A sail day can beat a beach day. This private Formentera cruise mixes easy swimming time with classic island viewpoints, guided by a professional skipper, with a sunset angle toward Es Vedra. What I like most is the chance to spend real time in the water with provided gear, plus the relaxed pace of a private group (up to 11).

Two other big wins: you get a full-day plan with purposeful stops for sun and swim, and you also have a simple entertainment setup on board thanks to the MegaBoom bluetooth speaker. One thing to consider is that food and drinks are not included, so you’ll want a plan for lunch and snacks, especially if you’re bringing your own.

Key things to know before you go

• Private sailing for up to 11 keeps the day calm and flexible instead of rushed.
• Snorkel equipment and a paddle board are included, so you’re not stuck renting once you arrive.
• Two focused Formentera-area stops give you swim time without a full day of constant motoring.
• Sunset viewing toward Es Vedra adds a payoff beyond just swimming.
• No food included, but you can disembark for lunch and get extra time if you do.

Why a private sailing day from Ibiza makes Formentera feel special

Formentera is famous for water that looks unreal in photos, but the real trick is getting there with enough time to actually enjoy it. This kind of private sailing day does that. You’re not trying to squeeze everything into bus schedules or hop between crowded spots. You’re on a boat, with a skipper running the timing, and your group stays together.

I also like the value of the included water gear. Snorkel equipment and a paddle board are part of the deal, which means you can show up and just go. Add in the fuel handled for your time on board, and you’re paying for a whole experience, not a list of separate rentals.

The other thing I’d flag is how active this day can feel. You’ll spend time in and around the water, so it’s a better fit if you’re comfortable swimming, using snorkel gear, or standing on a paddle board for a bit.

A 10:00 am departure with stops built for swimming and sunset

Your day runs roughly 7 hours, starting at 10:00 am from Platja des Jondal (Spain). You’ll return to the same meeting point at the end, which keeps the logistics straightforward.

On the water, the plan is simple and practical: you head to the Formentera area, make time for swimming and water fun, then shift toward the iconic sunset zone where Es Vedra is in view. The tour is private, so the skipper can tailor the pace to your group and the weather.

The schedule also gives you real windows to enjoy each stop:

• Playa de Ses Illetes for about 2 hours
• S’Espalmador for about 1 hour

Then you still have plenty of time left for the water portion and that sunset viewing moment toward Es Vedra.

Playa de Ses Illetes: your main stretch of sun and swim time

Playa de Ses Illetes is the first stop, and it’s where the day usually starts to feel like a vacation movie. You get about 2 hours there, with admission ticket marked as free for the stop.

In practice, two hours is enough to do a calm swim or snorkel pass, take a short break on the waterline, and still have time to recharge before the next island-side change. I like that it’s not just a quick “photo stop.” This one gives you room to actually be in the water, not just look at it.

A small planning tip: since you’ll be active, keep your sunscreen and small towel accessible. You’ll feel better if you don’t have to go digging for basics once you’re ready to relax.

S’Espalmador: a shorter island break that still changes the vibe

Next is S’Espalmador, with about 1 hour on the schedule and free admission noted for the stop.

One hour is not a long hang, so go in with a clear goal: use it for a quick swim break, enjoy the views from the water, and soak up the different feel of the area. This is the kind of stop that makes the day feel like a loop of “best-of” moments without turning into an all-day grind.

The best way to enjoy a shorter stop is to stay flexible. If the water conditions are great, you’ll get more value from staying ready to jump back in. If you want photos, grab them quickly, then get back to enjoying the water.

Snorkel + paddle board: what’s included, and how to make it fun

This is a big part of the appeal. Snorkel equipment and a paddle board are included, and the whole point is for you to get time in the water without paying extra at each stop.

Here’s the practical way to think about it:

• If you want an easy entry into snorkeling, use the provided gear and keep your first attempts simple. Swim, breathe, and let your body get used to it.
• If you want paddle boarding time, remember balance comes faster in light wind and calm water. You don’t need to be a pro. Just aim for short, controlled sessions.

Also, the MegaBoom bluetooth speaker is included. That means music is part of the onboard mood, if that’s your thing. It can make the boat time feel like a private hang rather than a silent tour.

One more thought: pack for being damp and salty. Even if you don’t fully commit to snorkeling every minute, you’ll likely get splashed.

The Es Vedra sunset view: the payoff after a day of water time

One highlight is watching an iconic sunset with Es Vedra in view. This matters because it gives your day structure: you’re not only thinking about the swim moments. You’re also saving energy for the final “wow” payoff.

