A day on the water here feels personal. This private sailboat tour links Ibiza’s coves with Formentera’s famous beaches, and you get hands-on time like snorkeling and paddle surf. One thing to watch: the experience depends a lot on how your captain runs the day, so I’d ask questions early and confirm who you’ll be sailing with.

I like this route because it mixes stops for swimming with real beach time, not just passing views. And when the captain is in full host mode, like German has been praised for, the day turns into more than scenery. Still, at this price point, I’d expect proactive communication and basic comfort planning, especially around snorkeling timing and seasickness.

The Big Picture: Why This Private Sailboat Day Works

You’re paying for control. Instead of crowds and rigid schedules, you and up to seven other people shape your pace across an 8-hour day, with a captain and deck hand running the boat.

The itinerary is designed around water time. You’ll anchor, swim, snorkel, and spend hours in places that are hard to reach any other way. If you like the idea of going from crystal-clear swim spots to an iconic Formentera beach without switching plans, this is the format to book.

Key Stops That Make Ibiza and Formentera Feel Connected

This day is built on a simple logic: start on Ibiza’s south coast, cross toward Formentera’s nature-rich side, then end at a beach that’s basically a postcard.

You’ll see cliffs and coastline first, then shift into more intimate, anchored-water moments. The best part is that each stop has a different vibe: one is about a quick swim and snorkel, one is about untouched nature, and one is about choosing between beach dining or a picnic style meal.

Platja des Jondal and Cap des Falco: Your First Swim in Ibiza

You kick off at Platja des Jondal, a strong start because it’s already beautiful before the boat even moves. From there, you head toward Cap des Falco, where you’ll drop anchor and have your first real chance to get in the water.

This is the kind of stop that sets the tone. You’ll want to be ready to swim or snorkel right away because that first hour can disappear fast once everyone’s in. If you’re new to snorkeling, this early anchor stop is a good place to settle in without the pressure of a longer beach plan.

One practical note: towels aren’t included. Plan to bring what you need to dry off and stay comfortable after your first swim, because the day’s flow assumes you can handle quick transitions.

S’Espalmador: The Island-Next-Door Feeling on the Formentera Side

The cruise continues toward S’Espalmador, a nearby island just north of Formentera. Here, you’re anchored for about 2 hours, which is a comfortable length for repeating swim sessions, floating, and just taking photos from the boat.

S’Espalmador tends to feel different from the more famous beaches. You get that sense of “quiet coastline,” where the water does most of the work. If you love being on the water more than being on land, this stop is where the day really earns its keep.

Snorkeling equipment is included, and this is a smart place to use it. You’ll be out long enough to try it properly and still have time to relax between swims.

Playa de Ses Illetes: The Formentera Beach That Earns the Hype

Then you’ll sail to Playa de Ses Illetes, on Formentera’s northern side. This is your longer anchor-and-beach block, around 3 hours, and it’s the most land-based part of the tour.

Once you’re anchored near the beach, you can soak up sun on the golden sand. The nice twist: you get options for food. You can eat at beachfront restaurants, or bring a picnic-style setup and enjoy it while you’re still “in tour mode,” rather than breaking the day into separate errands.

Drawback to consider: when a stop is built for beach time, it can be less exciting if you’re mostly after boat views or snorkeling. It’s still a great swimming area, but this segment is more about sand time and easy hanging out.

What You Actually Get on the Boat: Snorkel Gear, Paddle Surf, and Crew

The tour includes the stuff that turns you from observer into participant. You get snorkeling equipment, paddle surf, and a dinghy for getting from the boat to shore when needed.

There’s also a bathroom onboard, which matters more than most people think on an 8-hour outing. It helps you stay outside longer without rushing back to “land logistics.”

Captain and deck hand are included, and the vibe you get can swing depending on how engaged your captain is. When the host is chatty and organized, the day runs smoothly, locations feel connected, and the water time feels intentional instead of accidental.

Beach Day Comfort: What’s Not Included (So You Don’t Get Caught)

Food and drinks are not included. That means you should plan ahead depending on what you want at Ses Illetes: restaurant meal, picnic, or a mix.

Towels aren’t included either. In practice, towels are the difference between enjoying your swims and feeling annoyed afterward. If you’re the type who hates damp clothes, pack a towel solution that’s easy to handle.

Also note: you’ll likely be dealing with transfers and walking once you arrive. This tour works best if you can handle some uneven ground and a bit of stepping around between parking and the pier area.

Price and Value: $822.69 for a Private Group Up to 8

This is priced at $822.69 per group, for up to 8 people, for about 8 hours. That’s the key value equation: if you fill the full group, you spread the cost in a way that can feel surprisingly reasonable compared to multiple separate hires.

A quick math check: at 8 people, it works out to about $103 per person before any add-ons like food. If you go with fewer than 8, it will feel more expensive per person, because you’re paying for a private boat and crew either way.

So the smart move is to book with friends or a small group that can actually fill the capacity. If you’re traveling solo or as a couple, compare the experience against shared boat tours and ask yourself whether you truly want a guaranteed private pace and direct swim access.

Captains Matter: German’s Reputation and the Communication Question

A lot of what makes this tour feel magical comes down to hosting style. German has been specifically praised for being informative, personable, and professional, including taking care of special moments like photo capture (and sometimes drone footage).

At the same time, I’d take a step back and think about control. If you want more guidance, clearer explanations, or a tighter plan for snorkeling and paddle surf, build that into the day early. When communication is proactive, you get better use out of the included gear.

One practical takeaway: ask at the start about how the snorkeling and paddle surf plan fits into your stops. Even if the activities are included, the timing is what determines whether you feel like you got your money’s worth.

Getting There: The Pier, the Dinghy Transfer, and Real-World Timing

Your start point is at Tropicana Eivissa Cala Jondal in Cala Jondal. From there, you’ll head to the water and likely experience shore-to-boat logistics using the dinghy.

A real-world tip: some arrival points involve dirt-road access and a small pier setup. If you’re bringing snacks and drinks, expect at least a bit of a walk with your supplies. This matters if you’re traveling with lots of picnic items or if you want the day to feel effortless from minute one.

Also, keep sun protection in mind. An 8-hour day anchored at multiple swim spots means you’re exposed for long stretches, especially if you spend time on sand at Ses Illetes.

Water Comfort and Seasickness: Plan Like a Sailor

This tour requires good weather, so you can’t count on stable conditions every minute. If you’re sensitive to motion, bring a plan for it.

One important detail: the crew can’t provide medication. The safe approach is to bring your own seasickness solution in advance if you need it. That way you’re not scrambling mid-day if the wind changes or the crossing feels choppier than expected.

Who Should Book This (and Who Might Skip It)

This tour is best for people who want the “island-hopping” feel without packing and commuting all day. If you like swimming, snorkeling, paddle surf, and anchoring in scenic spots, you’ll probably have a strong match.

It’s also a good fit for groups who can fill the private capacity. Families with adaptable kids (and adults who don’t mind boat time) can work well here too, as long as everyone can handle the water and transfers.

If you have low mobility, this is not recommended. Between boarding, transfers, and time in and out of the water, the physical demands don’t match the tour’s format.

And one more thing: service animals are allowed. If you travel with one, it’s worth confirming any practical needs with the operator ahead of time so your day stays smooth.

Should You Book This Tour of Ibiza and Formentera?

If your ideal day is swimming in coves, snorkeling with gear included, and ending with genuine beach time at Ses Illetes, I’d say yes—especially if you can book as a full group up to 8 to get the best per-person value.

I’d be more cautious if you need a very structured, narration-heavy guide presence, or if you’re relying on paddle surf and snorkeling to be actively offered at the right moment. For peace of mind, message ahead to ask who your captain will be and how they plan to handle the included activities during the anchor stops.

If you’re comfortable planning your own food and packing towels, and you’re ready for a weather-driven day on the water, this private sailboat outing is the kind of Ibiza and Formentera experience that feels like you paid for access—not just views.

FAQ

How long is the private sailboat tour?

It runs for about 8 hours.

How many people can be in the group?

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

Is this tour offered in English?

Yes, it’s offered in English.

What’s included during the tour?

Included items are paddle surf, snorkeling equipment, a bathroom onboard, a captain, a deck hand, and a dinghy.

What should I bring since food, drinks, and towels aren’t included?

Food and drinks aren’t included, and towels aren’t provided. Plan for your meals (especially at Ses Illetes) and bring what you need to dry off after swimming.

What happens if the weather isn’t good?

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

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