Ibiza looks different from the water. This private sailing day to Formentera mixes swim-and-snorkel breaks with a real beach-club lunch, and it keeps you away from the long lines you get on bigger tours. I love that snorkel gear and SUP boards are built into the day, and I love the small-group pace that makes the stops feel unhurried. One thing to consider: this experience depends on good weather, and if there’s any chop near the beaches, you might get a little wet during shore transfers.

The route is built around three standout swimming areas plus time to relax, sip something cold, and enjoy the Mediterranean light from the boat deck. If you like picture-perfect coves and want turquoise water that actually looks like turquoise, this delivers.

Key points before you book

• Small-group private sailing (up to 7) keeps the day personal and flexible
• Snorkeling equipment + SUP boards are included, so you can get active without extra rentals
• Formentera beach-club lunch is part of the plan, but you’ll still want to check the exact spot details after booking
• Three beach stops focus on variety: Sa Caleta, S’Espalmador, and Ses Illetes
• Deck time matters here: WiFi, restroom on board, and lots of sea-view downtime
• Weather is the boss—if conditions are poor, you’ll be offered another date or a refund

Private sailing on a small boat: what you’re really paying for

This trip is priced per group, up to 7 people, so you’re buying privacy more than you’re buying speed. At $820.62 per group (about $117 per person if you fill all 7 spots), it can look pricey—until you compare it to the cost of a quality private day on the sea in peak season.

Why the price can feel fair: the day is structured around serious time in the water, not just “sail past the view.” You also get practical comforts on board like a restroom, WiFi, and access to the sailing boat deck for hanging out between stops.

And yes, you’re likely to hear good things about the captain—one guest specifically called out Captain Gabriel for making the day feel personal from start to finish. Even if your captain isn’t the same person, the repeated theme is clear: the experience is meant to feel friendly, not stiff.

The Ibiza-to-Formentera morning: Es Vedra views and sea time

The day starts at Bora Sailing in Sant Josep de sa Talaia, and you end back at the same meeting point. You’re out for about 8 hours total, and that travel time is part of the full experience—so plan to treat it like a full-day plan, not a quick side trip.

One early highlight is the classic sighting of Es Vedra, the dramatic rock rising out of the sea near Ibiza. It’s exactly the kind of landmark that makes you pause and look up from your phone, because from the water it feels bigger and more mysterious than it does from land.

If you want a calmer start: bring sunglasses, a hat, and sunscreen that won’t quit when you’re moving around on deck. You’ll likely spend plenty of time in direct sun once the boat gets settled.

Sa Caleta stop (2 hours): red cliffs, golden sand, and an easy swim

Sa Caleta is your first major beach break, set along Ibiza’s coast with a backdrop of red cliffs and golden sand. You get around 2 hours here, which is long enough to do the basics without rushing.

What I like about this stop is the balance. You can swim, relax, and enjoy the views without feeling like you’re on a strict clock. If you’re a first-timer to sailing days, this is a friendly introduction because the beach vibe is straightforward: get in the water, dry off, repeat.

Practical thought: choose swim time early if you want fewer distractions and more calm water. Even when conditions are good, beach areas can get busier than you’d expect in high season.

S’Espalmador (2 hours) by boat: a quiet beach break on Formentera

S’Espalmador is where the day starts to feel more “retreat” and less “tour.” This area is accessed by boat only, which keeps it feeling more peaceful than beaches you can reach by car.

You’ll get about 2 hours here, and it’s focused on simple pleasures: white sand, clear water, and time to slow down. This is also one of your best moments to do your snorkel checks—because the water color is exactly the sort that makes you want to look for fish and movement below the surface.

If you’re the type who likes to land somewhere and stay put for a while, this is the stop. If you need lots of restaurants and amenities on the beach, you might find it more minimal than you expect. The tradeoff is the peace.

Playa de Ses Illetes (2 hours): turquoise water and powdery sand

Ses Illetes is one of the best-known beaches in Formentera for a reason: the sand is soft, and the water looks like it’s been edited for a postcard. You’ll have about 2 hours here, which works well for a mix of swimming and floating.

This stop is a great match if you want both “active” and “relaxed” in the same window. You can snorkel, then switch gears and just enjoy the sun. And because you’re on a sailing boat day, you’re not stuck with a beach-only plan—you have time on deck between swim sessions.

Small tip: treat this as your main sunscreen moment. Even if you’ve already applied once, you’ll be exposed longer than you think from the deck and while moving between boat and shore.

Beach-club lunch in Formentera: what’s included and how to plan

Lunch is arranged for you in Formentera at a beach club style setting, but it’s not included in the price. What that means for you: you’re not paying twice for lunch, but you’ll want to budget for it on top of the tour cost.

