Salt air and quiet coves beat the crowds. This private sailboat day is built for island-hopping between Ibiza and Formentera, with anchor stops at Cala Jondal and the famous Ses Illetes beach area. I especially like the chance to paddle surf and snorkel in clear water, plus the easy pace of beach time where you can actually slow down. One thing to consider: this trip runs with more than one captain, so how much you get explained (and when activities get offered) can vary day to day.

You’re paying for a true private group outing (up to 8) and an on-board setup that includes a bathroom, plus a dinghy for getting in and out of the coves. If seasickness is an issue for you, plan ahead, because you should not expect sea-sickness medication to be handed out on board.

Key things to know before you book

• Three anchor stops, three different moods: swim time, beach time, and more water fun across Ibiza and Formentera.
• Included water gear: paddle surf and snorkeling equipment are part of the day.
• Private means flexible within reason: it’s just your group, so you’re not sharing the boat with strangers.
• Ses Illetes is the payoff: this stop is long enough to enjoy the beach and decide between dining or a picnic.
• Expect some practical walking: getting to/from the boat can involve a hike to the small pier.
• Good weather matters: the operator requires decent conditions and will adjust if it’s unsafe.

Why this Ibiza-to-Formentera sail feels different

A lot of Ibiza boat trips feel like a checklist: photo, move on, repeat. This one feels more like a day at sea with real pauses. You start in the Cala Jondal area, then work your way toward Formentera, using the boat to reach coastlines that are hard to get to by land.

The value, in my eyes, comes from two things. First, the day is long enough—about 8 hours—to include real water time and not just a quick swim. Second, the included gear (paddle surf and snorkeling equipment) means you can actually use the water once you’re anchored, not just look at it.

The 8-hour flow: how the day stays relaxed

Your day is structured around three main stops, each designed for a different kind of break. The first stop sets the tone with a swim and optional snorkeling. The second gives you time anchored near another island’s quieter coast. The third is built around beach time on the northern tip of Formentera.

Time blocks are helpful here. You get about 1 hour at the first anchoring area, around 2 hours at S’Espalmador, and about 3 hours at Playa de Ses Illetes. That last chunk is the biggest reason this trip works for people who want both water activities and a proper beach afternoon.

One practical note: this is a sailboat day, not a resort day. You’ll be on the move in the sun, and even with a calm schedule, you’ll want to manage hydration, sun protection, and any motion sensitivity.

Platja des Jondal and the Cap des Falco swim stop

The first stop is in the Cala Jondal area, often associated with beautiful coves and beach scenery. After you set out, you drop anchor near Cap des Falco for a swim or snorkeling session in clear water.

At this point in the day, you’ll get the payoff early: jump in, float around, and see what the water looks like without needing complicated logistics. If you’re snorkeling, this is where it usually feels most worth it, since you’re fresh and the water time is concentrated.

The main consideration is timing and readiness. One hour sounds short until you realize you’ll spend some time getting settled on board, getting geared up, and then enjoying the swim. I’d treat this as your warm-up stop—an ideal moment to test whether snorkel mask comfort and water conditions work for you.

Cruising to S’Espalmador: anchored time with Formentera views

From Cala Jondal, you cruise across toward S’Espalmador, a nearby island just north of Formentera. You’ll anchor near its pristine beaches and enjoy a longer stretch of open water time—about 2 hours.

This stop is where the day shifts from busy-scenery to quieter exploring. You’re not stuck in a parking-lot feeling of a typical beach day. Instead, you’re floating near shore, so you can do what you feel like: relax on board, take another swim, or move slowly depending on the conditions.

Because S’Espalmador is close to Formentera, this is also the stop that makes the whole trip feel coherent: you’re not just seeing beaches, you’re seeing how the islands relate to each other.

Playa de Ses Illetes: the beach hour that makes it worth it

The highlight for many people is Playa de Ses Illetes, on the northern tip of Formentera. You’ll anchor in that area and get about 3 hours total, which gives you time to do more than a quick dip.

Ses Illetes is famous for a reason, and here you experience it the practical way: you can soak up the sun right from the boat area and still have enough time to get fully into beach mode. You also have a real choice for food. You can enjoy Mediterranean cuisine at beachfront restaurants, or bring food for a picnic.

Here’s the key value point: 3 hours makes this stop flexible. If you love swimming, you can stay in the water longer. If you’d rather relax and people-watch, you can stay on the sand and enjoy the pace.

Don’t forget the small reality check: food and drinks are not included, and towels aren’t included. So if you want the restaurant option, plan for that cost. If you want a picnic, bring what you need so you’re not stuck improvising.

