Ibiza looks better from water. This private boat trip from Sant Antoni de Portmany sends you along the southwest coast, with time for swimming and cave exploring. I like the mix: you get guided driving, easy “hang-on-the-water” comfort, and proper breaks at coves like Cala Bassa.

The second big win is the boat setup. You’re not just renting a seat—you’re on a Chaparral 276 SSX with a sun deck, Bluetooth sound, USB charging, a fridge, snorkeling goggles and paddle surf (SUP). One consideration: you’ll be given goggles but not snorkel tubes, and depending on day conditions the exact cave time may vary.

Key highlights you’ll care about

• Private boat for up to 9: your group has the boat, not a shared crowd.
• Two swim stops: Cala Bassa and Cala Comte so you can actually get in the water.
• Snorkeling gear included (goggles): bring your own tube if you prefer full snorkeling kits.
• On-board SUP + solarium: easy to switch between active and relaxed.
• Free drinks for adults (limited): beer, water, and a bottle of cava, plus ice and a bathroom on board.
• Captain Jorge: strong communication and helpful Ibiza restaurant tips are part of the vibe.

Private 3.5-hour boat from Sant Antoni: what you’re really paying for

This is one of those Ibiza days that’s less about “checklist sightseeing” and more about buying time on the sea. For $838.78 per group (up to 9), you’re basically paying for privacy, convenience, and a boat that’s set up for swimming. If you fill the group, the price per person can feel pretty reasonable for a 3.5-hour stretch of coves, caves, and downtime.

Also, you avoid a lot of the logistics stress that comes with public tours. You meet in one place, get on the boat, and your captain handles the route. For many people, that’s the real value: less hassle, more water time.

The rhythm of the day

Expect about 3 hours 30 minutes total. The pacing matters here. This isn’t an all-day excursion, so you’ll want to arrive ready to swim and enjoy the coves. Think: a couple real stops for swimming, plus cruising and cave viewing when possible.

Meet the boat: Chaparral 276 SSX comfort for real sea time

The boat is a Chaparral 276 SSX, and the goal is comfort that doesn’t feel gimmicky. You’ll have solarium space at the bow and stern, so you can catch sun without constantly moving around. There’s Bluetooth-powered sound equipment if you want music for the group, and a USB mobile charging point so your phone doesn’t die right when you want photos.

Practical perks add up:

• A refrigerator, which helps keep drinks colder on warm afternoons
• Ice on board
• A bathroom, so you don’t burn time and energy figuring out where the nearest one is

It’s the little things like that that make “private boat day” feel like a day at sea instead of a parade of stops.

Coves and caves along Ibiza’s southwest coast: how to get the most out of it

The trip is designed to explore the Mediterranean Sea along the southwest coast of Ibiza, including cave time and scenic cruising. The itinerary highlights cave exploration plus swimming stops, and the coves are the payoff—clear water, bright sun, and photo-friendly conditions.

Here’s the practical way to think about the caves:

• If the weather and sea conditions cooperate, you should get cave time as described.
• If conditions are choppy or not ideal, cave plans can shift. One family reported that they ended up not visiting caves on their day.

So your best move is mental, not mechanical: go in expecting caves as part of the experience, but be flexible. The swimming stops are the most guaranteed, and they’re the stops you’ll remember even if cave timing changes.

Photos and underwater time

You’re on a boat that’s comfortable enough to hang out on while still giving you access to the water. If underwater photos matter, the included goggles help. Just remember you won’t have snorkel tubes provided.

Cala Bassa and Cala Comte (Cala Conta): the swim breaks that matter

You’ll make two swimming stops: Cala Bassa and Cala Comte (often linked with Cala Conta in the area). The point of these stops is simple: turquoise water, easy entry, and time to swim without rushing every five minutes.

Cala Bassa stop

Cala Bassa is one of the coves people chase on Ibiza because the water tends to look incredible. On a private trip, you get a different feel than doing it on a crowded schedule. You’re not fighting for towels or standing in line—you’re stepping from the boat into the water when you’re ready.

Why this stop works on a 3.5-hour itinerary: it’s long enough to actually swim, not just dip your feet.

Cala Comte stop

Cala Comte is the second swim anchor. It’s a good match for people who want a balance of postcard looks and time in the water. You’ll get a second chance to swim, paddle, and rinse off with sea-friendly confidence.

Pro tip: when you step off the boat for the first swim, take a minute to pick your “go-to” spot for the second swim. You’ll get less back-and-forth and more time enjoying the water.

On-board extras that make the trip feel like a day on the water

This boat day includes more than “stay dry and look pretty.” You’re getting a setup built for water time.

Snorkeling goggles, not full snorkel tubes

The included snorkeling gear is snorkeling goggles (without tube). After COVID, the approach has been to avoid sharing tubes for safety, so you’ll get goggles but not a tube. If you love full snorkeling sessions, bring your own tube.

