Ibiza: Sea Caves & Coves Snorkeling Paddle Board Tour

Summary

Snorkeling in Ibiza’s sea caves then paddle boarding at Cala Bassa with drinks and fruit on deck

You’ll sail from San Antonio Bay to Ibiza’s famous coves—Cala Conta and Cala Bassa—where you can snorkel clear waters, try stand-up paddleboarding, sip cocktails on deck, and even enter a massive sea cave if conditions allow. With local guides handling everything (and plenty of fruit and drinks), it’s equal parts adventure and chill—the kind of afternoon you’ll remember long after your skin stops smelling like salt.

What’s the experience like?

I opened my eyes to the boat rocking gently out of San Antonio Bay—someone was already laughing by the rail, hair whipping around. The crew passed around these icy cocktails (mine had a slice of orange floating on top) while we drifted past the first headland. I could smell sunblock and that salty tang that sticks to your skin. Our guide, Marta, pointed out Cala Conta ahead—she said locals call it “the blue pool” for a reason. She was right. When we anchored, I just stood there for a second, toes curled on the deck, not sure if I should jump or grab a paddleboard first.

Snorkeling off Cala Conta was like swimming inside an aquarium. Tiny silver fish darted between rocks and you could hear muffled laughter echoing over the water. The gear was all there—mask fit fine (not always my luck). Afterward, I tried stand-up paddleboarding for the first time. Wobbly at first but honestly easier than it looks once you let go of trying to look cool. Marta cheered me on from her board—she’s got this easy way about her, like she’s known you forever.

We sailed further toward Cala Bassa and that’s when things got wild—a huge sea cave loomed up ahead. The captain slowed down so we could actually go inside with the boat (if you’re lucky with the weather). It felt colder in there, echoey and blue-green shadows everywhere. I dipped my hand in; water colder than outside but somehow more inviting? We stopped nearby for more snorkeling and fruit—someone handed me a slice of watermelon still dripping from the cooler. I think I laughed too loud when someone slipped off their SUP trying to pose for a photo.

The ride back was quieter; everyone wrapped in towels or just watching the coastline slide by as dusk crept in. There was cava if you wanted it, or just bottled water if you didn’t feel like drinking more—I liked having both options. I watched the sun drop behind San Antonio Bay and thought about how weirdly peaceful it felt after all that noise and salt and light. Still can’t get that cave out of my head.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Boat tour with swimming and snorkeling

• Set sail to San Antonio Bay
• Stop at first cala for swimming and snorkeling
• Stop at second cala for snorkeling and paddle boarding
• Explore sea caves by snorkeling and SUP
• Return to port enjoying bay views

Top questions

Where does the sea caves & coves tour start?

The tour starts from San Antonio Bay in Ibiza.

Are snorkeling equipment and paddleboards provided?

Yes, all snorkeling gear and SUP boards are included on board.

Which coves do we visit during this Ibiza boat trip?

The usual stops are Cala Conta and Cala Bassa; alternatives may be used if sea conditions change.

Is there food or drink included on this tour?

You get fresh fruit plus beer, sangria, soft drinks, cava, white wine, bottled water, and a welcome cocktail.

Can beginners try paddle boarding on this trip?

Yes, it’s suitable for beginners—guides help out if needed.

How long is the boat trip from San Antonio?

The round trip takes about 1.5 hours sailing time plus stops at two calas for activities.

Is this tour suitable for people with reduced mobility?

No, it is not recommended for those with reduced or impaired mobility.

What happens if sea conditions are bad?

If weather is rough at planned stops, alternative calas will be chosen for safety and comfort.

What’s included

Your afternoon includes pickup at San Antonio port fifteen minutes before departure; all snorkeling gear and SUP boards; fresh fruit served onboard; unlimited soft drinks plus beer, sangria, cava, white wine; a welcome cocktail as soon as you set sail; local guides who know every cove; plus bottled water throughout before returning to port after sunset or dark nightfall depending on your chosen slot.