Ibiza & Formentera: Private Sailing Tour with Snorkeling

Summary

Private sailing from Ibiza to Formentera with hidden coves and island stops

You’ll sail from Ibiza to Formentera with a local captain, stopping at secret coves for snorkeling and paddleboarding near Espalmador’s nature reserve. Enjoy lunch your way—on board or at a beach spot on Formentera—then drift back past Es Vedrà as the sun drops behind rugged cliffs. It’s not just about seeing places; it’s how you’ll feel while you’re out there.

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t expect the water off Cala Jondal to look that clear — almost fake, like someone had dialed up the color. The boat felt bigger than I pictured, but maybe that’s just me not being used to boats. Lao, our captain, greeted us with this easy smile and said something about the wind being “just right.” I tried to look like I understood sailing talk. As we set off along the south coast of Ibiza, there was this salty smell in the air and you could hear nothing but the hull slicing through water. It’s weirdly calming.

We stopped at a cove so hidden I probably couldn’t find it again if you paid me. Lao tossed out snorkel gear — I hesitated (cold water always gets me), but then my friend jumped in first and yelled back that there were fish everywhere. Underwater, everything went quiet except for my own bubbles. There were these tiny blue fish darting around rocks; someone said they saw an octopus but I missed it (classic). Back on deck, towels everywhere, sun on my face — I remember thinking this is what people mean when they say “Mediterranean pace.”

Later we sailed out toward Espalmador and then Formentera. Paddleboarding off Ses Illetes was trickier than it looked — Nuria showed us how to balance but I still wobbled like a cartoon character. Lunch was our choice: some people brought their own stuff and ate on board (the fridge is surprisingly roomy), but we decided to try a beach place on Formentera instead. Local bread, tomatoes smashed with olive oil — simple but somehow perfect after swimming all morning. Walking barefoot along the sand there felt different than Ibiza’s beaches; softer maybe? Or maybe it was just the mood.

The sail back was quieter. Sun started dipping low over the cliffs, everyone a bit sleepy or lost in their own thoughts. Lao pointed out Es Vedrà in the distance — he called it “mysterious,” which sounded dramatic until you actually see it looming out of nowhere. I still think about that view sometimes when things get noisy back home.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Full-day sailing tour Ibiza and Formentera

• Start sailing from Cala Jondal
• Sail along south coast beaches
• Swim and snorkel in secret cove
• Paddle board and snorkel at Espalmador
• Arrive at Ses Illetes beach
• Lunch on board or on island
• Explore Ses Illetes on foot
• Sail back to Cala Jondal

Top questions

How long does the private sailing tour last?

The full-day sailing tour lasts approximately 8 hours.

Where does the sailing trip start from in Ibiza?

The tour starts from Cala Jondal on Ibiza’s southern coast.

Is snorkeling equipment included on this tour?

Yes, snorkeling gear is provided for all guests on board.

Can we bring our own food for lunch?

Yes, you can bring your own food; there’s a fridge and icebox on board.

Are paddle boards available during the trip?

Yes, two paddle surf boards are included for guest use.

Do we stop at Formentera during the day trip?

Yes, you’ll have time at Ses Illetes beach on Formentera and can explore or have lunch there.

Is fuel included in the price of the tour?

Fuel surcharge is included in your booking price.

Are restrooms available on board?

Yes, there is a restroom available on each boat.

Is this private sailing tour suitable for families?

The tour is suitable for families, couples, or groups of friends of all fitness levels.

What’s included

Your day includes private use of a 35-foot boat with restroom facilities, fuel surcharge covered, two paddle boards and snorkeling equipment provided by your local crew—all starting from Cala Jondal and returning after exploring Ibiza's south coast and Formentera. Bring your own lunch or try a local spot ashore; flexibility is part of the experience.