Ibiza: Formentera Trip w/ Paella, BBQ, Open Bar, Sports & DJ

If you’re planning a day on the water in Ibiza, the Formentera trip with a luxury catamaran offers a compelling mix of scenic beauty, delicious food, and lively entertainment. This full-day experience, priced around $88 per person, promises nearly 10 hours of sailing, exploring, and relaxing, with a variety of water activities and a chance to see some of the most stunning beaches in Europe.

What makes this tour particularly appealing is its all-inclusive nature—think buffet breakfast, a full-fledged paella lunch, a BBQ dinner, plus open bars with premium cocktails depending on your ticket choice. The chance to visit Ses Illetes, ranked the 4th best beach in Europe, and Espalmador island, a natural reserve, truly sets this trip apart. Our review highlights what you’ll love, what you might want to consider, and the kind of traveler this tour suits best.

A key highlight that we love is the combination of luxury and authentic experiences. The VIP catamaran is spacious and well-equipped, providing comfort and style throughout the long day. The water sports—paddleboarding, snorkeling, and seabobs—are included, making it easy to stay active and entertained. Plus, the live DJ in the afternoon keeps the energy high as you cruise back to Ibiza.

On the flip side, some travelers note that availability of VIP beds can be limited or optional, and the standard ticket doesn’t include paella or premium drinks, which could impact those seeking a more indulgent experience. This trip seems best suited for those who value good food, scenic beaches, and lively atmosphere over a more secluded, quiet escape.

Key Points

• All-Inclusive Luxury Experience — From breakfast to BBQ dinner, with open bars and water sports.
• Visit Top Beaches — Ses Illetes and Espalmador are highlights, with clear waters perfect for swimming and snorkeling.
• Flexible Ticket Options — Standard, Advance, and Premium, catering to different tastes and budgets.
• Expert Guides and Friendly Crew — Multilingual guides and attentive staff, with reviews praising their helpfulness.
• Long, Well-Planned Day — Nearly 10 hours from start to finish, with plenty of time in each location.
• Excellent Value for Money — Especially considering the food, drinks, water sports, and stunning scenery included.

This tour offers a comprehensive package that caters to those looking to indulge in a luxurious day out without the hassle of organizing transport, meals, or activities. From the moment you meet at the designated point in Ibiza, you’re stepping into a spacious and stylish catamaran, ready for a day of exploration. The trip lasts from around 9 am to 7:15 pm, covering the best parts of Formentera and its surrounding beaches.

What sets this experience apart is the balance of relaxation and activity. You’ll start with a buffet breakfast onboard, which includes tropical fruits, pastries, and hot options, setting the tone for a day of leisurely enjoyment. The boat itself feels like a floating boutique—comfortable, clean, and designed for socializing, with plenty of space to lounge or dance.

The Itinerary: How the Day Unfolds

Morning Departure and Scenic Cruise

Your day begins with boarding at the meeting point, followed by a one-hour scenic cruise along Ibiza’s coast. This is a great chance to get familiar with the boat and enjoy the views of the island’s rugged shoreline. Guides are multilingual, offering interesting insights into Ibiza’s history and sights along the way.

First Stop: Espalmador Island

The first swim stop takes you to Espalmador, a pristine, unspoiled natural reserve. Here, you can snorkel, paddleboard, or simply relax on the white sands. Reviews mention the “unspoiled natural beauty and white sand beaches”, with some guests noting it’s like having your own private paradise. The water is calm and clear, perfect for underwater exploration with provided snorkel gear or seabobs.

Second Stop: Ses Illetes Beach

After Espalmador, the boat anchors in front of Ses Illetes, ranked among Europe’s top beaches by TripAdvisor. Expect beautiful turquoise waters and soft sand. Guests often describe this as the highlight for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports. With about 1.5 hours here, you’ll have time for paddleboarding, snorkeling, or simply soaking up the sun while enjoying the breathtaking scenery.

Exploring Formentera

The remaining five hours are dedicated to exploring Formentera itself. You’re free to wander the island, rent a scooter, or relax on the beaches. The tour provides an opportunity to discover this small but charming island, famous for its tranquil vibe and stunning landscapes. Some reviews mention renting bikes or scooters independently to explore further, although that’s an optional extra.

Return Journey with Music and Drinks

The late afternoon cruise back to Ibiza features a DJ playing lively tunes, adding a festive atmosphere. The all-inclusive open bar kicks in, with the Premium ticket offering cocktails like mojitos, caipiroskas, Bellinis, and more—a real treat for those who enjoy a good cocktail. Guests say the drinks are generous and well-made, with some noting the “best mojito” and “excellent wine selection”.

