Ibiza: Formentera Secret Beaches Half-Day VIP Cruise

Picture yourself gliding across the calm waters of the Mediterranean on a sleek, luxury catamaran, feeling the breeze as you sail toward some of Europe’s most gorgeous beaches. That’s the vibe this half-day VIP cruise promises — a refined, yet relaxed way to experience the natural beauty of Formentera without the need for a full-day commitment. While it doesn’t include a visit to the island itself, this tour offers enough time to explore two of the most iconic beaches and indulge in a variety of water sports and gourmet food.

We’re drawn to the all-inclusive offerings that promise breakfast, paella, and open bars, plus the opportunity to try paddleboarding, kayaking, and snorkeling. We also appreciate the luxury angle with VIP beds and optional champagne upgrades, making it appealing for travelers looking to add a touch of glamour to their day out. On the flip side, some reviews note that it can feel crowded and busy, especially during peak times, which might detract from the exclusivity some seek.

This tour is best suited for those who want a combination of scenic cruising, beach relaxation, and water activities — perfect for couples, groups of friends, or anyone wanting to experience Ibiza’s stunning coastlines in style without dedicating an entire day.

Key Points

• Luxury experience aboard a high-end catamaran with VIP options
• Visit two top beaches in Formentera for swimming, snorkeling, and water sports
• All-inclusive options, with breakfast, paella, and open bars tailored to your ticket level
• Multiple water sports including paddleboarding, kayaking, and seabob rides
• Beautiful scenic stops at Ses Illetes and Cala Saona, rated among Europe and the world’s best beaches
• Tour doesn’t include a visit to Formentera itself, but offers a taste of its coastlines

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Experience in Detail

Setting Sail from Ibiza

The tour kicks off around 9am at the designated meeting point, where you’ll show your ticket and receive a wristband that grants access to the luxurious catamaran. The crew greets you with a welcome cocktail, setting a relaxed tone for the morning. The boat itself is a high-end luxury vessel, designed for comfort and style, with both covered and open-air seating options.

As we set sail, a multilingual tour guide shares insights about the scenery and the coastline, which makes the entire journey more engaging. During the cruise, you’ll enjoy live music and a photographer capturing your moments, adding to the festive atmosphere. We liked that the timing allows for a 5-hour experience, with the boat returning to Ibiza around 2pm — a perfect timeframe for those who prefer a shorter, yet satisfying taste of Formentera.

First Anchor: Ses Illetes and Espalmador

Our first stop is at Ses Illetes, ranked as the 4th best beach in Europe and 10th worldwide by TripAdvisor — that’s quite an accolade. We loved the way the boat anchors just off the coast, allowing for a quick swim or snorkel in the clear waters. The sand here is famously soft, and the shallow, calm sea makes for easy swimming and marine life viewing.

Adjacent to Ses Illetes is Espalmador, a private island and protected nature reserve often accessed only by boat — which makes it feel like a special hideaway. The natural setting is pristine, with white sand beaches and limited development. We appreciated the chance to explore this island’s untouched beauty, even if only for an hour.

Second Stop: Cala Saona and its Sea Caves

Next, the boat anchors at Cala Saona, the second-best beach in Formentera. This spot is known not just for its stunning sandy cove but also for the draped cliffs and sea caves that line the coast. Some caves are underwater, offering an extra layer of intrigue for snorkelers and explorers. The seashells and marine life here add to the feeling of discovering a hidden treasure.

This part of the tour is especially popular because of the variety of water sports available. Whether you want to paddleboard, kayak, or try the Seabob — a handy underwater scooter — there’s plenty to keep everyone entertained. We loved the chance to float around and view the underwater world in such a scenic setting.

More Great Tours Nearby

Scenic Cruising & Additional Stops

The cruise continues with brief stops for sightseeing, allowing you to enjoy panoramic views of the coastline and the surrounding waters. The route includes a final cruise back to La Savina, with a quick scenic bus tour or glass bottom boat ride.

Water Sports and Gourmet Food

One of the tour’s biggest draws is the multi-layered water sports. From paddleboarding and kayaking to the Seabob and snorkeling, you get to actively enjoy the marine environment. Guests report that these activities are well-organized, and the availability of multiple sports at each stop ensures plenty of fun.

The culinary experience is also noteworthy. Depending on your ticket, you can indulge in a standard breakfast with tropical fruits, pastries, and coffee, or upgrade to a Premium breakfast featuring eggs, pancakes, and fresh juices. The highlight is the paella lunch, prepared onboard, with options for seafood, meat, or vegetarian. A quote from a traveler summed it up: “The paella was delicious, and the dessert was a nice touch.”

The all-inclusive bar offers soft drinks, juices, and various wine options — with higher-tier tickets including cocktails like Mojito, Bellini, and Aperol Spritz. For those wanting to celebrate in style, VIP beds with champagne are available, adding an extra layer of luxury.

The Practical Side: What You Need to Know

Itinerary Breakdown

The tour’s itinerary is designed to maximize your time on the water and at the beaches. Starting with a brief scenic cruise, you’ll then settle at Ses Illetes and Espalmador for about an hour each. Both stops are ideal for water activities, sunbathing, and taking photos. The second anchor at Cala Saona offers a dramatic landscape with sea caves, perfect for snorkeling and exploring. The final cruise back offers sweeping views and a relaxing end to the trip.

What to Expect at Each Stop

• Ses Illetes: Calm, shallow waters, soft sand beach, great for swimming and marine life.
• Espalmador: Secluded island, pristine environment, limited access, feels like a private paradise.
• Cala Saona: Cliffs, caves, underwater nooks, and caves for snorkeling, stunning scenery.

Water Sports

Guests can try:

• Paddleboarding: Easy for beginners and fun in calm waters
• Kayaking: Great for exploring along the coast
• Seabob & Seascooter: For underwater exploration, adding adventure
• Snorkeling: With provided masks, to explore marine life

Pricing and Value

The tour offers five ticket options, from Admisssion (no extras) to Premium, which includes all food, drinks, and water sports. While the Premium ticket is pricier, it provides a comprehensive experience, including a gourmet breakfast, premium open bar, and the chance to enjoy a luxury experience with VIP beds and champagne.

Reviewers noted the value in the food and drink quality, especially the paella and cocktails, which elevate the overall experience. The all-inclusive aspect ensures you won’t be surprised by additional costs on board — a plus for travelers on a budget or those wanting a hassle-free day.

Considerations

One of the main points to keep in mind is that the tour doesn’t include a visit to the island of Formentera itself. If you’re eager to spend hours on the island, this isn’t the right trip — but it’s perfect for those who want a taste of its beaches and coastlines quickly and comfortably.

Some reviews mention it can feel crowded, especially during peak season, which might impact the feeling of exclusivity. Also, because it’s a group tour, it’s not as private as a chartered boat.

Authentic Feedback from Travelers

One traveler praised the experience, saying, “Foi muito bom, com paragens em praias espetaculares, pessoal bastante simpático e prestativo,” highlighting the beautiful beaches and friendly staff. Conversely, another noted, “too many people,” reminding potential guests that it can be a lively, bustling experience rather than an intimate getaway.

This balance of comments tells us that, while the experience is enjoyable and well-organized, it’s best suited for those comfortable in lively group settings and expecting a shared experience rather than a secluded retreat.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This cruise is ideal for travelers seeking a glamorous, scenic day on the water with plenty of options for water sports and gourmet food. It’s suitable for couples wanting a romantic escape, friends looking for a fun group adventure, or anyone who enjoys a luxurious, all-inclusive experience without the hassle of planning.

It’s particularly good for those who want a taste of Formentera’s stunning beaches but might not have the time or desire to spend entire days exploring the island independently. The VIP upgrades and champagne options make it appealing for special occasions or travelers celebrating a milestone.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a well-rounded, luxurious taste of Ibiza’s nearby beaches, combining scenic cruising, water adventures, and gourmet dining into a relatively short adventure. The all-inclusive approach means you can relax and enjoy your day without worrying about extra costs, and the water sports add active fun to the mix.

While it may feel crowded during peak season, the chance to float in crystal-clear waters, savor a delicious paella, and sip a cocktail in a VIP setting makes this a memorable outing. It’s a fantastic choice if you value comfort, beauty, and good food combined with the thrill of exploring marine environments.

If you’re after a comfortable, stylish day on the water, with the bonus of top-rated beaches and water sports, this cruise is a strong contender. Just remember, it’s more about the journey and scenery than a full exploration of Formentera itself.

FAQ

Does the tour include a visit to Formentera itself?
No, the cruise does not include a stop or visit on the island of Formentera. It focuses on exploring the coastlines and beaches from the water.

What is included in the different ticket options?
The Admission ticket offers just the cruise experience. Basic includes one drink from the open bar. Standard adds breakfast and a full open bar. Advance includes paella and additional drinks. Premium offers all food, drinks, and water sports.

Can I do water sports at the stops?
Yes, guests can enjoy paddleboarding, kayaking, seabobs, and snorkeling at each beach stop, depending on availability and your ticket level.

Is there a VIP option?
Yes, VIP beds are available on the second open-air deck, starting at 60 euros, which include champagne, and higher-tier options include more premium bottles and shishas.

What’s the duration of the tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately 5 hours, from around 9am departure to 2pm return.

Are meals included?
Yes, the paella is included in the higher-tier tickets, along with breakfast options and desserts. The standard ticket includes only the breakfast.

Is this accessible for wheelchair users?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible.

What should I bring?
Swimwear, towel, sunscreen, and ID are recommended. Food and drinks are not allowed onboard.

Final Takeaway

This half-day VIP cruise strikes a nice balance between scenic beauty, active water sports, and gourmet dining. It’s a particularly good option for those who want a glamorous, all-inclusive day without the commitment of a full island tour. The experience, while lively, offers enough tranquility to relax and soak up the sun in some of Europe’s finest beaches. If your idea of a perfect day involves a touch of luxury, stunning views, and good company, this cruise could be just what you need — just be prepared for the lively, social atmosphere that comes with a popular group tour.

You can check availability for your dates here: