Ibiza: Formentera Full-Day Premium VIP Catamaran Cruise

If you’re considering a day on the water around Ibiza and Formentera, this full-day VIP catamaran cruise promises an elegant way to experience some of the Balearic Islands’ best spots. It’s a tour that combines the thrill of water sports, stunning scenery, and delicious food, all aboard a luxury vessel. While it’s praised for its beautiful views and good value, some guests have found that the experience doesn’t always meet the high expectations set by its marketing. Still, for those looking for a mix of relaxation, adventure, and some brag-worthy photos, it could be a great fit.

Two things we really like about this cruise are the inclusive water sports — paddleboarding, kayaking, and underwater scooters are a hit — and the chance to see Ses Illetes, ranked among Europe’s top beaches. The cruise also offers options based on your budget, from standard to premium packages, which can make a difference in your experience. One thing to keep in mind: some reviews point out that the VIP label might be a little misleading, with extra charges and uneven food options depending on your ticket. If you’re after a laid-back, scenic day with plenty of water activity and good value, this cruise is worth considering.

This tour is best suited for travelers who want a relaxed day on the water with some sightseeing, water sports, and optional luxury touches. It’s ideal if you’re looking to explore Formentera on your own terms, enjoy quality drinks, and don’t mind some variability in service. If high-end exclusivity is your goal, you might find some aspects lacking, but if you value a lively, scenic, and active day with friends or family, this cruise can deliver.

Key Points

• All-Inclusive Water Sports: Paddleboards, kayaks, underwater scooters, and snorkeling gear are included, offering active fun in crystal waters.
• Stunning Scenic Highlights: The visit to Ses Illetes — ranked among Europe’s top beaches — makes this tour memorable.
• Flexible Itinerary: 5 to 8 hours to explore Formentera at your own pace, with multiple return options to Ibiza.
• Food & Drinks: Premium options include breakfast, paella, BBQ, and unlimited drinks (depending on ticket choice).
• Authentic Music & Atmosphere: Live performances and onboard music add to the relaxed vibe.
• Variable Experience Quality: Some reviews highlight that the VIP experience isn’t always as exclusive as advertised, with extra charges and uneven food service.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

Starting Point & Overall Duration

The cruise departs from a centrally located spot in Ibiza, at Carrer de Formentera & Passeig ses Pitiüses. The trip lasts about 10 hours, with the boat leaving around 9:15 AM, depending on availability. The full day includes a 5-hour VIP catamaran cruise and a self-guided excursion on Formentera lasting between 5 and 8 hours. The return trips are scheduled for 6:15 PM or 9:30 PM, accommodating different preferences for sunset viewing and evening relaxation.

The Cruise Itinerary: What to Expect

The cruise kicks off with a scenic hour-long sail, giving you your first taste of the Balearic Sea. The highlight here is the stop at Ses Illetes and Espalmador Island, where the boat anchors for about 2.5 hours. During this time, you’re free to swim, snorkel, paddleboard, or kayak; the water is famously clear, so marine life viewing is likely. The boat also features a water slide, which adds a playful element to the day.

From the reviews, we gather that the area around Ses Illetes is spectacular, with white sands and turquoise waters. The boat anchors close to the shore, making water sports easy and accessible. One guest noted, “We loved the way the boat was anchored just meters from the beach, giving us plenty of time to swim and relax.”

Exploring Formentera

The main attraction of the trip is the stop on Formentera itself, where you’re given between 5 to 8 hours to explore at your leisure. This is a significant advantage — it allows you to visit secluded beaches, scenic overlooks, or just stroll through charming villages. The flexibility here is a plus, especially if you’re keen on discovering hidden spots or enjoying a relaxed lunch in a local cafe.

However, some guests feel that the quality of the experience varies based on their ticket type. The Premium ticket, for example, includes a homemade paella, premium drinks, and a more luxurious onboard experience. Others with the standard ticket report only a basic breakfast and limited drinks, making the overall value somewhat inconsistent.

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Food and Drink Options

One of the tour’s main selling points is its food and beverage offerings. The Premium package boasts a breakfast buffet with eggs, pancakes, tropical fruits, pastries, and freshly squeezed orange juice. For lunch, a homemade paella (seafood, vegetarian, or mixed) is served along with a grilled BBQ featuring four different meats and sides. Desserts include cake, and the drinks are unlimited for five hours, featuring cocktails, sangria, beer, soft drinks, and juices.

From reviews, however, not everyone finds the food consistently high quality. One reviewer lamented that the BBQ meats, prepared in advance, were only lukewarm, and that the VIP experience felt more like a transport service than a luxury outing. This highlights the importance of choosing the right ticket if you want the full premium experience.

Water Sports & Other Activities

The water sports offered are a standout feature. Paddleboarding, kayaking, and snorkeling gear are available at no extra cost, providing hours of active fun in the water. The underwater scooters (Sea Scooters) are a unique addition, allowing you to glide beneath the surface with minimal effort.

