Ibiza & Formentera: Private Catamaran Sailing, Snorkel & Beach Lunch

Summary

Sail from ibiza to formentera, hidden beaches, turquoise water and relaxed local pace

You’ll set sail from Ibiza toward Formentera on a private catamaran with a local captain, stopping to swim at S’Espalmador’s quiet shores and snorkel in clear blue coves. Try SUP or relax onboard for lunch—or head ashore for fresh seafood if you want. End your day floating near Cala Saona’s cliffs before returning under open sky—it sticks with you.

What’s the experience like?

I woke up on the catamaran with the sun already warming my feet—honestly, I’d barely slept the night before just thinking about this day trip to Formentera from Ibiza. The captain, Toni, greeted us with that easy smile you only see on people who live by the sea. We got a quick safety talk (which I half-listened to, distracted by the salty air and sound of ropes creaking) and then we were off. The first splash of cold water when I dipped my toes in was sharper than I expected—woke me right up. WiFi on board but nobody touched their phones. Funny how that happens.

The sail over took almost two hours but it felt like less—maybe because Toni let us take turns at the wheel while he told stories about growing up here. He pointed out S’Espalmador as we approached—a tiny island you can only reach by boat. The silence there is real, broken only by gulls and someone’s laughter echoing across the sand. It’s wild how blue the water gets; I kept blinking like maybe it would fade if I stared too long. Swam until my fingers wrinkled and then just floated, listening to nothing but my own breathing.

Next stop was Ses Illetes beach—apparently one of Europe’s best? It did feel kind of surreal walking barefoot along that powdery sand with paddle boards stacked up nearby. Some folks went for paella at a restaurant onshore (It’s Molí de Sal looked busy), but we stayed on deck for lunch—simple stuff but tasted better out there somehow. Maybe it was just being hungry after swimming or maybe salt makes everything better, who knows.

Cala Saona was our last swim spot before heading back to Ibiza. Reddish cliffs glowing in late afternoon light—I tried to take photos but none did it justice. Toni showed us some caves you could paddle into if you weren’t afraid of dark water (I chickened out). The ride home was quieter; everyone sort of lost in their own thoughts or napping in patches of sun. I still think about that view back toward Formentera as we sailed away—you know when something feels both familiar and completely new?

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Sail and explore Formentera's beaches

• Welcome and safety talk at Cala Jondal
• Relax and swim at catamaran bow
• Unfurl sails and sail to Formentera
• Anchor and swim at S’Espalmador island
• Visit Ses Illetes beach for snorkeling and paddle
• Lunch onboard or at waterfront restaurant
• Explore Cala Saona by paddle or swim
• Sail back to Cala Jondal
• Final swim and disembark

Top questions

How long does the day trip from Ibiza to Formentera take?

The sailing time each way is about 1 hour 45 minutes outbound and 1 hour 30 minutes return, plus stops at several beaches throughout the day.

Is lunch included on the private catamaran tour?

You can bring your own lunch, order catering onboard, or go ashore at Ses Illetes for restaurants like It’s Molí de Sal or Juan & Andrea.

Are snorkeling equipment and paddle boards provided?

Yes, use of snorkeling gear and paddle SUP are included during your catamaran day trip.

Can children or infants join this sailing tour?

Yes, infants are welcome but must sit on an adult's lap during navigation; suitable for all fitness levels.

Where does the private catamaran tour depart from in Ibiza?

The experience begins at Cala Jondal beach in Ibiza.

What are the main stops during this Ibiza & Formentera sailing tour?

S’Espalmador island, Ses Illetes beach, and Cala Saona cove are key stops for swimming and relaxing.

Is there WiFi available onboard?

Yes, WiFi is available throughout your time on the catamaran.

Are service animals allowed on this boat tour?

Service animals are allowed onboard during the trip.

What’s included

Your day includes sailing from Cala Jondal aboard a Lagoon 400 catamaran with a local captain, use of snorkeling equipment and paddle SUPs, WiFi access onboard if you need it (though honestly you might forget), restroom facilities, fuel costs covered so no surprises later—and flexible lunch options either onboard or ashore at recommended restaurants before heading back to Ibiza in the evening.