You’re trading Ibiza crowds for turquoise water. This small-group sail gets you out to Formentera’s best coastline, with time to swim, snorkel, and paddle in calm, anchored spots.

I love the intimate size—this isn’t a cattle-boat day—with an attention-to-details vibe that shows up in the snacks and drinks, too. And I really like that you’re not just dropped on a beach: you get snorkeling gear plus a SUP, and you can actually use them.

One thing to plan for: you’ll spend a lot of time on and near the water, and some entry areas can be rocky, so water shoes are a smart bring.

Key highlights worth knowing

• Nine-passenger feel: a semi-private mini sailing cruise with a maximum of 12 travelers
• Formentera anchor stops: time at Playa de Ses Illetes and S’Espalmador for swimming and snorkel-friendly water
• Included gear and fun: snorkeling equipment plus SUP boards (tablero de pádel)
• Real food at sea: salty snacks in the morning and a fruit platter in the afternoon, plus soda/pop
• A crew-driven day: captains like Miki, Fernando, Sylvia, and hosts like Paul and Marina show up in the day’s service
• Weather matters: the experience needs good weather, and plans change if it’s not right

Why Ses Illetes and S’Espalmador Beat a DIY Beach-and-Ferry Day

If you want the Formentera look you see in photos but without the circus on shore, this style of mini sailing cruise helps. You’re going for anchored swim time, not rushing from viewpoint to viewpoint.

The two anchor areas are the big draw. Playa de Ses Illetes is famous for a reason—bright, clear water and an easy-to-enjoy beach setting. S’Espalmador is another “how is this water real?” stop, with bright color and a simpler feel once you’re off the busier paths.

Value-wise, you’re paying for more than movement on water. You’re paying for boat time + fuel + a captain + snorkeling gear + SUP + snacks and drinks. That package is why many people feel it’s worth it versus trying to assemble the same day yourself.

The Semi-Private Setup: Leaving From Es Xarcu Without the Big-Tour Energy

The meeting point is Es Xarcu (Restaurante Playa) in Cala Es Xarco. The start time is 11:00 am, and the tour returns you to the same place at the end.

A big practical win here is the group size. The experience is described as a small group—often nine passengers—with a maximum of 12. In plain terms: it’s easier to manage boarding, sharing gear, and keeping the day from feeling like a timed production line.

You’ll use a mobile ticket, which keeps things simple once you’re on your trip. Also, the schedule is set for weather and sea conditions—this is not the type of trip you want to “wing” without caring about forecasts. If weather is poor, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

One more planning note: confirmation comes within 48 hours, based on availability. So don’t lock in tight connections right after the tour date.

Stop 1: Playa de Ses Illetes (Your First Big Formentera Moment)

Ses Illetes is the spot that makes people switch from ferry daydreaming to booking. Expect the classic Balearic scenery: light sand, clear water, and that instant-slow-down feeling when you see the water color from the boat.

You’ll typically get about 2 hours here. That time window matters because it gives you options. You can snorkel, use the provided gear, paddle on the SUP, or just float and work on your tan without racing the clock.

A small but useful tip from the way people talk about this stop: bring water shoes. Some entry areas can have rocks, especially when you’re getting in and out from wherever the boat anchors nearby. If you don’t want to think about it, just pack shoes and enjoy the water instead of negotiating your footing.

The beach time is also where the included snacks feel most satisfying—because you’ll be hot, salty, and ready for something simple. You’re not stuck waiting until you’re back on land to eat.

Stop 2: S’Espalmador for Clear-Water Swimming and SUP Time

After Ses Illetes, the day shifts to another standout: S’Espalmador. This stop is described as a Mediterranean jewel—think crystal-clear water, white sand vibes, and a clean, open feel once you’re anchored.

You get about 2 hours here, and the activities line up with the water. Snorkeling gear is included, and this is another spot where using the SUP can make the whole experience feel more personal. You’re not just watching the sea—you’re on it.

Also included at this stop is a fruit platter. It’s not fancy dining, but it’s exactly what you want after swimming—cool, light, and easy to keep going with.

The only consideration is practical: you’re still spending time in and around the water for the full day. Pack like it’s a beach day plus boat day. The tour suggests towels and also sunglasses and sunscreen, and I agree with all three.

Onboard Vibes: Snorkel Gear, SUP, Drinks, and the Service Factor

This is a sailing day, not a private yacht charter. That said, it’s set up to feel comfortable and low-stress. The included snorkeling equipment and SUP boards are there so you don’t spend your morning figuring out what you’re renting and how long it takes.