Guests often comment on how fun and accessible these activities are, even for beginners. The water slide into the sea adds another playful element, especially popular with families and groups of friends. Marine life is visible if you snorkel carefully, making it a good opportunity for underwater photos.

Live Music & Atmosphere

Music onboard is lively but not overwhelming, with performances by saxophonists or violinists that add a relaxed, festive vibe to the day. If you’re returning at 9:30 PM, you’ll witness the sunset from either the boat or Formentera’s port, with Es Vedrà providing a stunning backdrop.

The Experience’s Downsides

Despite the many highlights, some reviews temper expectations. One guest shared, “It was a disappointment. The description implied everything was included, but there were extra charges for beds, and food was limited unless you paid more.” The VIP label appears to be somewhat misleading, as some amenities and food options are only available to premium ticket holders.

Another issue raised was the language barrier — despite supposed multilingual guides, some guests found the communication lacking. The guide’s absence or reliance on translation apps caused delays and frustration, particularly with the activities or requests.

Pricing is another consideration; the various ticket types mean you need to be clear about what’s included. The Premium ticket is the most comprehensive, but even then, some guests felt it was more about transport and drinks than true luxury.

Practical Tips for Future Travelers

• Choose your ticket wisely: If food and unlimited drinks are important, opt for the Premium package. Otherwise, expect some limitations.
• Bring essentials: Pack swimwear, towels, sunscreen, and perhaps a waterproof camera or phone case.
• Be prepared for extra charges: VIP sunbeds and scooter rentals on Formentera are not included and can add to your costs.
• Plan your own island exploration: The free time on Formentera is your chance to wander independently or rent a scooter, so bring some cash or a credit card.
• Arrive early: The departure point is central, but getting there a little ahead of time helps avoid last-minute stress.
• Watch the weather: The trip’s scenic value depends on good weather; check the forecast before booking.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This cruise is a good choice for travelers who value water sports, scenic beauty, and a relaxed atmosphere. It’s well-suited for groups of friends or families seeking a fun, active day with the option to enjoy premium drinks and good food if they choose the right package. If you’re happy with a semi-luxurious experience that’s not overly formal, you’ll enjoy the vibe onboard.

However, if you’re after a truly exclusive, high-end experience, be aware that some guests found the “VIP” label a little misleading and the service inconsistent. For those who prioritize authentic exploration at their own pace, the flexible free time on Formentera is ideal. Conversely, if you’re interested in a guided, all-inclusive luxury day, you might prefer other tours with more predictable service.

FAQ

What is included in the cruise?
The cruise includes a 5-hour VIP catamaran ride, water sports equipment (paddleboards, kayaks, snorkeling gear), live music, and scenic stops. Food and drinks depend on your ticket type, with premium options offering everything from breakfast to unlimited cocktails.

How long does the full experience last?
The entire day lasts approximately 10 hours, starting around 9:15 AM and ending with either a 6:15 PM or 9:30 PM return to Ibiza.

Is the water sports equipment suitable for beginners?
Yes, paddleboards, kayaks, and snorkeling gear are generally accessible for beginners, and the water is calm and clear. Underwater scooters are also a fun addition, with minimal effort required to glide underwater.

Can I explore Formentera on my own?
Absolutely. The tour grants between 5-8 hours on Formentera, giving you ample opportunity to rent your own scooter or walk around to see beaches, villages, and viewpoints.

Are there vegetarian or special dietary options?
Yes, the premium paella offers vegetarian options, and the breakfast includes fruit, pastries, and eggs cooked to your liking. Check your ticket details for specific inclusions.

What should I bring?
Swimwear, towels, sunscreen, waterproof camera, and perhaps a light jacket or hat. Remember, no outside food or drinks are allowed onboard.

Are there extra costs I should expect?
VIP sunbeds, scooter rentals, and some food or drinks outside the package may incur additional fees. Confirm what’s included based on your ticket.

Is the cruise wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the tour states that it’s wheelchair accessible, but it’s best to confirm in advance and clarify any specific needs.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour offers free cancellation up to 12 hours in advance, so you can reschedule or get a full refund if weather conditions are unsuitable.

Final Thoughts

For those seeking a balanced mix of scenery, activity, and good value, this cruise offers a flexible way to enjoy Formentera from the water. The inclusion of water sports and scenic stops makes it a lively, engaging outing, especially if you choose the premium options. Do keep in mind that the quality of service and inclusions can vary, so being clear about what your ticket covers will help avoid surprises.

This trip works best for travelers who want to relax on a comfortable boat, enjoy good drinks and music, and explore at their own pace. It’s less suited for those expecting a highly exclusive or perfectly guided experience, but for a fun, scenic day out, it often hits the mark.

Whether you’re a water sports enthusiast, a sunset chaser, or just looking for a beautiful day on the sea, this cruise can add a memorable chapter to your Ibiza or Formentera adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here: