REVIEW · IBIZA
San Antonio: Es Vedrà & Formentera Boat Tour with Snorkeling
Book on GetYourGuide →Operated by Cruceros Playa den Bossa (Aquabus) · Bookable on GetYourGuide
Es Vedrà looks like a movie set floating out of the sea, and this boat day is built around getting you those views. I like that the trip pairs big scenery with real on-water time: you’ll see Es Vedrà up close from the boat and you’ll have a snorkel stop with equipment included. I also love that you get Formentera time on your own, plus a proper on-board meal. One thing to consider: the snorkeling stop can be shorter than you’d wish if you’re hoping to spend ages in the water.
From San Antonio harbour, you head along the west coast of Ibiza, then break the day into three chunks: Es Vedrà viewing, Espalmador snorkeling (and paella onboard), and Formentera exploration before the boat brings you back at sunset.
In This Review
- Key things I’d plan around
- Es Vedrà and Formentera by boat: the day trip that feels bigger than it is
- Meeting point in San Antonio harbour: get your bearings fast
- Skirting Ibiza’s west coast for Es Vedrà: where the best photos happen
- Espalmador stop and snorkeling gear: good water time, but manage expectations
- Formentera on your own: the freedom part, with guidance that helps
- Paella on board plus drinks and snacks: the included meal that actually matters
- Sunset return from the boat: the payoff without planning
- Price and value: is $146 per person worth it?
- Who this tour suits best (and who might want another option)
- Should you book it?
- FAQ
- Where is the meeting point for the tour?
- Where does the tour end?
- What’s included in the tour?
- Do I need to bring snorkeling gear?
- Do I visit Formentera with the group, or explore on my own?
- Can I choose where I depart from?
- What languages does the host or greeter speak?
- How long is the tour and are there fixed times?
Key things I’d plan around

- Es Vedrà sightings from the water: you’re not just looking at it from shore.
- Espalmador snorkeling stop: included gear so you can focus on the sea.
- Formentera on your own: you’ll get spot recommendations and rental advice.
- Paella on board: an included meal that saves time and money.
- Sunset from the boat: a built-in, low-effort payoff for the day.
Es Vedrà and Formentera by boat: the day trip that feels bigger than it is

If you like your Ibiza in postcard form, this tour is made for you. Es Vedrà is the main character here: a mysterious-looking rock/islet that rises straight out of the Mediterranean. Watching it from the boat gives you the best angles because you’re moving along the coastline instead of standing still and squinting.
What makes the day work well is the pacing. You’re not stuck doing one activity for hours. You get:
- sea views and island angles during the cruise
- a snorkel window at Espalmador
- a chunk of independent time on Formentera
- a sunset finish back on the water
That mix is why this feels worth your time, even if you only have one day.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Ibiza.
Meeting point in San Antonio harbour: get your bearings fast

You start at the Excursiones Ibiza ticket office in the harbour of San Antonio, Ibiza. The end point is the same place. It’s a simple setup: arrive at the port, check in, then find your boat and crew.
One practical detail that matters: this is a “valid 1 day” experience with starting times that vary by availability. So you’ll want to pick a departure time that makes sense for your Formentera plans, since the rest of the day will follow that schedule.
The host or greeter is available in English and Spanish, which is helpful if you have questions about where to go on Formentera once you get off the boat.
Skirting Ibiza’s west coast for Es Vedrà: where the best photos happen

After you board, the boat tracks along the entire west coast of Ibiza. That matters because you’ll see the coastline in motion—headlands, coves, and the kind of sea colors you only really appreciate when you’re not stationary.
Then comes the Es Vedrà focus. You’ll get viewing time from the water, including stretches where the island looks almost unreal against the horizon. Based on the feedback I’ve seen about the day, the Es Vedrà viewing portion is a standout moment—people love how close the boat can get and how clearly you can understand the scale.
Plan tip: if you’re chasing photos, bring your phone/camera up before you think you need it. These angles change fast as the boat lines up with coves and cliffs.
Espalmador stop and snorkeling gear: good water time, but manage expectations

Between Ibiza and Formentera is Espalmador, and the tour includes a stop there. This is also where snorkeling fits into the day. You’ll have snorkeling equipment included, which is a big deal: you don’t have to buy or rent gear separately, and you can spend that time actually looking at the seabed.
What you should know before you plan your expectations: one of the most common sentiments is that the overall day is great, but some people wish they had a bit more time at the snorkeling spot so they could do both—snorkel longer and enjoy Formentera more at a relaxed pace. In other words, treat snorkeling as a highlight window rather than an all-day underwater session.
How to make the most of the snorkeling stop
- Go in calm. The seas can be breezy around the islands, so use the first minutes to get comfortable.
- Don’t wait too long to check what you’re seeing. If the crew keeps you moving, earlier is better.
- Keep an eye on the time. If you linger too much, you’ll feel it later when you’re on Formentera.
Formentera on your own: the freedom part, with guidance that helps

