Ibiza Boat Club turns a normal ferry ride into a proper day at sea. You get a floating beach club vibe with only 80 people, plus easy access to Formentera’s famed beaches. I love the all-inclusive setup: breakfast, a Paella show-cooking dinner, and an open bar that actually stays stocked. The big draw is the VIP sunbed access for full-day and sunset clients, so you’re not hunting for space. One consideration: this is adults only (18+), and the mood is more party-social than quiet sightseeing.

You’ll start in Playa d’en Bossa, then cruise past Las Salinas as you sip coffee and get your bearings. I also like the way the day splits between structure and freedom: you get planned swim stops and meal moments, then about five hours on Formentera to do your own thing. The trade-off is that you won’t have a guide on Formentera, so you’ll want at least a basic plan for what you want to see.

Key things I’d pay attention to before you book

• 80-person limit on a big-capacity boat means more room and easier service
• VIP sunbeds are only for full-day and sunset ticket types
• Two chances to swim (morning and evening, depending on option) with SUP and a giant inflatable slide at the evening stop
• Paella show cooking with seafood plus vegan and gluten-free options, served as dinner onboard
• Five hours free time on Formentera with no guide, so scooter/bike and beach choices are on you

Why this Formentera cruise feels different from the typical boat trip

There are plenty of ways to reach Formentera from Ibiza. This one is built around comfort and flow, not just transportation: you check in, board, and then you’re treated like you belong on the yacht-style floating beach club scene.

I like the math here. The boat can hold up to 300 guests, but this cruise caps the experience at 80 people, which helps with seating, drinks, and general atmosphere. It also changes the feel of the day. Instead of shoulder-to-shoulder, you can actually move when you want to, whether that’s for a photo, a swim stop, or grabbing a snack.

The other big advantage is that the “beach time” isn’t limited to a single quick stop. You get a morning anchored moment at one of the nicest beach areas, then later you’re back for the swim play and sunset energy. It’s one of the reasons people rate this so highly for service and fun.

Choosing the right ticket: Full Day vs Half Day Morning vs Half Day Sunset

This is a day tour with three different rhythms, and your ticket determines what you get.

Full Day option

You start at 10:30 and return to Ibiza around 20:45. This is the best choice if you want the full arc: breakfast, free time on Formentera, evening swim stop, Paella dinner, wine tasting, and the final sunset-style cruising.

Half Day Morning option

You also start at 10:30, but you’re taking the morning slice. You get the breakfast and the Formentera free time, then you head back by ferry. The key detail is that the morning option does not include Paella, and you also do not get access to the reserved sunbeds.

Half Day Sunset option

This one starts later, at 17:30. You’re still dropped into the Formentera swim-beach zone and you get the evening vibe, but breakfast is not included. You do get access to the reserved VIP beds for this ticket type.

If you want a simple rule: book full day for the most “everything included” feel, book sunset if you’re mostly there for beaches and the afterglow, and book morning if you want Formentera time without committing to the whole schedule.

Getting to Playa d’en Bossa: where you’ll meet and how boarding works

Your check-in and boarding are in Playa d’en Bossa at the boat pier next to Bar Happiness. Boarding starts at 10:15 am for the morning and full-day options.

For navigation, the pier is by Carrer de la Punta (you’ll see guidance that the address is Carrer de la Punta 7, 07800 Ibiza). If you’re coming by bus, take the L14 and get off around Hotel Marenostrum or Hotel Goleta; the pier sits between those stops.

This part matters because boats run on time and this cruise is set up for a smooth flow. If you arrive early, you’re less rushed, and you’ll be ready when the crew starts handing out wristbands and getting everyone settled.

Morning cruising: Las Salinas views, coffee, and an anchor breakfast moment

After check-in, you begin your sailing toward Formentera. On the way, you’ll pass the Las Salinas nature reserve, and you’ll have coffee/tea while the boat heads toward the main beach area.

Around the middle of the morning, the cruise includes a fresh local breakfast served while anchored at Ses Illetes, one of the island’s most photographed beach areas. You’re not just eating; you’re starting the day on a beach-view schedule, with a chance to dip your feet in early and settle into the pace.

The breakfast spread is more than “light snacks.” Expect items like ensaimadas, fresh fruit, and bread with guacamole and organic olive oil, plus pastries and other fresh bites designed to keep you fueled for the swim and the day ahead.

Formentera’s best part: five hours of real freedom on your own

At about 12:15h, you’re dropped at the port in Formentera: La Savina. Then you get roughly five hours of independent time until the boat pickup later (for full day: back around 17:30).

This is the portion where you get to shape the day. Since there’s no guide in Formentera, you’ll want to choose a plan that matches your energy:

• If you want beach hopping, you might rent a scooter or bike (rental isn’t included).
• If you prefer slower browsing, you can shop at the hippie market and then settle onto a beach like Es Palmador.
• If you like viewpoints and structure, you can visit Far de la Mola (the lighthouse area).

What I like about giving you time here is that Formentera doesn’t work like a checklist island. The charm is in drifting between beaches and watching the light shift. This gives you enough time to do that without feeling stuck on a rigid schedule.

One practical note: you’ll be on your own in La Savina. Pack swim stuff and keep your timing tight so you’re ready to return when the cruise resumes.

Back on the water at sunset time: swim stops, SUP, and the big slide

If you’re on the full-day or sunset rhythm, you’ll reach another Formentera swim stop later in the day. This is where the cruise shifts from “scenery and snacks” into “go have fun in the water.”

At this stop, you can use stand-up paddle boards (SUP) and you’ll have time to swim and snorkel where conditions allow. The standout activity is a giant inflatable water slide, and it’s specifically mentioned for the evening swim stop.

You’ll also be treated to the lounging side of the floating beach club idea. Sunbeds and sofa lounges are part of the setup, and full-day guests (and sunset guests) have reserved access to those beds. Morning-only ticket holders do not.

One small consideration: water temperature and wind can change the vibe. Even with all the activities, you might find the sea cool, especially later in the day. If you get chilly, the crew may offer comfort like blankets, and that can make the difference between a quick dip and a longer stay in the water.

Paella show cooking dinner: live kitchen energy with vegan and gluten-free options

This cruise treats dinner like a show, not a quiet meal. During the evening swim stop, dinner is served, and you’ll watch it being made with a live Paella show cooking setup.

Paella here is homemade Paella Ibicenca, with seafood as well as vegan and gluten-free options. That matters because it means you’re not stuck choosing between “yes food” and “no food.” You also get sides like a fresh garden salad with local veggies, and you’ll have bread plus aioli.

On top of that, there’s an additional onboard cooking moment called Café Caleta show cooking. If you’re booking for food plus atmosphere, this is one of the reasons people call it an experience, not a transport service.

And the way the timing works, dinner lands right when the day’s energy peaks. You’re still near the swimming area, the light is shifting, and it feels like the cruise is turning the volume up without turning the experience sloppy.

Wine tasting and the open bar: sangria, Aperol Spritz, and beer on demand

This is an all-inclusive cruise in the practical sense. Expect an open bar with drinks like Aperol Spritz, Sangria roja, Sangria de cava, plus beer, water, and soft drinks.

There’s also a wine tasting, and it’s included as part of the full-day or sunset option. That’s a nice touch because it gives you more than “keep drinking.” You get a guided taste of local and regional flavors during the evening arc.

One more detail I appreciate: the crew vibe. Names like Ana and Javi show up in positive feedback, and people consistently describe the staff as attentive and quick to refill. That’s a big deal on long sea days. If drinks keep showing up and the staff is kind, the day feels effortless.

Sunset sailing moments: dolphins, sax, and a respectful sound level

The last leg of the trip is where the day turns into a memory-making montage. On the way back, you’ll sail along and take in scenic views, and you may get dolphin watching as part of the return cruising.

There’s also live music. At sunset, you’ll experience the Café Caleta show cooking moment accompanied by a sax player and the sound of waves. People highlight the music as a memorable piece of the evening, including a sax feature that adds a playful twist.

One helpful rule to keep in mind: Formentera’s nature reserve means there’s no loud DJ music there. So you get atmosphere, but it’s respectful of the island. You still have fun on board, just not at the cost of turning the beaches into a nightclub.

