Ibiza: Boat Trip to Formentera with Open Bar and Paella

Introduction

If you’re heading to Ibiza and looking for a way to see one of the Med’s most gorgeous islands, this boat trip to Formentera might just be your best bet. While Ibiza is famous for its vibrant nightlife, this experience offers a refreshing change—a tranquil cruise with plenty of water fun, stunning scenery, and a taste of authentic Mediterranean cuisine.

The two things we particularly appreciate about this tour are the beautiful stops at Ses Illetes and SEspalmador, often ranked among the top beaches worldwide, and the inclusive meals and drinks, which make the whole day feel like a special getaway rather than just another sightseeing tour.

One possible consideration is the actual comfort on the boat, especially if you’re prone to motion sickness or prefer very plush seating. Some reviews mention that the upper deck can get crowded, and the seating might be limited during peak times. Still, for those who enjoy lively boat atmospheres and water-based adventures, this trip hits the sweet spot.

This tour suits travelers who appreciate a mix of relaxation, scenic beauty, and cultural touches—perfect for couples, groups of friends, or even solo travelers eager to explore in a fun, social setting.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

Beautiful Beaches: Stops at Ses Illetes and SEspalmador offer some of the world’s most stunning beach scenery.
Water Activities: Paddleboarding, snorkeling, and seabob available add a fun, adventurous element.
Authentic Food: Enjoy freshly prepared paella alongside tropical fruits and pastries.
Open Bar: A well-stocked drinks station, including cocktails and sangria (for Gold tickets), keeps the party lively.
Flexible Duration: Options range from 5 to 10 hours, catering to different schedules and interests.
Valuable Experience: Great value considering the included meals, drinks, water sports, and free time on the island.

The Itinerary: What to Expect

Starting Point and Departure

Depending on your booking, you might meet at either Carrer de Tarragona or Platja de ses Figueretes in Ibiza. The tour typically begins early enough to maximize your day—check your specific start time. We always recommend arriving at least 30 minutes early to avoid missing the boat, especially since the check-in process requires your ticket (digital or printed).

The Cruise to Formentera

Once aboard the modern, two-deck catamaran, you’re greeted with a sense of spaciousness—25 meters long and 9 meters wide—designed for comfort and fun. As you set sail, you’ll feel the wind in your hair and enjoy panoramic views, perfect for snapping photos and simply unwinding.

Music blares from a quality sound system, setting a lively tone. During the return trip, a DJ or saxophonist will crank up the tunes, making the sunset cruise feel like a party on the water.

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S’Espalmador Stop

About 30 minutes into the trip, you’ll arrive at SEspalmador, a tiny island famous for its natural beauty and relaxed vibe. Here, you can walk along the shoreline, take photos, enjoy an aperitif, or swim among marine life. Water sports gear such as paddleboards and seabobs is available for more adventurous guests.

Reviewers praise this stop for its untouched charm, and many mention the opportunity to snorkel and see marine life firsthand. One reviewer highlights the “photo stop, visit, aperitif, beer, swimming, marine life viewing, stand-up paddleboarding”—an activity-rich break in a serene setting.

The Main Attraction: Ses Illetes Beach

Next, the boat visits Ses Illetes, often ranked among the Top 10 beaches in the world. With its powder-soft sand and crystal-clear waters, it’s easy to see why travelers are captivated. Guests get about an hour to swim, snorkel, or just soak up the sun.

Many reviews mention the delicious paella served here—freshly cooked, with options for seafood, vegetarian, or mixed. The bread with aioli is a simple but memorable addition. You’ll also find plenty of opportunities for floating, relaxing, and enjoying the scenery.

Free Time in Formentera

The highlight for many is the 5-hour free time on the island itself. You can explore, rent bikes or scooters, or just relax on the beach with a drink. The flexibility in this segment means you can tailor your experience—whether that’s lounging under the sun or wandering the small villages. Several travelers raved about the value of this time, mentioning that it’s “perfect for discovering at your own pace.”

Return Journey and Evening Atmosphere

After a leisurely afternoon, the boat heads back. The atmosphere shifts as the live music begins, and guests unwind to the sounds of a saxophonist or DJ. The boat’s spacious upper deck and relaxed vibe create a perfect setting for enjoying the sunset. Some reviews note that the music helps create a memorable, festive mood.

Final Drop-Off and Overall Experience

The trip ends back at your starting point, leaving you with a collection of photos, new friends, and a sense of having experienced a slice of paradise. Many reviews emphasize the professionalism of the crew, the quality of the food, and the value for the overall price.