One of the biggest wins is the inclusion of water sports at both swim stops. Paddleboarding is lively and accessible, even for beginners, while snorkeling offers a chance to see marine life in crystal waters. Some reviews highlight how fun and easy it is to try seabobs or underwater scooters, which add an extra layer of adventure without extra cost.

Guests particularly appreciate the swim stop at Ses Illetes, often describing it as “incredible,” with clear waters perfect for marine viewing. Some even mention a water slide onboard, adding a splash of fun for families or those young at heart.

The meals onboard are a major talking point. Depending on your ticket, you can enjoy homemade paella—seafood, chicken, or vegetarian—served with salad, bread, and dessert. Many reviewers rave about the quality and flavor, with comments like “delicious paella” and “best food I had in Ibiza.” The BBQ dinner includes chicken, burgers, sausages, and vegetables, all served with sauces and sides, making it a satisfying end to a day in the sun.

The open bar is equally praised. The Premium package offers a variety of cocktails, with reviews mentioning the quality and variety of drinks. Soft drinks, juices, and beers are also available, ensuring everyone stays refreshed.

Is it good value?

Given the inclusive meals, drinks, water sports, and the stunning locations visited, many guests feel they receive excellent value for money. The reviews mention that the experience exceeds expectations—especially considering the long duration and all that’s included.

Several guests highlight the knowledgeable guides and friendly crew. Angie and Antonella, in particular, are praised for their attentiveness and helpfulness—some reviews call them the “life of the boat.” They keep the atmosphere lively and ensure everyone is well taken care of, which adds to the overall positive vibe.

The multilingual guides ensure that international guests feel comfortable and informed, making the experience smooth and enjoyable regardless of language barriers.

• Ticket choice matters: The Standard ticket is more budget-friendly but excludes paella and premium drinks. Those seeking a more indulgent experience should consider the Advance or Premium options.
• Arrive early: The departure is around 9 am, so getting there a little earlier ensures smooth boarding.
• Bring essentials: Swimwear, towels, sunscreen, and a hat are must-haves. A passport or ID is needed for boarding.
• Consider optional extras: VIP beds are available starting from €100 but are subject to availability. Renting bikes or scooters for independent exploration is an extra cost.
• Be prepared for a long day: It’s a full 10-hour experience, so comfortable clothing and a good mood are recommended.

This trip is ideal for travelers who love a mix of comfort and adventure. If you’re after beautiful beaches, water sports, and a lively onboard atmosphere, it will satisfy. The all-inclusive meals and drinks make it a stress-free option, perfect for groups, couples, or solo travelers looking to socialize.

It’s also well-suited for those who want to explore Formentera without the hassle of planning, as the tour handles transportation, meals, and activities. However, if you prefer a more secluded or quiet day, this more lively, social experience might not be perfect.

Families with kids, especially those who enjoy water sports, will find this tour particularly fun, though the long hours might need managing for smaller children. The guided excursions and easy access to beaches make it manageable and enjoyable for most.

This luxury catamaran trip to Formentera delivers a well-rounded experience—beautiful scenery, quality food, water sports, and lively music—at a reasonable price. It’s perfect for those who want a full day of relaxation and adventure packed into one seamless package. The friendly guides and staff, combined with the stunning locations and generous drinks, make it a memorable outing.

While the ticket options allow for personalization, the overall value is clear: you get a lot of fun, comfort, and stunning views for your money. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion, craving a lively beach day, or just want to see some of the best parts of Ibiza and Formentera, this tour covers all the bases.

If you’re happy to spend a day in the company of good food, good drinks, and great scenery, this trip ticks all the boxes. It’s especially recommended for travelers who enjoy water sports, social atmospheres, and exploring iconic beaches without the fuss of logistics.

How long is the tour?
The full experience lasts approximately 10 hours, from around 9 am to 7:15 pm, including cruising, beach stops, meals, and activities.

What are the ticket options?
There are three options—Standard, Advance, and Premium—each offering different levels of drinks, meals, and inclusions like paella and premium cocktails.

Are water sports included?
Yes, paddleboarding, snorkeling, and seabobs are included at both swim stops, making it easy to stay active in the water.

Is the food good?
Guests consistently praise the quality of the meals, especially the homemade paella, with some saying it’s the best food they had in Ibiza.

Can I explore Formentera independently?
Yes, you’re free to rent bikes or scooters to explore after arriving, although that’s an additional expense and not included in the tour.

What is the atmosphere onboard?
The boat is lively, with a DJ playing in the afternoon, and guided by friendly staff who keep the energy high and guests entertained.

Is this suitable for families?
Yes, water sports and beaches appeal to families, but keep in mind the long day might need some planning for younger children.

This experience offers a thoughtful blend of comfort, fun, and scenic beauty that makes it a standout choice for anyone wanting to enjoy Ibiza and Formentera without sacrificing quality or convenience.