What’s included on board (and what you’ll want to bring)

The included parts make this tour feel like a real charter day. You’ll have paddle surf and snorkeling equipment available, plus a bathroom on board. There’s also a captain and deck hand, and you’ll use a dinghy to reach the pier where needed.

Two things are not included: food & drinks, and towels. That’s common for private charters, but it matters for planning. If you don’t want to buy meals on the beach, pack a simple picnic and water. Also bring your own towel so you’re not stuck with damp supplies after snorkeling or a swim.

Also think about sun management. You’ll be outside for hours, and there’s no mention of shade being a guaranteed comfort feature. I’d bring sunscreen, a hat, and water even if you’re confident you won’t get thirsty.

Crew vibe: the captain, the communication, and the dog named Gordon

This tour often comes with a captain people talk about for being informative and personable. German is specifically praised in the way he hosts: attentive, knowledgeable, and able to bring the day to life without turning it into a lecture. In at least one case, he also captured special moments with drone footage, and people loved the extra effort.

There’s another practical detail to keep in mind. The operator notes they have more than one captain and more than one boat. In one instance, a different captain took over, and communication was limited. It’s not something you can predict, but you can protect yourself by asking upfront what’s included and when paddle surf and snorkeling will be offered.

And then there’s Gordon, the dog. He’s described as super friendly and calm, mostly just present without taking over the day. If you like dogs, it’s an extra layer of warmth to the experience.

Price and value: what $822.69 buys you

The price is listed as $822.69 per group, up to 8 people, for about 8 hours. That means you’re not paying per person the way many shared tours do. Your cost becomes more logical when you split it across a small group, especially if you want the private feel.

What you’re really buying is access: private sail time around Ibiza and Formentera, with stops chosen for swimming, anchoring, and beach time—plus included gear so you can use the day once you’re in the water. The bathroom on board is also a comfort detail that makes the long day easier.

If you’re a couple or a small family, it can still be good value, but the math depends on what you would otherwise pay for separate activities on land. If your goal is a once-in-a-trip day with real time at the water and not a rushed tour, this price can make sense.

Weather, seasickness, and motion reality checks

This experience requires good weather. If conditions aren’t right, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund. So you’re not stuck with a half-day under unsafe conditions, which is reassuring.

Now the part many people forget: you should plan for motion. One unhappy experience mentioned a lack of sea-sickness help on board, and the operator response emphasized that in Spain it’s illegal to hand out medication. The practical workaround they suggest is to buy your own seasickness pills if you need them.

If you’re prone to nausea, take precautions before you leave. Bring what works for you, and consider keeping food light early in the day.

Who this sailboat day suits best

This is best for people who want a private, water-based day and aren’t trying to cram a dozen stops into 4 hours. You’ll probably love it most if you enjoy swimming and want actual gear time with snorkeling and paddle surf.

It’s also a good fit for groups up to 8 who want the same pace together—friends celebrating, couples, or families with older kids who can handle the water. If you have low mobility, it’s not recommended, so you’ll want to look for a different kind of tour.

Should you book this private sailboat tour?

I’d book it if your dream day looks like: calm anchored swimming, one or two meaningful water activities, and a real beach stop at Ses Illetes with time to choose between a meal out or a picnic. The included paddle surf and snorkeling equipment make it feel more complete than a “sit and watch” cruise.

I’d hesitate if you hate uncertainty around hosting style, because multiple captains run the day and communication can vary. And if seasickness is a known issue, plan ahead with your own remedy since there’s no guarantee of medication support on board.

If you’re aiming for a classic Ibiza-to-Formentera day that feels personal and water-focused, this is a strong contender—just come prepared, ask a couple of early questions about activities, and let the islands do the talking.

FAQ

How long is the private sailboat tour?

It runs for about 8 hours.

How many people is the tour for?

It’s a private tour for your group, up to 8 people.

Where does the tour start?

The meeting point is Tropicana Eivissa Cala Jondal, Cala Jundal, s/n, 07830 Sant Josep de sa Talaia, Illes Balears, Spain.

What activities are included?

Paddle surf and snorkeling equipment are included, along with a dinghy, a captain, and a deck hand.

Is food and drinks included?

No. Food and drinks are not included.

Are towels provided?

No. Towels are not included.

Is there a bathroom onboard?

Yes, there is a bathroom onboard.

What language is the tour offered in?

The tour is offered in English.

What happens if the weather is bad?

This experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

FAQ

Is the tour easy for people with low mobility?

It is not recommended for people with low mobility.

Can I cancel for a full refund?

Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is this tour strictly private?

Yes. Only your group participates.

Are service animals allowed?

Yes, service animals are allowed.