After Espalmador, you’ll visit Formentera on your own. That’s a key difference from many tours. Instead of being herded to beaches, you’ll get recommendations for the best spots and advice about bike or car rentals so you can shape your day once you’re on the island.
This works well for two kinds of travelers:
- People who want beaches and views, but not a strict schedule
- People who want to explore at their own pace, without losing the boat connection
To use your time well, think in terms of what you want most on Formentera:
- quick beach and photo stops
- a longer stretch of walking along the water
- a bike-or-car day where you hop between viewpoints
What I’d do on arrival (simple plan)
- Start with one “big” viewpoint or beach recommended by your guide.
- Then pick a second stop that’s close by. You don’t want to spend your day trapped in transit.
Also, since you’re off on your own, don’t rely on buying everything last minute. Pack what you’ll need for several hours: swimwear, sunscreen, water, and a way to keep your stuff dry while you’re out.
Paella on board plus drinks and snacks: the included meal that actually matters

Food at sea can be hit or miss on group tours. Here, it’s a highlight. The tour includes paella on board, along with drinks and snacks.
People also comment on the paella being genuinely delicious, and one review notes that portions were generous. That’s not just about taste—it’s about value and timing. You’re not scrambling to find lunch during the most scenic part of the day, and you won’t end up spending time and money on a separate meal just to get back on schedule.
Practical takeaway for your day: eat with a little strategy. If you want energy for Formentera, don’t wait until you’re famished. Enjoy the paella, drink some water, and then you’ll feel better when it’s time to roam.
Sunset return from the boat: the payoff without planning

After your Formentera time, you’ll return to San Antonio and get to view the sunset from the boat. This is one of those “included” moments that feels like a bonus because you’re not trying to find a sunset spot or fight for a good view.
There’s also a hint of something special in the way the day closes. Feedback suggests that the boat can approach a cove setting for the sunset moment, which makes the last part feel more cinematic than a basic cruise.
Why sunset-from-the-boat works for many people
- You avoid the logistical stress of getting to a viewpoint at the right time
- You’re already organized for the return
- The boat setting changes the light and perspective in a way shore stops can’t
Price and value: is $146 per person worth it?

At about $146 per person, this isn’t a “cheap and cheerful” deal. The value comes from what’s bundled together.
You’re getting:
- boat time that covers multiple key sights (Ibiza west coast, Es Vedrà area)
- a stop at Espalmador for snorkeling
- snorkeling equipment included
- paella plus drinks and snacks on board
- a Formentera visit with recommendations and rental advice
- the sunset return from the boat
If you tried to recreate the day on your own, you’d likely spend time coordinating transport and tours, then pay separately for food and equipment. Here, the tour does that work for you, and you trade some control of your exact timing for a smoother experience.
So I’d call the price fair if you value convenience and want a single-day plan that hits Es Vedrà, snorkel time, and Formentera without extra planning.
Who this tour suits best (and who might want another option)

This tour fits you if:
- you want a one-day hit of Es Vedrà and Formentera without juggling logistics
- you like snorkeling enough to want included gear and a planned stop
- you enjoy food included in the middle of a full itinerary
- you’re happy to spend part of the day exploring independently
You might reconsider if:
- you want long, slow snorkeling sessions with lots of time underwater
- you prefer fully guided time on Formentera (this one gives you guidance, then freedom)
- you don’t like split days where you’re moving between places and then switching gears
Should you book it?
Book it if your ideal Ibiza day includes sea views that feel special, a planned snorkeling stop, and a real break where you can decide what to do on Formentera. The best part is the mix: you get guided structure without losing the freedom to explore.
I’d also book it if you’re the type who hates spending a vacation day on chores like meal planning and gear rental. The included paella, drinks, snacks, and snorkeling equipment remove a bunch of friction.
If you’re still deciding, think about this question: do you want one organized day that hits the headline sights, or do you want to build a custom Formentera schedule from scratch? This tour is for the first group.
FAQ
Where is the meeting point for the tour?
The tour starts at the Excursiones Ibiza ticket office in the harbour of San Antonio, Ibiza.
Where does the tour end?
The activity ends back at the meeting point in the harbour of San Antonio.
What’s included in the tour?
It includes paella on board, drinks and snacks, and snorkeling equipment.
Do I need to bring snorkeling gear?
No. Snorkeling equipment is included with the tour.
Do I visit Formentera with the group, or explore on my own?
You visit Formentera on your own, and you’ll receive recommendations for the best spots to visit and advice about bike or car rentals.
Can I choose where I depart from?
Yes. You can select to depart from San Antonio or Ibiza Town.
What languages does the host or greeter speak?
The host or greeter speaks English and Spanish.
How long is the tour and are there fixed times?
It’s a valid 1-day experience. Starting times can vary, so you’ll need to check availability for the schedule.

