The operator notes that you’ll receive details about lunch with your booking confirmation. That’s useful because beach-club lunches can vary a lot in what you’ll actually order and how long it takes.

Drink-wise, alcoholic beverages are not included either. The good part: you can bring your own drinks and ice. So if you have a favorite non-alcoholic drink or you’re traveling with kids, you can pack something that keeps everyone happy without spending tour-on-tap prices.

If you’re trying to travel light, pack snacks only if you know you’ll want them. Otherwise, plan on the beach club lunch as your main meal moment.

Snorkeling gear and SUP boards: how to use what’s included

This is one of the most practical parts of the day: snorkeling equipment and SUP boards are included, and you don’t have to waste time figuring out rentals at each beach.

I love this because it changes your options. You can do a quick snorkel session even if you’re not the type who wants a long swim. And if you’re comfortable on a board, SUP gives you a different way to enjoy the water without committing to a full training session.

A couple of real-life tips:

• Bring a small dry bag for your phone or keys. Water days have a way of finding pockets.
• If you snorkel, keep an eye on where you’re entering and exiting so you don’t kick up sand right in front of your face.
• If you do SUP, start in calmer spots first. You’ll learn fast once you’re on the water.

Also included: use and enjoyment of the sailing boat deck, WiFi on board, and a restroom. That means you can stay comfortable between stops and avoid the kind of awkward “where do we go now” moments that ruin a day like this.

Meeting point and timing: getting on board without stress

You meet at Bora Sailing (Sant Josep de sa Talaia) at the address listed in the booking details, and you return there at the end. The meeting point is near public transportation, which can help if you don’t want to rely entirely on a car.

The day runs about 8 hours total, including travel time, so I recommend treating it like a full-day plan. If you’re pairing it with evening dinner reservations, aim for something later rather than right after you’re scheduled to return.

You’ll use a mobile ticket, and confirmation is received at booking. That’s the easy part. The bigger “get ready” task is packing smart for a sun-and-water day: sunscreen, a hat, and swimwear you’re okay re-wearing after a rinse.

Weather and sea state: the reality check that matters

This experience requires good weather. If conditions are poor, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund. That’s fair, because on a sailing day, even small changes in wind and swell can affect how comfortable the boat feels and how safe the shore transfers are.

One specific practical consideration: getting to and from certain beaches may involve a transfer via smaller boat routes. If there’s chop near the shoreline, you can expect some spray or a little water in the auxiliary boat. I’ve learned to plan for that kind of thing on the Balearics: bring quick-dry layers and keep a change of clothes in a waterproof bag if you want to avoid ending the day damp and grumpy.

Who this is best for (and who might prefer something else)

This is a great fit if you want:

• A private sailing day with a small group vibe
• Strong beach time with snorkel and SUP included
• A Formentera-focused day built around the water, not just sightseeing

It also makes sense for couples who want an intimate day, and for small groups of friends who can split the cost and still keep things personal.

If you’re traveling with a strict schedule and hate waiting for weather windows, this might be stressful. It’s not a “rain or shine, no matter what” kind of day.

Also, since cabins and a kitchen are not included, it’s best to think of this as a day on the water with breaks, not an overnight cruising setup.

Should you book this Ibiza to Formentera sailing day?

I’d book it if your idea of a perfect day is: good sun, clear water, real beach time, and activities you can do right away because the gear is included. It’s also a smart value if you can fill the group size close to 7, because the per-person cost drops fast and you keep the private feel.

Skip it (or at least consider alternatives) if you’re the type who gets annoyed by weather limits or you need guaranteed dry land transfers. And if lunch and drinks are your big priorities, know that lunch isn’t included and alcohol isn’t included, even though you can bring your own drinks and ice.

FAQ

FAQ

How long is the full-day sailing experience?

It runs for about 8 hours, and the duration includes travel time.

What is the group size for this private tour?

It’s a private experience, with up to 7 people per group.

Is snorkeling equipment included?

Yes. Snorkeling equipment is included.

Are SUP boards included?

Yes. SUP boards are included.

Is lunch included in the price?

No. Lunch is not included, but you can bring your own food or book in a restaurant in Formentera. Lunch details are sent with your booking confirmation.

Are alcoholic drinks included?

No. Alcoholic beverages are not included, but you can bring your own drinks and ice.

What amenities are on board?

There’s a restroom on board, WiFi on board, and you can enjoy the sailing boat deck.

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.

Where do we meet and where does the tour end?

You meet at Bora Sailing in Sant Josep de sa Talaia and the tour ends back at the same meeting point.