The Water Fun and Food: What It Means for You

Water Sports: The availability of paddleboards, snorkel masks, and seabobs means you can actively enjoy the crystal waters—an essential for those craving more than just sunbathing. Guests have mentioned how well-equipped the boat is, and the staff’s readiness to assist or guide.

Paella and Snacks: The freshly prepared Mediterranean paella is a highlight—delicious, filling, and authentically Spanish. Vegetarian options are available if specified during booking. The breakfast includes tropical fruits, pastries, juices, and coffee, ensuring you’re fueled for the day.

Open Bar: For those wanting to keep the drinks flowing, the open bar (beer, sangria, soft drinks, water) is included in most options, with cocktails and cava available for Gold ticket holders. Reviewers mention that drinks are “always being topped up,” and the lively atmosphere is often fueled by the drinks.

The Boat and Comfort Considerations

The catamaran's design prioritizes space, with both shaded and open-air areas. The main room on the lower deck offers a cool spot to rest, and the upper deck has plenty of room for sunbathing and socializing.

However, some comments point out that the upper deck can get crowded, especially during peak times, and the VIP beds—offering a luxury spot with cava—are sold separately and fill up fast on certain days. If you’re prone to motion sickness, be aware that the sea can get choppy, and higher decks might feel less stable.

Pricing and Value

The tour's price includes most essentials: boat cruise, water sports gear, meals, drinks, and free time in Formentera. When you consider the cost of renting a scooter, buying food, and drinks on the island, this package offers good value—especially for those who want a hassle-free, all-in-one day.

The Gold tickets add extra perks like a BBQ and cocktails, which can make the experience more festive, but even the standard tickets provide a memorable day.

Authenticity and Experience Quality

Based on reviews, the staff and guides are friendly, attentive, and knowledgeable—highlighted as a key part of the positive experience. Guests appreciate the well-organized itinerary and the variety of activities crammed into a single day.

Many mention the delicious paella and the warm atmosphere onboard, noting that the crew makes everyone feel comfortable and part of the fun. The live music adds a special touch, making the sunset sail a highlight for many travelers.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This experience is perfect for travelers who want more than just a beach day, seeking adventure, good food, and beautiful scenery. It suits those who value authenticity over party culture, as well as families, couples, or friends eager for a fun, relaxed day on the water.

If you’re after a luxury experience with plush seating and complete privacy, this might not be ideal. But if you enjoy lively atmospheres, water activities, and scenic exploration, this trip hits many marks.

The Sum Up

For a well-rounded day that combines stunning beaches, water fun, tasty food, and a lively atmosphere, this boat trip to Formentera is hard to beat for the price. The balance of guided stops, free exploration time, and onboard entertainment offers good value, especially with the inclusion of meals and open drinks.

It’s best suited for those who enjoy a mix of relaxation, adventure, and socializing in a natural setting. Whether you’re looking to kick back with a drink and a book or splash around the waters, the trip’s flexible schedule and varied activities make it a versatile choice.

Remember, the crew’s friendliness, the quality of the food, and the breathtaking scenery are what elevate this experience. It’s a genuine chance to see a different side of Ibiza—one that’s quieter, more scenic, and equally memorable.

FAQ

How long does the trip last?
The tour lasts between 5 to 10 hours, depending on the option you choose. Check availability for specific start times.

What’s included in the tour?
The trip includes transportation to Formentera, stops at Ses Illetes and SEspalmador, a freshly prepared paella meal, an open bar, water sports gear, and five hours of free time on the island.

Can I do water sports?
Yes, paddleboards, snorkel masks, and seabobs are available. You can enjoy swimming and marine life viewing during stops, especially at S`Espalmador and Ses Illetes.

Are there vegetarian options?
Absolutely, just specify when booking. The paella can be vegetarian, and breakfast includes tropical fruits and pastries.

What should I bring?
Sunglasses, sun hat, towel, sunscreen, and beachwear are recommended. The boat does not allow weapons or sharp objects.

Is it suitable for people with motion sickness?
The trip involves open water, and choppy seas might cause discomfort for sensitive travelers. Consider your tolerance before booking.

This boat trip offers a lively, scenic, and delicious way to explore Formentera from Ibiza. With friendly staff, stunning views, and a variety of water activities, it’s a memorable escape in the Mediterranean that balances relaxation with fun.

You can check availability for your dates here: