Caves, swims, and two islands in one day. This private sailboat outing turns Ibiza and Formentera into a string of picture-perfect stops, with anchored swims and time on famous beaches. It runs about 8 hours, with an English-speaking captain and a small group capped at 8.

What I like most is the pairing of hands-on water time and real local guidance. You get snorkeling gear and paddle surf for the stops where the water is crystal-clear, and Captain German has a reputation for explaining what you’re seeing as you go. If you’re planning this as a birthday or a milestone day, it can feel special fast—when everything clicks.

One big consideration: you’re responsible for food and towels, and getting on/off the boat can mean a dinghy ride and some walking. It’s also not recommended for people with low mobility, so it helps to be comfortable moving around on uneven ground near the water.

Key highlights you’ll care about

• Private group up to 8 means more flexibility than big-boat tours.
• Snorkel + paddle surf included so you’re not stuck watching while others play.
• Three anchor stops: Cala Jondal area, s’Espalmador, and Ses Illetes.
• Beach time with options at Ses Illetes, including beachfront restaurant meals or a picnic approach from the boat.
• Captain German and deck team keep the day running, with a dinghy used to reach the shoreline.
• Bring your own towel and plan food since nothing is provided onboard besides the boat basics.

Why this Ibiza–Formentera sail day feels like a true private charter

This isn’t a hop-on, hop-off sightseeing boat. It’s a private sailing day for just your group (up to 8 people). That matters because the best parts of the day—snorkeling, quick swim breaks, and settling into anchored beach time—feel less rushed when you’re not sharing the boat with a crowd.

You also get a proper onboard setup for a full day: a bathroom onboard, a captain, and a deck hand. That may sound basic, but on an 8-hour sea day it changes how relaxed you feel. You’re not doing “quick sail-by tourism.” You’re actually using the time to be in the water.

Meeting at Cala Jondal: the dinghy transfer is part of the experience

You meet at Tropicana Eivissa, in the Cala Jondal area (Cala Jundal, s/n, 07830 Sant Josep de sa Talaia). The tour starts and ends back at the meeting point.

Here’s the practical reality: you shouldn’t expect a smooth dock-to-boat situation. The boat uses a dinghy to reach a small pier, and there can be a bit of a walk while you bring what you need (snacks, drinks you’ve brought, and yes—your towel). Plan for that early so you’re not scrambling when you’re trying to enjoy the start.

If you have limited mobility, this is the part that will likely be hardest. The tour is simply not recommended for low mobility, so it’s worth choosing a different format if that applies to you.

Stop 1: Platja des Jondal and the Cap des Falco swim moment

You begin with a stop that sets the tone: Platja des Jondal. It’s one of those areas where the coast looks styled for postcards—soft shoreline, dramatic nearby cliffs, and water that can be clear enough to make snorkeling feel effortless.

From there, you head toward Cap des Falco. You drop anchor and get time to swim or snorkel in the water. This first stop is about getting your “sea legs,” choosing your preferred pace, and easing into the day rather than forcing a marathon schedule.

Time on the water: about 1 hour for this stop.

My practical tip: if you care most about snorkeling, treat this first anchored break as your warm-up. Once you’ve tested the water and figured out how comfortable you feel with the gear, the later stops tend to be more fun.

Stop 2: S’Espalmador for an unhurried coastal view

Next comes s’Espalmador, a nearby island to the north of Formentera. You cruise across azure-like waters (you’ll see the color change in the light as you move), then anchor near the beaches of Espalmador.

This stop gives you room to slow down: you’re not rushing between sights every few minutes. It’s a chance to soak up the scenery, swim again, and take in the quieter feel of this side of the Formentera area.

Time on the water: about 2 hours here.

Why this stop works: Espalmador feels like the “in-between” day highlight—less about a single famous beach and more about the overall coastal beauty. If you want variety (not just one beach all day), this is a key piece.

Stop 3: Playa de Ses Illetes and the choice between beach meal or picnic vibes

Then you sail to Playa de Ses Illetes, on the northern tip of Formentera. This is the stop most people associate with the famous Formentera feel: golden sand, shallow water, and that clear, inviting look that makes you want to just stand there a moment before you even go in.

You anchor near the beach, and you get a larger block of time to enjoy it.

Time on the water: about 3 hours.

You have two ways to handle food here:

• Eat at beachfront restaurants (Mediterranean cuisine is available).
• Or bring food and do a picnic approach.

Because the tour doesn’t include food or drinks, I’d personally lean toward packing something simple you’ll actually eat while you’re in full sun. Something easy like sandwiches and fruit. Then you can still buy a snack or drink if you want.

Snorkel and paddle surf: included gear, so focus on comfort

The big win is that paddle surf and snorkeling equipment are included. That means you don’t need to make last-minute arrangements on shore or pay extra for the “fun part.”

You’ll also have chances to see marine life, since the stops are chosen for swimming and clear water. It’s not a guarantee of specific animals, but the conditions are set up for it—especially at anchor points where the water is described as crystal clear.

What I’d do in your shoes:

• Try snorkeling at the first or second stop so you can adjust fast.
• If paddle surf is a priority, go when you feel least tired. The later you wait, the more likely wind and sun fatigue kick in.

Also, there’s a deck setup that supports the day: a dinghy and crew help to keep things practical so you spend less time figuring things out.

Captain German, deck hand support, and the dog named Gordon

The day’s “how it feels” depends a lot on the captain and crew. For this tour, Captain German is specifically called out for being personable and professional, plus very informative about what you’re seeing—Ibiza context, sea details, and the general vibe of the islands.

There’s also a fun detail: Gordon, the sidekick dog, has a calm reputation and tends to be barely noticeable until he greets you. If you like dogs, it adds a warm, normal feel to a day that could otherwise be very staged.

One more useful note: multiple captains and multiple boats exist within the provider’s operation. So if you’re booking specifically because you want German by name, I’d treat it as smart to confirm who you’ll have when you book (or check in close to departure). You’ll still get a private charter experience, but who’s onboard can vary.

What’s not included: food, drinks, and towels (and why that matters)

This is where a lot of people get caught. Food and drinks are not included, and towels are not provided.

It’s easy to underestimate what an 8-hour sea day does to you. Sun, saltwater, and repeated swims make you want quick comfort: something to eat that isn’t complicated, and a towel you know fits your body and your routine.

My prep checklist:

• Bring your own towel (one per person if you can).
• Bring food and water or drinks you’ll be happy with on a beach day.
• Plan for drying off in stages after swim stops so you don’t feel cold or uncomfortable later.

Also, the tour uses anchored swim breaks and a beach stop. That’s great for the scenery, but it means you’re more exposed to the sun for longer than a quick sightseeing cruise.

Sea sickness and motion: you handle the solution

This tour depends on weather and water conditions. If you’re sensitive to motion, plan ahead because seasickness support isn’t described as being onboard as a service.

A practical approach: if you need medication, have a plan before you arrive. In Spain, offering medication to clients isn’t standard, so it’s best to bring what you need rather than counting on a quick fix onboard.

Quick self-test: if you feel queasy on ferries or winding roads, assume you’ll want prevention here too.

Price and value: $822.69 per group up to 8

The price is $822.69 per group, up to 8 people, for about 8 hours.

Here’s how to judge value:

• If you fill the boat (8 people), that’s roughly $103 per person for a full private day with multiple anchored stops plus snorkel and paddle surf gear included.
• If you’re only a couple or a small group, the cost per person rises fast—so you’re paying for privacy, not just access.

What makes it feel worth it is that you’re getting a real island-hopping format, not just “sail around and stop once.” You also get time at Ses Illetes, where the ability to switch between restaurant meal and picnic matters a lot when you’re with a crew that’s helping you stay on schedule.

One more detail: this tour tends to book out about a month in advance on average. If you’re traveling in a busy season or on a specific date, treat that as a sign to plan early.

Who should book this sailboat day, and who should skip it

This private sail day is best for you if you:

• Want Ibiza + Formentera in one long day without changing hotels.
• Enjoy anchored swims, snorkeling time, and water activities.
• Like the idea of beach time that feels flexible rather than tightly scripted.
• Are comfortable with some walking and dinghy transfer near shore.

It may not be a great fit if you:

• Have low mobility (it’s not recommended).
• Need a completely flat, dock-to-boat experience.
• Want food and towels handled for you (you’ll need to bring them).
• Want lots of guaranteed, step-by-step instruction at every second. Even with an informative captain, you’ll get the most out of the day by asking early about snorkeling and paddle surf timing.

Should you book it? My straight answer

Book it if you want a genuinely private, sea-focused day where the big hours go to swimming, snorkeling, and beach time—not just viewing from a distance. The combination of multiple stops, included paddle surf and snorkeling gear, and a captain known for guiding with personality (German) makes it easy to see why people rate this highly.

Skip it or pick a different format if you know you’ll struggle with the physical side of a dinghy landing, or if you’re hoping for the tour to provide the “comfort basics” like towels and onboard meals. This charter works best when you show up prepared, then you can relax and enjoy the water.

FAQ

How long is the full-day private sailboat tour?

It runs for about 8 hours.

What’s the group size for this private tour?

The tour is private and your group can be up to 8 people.

What language is the tour offered in?

The tour is offered in English.

What’s included in the tour price?

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

Are food and drinks included?

No. Food and drinks are not included.

Are towels included?

No. Towels are not included.

Where is the meeting point?

The tour starts at Tropicana Eivissa Cala Jondal, Cala Jundal, s/n, 07830 Sant Josep de sa Talaia, Illes Balears, Spain, and returns there at the end.

What water activities will I get to do?

You can paddle surf and snorkel, and you’ll also have swim time during the anchored stops.

What happens if the weather is bad?

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

Is it suitable for people with low mobility?

No. It’s not recommended for people with low mobility.