Exploring Formentera on Private Sailing Boat

REVIEW · IBIZA

Exploring Formentera on Private Sailing Boat

  • 5.0109 reviews
  • 7 hours (approx.)
  • From $2,358.27
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Operated by Charteralia · Bookable on Viator

Traveller rating 5.0 (109)Duration7 hours (approx.)Price from$2,358.27Operated byCharteraliaBook viaViator

Blue water, then an Es Vedra glow. This private sailing day turns Formentera into a swim-and-snorkel itinerary, with snorkel gear ready to go and the Es Vedra sunset in clear view from the water.

I also like how the trip stays flexible: your professional skipper sets the pace, and you’re not stuck in a crowded boat shuffle. The result feels more like a custom sea day than a checklist.

One catch: food and drinks are not included, so you’ll want to bring what you plan to eat or plan lunch during the stops. If you’re hoping for a fully catered experience, you’ll feel that gap fast.

I like the onboard extras too, especially the MegaBoom bluetooth speaker, which makes it easy to keep things fun while you’re waiting for swim time.

Key Highlights That Make This Formentera Sailing Worth It

Exploring Formentera on Private Sailing Boat - Key Highlights That Make This Formentera Sailing Worth It

  • Private charter for up to 11 people, so you’re not packed in like a tour bus on water
  • Snorkel + paddle-board time with equipment included
  • Playa de Ses Illetes gets a generous swim window (two full hours)
  • A stop at S’Espalmador lets you explore island-side water without rushing
  • Professional skipper keeps the day smooth and weather-aware
  • Es Vedra sunset viewpoint from the sea adds a big “wow” moment

Why This Private Sailing Day Works So Well

Exploring Formentera on Private Sailing Boat - Why This Private Sailing Day Works So Well
This is the kind of day that makes Formentera feel close, even though it’s its own world of beaches and turquoise water. You get a full sea outing rather than a short beach hop, and that matters because the coast looks different from every angle.

You’ll also notice the balance: you’re doing active water time (snorkel, paddle-board, swim), but the boat still gives you time to relax. Add in a professional skipper and the group stays focused on enjoying the ride, not figuring things out.

And yes, the sunset component is real value here. Being on the water gives you a view of Es Vedra that you can’t easily recreate from shore.

You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Ibiza.

Getting Started at Platja des Jondal (and What to Expect)

Exploring Formentera on Private Sailing Boat - Getting Started at Platja des Jondal (and What to Expect)
Your day begins at Platja des Jondal at 10:00 am, and you’ll head back to the same meeting point when you’re done (about 7 hours total, give or take). The start time is late enough that you don’t feel rushed, but early enough that you get the best light for swimming and snorkeling.

This is a private tour, so only your group goes. It’s set for a maximum of 11 people, which usually means more space and less waiting around for gear or getting back on board.

Bring a current valid passport or photo ID, even though it’s just a boat day. Also plan for a mobile ticket, since you’ll likely check in electronically.

Playa de Ses Illetes: Two Hours of Swim Time in the Best-Light Water

Exploring Formentera on Private Sailing Boat - Playa de Ses Illetes: Two Hours of Swim Time in the Best-Light Water
Playa de Ses Illetes is the “starter” stop, and it’s a smart choice. You get two hours here, which is long enough to do more than one thing—like a real snorkel session, a slow float, and then time to just swim.

The payoff with Ses Illetes is the water. From the boat, the color looks clean and bright, and once you’re in, it’s the kind of swimming where you keep turning your head to check what’s around you. The snorkel gear helps you make it more than just a pretty swim.

A practical tip: in this stop, go in stages. Start with a quick snorkel, then switch to swimming once you’ve gotten your rhythm. If you jump straight into the longest swims, you might burn energy before you’ve even seen what you came for.

And since admission is free, you’re not losing time to ticket hassles. You’re there for water time.

S’Espalmador Stop: A Short Island Water Break

After Ses Illetes, you move to S’Espalmador for about one hour. It’s shorter, so think of it as a targeted change of scenery rather than a full second beach day.

This stop still fits the style of the trip: you get another shot at calm, clear water and a chance to try your paddle-board again if conditions allow. If you’re the kind of person who loves comparing coastlines—what feels different, what looks different—this is where you’ll feel it.

Because the time window is tighter, you’ll want to stay ready to hop into the water quickly when the skipper positions the boat. The best use of this hour is simple: snorkel or paddle-board first, then take a breather and soak in the island-side views.

Es Vedra Sunset From the Water: The Moment You Remember

Exploring Formentera on Private Sailing Boat - Es Vedra Sunset From the Water: The Moment You Remember
The highlight isn’t just that the day has a sunset—it’s that it’s tied to Es Vedra, the island silhouette everyone points out on the map. Seeing it from the sea changes the mood. The shape looks sharper, and the horizon feels wider.

Also, sunset timing is one of those things where a good skipper makes a difference. You’re not just hoping the light works out. You’re out there with the boat positioned so you can actually watch it happen.

If you want the best viewing angle, do less rushing. You’ll be tempted to keep moving for photos, but the best experience comes from pausing and watching the colors shift. Bring a light layer too, because evenings on the water can feel cooler than you expect.

Snorkel, Swim, and Paddle-Board: Why the Included Gear Matters

This trip includes snorkel equipment and a paddle board, plus the fuel and a professional skipper throughout. That combo is more valuable than it sounds because it removes the “gear scramble” that can kill the fun.