Price and value: what you’re really paying for at about $102

At around $102 per person, the headline price looks like a splurge. But value comes down to what’s covered.

You’re getting:

• Breakfast (morning and full day)
• A full Paella dinner with multiple dietary options
• An open bar that includes cocktails like Aperol Spritz plus sangria and beer
• Five hours on Formentera
• Swim access with SUP and (at the evening stop) a giant inflatable water slide
• VIP sunbeds reserved for full day and sunset clients

If you try to replicate this yourself, it adds up fast. Even “just” the boat transport plus multiple meals and drinks plus a premium beach setup typically costs more than you expect. What I like about this price is the structure: you’re not constantly deciding what to pay for, and you can focus on the beaches and the experience.

That said, your ticket choice matters. Morning tickets won’t include Paella and won’t include VIP beds, so if sunbeds are a must, choose full day or sunset.

Who this cruise suits best (and who might prefer something else)

This fits best if you’re the kind of person who wants a day that’s mostly planned for you, with enough free time to explore without stress.

It’s especially good for:

• Adults who want social energy and attentive service
• People who care about comfort (VIP beds, sunbeds, lounge seating)
• Food lovers who enjoy a show-cooking dinner moment
• Beach and water people who want SUP and an actual fun float-on-water activity like the slide

It may not fit as well if you want:

• A quiet, guided hike-style experience
• A child-friendly family outing (this cruise is adults only)
• A “bare minimum” budget day (because you’re paying for the all-inclusive package)

If you’re traveling solo or in a pair, the small group setup can be a plus. If you’re traveling with friends who like drinks, music, and photos, you’ll probably enjoy the energy.

Practical tips: what to pack and what to avoid on board

Bring the basics you’d use for any long beach day, plus a few items that make you more comfortable on a yacht.

What to pack:

• Comfortable shoes (you’ll walk around the pier and board)
• Sunglasses and sunscreen
• Swimwear and a towel
• Beachwear and clothes that can get dirty
• Something for wind, since sea air can cool you down in the evening

What not to bring:

• Luggage or large bags
• Drones

Dress code is described as boho chic, smart casual. You don’t need formal wear, but you’ll feel more at ease if you plan for a stylish beach-day look.

Should you book Ibiza Boat Club Formentera with Benefits?

I’d book it if Formentera is on your must-do list and you want the day to run smoothly. The combination of small-group comfort (80 people), VIP sunbeds, SUP plus a giant slide, and a live Paella dinner is a strong package for the money.

I’d think twice if you’re after a quiet, independent island trip with no onboard party mood. Also check your ticket type carefully: sunbeds and Paella depend on the option, and the morning tour doesn’t include Paella.

If you want an easy decision: choose full day when you can. It’s the ticket that gives you the most of what makes this cruise special, from breakfast to sunset cruising.

FAQ

How long is the Ibiza Boat Club Formentera cruise?

The activity duration can run from about 1.5 to 10 hours, depending on which option you choose. The full-day schedule is the longest, with return around 20:45.

Where do I meet the boat for the cruise?

You meet at the boat pier in Playa d’en Bossa, next to Bar Happiness, on the end of the beach area near the Hotel The Ibiza Twiins and Bar Albatros.

What time does the full-day tour start?

The tour starts at 10:30h for the full day and the half day morning option, with boarding beginning at 10:15 am.

How much free time do I get on Formentera?

You get five hours of free time on Formentera to explore on your own.

Do I get VIP sunbeds?

VIP sunbed access is included only for full-day and sunset ticket types. Morning-only tickets do not include access to the reserved sunbeds.

Is breakfast and paella included?

Breakfast is included for morning and full-day options, and dinner with Paella is included for full-day and sunset options. The morning tour does not include Paella, and the sunset tour does not include breakfast.

What water activities are provided?

You can use SUP boards, and there is a giant inflatable water slide at the evening swim stop. The cruise also includes swimming time during the Formentera stops.

What should I bring, and what can’t I bring?

Bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, sunglasses, and comfortable shoes. Leave large bags/luggage and drones at home.