Formentera by boat feels unfair, in a good way. This private catamaran day centers on Ses Illetes Beach and gives you your own captain, your own rhythm, and time to swim and snorkel from the sea—not the parking lot. If you get a skipper like Martín (a name that shows up again and again), expect friendly guidance and hands-on help with the day’s best spots.

I like that it’s set up for comfort and ease: you’ll have snorkel equipment and a stand-up paddleboard (SUP) on board, plus Megaboom Bluetooth speakers and relaxing spots on the bows. Second, the “private charter” part is real—this is for up to 12 people, so the day doesn’t feel rushed by a crowd or shuffled by someone else’s schedule.

One thing to consider: lunch is not included, and you may still want to bring extra water or snacks. Also, because it’s private, it matters that your catamaran and access match what you expect—ask clear questions before you go.

Key highlights you’ll actually feel during the day

• Ses Illetes Beach focus: your main goal is the beach with that signature pale sand and clear water.
• Onboard snorkel + SUP: you’re not waiting around for rental counters or hauling gear from shore.
• Captain-led cove time: the route is about finding swim-ready spots, not ticking a list.
• Comfort extras: onboard Wi‑Fi, Bluetooth speakers, and nets/pulpits for lounging.
• Private for up to 12: easier conversation, quicker decisions, and less time negotiating with a crowd.
• Return to the same meeting area: less stress than multi-stop drop-offs.

Entering Formentera by private catamaran: why it’s worth the money

Ibiza gets most of the headlines, but the showstopper in this plan is Formentera. And by the time you’re offshore, the whole vibe changes. The beaches you can admire from land turn into places you can reach directly—jump in when the water looks right, snorkel when you feel like it, then dry off and reset without dragging a bag around.

This tour is priced per group (up to 12), and that matters. In a full group, the cost per person becomes more reasonable than you’d think for a day charter with gear, insurance coverage, and a skipper. In smaller groups, you’re paying more, but you’re also buying time, privacy, and the flexibility to follow your captain’s instincts.

What I especially like about a private setup is control. You can talk to the skipper about what you want—calm swimming, quick snorkel sessions, a relaxed pace, or more time near the beach. When you’re not sharing the boat with strangers, that conversation actually happens.

Meeting at Es Xarcu (Restaurante Playa) and timing your 10:00 start

Your day begins at Es Xarcu (Restaurante Playa), Cala Es Xarco, Sant Josep de sa Talaia. Start time is 10:00am, and the trip ends back at the same meeting point—easy on your schedule, fewer surprises at the end of the day.

Since this is a boat charter, I’d treat arrival like you would a flight: don’t show up right on the minute. Give yourself buffer time to find the meeting spot and get settled. The listing says you’re near public transportation, which is helpful if you’re not driving, but for a smooth boarding day, arriving early beats sprinting down a coastline.

Also, keep in mind this is a 7-hour tour (approx.). That’s long enough to enjoy Formentera properly, but it’s still a day at sea—so plan your day around the water time, not around squeezing in extra stops afterward.

Your catamaran setup: snorkel, SUP, speakers, Wi‑Fi, and space to hang out

This charter isn’t just “a boat with a ride.” It’s built around active water time and comfort.

Here’s what you can expect included on board:

• Snorkel equipment: so you can hop in without organizing a separate rental.
• Stand-up paddleboard (SUP): great for flat, calm stretches near the islands.
• Megaboom Bluetooth speakers: for music without turning the day into a loud party.
• Onboard Wi‑Fi: handy if you want to send photos, check messaging, or just stay connected.
• Nets and bow seating: the kind of lounging that makes you forget your hotel bed existed.
• Final cleaning and required insurance/taxes handled: less admin stress before you leave.

I like how the “small comforts” add up. Bow seating and nets make it easier to rotate between soaking up sun and taking a break. The speakers help if your group wants a soundtrack, but the day still works even if you keep it quiet. And Wi‑Fi is a nice bonus when you’re out all day and need the basics (maps, messaging, checking if dinner plans changed).

Playa de Ses Illetes: what you should do once you arrive

Ses Illetes is the reason a lot of people make the trip to Formentera. On this charter, it’s your main beach stop, and it’s set up for you to enjoy it the way it’s meant to be enjoyed: from the water and with time to actually be there.

What I recommend when you get to Ses Illetes:

• First swim, then decide: jump in early to judge the water and visibility. If it’s calm, snorkel right away.
• Use the snorkel equipment immediately: you’ve got it on board for a reason—don’t save it for later “just in case.”
• Try SUP if conditions look flat: it’s one of the easiest ways to enjoy the water without swimming nonstop.
• Build in downtime: even the best beach day gets better when you alternate swimming with resting in the shade or lounging near the boat.

One neat reality of this beach: the water is famous for clarity, and it’s the kind of place where a quick swim turns into a whole experience. You’ll also have the option to relax and sunbathe as the day goes on, rather than turning the beach visit into a photo sprint.

Possible drawback: if your group wants a big, timed beach experience on shore (like a long beach walk or a full lunch on land), note that lunch is not included. You’ll likely need to bring or buy food elsewhere, so plan a snack strategy.