With gear taken care of, you can spend your brainpower on the water—where to float, how long to snorkel before you surface, and how to balance on the board. You’ll likely spend less time worrying about what you packed and more time actually enjoying the sea.

The paddle-board is also a nice way to slow down. Even if you’re not a strong boarder, it’s still a great way to feel the water movement and take in the coastline without constantly lifting your head for waves.

One practical note: bring your own towel and plan for getting wet. Even if you dry off quickly, you’ll still want something easy to use once you’re back on board.

Onboard Setup: Fuel, Music, and a Skipper Who Keeps You on Track

Exploring Formentera on Private Sailing Boat - Onboard Setup: Fuel, Music, and a Skipper Who Keeps You on Track
A big part of the comfort here is that the trip handles the essentials: fuel is included and the skipper is the one running the show. That means you’re not paying extra for movement, which is common on some boat days.

The MegaBoom bluetooth speaker is a small detail, but it changes the vibe. If you like music, it’s a built-in way to make the boat feel like your space rather than a rented bench on open water.

And since this is a private charter, you’re not constantly adapting to other groups’ schedules. Your skipper can keep the day smooth—approaching each stop with the timing needed for swimming windows and sunset.

One name that stands out from feedback is Manu. When your skipper is that kind of guide—calm, helpful, and good at setting the mood—you’ll feel it right away.

Food and Drinks: The One Thing You Must Plan Yourself

Here’s the simplest truth: food and drinks are not included. That means you should bring what you’ll want to snack on and hydrate with during the day.

The good news is there’s a lunch option built into the flow. You can disembark for lunch at one of the stops, and if you do, you’ll get an extra hour free of charge so it doesn’t feel like you stole time from the boat.

So your strategy is easy:

  • Pack easy-to-eat food you can enjoy without turning it into a production.
  • Bring enough water for the full day, since you’re out in sun and wind.
  • If you’re doing lunch, treat it as part of the plan, not a last-minute scramble.

If you’re traveling with kids or anyone who gets cranky when hungry, plan this carefully. The trip is built for water time, but you still need energy.

Value and Price: What You’re Paying For (and When It Makes Sense)

The price is $2,358.27 per group, up to 11 people. That number looks big at first glance, but private sailing is like renting the whole experience—boat, fuel, skipper time, and included water gear—so the real question is how you split it.

For a group of friends or a family cluster, this can be strong value because you’re paying for a full day on the water with professional handling. You’re not paying per person for the boat itself and then separately for snorkeling gear, fuel, and guide time.

It’s less of a deal if you’re going solo and can’t share the group cost. But if you can put together 6–11 people, you’re turning a premium outing into something closer to “splurge day” territory.

Also keep in mind the included extras that usually cost extra elsewhere: snorkel equipment, paddle-board, fuel, and skipper. Those details add up.

Weather and Flexibility: How the Trip Handles Rough Conditions

This sailing is subject to favorable weather conditions. If it gets canceled due to rough weather, you can choose rescheduling on an alternative date or receive a 100% refund.

That’s the kind of safety net that matters with boat days. You’re not locked into a bad-weather experience, and you’re not left holding nothing if the sea won’t cooperate.

Separately, there’s a strict rule on changes after booking: the experience is non-refundable and cannot be changed for any reason. So if your schedule is tight, pick your date carefully before you commit.

Who This Private Formentera Sailing Day Suits Best

This trip fits best if you want a real sea day, not just a quick beach visit. You’ll enjoy it most if you like swimming, you’re open to snorkeling, or you want to try paddle-boarding in calm water.

It’s a smart match for:

  • Couples who want a more private feel and a big sunset payoff
  • Small groups who can split the group price
  • Families with older kids who can handle a couple hours of water time
  • Anyone who hates crowded boats and prefers a straightforward schedule

Also, service animals are allowed, which is useful to know if that applies to your group. And it’s described as near public transportation, so you’re not totally stranded if you’re arriving without a car.

Should You Book This Private Sailing Boat to Formentera?

I think you should book if you want a day that mixes swimming, snorkeling, paddle-boarding, and a real Es Vedra sunset view—all while someone else handles the boat logistics. The private setup for up to 11 people makes it feel personal, and the included gear means you can show up and go.

I’d hesitate if you’re counting on food being provided, or if you need last-minute date flexibility. Since food and drinks aren’t included and changes after booking can’t be made, you’ll want to be ready.

If you’re the kind of traveler who values clear water time and doesn’t mind packing your own snacks, this is a fun, high-value way to see Formentera from Ibiza—without the typical crowd chaos.

FAQ

What is the duration of the Formentera private sailing tour?

It runs for about 7 hours.

What time does the tour start, and where does it meet?

It starts at 10:00 am at Platja des Jondal, Spain.

How many people are in the group?

This is a private tour for your group, up to 11 people.

What languages is the tour offered in?

The tour is offered in English.

What’s included in the price?

It includes all taxes and fees, a professional skipper, fuel, snorkel equipment, a paddle board, and a MegaBoom bluetooth speaker.

Are food and drinks included?

No. Food and drinks are not included, so you’ll want to bring your own.

What stops are included during the day?

You’ll stop at Playa de Ses Illetes and S’Espalmador.

Is admission required for the stops?

Admission is free for both Playa de Ses Illetes and S’Espalmador.

Do I need a passport or ID?

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

What happens if weather is rough?

If the experience is canceled due to rough weather, you can choose to reschedule on an alternative date or get a 100% refund.

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