From the water, sunsets tend to feel more dramatic because you’re not watching over buildings or crowds. You’re looking out. And with a skipper managing the boat, you can focus on enjoying it instead of repositioning yourself.

If you’re the kind of person who wants photos, come ready. Have your phone or camera secured and handy before the golden-hour swing so you’re not rummaging around as light changes.

Lunch and food: you control it, and you can gain time

Food and drinks are not included. So yes, you’ll want to bring your own snacks, drinks, and anything you plan to call lunch.

The good news: you can disembark for lunch at one of the stops, and if you do, you get an extra hour free of charge. That changes the math. Without that, you might feel like lunch is cutting into your water time. With the extra time, you can actually build a real break into the day.

My advice: plan a lunch that won’t turn into a hassle. Bring something you can eat without fuss, plus water you can sip throughout the day. It’s a long time on the sea, and hydration helps you enjoy snorkeling and paddle boarding more comfortably.

Price and value for a private group (up to 11)

The price is $2,358.27 per group, private, for up to 11 people, for about 7 hours.

To judge value, think in terms of cost-per-person only if you fill the group. If the boat is full at 11, that’s roughly $214 per person. If you have fewer people, it climbs. In other words: it’s strongest value when you’re traveling with a group that actually fills the capacity.

What you’re paying for:

• Professional skipper
• Fuel during your time on board
• Snorkel equipment and paddle board
• Taxes, fees, and handling charges
• A private format (just your group)

Because the big extras are bundled in, you avoid the “nickel-and-dime” feeling that sometimes happens with day trips. The one missing piece is food and drinks, but you control that and can keep costs sensible by bringing your own.

Who this private sailing day fits best

This tour is private and is offered in English. Most people can participate, which is helpful if you’re not an extreme swimmer but still want water time.

It fits especially well if you:

• Want a calm, private format instead of a crowded day tour
• Enjoy snorkeling or want to try it with gear provided
• Like active time on vacation, including paddle boarding
• Care about a strong “end moment,” like a sunset view of Es Vedra

It might be less ideal if you want a fully land-based day, or if you strongly prefer meals to be included. This is a “sea-first” day, and you’ll be happiest if you embrace that.

Practical tips that matter on a boat day in Formentera

Before you go, keep these points in mind because they affect how smooth the day feels.

First, bring your current valid passport or photo ID on the day of your boat trip. That’s a hard requirement.

Second, the tour is subject to favorable weather conditions. If it gets canceled due to rough weather, you can choose between rescheduling on an alternative date or a 100% refund.

Third, pack with wet weather in mind. Even on good days, sea spray happens, and you’ll likely change your plan once you see how the water feels.

Finally, the meeting point is Platja des Jondal and it’s described as near public transportation. That’s a plus if you’d rather not rely entirely on taxi timing.

Should you book this private Formentera sailing day?

I’d book it if you want a day that mixes real water time with an iconic sunset view, without spending your vacation in transit. The private group size, the included snorkel equipment, and the paddle board add up to a day that feels complete. And the fact that the skipper name Manu shows up in feedback tells me the human side is strong: you’re not just renting a boat and hoping for the best.

I’d think twice if you hate bringing your own food and you need meals fully handled for you. Food and drinks are on you here. Also, if you’re not comfortable being active in the water, you may find the day more tiring than relaxing.

If you match the vibe—sun, swim, paddle, and sunset—this is a great way to experience Formentera from the water, with the planning done for you and the payoff at the end.

FAQ

How long is the sailing tour?

It’s about 7 hours.

Where does the tour start and end?

It starts at Platja des Jondal, Spain, and ends back at the same meeting point.

What time does the tour begin?

Start time is 10:00 am.

Is this a private tour?

Yes. It’s a private tour/activity, and only your group participates.

Are snorkel equipment and paddle boards included?

Yes. Snorkel equipment and a paddle board are included.

Is lunch or food included?

No. Food and drinks are not included.

Are admission tickets required for the stops?

Admission tickets are listed as free for Playa de Ses Illetes and S’Espalmador.

What language is the tour offered in?

It’s offered in English.

What happens if the weather is rough?

The tour is subject to favorable weather conditions. If it’s canceled due to rough weather, you can choose between rescheduling on an alternative date or a 100% refund.

Do I need an ID?

Yes. A current valid passport or photo ID is required on the day of your boat trip.

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