A day on a floating beach club. This private catamaran outing stitches together Ibiza sailing, Formentera coves, and real time on the water—plus you’re not sharing it with strangers. I especially liked the calm, high-comfort vibe aboard, and the way the crew (Mariano and Marcelo are often highlighted) keeps things fun without rushing you. One thing to keep in mind: the sailing depends on wind, so the boat may open sails or return adjustments can happen.

My second big win was the mix of stops: S’Espalmador’s hard-to-reach natural island feel, then the iconic Ses Illetes anchorage with snorkeling gear and water toys. It’s the kind of day where you can go gentle—swim, relax, listen to the Bluetooth sound system—or go playful with a double kayak and paddle surf. The main drawback is what’s not included: no snacks, no lunch, and no bottled water, so plan your food strategy.

Key Highlights Before You Go

• Private group up to 11: you get the whole boat and crew for your party, not a mixed crowd.
• Formentera stops that feel remote: S’Espalmador is only accessible by boat.
• Snorkeling + water toys included: snorkeling equipment, double kayak, and paddle surf are part of the package.
• Comfort-forward catamaran setup: guests specifically call out a big, premium feel (including multiple cabins and private bathrooms).
• Crew energy that stays practical: captains like Mariano and Marcelo focus on safety, comfort, and good vibes.

Setting Off From Cala Jondal (And Why Timing Matters)

Your day starts at Cala Jondal, s/n, in the Ibiza area. It runs about 8 hours total, with an air-conditioned vehicle included for private transportation, plus a restroom on board for comfort. The operating window listed is 12:00 PM to 8:00 PM, so you’re typically doing this as a proper afternoon-to-evening beach-and-sail day, not a sleepy morning cruise.

Bring a bit of flexibility mindset. On these Mediterranean routes, wind controls the sailing experience—so you’ll get more or less under-sail sailing depending on conditions. If you’re the type who wants sunshine plus speed, you’ll still enjoy the day, but the exact feel may vary.

Your Boat Experience: More Lounge, Less Tour Bus

This isn’t a basic boat day. It’s a private sailing excursion on a catamaran with a skipper included, and the comfort level is a big part of why people book it again. In guest feedback, the catamaran is described as spacious and especially comfortable, with multiple bedrooms and private bathrooms—basically a floating retreat rather than a “stand and point” situation.

You also get a Bluetooth high-fidelity sound system, which changes the mood. Instead of shouting over wind and engines, you can actually enjoy music while you drift or anchor. It’s a small detail, but it matters when you’re spending hours between coves.

Stop 1: Platja des Jondal → Formentera Crossing (When the Wind Cooperates)

First, you sail from Platja des Jondal toward Formentera. The transfer time is about 1 hour 30 minutes, and the plan calls for opening sails if the wind allows it. That’s one of those “yes, it can happen” moments—when it does, you feel the difference right away: quieter motion, more classic sail atmosphere, and a better sense of actually traveling rather than just getting transported.

This is also a good moment to get your bearings. You’ll be on the water long enough to settle in, find shade or sun where you like it, and get comfortable before the more swim-and-explore stops.

Practical note: you’ll want swimwear ready, but you don’t have to rush. This day is structured so the activity ramps up once you reach the island stops.

Stop 2: S’Espalmador—A Private-Island Feeling Without the Hassle

S’Espalmador is one of the most “only by boat” places in this region. You’ll sail and explore the island, and you can access natural areas on foot—there’s no other normal way to reach it. That lack of crowds by default is part of the appeal, even though you still want to be respectful of the space.

This is also where people tend to love the natural contrasts. S’Espalmador is known for its salt flats, and you’ll have time to wander and enjoy the environment. You can trek and swim in crystal-clear water, and the whole vibe feels like a nature break inside a sailing day.

One consideration: it’s an island visit, so wear shoes or water-friendly footwear if you plan to walk beyond the immediate shoreline. The day is built for water time, but you’ll still be out and about.

Stop 3: Platja d’Illetes (Ses Illetes) for Swimming, Kayaking, and Snorkeling

This is the signature beach stop: Ses Illetes in Formentera, reached after about an hour and a half sailing from Ibiza. You’ll drop anchor and spend around 3 hours here—long enough to actually do things, not just take photos and rush off.

What I like about this stop is the options. You’ll have snorkeling equipment included, so you can swim with fish and explore underwater. You also get a double kayak and paddle surf, so if you want movement—not just floating—you can choose your pace.

The day’s mood can shift here too. The boat’s sound system is part of the experience, and there’s room for relaxed fun and dancing-style energy if that’s your thing. It’s not forced; it’s just there because the catamaran setup supports it.

You can also go down to eat on the beach. Just plan ahead: snacks, lunch, and bottled water aren’t included. I’d treat this as a place to buy or arrange food on-site, or bring your own snack strategy so you’re not stuck hungry later.

