Ibiza & Formentera: 12h Boat Cruise, Paella & Sunset Party

Summary

Sail past es vedrà swim at espalmador taste paella on deck

You’ll start your day cruising from Ibiza toward Formentera with a local crew, breakfast on deck and stories about Es Vedrà’s myths. Dive into turquoise water at Espalmador before feasting on fresh paella cooked right onboard. With hours to explore Formentera’s beaches and a sunset party featuring live guitar and cava toast, you’ll leave feeling lighter than when you arrived.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I remember is Carmen from the crew handing me a coffee before we even left Playa d’en Bossa — she had this way of saying “tranquilo, you’ll need it” that made everyone laugh. There was already music drifting from the boat, but it wasn’t loud yet, just enough to mix with the salty air and chatter. The check-in was easy, wristbands on, and suddenly we were gliding out past the beach clubs. I didn’t expect to feel so relaxed so quickly; maybe it was the morning light or just how everyone seemed happy to be there.

We cruised along the south coast of Ibiza, passing Ses Salines with its patchwork salt flats and those weirdly white beaches. Someone pointed out Es Vedrà — that jagged rock island that looks almost fake in photos but is actually much bigger in real life. Our guide started telling us about all these old legends (sirens? UFOs? I still don’t know if he was joking). By then, the open bar was in full swing — mojitos for breakfast isn’t my usual routine but hey, it’s Ibiza. The keyword here really is “all-inclusive,” because you’re never left wanting anything. Even sunscreen if you forgot it (I did).

The first swim stop at Espalmador felt like jumping into a postcard. The water was so clear I could see tiny fish darting around my toes. Some people grabbed SUP boards or snorkels; I mostly floated and watched our chef stirring this giant pan of paella right there on deck. The smell of saffron and seafood drifted over the water — honestly, that’s when I realized how hungry I was. Lunch tasted better than any restaurant meal I’d had all week (and yes, I went back for seconds). We had hours to wander Formentera after that — some folks rented bikes, others just stretched out on sand so white it almost hurt your eyes.

The sunset on the way back… well, you’ve probably seen photos but they don’t get close. A Spanish guitarist played as we drifted toward Ibiza again, everyone a little sunburnt and sticky from saltwater but grinning anyway. Someone handed me a glass of cava for the toast as the sky turned orange-red behind Es Vedrà. There’s something about sharing that kind of day with strangers who start to feel like friends by the end — maybe it’s just what happens when you spend twelve hours together floating between islands.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Full-day Ibiza and Formentera cruise

• Check-in at Vanilla Beach Club
• Board "Ocean Soul" boat
• Depart at 10:30 AM
• Enjoy breakfast buffet on deck
• Cruise past Ses Salines Natural Park
• View Es Vedrà rock and myths
• Pass Formentera cliffs and La Mola Lighthouse
• Swim stop at Espalmador with SUP and snorkeling
• Paella lunch on board
• Free time on Formentera island
• Sail during sunset with cava and live guitar
• Return to Playa d'en Bossa pier

Top questions

How long does the Ibiza & Formentera boat cruise last?

The tour lasts approximately 12 hours from departure to return at Playa d’en Bossa.

Is food included during the cruise?

Yes, breakfast buffet, traditional paella lunch cooked onboard, and sunset snacks are included.

Are drinks included on this boat trip?

There is an open bar all day with unlimited beer, wine, sangria, cocktails, soft drinks, and water.

Do I have time to explore Formentera during this tour?

You get 4-5 hours of free time on Formentera to explore at your own pace.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?

Yes, professional snorkeling gear and SUP boards are available for guests during swim stops.

Where does the cruise depart from?

The boat departs from Playa d’en Bossa after check-in at Vanilla Beach Club.

Is there live music or entertainment onboard?

A Spanish guitarist performs live during sunset; chill-out music plays throughout the day.

What ages can join this tour?

The minimum age is 6 years old; infants must sit on an adult’s lap.

What’s included

Your day includes easy check-in at Playa d’en Bossa with wristbands provided by friendly staff before boarding Ocean Soul for a full-day cruise past Ses Salines and Es Vedrà. Enjoy Mediterranean breakfast buffet onboard followed by unlimited drinks from an open bar all day long. Swim stops at Espalmador and Illetes include use of SUP boards and snorkeling gear while traditional paella is cooked fresh for lunch right on deck. You’ll have up to five hours free time on Formentera before sailing back into golden hour with sunset snacks, live Spanish guitar music and a cava toast as you return to port where your journey began.