If you don’t have a preference, the goggles are still useful. You’ll be able to see underwater without needing a full snorkel setup.

SUP (paddle surfing) is included

Paddle surfing (SUP) is included in the experience. This is one of the best “active-but-not-hard” ways to enjoy a private cove day. It also gives families and mixed groups something different to do besides swimming laps.

Just remember: SUP is weather- and wind-dependent. If the water’s rough, you may get a better chance at quieter water. Listen to the captain’s call on timing and safety.

Drinks for adults: limited, but actually refreshing

You’ll have refreshing drinks on board for free such as beer, water, and a bottle of cava. It’s limited and adult-only. That’s still a nice perk because it keeps the day from feeling like a constant “buy stuff to enjoy it” situation.

Bring water expectations with you: you have water included, plus additional supplies from the trip format aren’t guaranteed beyond what’s listed. If your group likes lots of soft drinks, consider planning ahead.

Price and value: is $838.78 for up to 9 a smart deal?

Let’s do the math in plain terms. With a max group size of 9, the cost is about:

• $93 per person if you fill all 9 spots

That’s the real value scenario: friends, family groups, or couples traveling with relatives. If you only have a couple of people and can’t fill the boat, the per-person cost rises quickly—and then the “private” part is more about comfort than savings.

What makes it feel fair anyway:

• Private route and stops for your group
• Included gear: goggles, bathroom, SUP
• A boat with practical comforts like fridge, ice, and charging
• Drinks included for adults (limited)

So I’d call it a good deal when you can fill most of the seats or when you’d otherwise pay for multiple separate experiences.

Getting to Rita’s Cantina in Sant Antoni: easy start, easy day plan

The meeting point is Rita’s Cantina, Carrer de Madrid, 1, 07820 Sant Antoni de Portmany. The location is set up for real-world access, including easy taxi pickup. It’s also near places to grab food and supplies.

One handy detail for your day: there are multiple restaurants nearby for breakfast or lunch plans before or after your boat time, plus a supermarket at the location area where you can buy snacks and snorkel add-ons. That matters because there’s no lunch included on the boat.

So the smart play is to do food and supplies before you head out. Then you can focus on swimming and not on hunting for a meal mid-day.

Captain service that affects the whole experience

The captain’s style changes the day, and this trip’s service comes through clearly. Jorge is highlighted for being an excellent host—friendly, communicative, and accommodating. People also mention feeling safe with him, and that’s huge when you’re on open water.

One extra nice touch: Jorge has been known to send recommendations for local restaurants for the rest of your Ibiza trip. That’s a small thing, but it can save you time when you’re trying to plan dinner later.

Also, there’s been at least one example of smooth recovery if something goes wrong on the operator side. One family experienced a boat change due to boat trouble with the original operator, and they were still taken out without losing the day.

Who this private Ibiza boat trip is best for

This is a strong fit for:

• Families who want a fun day break from clubbing without losing the “adventure” factor
• Couples who want privacy and swimming time without squeezing into group schedules
• Small groups of friends who can fill enough seats to make the private price feel justified
• Anyone who values comfort: sun deck, bathroom, fridge, and included gear

It’s less ideal if you’re expecting a long, slow sightseeing cruise all day. This is short and punchy—built around swim stops.

Should you book this private boat trip from Sant Antoni?

I’d book it if your ideal Ibiza day includes two real swimming stops, privacy for up to 9, and comfort on a proper boat with SUP and snorkeling goggles. The included drinks for adults, plus the solarium and Bluetooth sound, make it feel like a full “sea day,” not just a ride.

I’d think twice (or pack a little smarter) if:

• You want snorkel tubes included (they’re not)
• You’re relying on caves as the main goal and can’t handle the possibility of cave time shifting due to conditions
• Your group is small enough that you can’t spread the private price out

If you’re flexible and you’re ready to spend the hours on the water, this is the kind of tour that turns an ordinary vacation day into a highlight.

FAQ

How long is the private boat trip from Sant Antoni de Portmany?

It runs for about 3 hours 30 minutes.

How many people can join the private tour?

It’s private for your group, with up to 9 people.

What are the main stops during the trip?

You’ll visit caves and make swimming stops in Cala Bassa and Cala Comte.

What snorkeling gear is included?

You get snorkeling goggles, but they do not include snorkel tubes.

Are drinks included, and who can have them?

Yes. There are courtesy drinks on board for free: water, beer, and a bottle of cava. It’s limited and listed as only for adults.

Where do we meet for the tour?

The meeting point is Rita’s Cantina, Carrer de Madrid, 1, 07820 Sant Antoni de Portmany, Illes Balears, Spain.

What 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. Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund.