Ibiza: Cala Salada & North Cruise with Drinks & Snorkeling

Ibiza: Cala Salada & North Cruise with Drinks & Snorkeling — A Detailed Review

Taking a boat trip around Ibiza’s northern coast is one of those experiences that promises stunning scenery, a chance to cool off in crystal-clear waters, and a relaxed day away from the busy party scene. This particular cruise, offered by Float Ibiza and rated at a solid 4.5 out of 5 from over 750 reviews, checks a lot of boxes for travelers looking for a mix of relaxation, scenic sightseeing, and a bit of adventure.

What we love most about this tour is its combination of beautiful beaches, informative guides, and generous drinks — all at a surprisingly friendly price point of just $48 per person. The downside? It’s a full-day experience, so it might not suit travelers searching for a quick, party-style boat ride or those with limited time.

This trip is ideal for anyone wanting a balanced day of sightseeing, swimming, and relaxing with good company and drinks. Families, couples, or solo travelers wanting a taste of Ibiza’s untouched northern side will find plenty to enjoy here.

Key Points

• Incredible scenery and unspoiled coastline that you won’t find from land-based viewpoints
• Secluded swim stops at bays accessible only by boat — perfect for peaceful relaxation
• Informative guides provide interesting commentary about the islands and marine life
• All-inclusive drinks and snacks make the journey feel like a floating fiesta
• Flexible options to stay on the boat or explore beaches at Cala Salada and Saladeta
• Value for money with a 6-hour adventure that covers multiple highlights

An Authentic Ibiza Experience on the Water

This cruise offers a refreshing alternative to Ibiza’s well-known nightclub scene. Instead, it’s all about appreciating the island’s less-touched north coast. From the moment you meet at Float Ibiza’s kiosk in San Antonio, you get a sense of laid-back adventure. The check-in process is straightforward, and the boat, a charming double-decker catamaran, makes for a comfortable ride with enough shade and seating options.

You’ll be greeted with a selection of complimentary drinks and snacks—think fresh fruit, pastries, and sweets—plus an open bar featuring beer, sangria, cava, soft drinks, and water. Many reviewers rave about the “unlimited drinks” and good music—it’s the kind of vibe that makes the day feel special without feeling over-the-top.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Natural Aquarium Visit — A Peek at Marine Life

Your first stop is the Natural Aquarium, which is a quick but charming visit. Here, you get to see a variety of local sea life, and it’s a lovely introduction before heading out to the open water. According to reviews, the aquarium is small and can be a quick visit, but it adds a nice touch of marine education to the day. One reviewer mentioned, “The aquarium was very small (max 5 mins) but still nice to see,” which highlights it as a brief but worthwhile addition.

Cruising the North Coast & Ses Margalides

Next, the boat heads along the north coastline of Ibiza, with informative commentary from your guides, likely Sergio or Johnny based on reviews. Expect sweeping views of rugged cliffs, hidden coves, and the lush landscape that the southern party scene often overshadows. An especially praised aspect of this part is the insight into the area’s geography and marine environment.

Swim and Snorkel in a Secluded Bay

One of the highlights is the anchor at a secluded bay, only accessible by boat. This is where most guests jump into the water for a swim, snorkel, or to use the provided water toys like bodyboards and donuts. Reviewers describe the experience as “peaceful” and “like having a bay all to ourselves,” with some noting the clarity of the water and the abundance of marine life during snorkeling. As one guest put it, “The snorkeling was amazing! Very well looked after and the Cala was beautiful.”

Cala Salada & Saladeta — The Beaches of Ibiza

You’ll get ample free time to explore Cala Salada and Saladeta, both framed by dramatic cliffs and featuring soft white sands. Many mention how these beaches are perfect for relaxing, sunbathing, or grabbing a drink at the beach restaurant (which is not included but can be reserved). The reviews highlight that Cala Salada is easily accessible and has a lively atmosphere, especially if you go for a meal—serving as a bright spot amid the tranquil waters.

Some guests opt to stay on the boat for a more leisurely experience, enjoying the sunshine and drinks while cruising along the coast. The flexibility to stay or explore makes this trip adaptable for different preferences.

Return & Optional Extra

The boat departs around 5 PM, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the beaches or the water. If you prefer, you can stay on the boat and skip the beach stop, arriving back in San Antonio around 2 PM, which is great for those with tighter schedules or other plans.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

From the reviews, it’s clear that the guides—Sergio and Johnny—are a big part of the experience. Guests often mention how friendly and knowledgeable they are, making the day more engaging. The informative commentary enhances the scenic cruising, giving context about the coastline, marine environment, and the islands’ history.

The drinks and snacks on board are another highlight—many describe the “unlimited sangria, beer, and cava” as a perfect accompaniment to the sunbathing and swimming. The inclusion of snorkeling equipment, water toys, and paddleboards adds a fun, interactive element, especially for families or water sports enthusiasts.

The pricing of $48 is very reasonable considering the length (6 hours), the multiple stops, and the inclusions—making it a solid value for anyone wanting a full, relaxing, and scenic day out.

Considerations for Travelers

While many reviews emphasize the enjoyable aspects, it’s wise to note a few points. Some travelers found the aquarium visit rushed, and the snorkeling spots can get crowded, especially if several boats are in the same bay. The ground at Cala Salada can be rocky, so bringing sturdy shoes is recommended if you plan to explore the beaches.

Plus, the boat’s capacity is only filled to half, which helps maintain comfort, but might mean some groups feel the boat is a bit crowded during peak times. Also, if you prefer a longer time on the water rather than beach visits, opting out of the beach stop could be a better choice.

Practical Tips for Making the Most of the Tour

• Bring your own sunscreen—the sun can be intense, and the boat offers limited shaded seating.
• Reserve the beach restaurant in advance if you want to dine there; it’s not included in the tour and fills up quickly.
• Arrive early at the meeting point to secure a good spot and avoid last-minute stress.
• Bring your own towels and good walking shoes if you plan to explore the beaches, especially Cala Salada, which has rocky terrain.
• Take advantage of the water toys early in the swim stop—they tend to go quickly.
• Consider staying on the boat if you want a more relaxed experience of the scenic cruise without the busy beaches.

Final Thoughts

This Ibiza: Cala Salada & North Cruise with Drinks & Snorkeling offers a wonderful blend of scenic beauty, water-based fun, and laid-back luxury, all at an accessible price point. It’s especially great for those seeking a peaceful escape with the added bonus of informative guides, unlimited drinks, and snorkeling gear.

If you’re after an authentic experience that highlights the island’s quieter side—away from the clubs and crowds—this cruise hits the mark. The multiple positive reviews speak to its value, friendly atmosphere, and scenic appeal, making it a solid choice for families, couples, or solo travelers looking to enjoy Ibiza’s natural beauty.

This tour is perfect for anyone who wants a well-rounded, relaxing day with beautiful scenery and good company. It’s not a party boat, but rather a serene voyage that leaves you with lasting memories of Ibiza’s unspoiled north coast.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup available?
No, the tour does not include hotel pickup or drop-off. You should meet directly at the Float Your Boat kiosk in San Antonio.

What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, a towel, comfortable shoes for exploring beaches, and your own lunch if you prefer. The tour provides water, snacks, and drinks.

Can I stay on the boat instead of visiting the beaches?
Yes, you have the option to stay on the boat and skip the beach stop, arriving back at San Antonio around 2 PM.

How long is the cruise?
The total duration is approximately 6 hours, with the exact starting times depending on availability.

Are drinks included?
Yes, the tour includes an open bar with beer, sangria, cava, soft drinks, and water, plus snacks and fruit on board.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?
Yes, snorkeling gear, as well as water toys like bodyboards and donuts, are included.

Will there be guides or commentary?
Yes, guides provide informative commentary during the cruise, making stops and explaining the sights.

Are there any age restrictions?
The tour is suitable for all ages; reviews mention that it’s family-friendly with a good vibe for children, the elderly, and everyone in between.

In essence, this tour offers a wonderful, budget-friendly way to spend a day exploring Ibiza’s north coast. With so many positive reviews, it’s clear that it resonates with travelers seeking scenic views, snorkeling fun, and a relaxing atmosphere—making it well worth considering for your Ibiza itinerary.