On the food side, you’re covered. There are snacks in the morning (salty snacks) and an afternoon fruit platter, plus soda/pop. People tend to rate this kind of included setup highly because it reduces friction. You show up, you swim, you eat, you swim again. Simple.

The service factor is also a big part of why people rate this so highly. You’ll see names like Captain Miki, Fernando, and Sylvia in the captain role, and Paul and Marina as hosts/operators in some accounts. The thread you should care about isn’t the celebrity-name effect—it’s the consistent theme of attentive, safety-minded handling and keeping the day working smoothly for the group.

One practical “watch your comfort” note: the SUP experience can depend on body size and the board itself. If you’re on the larger side, expect that paddling can feel tighter than you’d like on a smaller board. That’s not a dealbreaker, but it helps to know before you spend the whole day wishing your setup fit better.

Time Management: A 7.5-Hour Day That’s Built Around Water, Not Rush

The tour runs about 7 hours 30 minutes. With two 2-hour stops, you’re not just doing 4 hours total in the water—you’re also sailing, anchoring, and transitioning between swim/snorkel periods.

This kind of pacing is great if you like a steady rhythm. You’re not constantly packed up and moved, and you get enough time at each stop to actually enjoy it instead of hitting it like a checklist.

The tradeoff is obvious: it’s a full day on the schedule. If you’re hoping for a quick photo stop, this isn’t that. If you want the “chill boat day” feel—cruise, swim, eat, repeat—this is right in its element.

Price and Value: What $174.43 Buys You (and What It Doesn’t)

At $174.43 per person, this isn’t a budget impulse buy. But it’s also not just paying for transportation. You’re paying for a tightly planned full-day boat experience with fuel, captain, snorkeling gear, and SUP included—plus snacks and drinks.

Here’s how to think about value: if you’d otherwise pay separately for a boat option, gear rental, and a couple of beach-day snacks, the math can start to look less shocking. The bigger win is that the day is handled for you. You show up, and the crew runs the stop timing and water activities.

What’s not included is equally clear. You’ll want to bring towels, sunglasses, and sunscreen. And if you’re picky about comfort getting in and out, water shoes are worth it even if they’re not listed as included.

One more balanced note: there are occasional complaints about service quality or refunds tied to missed attendance. The way to protect yourself is simple—show up on time, follow any reminders, and don’t assume changes are automatic if you miss departure. Most days sound like they run well; your job is to make it easy for the crew to deliver that good day.

Who This Tour Fits Best (And Who Might Want a Different Plan)

This works best for people who want Formentera scenery with a guided water plan, without crowds. If you’re into swimming, snorkeling, or SUP time, you’ll get your money’s worth because the gear and time are built in.

It’s also a good fit if you like a calmer vibe than the big-bus shore scene. The small-group size helps a lot here.

On the “not for everyone” side, there are clear limits. It’s not recommended if you’re more than 5 months pregnant, and it’s also not recommended for anyone over 130 kg. If those apply, I’d pick a different style of trip that matches your comfort and safety needs.

Should You Book This Ibiza to Formentera Boat Trip?

Book it if you want a full-day swim-focused sailing outing to Formentera, with included snorkeling gear and SUP plus snacks and drinks. The itinerary favors the most famous water spots, and the small-group setup usually keeps the day relaxed.

Skip or shop around if you hate spending hours on a boat or you’re looking for a quick hit with minimal time in the sun and salt air. Also, pack smarter than you think: towels, sunscreen, sunglasses, and water shoes can turn awkward moments into smooth ones.

If your vacation includes Ibiza and you want Formentera to feel special (not just visited), this is one of the more straightforward ways to get it.

FAQ

What’s the duration of the Ibiza boat trip to Formentera?

The experience lasts about 7 hours 30 minutes.

Where does the tour start?

It starts at Es Xarcu (Restaurante Playa), S/N, Cala Es Xarco, 07839 Sant Josep de sa Talaia, Illes Balears, Spain.

What time does it begin?

The start time is 11:00 am.

How many people are on the boat?

The activity has a maximum of 12 travelers, and it’s described as a small group experience (often around nine passengers).

What’s included in the price?

Snorkeling equipment, a SUP board (tablero de pádel), soda/pop, salty snacks in the morning, a fruit platter in the afternoon, fuel, and the captain.

What should I bring?

Bring towels, sunglasses, and sunscreen. Water shoes may be helpful because some entry areas can have rocks.

Is there a mobile ticket?

Yes, the tour uses a mobile ticket.

What if the weather is bad?

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 free?

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

Is this tour suitable for everyone?

It says most travelers can participate, but it is not recommended for travelers more than 5 months pregnant and not recommended for travelers weighing more than 130 kg.