Stop 4: Returning to Platja des Jondal (Sailing Back at the Pace of the Sea)

The return from Formentera is another ~1 hour 30 minutes. The plan is to sail back as much as possible based on wind, so the motor time can vary. The itinerary notes that in most cases you return to the meeting point unless wind forces a change, so don’t be surprised if the final approach feels slightly different day to day.

This final segment is where the day’s rhythm smooths out. You’ve likely snorkeled, walked, and played enough that you’ll enjoy the ride more than the urgency. If you’re with a group, it’s a good time to slow down, talk, and soak in the “we’re actually out here” feeling before the day ends.

Crew Matters: Mariano, Marcelo, and the Fun-But-Helpful Style

A private sailing day lives or dies by the crew’s tone, and the feedback here is very consistent. Captains like Mariano and Marcelo are repeatedly mentioned for safety, comfort, and an upbeat vibe that doesn’t turn into chaos. Chelo also comes up in guest notes, with people describing a captain who stays present and keeps the atmosphere going.

For you, that translates into a smoother day. You’ll spend less time worrying and more time doing what you came for: swimming, snorkeling, and enjoying the boat. A skipper included is also a value detail—you’re not paying extra to have someone run the sailing side of things.

Price and Value: What You’re Actually Paying For

At $3,484.42 per group (up to 11 people), this isn’t a “cheap day trip.” But it can be good value when you break down what’s included, because your bill covers more than the boat.

Included items that matter:

• Skipper included
• Snorkeling equipment
• Double kayak and paddle surf
• Bluetooth sound system
• Air-conditioned vehicle for private transportation
• Restroom on board
• All fees and taxes

Then add that the plan includes admission tickets for the sailing stops. The $3,484.42 price is easier to swallow when your group size is closer to the maximum, because you’re not paying per-seat like a public tour. If you’re traveling solo or as a couple, it can still be worth it for the privacy, but the math is less friendly—so consider how much you value an entire boat to your group.

What to Bring (So the Day Feels Effortless)

This tour covers the boat, water gear, and the sailing structure. You just need to show up ready for a day of sun, water, and a bit of beach eating.

I’d pack:

• Swimwear and a change of clothes
• Sunscreen and a hat
• A light cover-up for the sea breeze
• Your own water/snacks if you don’t want to buy on-site (since bottled water and snacks aren’t included)
• Reef-safe sunscreen if you’re serious about snorkeling (not required by the listing, but smart for sea life)

Also consider how you’ll handle walking on an island like S’Espalmador. Water-friendly footwear can save you from mid-trip discomfort.

Who This Catamaran Day Trip Is Best For

This is a strong match for groups who want a private, relaxed day with real water time. It’s great if you’re celebrating something, traveling with friends, or mixing ages where you want options: swim, kayak, wander, or simply lounge.

It’s also a fit for people who care about comfort. Guests highlight the catamaran’s spacious feel and private-bath comfort setup, which can matter a lot when you’re out for about 8 hours.

If you’re the kind of traveler who wants a strict museum-style checklist, this isn’t that. This is a “slow down, play in the water, enjoy the sailing” outing.

Should You Book the Private Catamaran Excursion?

I’d book it if you want a Formentera day that feels private and flexible, with snorkeling and water toys included, plus a crew that keeps the vibe friendly and the sailing practical. The combination of S’Espalmador’s boat-only natural island access and the Ses Illetes anchorage is a good pairing: one stop for nature and salt flats, one stop for classic swim-and-play beach time.

Skip it (or at least adjust expectations) if you’re trying to keep costs low or you don’t want to manage food and water yourself, since snacks, lunch, and bottled water aren’t included. Also, if wind conditions make you picky about sail time, remember the sailing and any sail-opening moments depend on the weather.

If you can handle that, this outing has the ingredients for a memorable Mediterranean day: comfort aboard, well-chosen stops, and a crew tone that makes you feel looked after.

FAQ

How long is the private catamaran excursion?

It lasts about 8 hours (approx.), including sailing time and time at the Formentera stops.

What group size is this tour for?

It’s a private tour/activity, and the group size is up to 11 people.

What stops are included during the day?

You’ll sail to Platja des Jondal (starting point), then Formentera with stops at S’Espalmador and Platja d’Illetes (Ses Illetes), and you’ll return to Platja des Jondal.

Is snorkeling included?

Yes. Snorkeling equipment is included, along with a double kayak and paddle surf.

Is food or bottled water included?

No. Snacks, lunch, alcoholic beverages, and bottled water are not included.

Where does the tour start and end?

It starts at Cala Jondal, s/n, 07839, Illes Balears, Spain, and it ends back at the same meeting point in most cases.