How the day typically flows between beach and open water

The itinerary is built around more than just one beach. You’ll have time on board for setup, sailing, and multiple “water moments” like swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing.

Because your skipper controls the plan while you’re out there, the day often feels more “guided by conditions” than “driven by a schedule.” That’s where private charters can shine. If the captain finds calm water or a good snorkel area, you usually get to use it.

In particular, many groups end up enjoying extra scenic time such as:

• quieter coves for swimming
• snorkeling stops that don’t require shore logistics
• and, depending on timing and weather, a sunset-style finish at sea

If that sounds like what you want—flexibility, water time, and not feeling trapped by a rigid timetable—this is the format.

Weather still matters, though. If the day gets choppy, your captain may shift where you swim or how you use the SUP/snorkel time. That’s normal anywhere on the Med in open water.

Price and value: what $3,399.57 per group really buys

The price is $3,399.57 per group (up to 12). That’s the headline number, but the value is in what’s included.

You’re getting:

• a skipper
• snorkel gear and SUP
• onboard Wi‑Fi and speakers
• onboard seating/nets for relaxing
• taxes and required insurance
• embarkation/disembarkation from designated meeting points
• final cleaning

Lunch is not included, and soft drinks/mineral water aren’t guaranteed in unlimited amounts (the provider says they try), so treat food as your responsibility for the day.

So when does it feel like a good deal?

• If your group is near the full 12-person size, the cost per person becomes much easier to swallow.
• If you care about water access (snorkel/SUP from the boat) and a skipper who helps you get the most out of the day, you’re paying for convenience and time saved.
• If you’ve done beach days by land before, you’ll notice the difference: fewer logistics, more actual time in the water, and less “where do we park and carry everything” energy.

When it might not be a perfect fit:

• If you want a low-cost outing and don’t care about snorkel/SUP or onboard comfort, a private charter will be more than you need.

Who this tour suits best (and who might prefer something else)

This is a strong match if you want:

• a private day with up to 12 people
• snorkeling and SUP as part of the plan
• plenty of downtime (lounging on the boat counts)
• a flexible captain who helps find great swim spots

It’s also a decent option for families and mixed-age groups, because the water time can be scaled. Everyone can participate in the moments they enjoy, and the boat makes it easier for slower pace travelers to still have fun.

If you’re the kind of traveler who wants strict shore-based time—long walks, museum stops, scheduled meals on land—this charter is less about that and more about sea time.

Small watch-outs: lunch, boat expectations, and keeping the day smooth

Two practical notes before you book.

1) Lunch isn’t included.

Plan for snacks or a meal you’ll pick up elsewhere. Even if you’re the type who forgets lunch until you’re hungry, bring the basics anyway—your day will run smoother.

2) Private charters depend on the exact vessel and its condition.

One past experience described an issue where the actual boat didn’t match expectations and access to parts of the catamaran was limited. I can’t predict your boat, but you can protect yourself: ask what’s included onboard in plain terms, confirm the vessel details you’re being assigned, and double-check what access is available during the day.

Other practical factors you can plan for:

• Bring swimwear that dries quickly.
• Sunscreen (and reapply) matters when you’re out for about 7 hours.
• If you use reef-friendly habits, stick to them—snorkeling spots go better when the water stays healthy.

Should you book the Ses Illetes catamaran private tour?

If you’re imagining a Formentera day with minimal logistics, maximum water time, and a private feel for up to 12 people, I think this is a solid booking choice—especially given the high satisfaction scores (a 4.9 rating and 98% recommended based on the provided feedback).

Book it if:

• you value privacy and a skipper-led route
• you want snorkel gear + SUP included
• you like the idea of resting on a boat and switching between swimming and lounging

Skip it (or at least consider other options) if:

• you want lunch handled for you
• your group wants long shore activities
• you’re sensitive to the need to verify the specific boat condition and access

If you do book, do the smart prep: arrive early for the 10:00am start at Es Xarcu, bring a food plan for the day, and ask any vessel/access questions up front. Then let the captain do the captain part.

FAQ

How long is the Ses Illetes Beach Formentera catamaran private tour?

It runs for about 7 hours.

What’s the group size for this private tour?

It’s a private tour for your group, with a capacity of up to 12 people.

Where do we meet for the tour?

The start point is Es Xarcu (Restaurante Playa), S/N, Cala Es Xarco, 07839 Sant Josep de sa Talaia, Illes Balears, Spain. The tour ends back at the same meeting point.

What time does the tour start?

The start time is 10:00am.

Is pickup included?

The experience indicates that pickup is offered.

What’s included on board?

Included items are snorkel equipment and a SUP board, Megaboom Bluetooth speakers, onboard Wi‑Fi, nets to relax on, and the enthusiastic skipper. Taxes/required insurance and final cleaning are included too.

What isn’t included in the price?

Lunch is not included. The provider notes they try to have soft drinks and mineral water on board, but you can bring what you want.

Do I need a printed ticket?

You’ll use a mobile ticket.

What’s the cancellation policy?

This experience is non-refundable and can’t be changed for any reason. If you cancel or request an amendment, you won’t get your paid amount refunded.

Is the tour friendly for people with mobility needs or service animals?

Most travelers can participate. Service animals are allowed, and it’s listed as near public transportation.