Ibiza & Formentera: Catamaran Day Trip with Beach Stops

Summary

Small group sailing Ibiza to Formentera with beach time and swimming

You’ll board a small catamaran from Ibiza with a local captain and sail towards Formentera’s coves. Swim or paddle at Espalmador Beach, then anchor at Ses Illetes for more swimming or lunch ashore. Enjoy included gear and drinks as you lounge on deck before returning—expect sun-warmed skin and easy laughter along the way.

What’s the experience like?

We stepped off the sand at Ses Salines, squinting into the morning light while our captain waved us over. He looked sun-baked in that way only locals do, and the little zodiac ride out to the catamaran was bumpier than I expected—my bag nearly took a dive. Once we clambered aboard, the sea felt endless and blue, and someone put music on (a bit too loud at first, but it fit). The boat held maybe a dozen of us, plus the crew—felt like just enough people to chat or find your own quiet spot.

The first hour glided by as we sailed along Formentera’s coast. There was this salty breeze that stuck to my skin, and I couldn’t stop watching the water shift from navy to turquoise near Espalmador. When we anchored, our guide tossed us snorkels and SUP boards—I tried both but mostly ended up floating on my back, listening to laughter echo off the hull. Some folks walked ashore barefoot; I joined them for a bit. Sand here is almost powdery and there’s this faint smell of pine in the air. Didn’t expect that.

Later we drifted towards Ses Illetes—supposedly one of the world’s best beaches (I mean, who decides these things?). Our captain offered to take us ashore by dinghy or we could just jump in. A few of us paddled around instead. You can bring your own food—someone shared olives and cold melon slices—or you can ask the captain about restaurants on the beach. I fumbled through some Spanish with a waiter; Li laughed when I tried to say “agua con gas” in proper accent.

On the way back to Ibiza, everyone sprawled out quietly—sun-drunk or maybe just content. The sky had that late afternoon haze and even though I knew we’d be back soon, part of me wanted it to last longer. I still think about that view from the deck: salt on my lips, music low, nothing urgent except maybe passing someone another glass of cava.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Catamaran sailing and beach stops

• Meet captain and stewardess at Ses Salines
• Transfer by zodiac to sailboat
• Sail along Formentera coast visiting coves
• Anchor at Espalmador beach for swimming and snorkeling
• Sail to Ses Illetes beach
• Explore Ses Illetes by dinghy, paddle board, or on foot
• Enjoy food and drinks onboard or at Ses Illetes restaurants
• Return to Ibiza beach to finish tour

Top questions

Where does the catamaran trip start?

The trip starts from Ses Salines beach in Ibiza.

Are meals included on this day trip?

No meals are included—you can bring your own food or ask for help reserving a restaurant at Ses Illetes beach.

How many people are on the catamaran?

The catamaran fits up to 12 guests plus captain and crew.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?

Yes, snorkeling gear is included for guests to use during stops.

Can I use paddle boards during the tour?

Yes, SUP boards (convertible into kayaks) are available for use throughout the day trip.

How do we get from shore onto the catamaran?

The crew picks you up from Ses Salines beach using a zodiac boat for transfer onto the catamaran.

Is there music on board?

Yes, there’s a stereo system with Bluetooth so you can play your own music if you want.

Are infants allowed on this tour?

Infants are welcome but must sit on an adult’s lap during travel.

What’s included

Your day includes pickup by zodiac from Ses Salines beach onto the catamaran with space for twelve guests plus crew; use of snorkeling equipment and SUP boards (which can become kayaks); one glass of champagne per guest; access to a fridge for your food or drinks; plus shore transfers by dinghy at each stop if you want to explore Formentera’s beaches on foot or dine ashore.