Formentera by catamaran feels like a cheat code. This is a relaxed, small-group sail from Ibiza with real beach time at Espalmador and Playa de Ses Illetes, plus gear so you can swim and snorkel without fuss. I also like that you get snorkel equipment and paddle surf included, so the day is more than just staring out at the water.

The main thing to keep in mind is weather. The company runs only with good conditions, and the exact meeting spot in Ibiza can change depending on what the sea is doing.

Key Highlights You’ll Care About

• Max 12 people keeps the day feeling calm and personal.
• Espalmador beach stop plus time to snorkel and walk makes the trip feel special, fast.
• Ses Illetes 2–3 hour window gives you breathing room for swimming and eating.
• Formentera north beach stop is short, but it’s timed for that “empty-water” feeling.
• Included snorkel gear and paddle surf turn swim stops into actual activities.
• Captain-led vibe: many days run by friendly, capable skippers like Diego and Toni/Tony, who focus on safe, smooth sailing.

A Small Catamaran Day: What 8 Hours Really Feels Like

This trip runs about 8 hours, starting at 10:00 am and ending back at the same meeting point area in Ibiza. The catamaran is designed for a maximum of 12 people, which matters more than most people expect. With fewer bodies onboard, you spend more time outside enjoying the water and less time negotiating space.

You meet in the south of Ibiza, but the exact meeting spot can shift with weather conditions. That’s not a red flag; it’s a practical way to avoid messy delays when wind and waves change the plan. Near public transportation, so you should be able to get there without a headache if you’re not driving.

Ibiza to S’Espalmador: Your First Dose of Clear-Water Play

The day starts with sailing out from Ibiza toward S’Espalmador. You’ll spend about one hour there, with time to walk the beach and use your snorkel equipment in the surrounding water.

Why this stop works: S’Espalmador often feels like a separate world from busy ports. Even with only an hour, you can do the essentials—shoes off, quick beach explore, then a snorkel session—without feeling rushed. If you’re the type who likes to get into the water early, this is a great “warm up” stop.

One practical thought: bring what you need for a beach-to-water transition. If you’re relying on buying stuff on-site, remember that you’re on a tight schedule at sea.

Playa de Ses Illetes: Swimming Time Plus a Real Chance to Eat

Next comes Playa de Ses Illetes, where you’ll have 2 to 3 hours to hang out and eat at a restaurant. This is where the day starts to feel like a full beach outing instead of just sailing between stops.

A key detail for planning: lunch is not included, even though there’s restaurant time. So budget for what you want to order, and consider bringing a few snacks of your own if you like options. One useful tip from earlier guests: there’s a fridge onboard where you can place food items, which makes it easier to keep things chilled.

Also, this is the best stop if you want a longer swim session. The water is shallow enough that you can explore comfortably, and snorkeling gear means you’re not stuck doing one activity only.

Formentera North’s Short Beach Stop: Why the Time Feels Perfect

After Ses Illetes, the catamaran heads to Formentera, with another stop on a narrow beach in the north. Expect about one hour there before you sail back to Ibiza.

This stop is shorter on purpose. It’s the kind of timing that helps you avoid dead time—no long transfers, no waiting around on the dock. One hour is enough to step off, enjoy the water, and get your photos, then get back on the boat before the day drags.

If you’re someone who gets bored without an itinerary, this is a nice balance: not too long, not too short. You’ll still feel like you landed in Formentera, not just passed it from a distance.

Snorkel Gear and Paddle Surf: Included Activities That Change the Day

The price covers water, snorkel equipment, and paddle surf. That combo matters because it turns the trip into a hands-on day, not only a passive sightseeing boat ride.

Here’s how that plays out in real life:

• Snorkel gear means you can spend beach time looking around without scrambling for rentals.
• Paddle surf makes the trip feel active even if you’re not a hardcore swimmer.
• Included water is one less thing to think about during the sunniest hours.

The best part is variety. You can do a snorkel pass at one stop, paddle around at another, and then just float and recharge in between. That pacing is part of what people love about this style of catamaran day.

Captain Diego, Toni, and Tony: The Human Factor at Sea

On this kind of sail, the captain is half the experience. Names that show up in past days include Diego, Toni, Tony, plus support from guides like Maria and Joan. What you’re looking for is a skipper who keeps things calm and safe, while still guiding you to good water and good timing.

From the tone of the experiences people describe, the best days seem to have the same ingredients:

• Friendly, accommodating communication
• Confident sailing and smooth handling of conditions
• Helpful guidance around where to swim, snorkel, and when to move

That last point is underrated. Even with perfect weather, the difference between an efficient stop and a chaotic stop is huge. A captain who knows how to manage time makes the whole day feel better, even if the itinerary is the same on paper.

Price and Value: Is $120.68 Worth a Formentera Day Trip?

At $120.68 per person, you’re paying for a full day of catamaran sailing, guided beach stops, and included gear like snorkel equipment plus paddle surf. You’re also paying for the big advantage of a small maximum group size.

What helps justify the cost:

• You’re not renting equipment on your own.
• You’re getting multiple water-based stops rather than one beach and back.
• The trip is timed to give you several different “mood” moments across Ibiza and Formentera.

What you should budget for separately:

• Lunch is not included
• Towels are not included
• Drinks beyond the provided water are not listed as included

So the value hinges on your style. If you want a full sea day with included water sports, this price can feel fair. If you only care about one beach and don’t plan to snorkel or paddle surf, you might compare against simpler boat options.

How to Plan Your Day: Timing, Stops, and Staying Comfortable

Start at 10:00 am, then think of the trip in blocks:

• First sailing and beach time at S’Espalmador (about an hour)
• A longer chunk at Playa de Ses Illetes (2 to 3 hours) for swimming and eating
• A shorter taste of Formentera north (about an hour)
• Then you spend time sailing back to Ibiza (about 1.5 hours from Formentera to Ibiza)

This structure is great if you dislike long stretches of “nothing happening.” You’ll always have a reason to be on deck, by the water, or getting ready for the next stop.

Comfort tips that make sense with what’s provided:

• Bring your own towel since it’s not included.
• If you like snacks, pack them and plan to store them (a fridge onboard exists for food items).
• Wear or bring swimwear you’ll be happy to use more than once in a day.

What’s Included vs Not Included: Quick Checklist

Included:

• Water
• Paddle surf
• Snorkel equipment
• Admission ticket for key stops as listed

Not included:

• Lunch
• Towels

That lineup is actually helpful for budgeting. You can plan your spending around one main meal, and you know you won’t be surprised by equipment costs. The only “gotcha” is that the restaurant you eat at during the Ses Illetes window can vary based on weather and availability.

Who This Trip Fits Best (and Who Might Skip It)

This is a strong fit if you want:

• A relaxed sailing day with plenty of beach time
• Included water activities (snorkel gear and paddle surf)
• A max 12 person setup where you can breathe and move

It also suits groups celebrating something. The small onboard capacity makes it easier to feel like you’re sharing a day with a handful of people instead of being herded through a schedule.

You might hesitate if:

• You hate weather-dependent plans (the experience requires good weather)
• You only want one long beach and no snorkeling or paddle surfing

Should You Book This Formentera Sailing Catamaran?

If your ideal Ibiza day includes clear water, a couple of different beaches, and time to swim/snorkel without extra rentals, I’d lean yes. The combination of a small catamaran, included snorkel equipment, and included paddle surf gives you more value than a plain “sit on the boat” outing.

Book it especially if you like the idea of hitting S’Espalmador and Playa de Ses Illetes in one smooth flow, then taking a short, focused taste of Formentera north before sailing back. Just plan for lunch and towels on your own, and keep an eye on weather so you’re not caught off guard.

If you want a day that feels like a private-style sea escape but still runs with a real itinerary, this is the kind of trip you’ll remember.

FAQ

What time does the catamaran trip start?

The activity starts at 10:00 am.

How long is the sailing trip to Formentera?

The duration is about 8 hours.

Where do we meet in Ibiza, and do we return there?

You meet at Diseminado Poligono 32, 11055, 07839, Illes Balears, Spain. The activity ends back at the same meeting point area.

How many people are on the boat?

This experience has a maximum of 12 travelers.

What is included in the price?

Included items are water, paddle surf, and snorkel equipment.

Are towels or lunch included?

No. Lunch is not included, and towels are not included.

Does the tour depend on weather?

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

Can I cancel for a full refund?

Yes. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. If you cancel less than 24 hours before the start time, you won’t receive a refund.

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