been shared by guests and how the charter operates.

Expect dinghy steps. You’ll use zodiac/dinghies to move between beach and boat, and to reach shore at key stops. If you struggle with stepping in and out, factor that into your comfort level.

Cold drinks: plan for ice. The boat has ways to keep food and drinks cold (freezer/fridge). But you should assume you may need your own setup for ice, since they don’t provide it in the same way a resort bar would.

Motion and weather can change the feel. Even with smooth captains, open water can be choppy on some days. If you’re prone to seasickness, bring what works for you.

Lunch timing can affect beach time. If you choose a restaurant, you may lose some of the free beach wandering time depending on reservation flow and service speed. If you want maximum beach hours, bring food and keep the day in your hands.

Shower and rinsing may vary. There can be moments where an outside rinse/shower setup is under repair, though alternative options may be offered. If salt stays in your hair and gear matter to you, bring a plan (even just a towel and a small rinse strategy).

Who This Trip Is Perfect For

I think this works best if you want:

• A relaxed, scenic day on the water
• Multiple beach moments instead of one rushed stop
• Included gear so you actually get in the water
• A small-group setting where you can talk to the crew

It’s also a good match if you’re flexible about lunch. You can bring a simple picnic-style setup and keep costs down, or you can treat yourself to Formentera beach dining if that’s your idea of fun.

If you’re looking for a super-luxury, no-transfers, every-cushion-perfect kind of day, you might want to compare alternatives. This is about water time, beach access, and a friendly captain-led rhythm—not about onboard luxury service.

Should You Book This Formentera and Ibiza Catamaran Trip?

Yes, if your goal is a classic Formentera day with the essentials already handled: snorkel gear, SUP boards, beach time, and a small-group pace. The $139 price feels fair when you lean into the included activities and either bring your own lunch or keep restaurant spending realistic.

I’d hesitate only if you hate dinghy transfers, want constant onboard convenience, or you’re expecting a yacht-style luxury experience. This is a catamaran charter day—great fun, but it runs on practical sea-day logistics.

If you’re the type who reads reviews and then looks for consistency, this one has a strong pattern: smooth sailing, kind captains, and standout swim spots chosen with conditions in mind.

FAQ

How long is the trip, and when does it start?

The experience runs about 8 to 9 hours and starts at 10:00 am. You’ll return to the same meeting point area where you started.

What beaches do you visit during the day?

You’ll spend time in the Ibiza area at the beginning and end, and you’ll anchor at S’Espalmador and Playa de Ses Illetes during the Formentera portion of the trip.

Are snorkeling gear and SUP boards included?

Yes. Snorkeling equipment and SUP board use are included. The SUP boards are described as convertible into kayaks, depending on how you use the equipment.

Can I bring my own food or drinks for lunch?

Yes. You can bring food and drinks, and you can use the boat’s freezer to keep them cold. Lunch itself is not included, and you also have the option to eat at restaurants on Ses Illetes with help from the captain.

What 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.

How many people are on the tour, and is it in English?

It’s a small-group trip with a maximum of 12 travelers. The tour is offered in English and you’ll receive a mobile ticket.

If you tell me your travel month and whether you plan to bring your own lunch, I can suggest the best way to structure your day around the longest beach stop.

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