Ibiza: Tour of the island of Ibiza and swimming in Formentera

Exploring Ibiza beyond its famous nightlife can be a real eye-opener, and this boat tour offers just that—an immersive day across the island’s most beautiful spots. For around $187 per person, you get a full 12-hour adventure that takes you from Ibiza’s lively coasts to the tranquil waters of Formentera, with plenty of chances to swim, relax, and soak in breathtaking scenery.

One of the standout features of this tour is the opportunity to visit Formentera, often considered the quieter, more pristine sibling of Ibiza, with its white sand beaches and crystal-clear waters. Another plus is the knowledgeable crew and guides, who help you navigate the best spots and make the most of your day on the water. But, as with any adventure, there are some considerations—like the comfort level on a full boat and the timetable that might leave some wanting more time at key locations.

This experience is perfect for travelers who love a mix of sightseeing, beach lounging, and swimming. If you’re after a detailed, well-organized day out that offers both scenic views and a taste of local island life, this tour could be just right. However, if you prefer more flexibility or luxurious amenities, it’s worth weighing those factors.

Key Points

• Comprehensive island exploration: Discover Ibiza’s coastline and Formentera’s scenic beaches on a single day.
• Swimming & water activities: Enjoy free time to swim, snorkel, or paddleboard in crystal waters.
• Expert guides: Knowledgeable crew and guides enhance the experience with insights and assistance.
• Value for money: A full-day tour that includes meals, drinks, and activities at a competitive price.
• Mixed reviews on comfort: Some find the boat’s seating arrangements less comfortable for long hours.
• Ideal for active travelers: Suitable for those who enjoy a dynamic, full-day outing with plenty of swimming and sightseeing.

A Deep Dive into the Ibiza & Formentera Boat Tour Experience

Starting Point and Duration

The tour begins at a conveniently accessible meeting point—the pontoon next to the commercial docks in Botafoch, just before the large ferry terminal. The whole adventure lasts approximately 12 hours, making it a substantial part of your day but packed with varied experiences.

The timing is flexible based on availability, with departures usually in the morning and returning in the evening. This length allows you to cover both islands extensively, with a good balance between travel, sightseeing, and relaxation.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Departure and the Cruise to Formentera

From the start, we appreciated the friendly, helpful crew who set a welcoming tone. The boat itself is described as well-equipped, providing enough space for most guests, though some reviews mention that the seating can get crowded—especially on a full boat, with only four berths available for overnight guests.

The cruise from Ibiza to Formentera takes about an hour, during which you can enjoy drinks and breakfast provided on board. The experience here sets the tone for the day: relaxed but lively, with music, good company, and scenic views.

Arriving at Es Trocadors

At noon, the boat docks at Es Trocadors, a beautiful beach nestled between Espalmador and Illetas. This spot is praised for its white sand and turquoise waters, making it a perfect place to jump in and cool off. You’ll have around three hours of free time on this beach, enough to swim, sunbathe, or rent paddleboards, snorkel gear, and tubes.

One of the more appreciated aspects, noted by travelers, is the quality of the swimming conditions—crystal-clear waters, gentle waves, and picturesque surroundings. However, some reviewers felt that the timing was a bit tight, with the swimming session coming late in the day, which might limit some travelers’ enjoyment.

Exploring Formentera

After reboarding at 3:30 p.m., you get an additional three hours to explore the island at your own pace. This free time is praised for allowing travelers to wander, take photos, or visit local spots. You might find this a highlight, especially if you enjoy discovering less-touristy corners on your own.

Some reviews mention that guides are helpful with recommendations, and the overall vibe is casual and friendly. The flexibility gives you a taste of Formentera’s charm, from its quiet beaches to local eateries.

Food and Drinks

The tour includes breakfast, lunch, and dinner, along with drinks throughout the day. The onboard food has garnered mixed reviews—while some travelers enjoyed the plenty of drinks and well-organized service, others found the meal options somewhat lacking. The lunch is typically a paella, which many found tasty but perhaps a bit sparse considering the length of the trip.

One reviewer noted the food could be better, suggesting more vegetarian options or salads would improve the experience. The availability of drinks and snacks helps keep everyone refreshed during the long day.

The Return Journey

Leaving Formentera around 7 p.m., the boat heads back to Ibiza, offering a chance to relax and enjoy the sunset views. The experience of sailing back with the dusk settling over the water is often described as magical—perfect for unwinding after a busy day.

The Pros and Cons: What You Need to Know

Pros

• Scenic vistas: The tour offers plenty of chances to see Ibiza’s coastline and Formentera’s iconic beaches, with views that are often described as stunning.
• Swimming opportunities: The time at Es Trocadors is ideal for cooling off in crystal-clear waters.
• Knowledgeable crew: Guests frequently praise the crew for their friendliness and helpfulness, which makes the day more enjoyable.
• All-inclusive convenience: Meals, drinks, snorkeling equipment—everything is provided, making it a hassle-free experience.

Cons

• Comfort on the boat: Some reviews mention that the seating can be uncomfortable for a full 12-hour trip, especially with limited berths and many guests sitting on benches or the floor.
• Timing of swimming: The swim at Formentera comes late in the day, which can cause disappointment if you’re eager for more beach time.
• Food quality: While sufficient, the food might not meet everyone’s expectations, especially for vegetarians or those seeking more variety.
• Group size: With a full boat, some travelers found the experience less intimate, though others enjoyed the lively atmosphere.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you enjoy a full day of sightseeing combined with swimming and relaxing on beaches, this tour delivers a memorable experience. It’s particularly suited for those who appreciate guided excursions with all logistics taken care of—you can focus on enjoying the scenery and water activities without worrying about transportation or meals.

Travelers who want a balance of adventure and comfort will find this tour appealing, especially since it’s designed to showcase the best of Ibiza and Formentera in one day. However, if you’re looking for luxurious amenities or a more flexible, unstructured day, you might want to consider other options or private tours.

This trip is also well-suited for families, couples, and groups of friends who enjoy outdoor activities and scenic views but don’t mind a busy schedule. The presence of a friendly crew and good organization makes it accessible, even for first-time visitors.

Final Thoughts

This Ibiza and Formentera boat tour offers a comprehensive, well-organized way to see the islands’ highlights in a single day. It combines scenic cruising, swimming in clear waters, and exploring at your own pace, all with the added convenience of included meals and drinks.

While it may not be perfect for those seeking luxury or ultra-comfort, it delivers excellent value by packing plenty of memorable moments into 12 hours. The reviews highlight the stunning views, helpful guides, and delicious food as some of the main reasons to book.

For travelers eager to capture the essence of Ibiza and Formentera in one trip, this tour is a solid choice—adventure, relaxation, and island exploration rolled into one.

FAQ

What is the meeting point for the tour?
The tour departs from a pontoon next to the commercial docks in Botafoch, right before the ferry terminal for large ferries.

How long is the entire tour?
The experience lasts approximately 12 hours, from departure in the morning to return in the evening.

What’s included in the price?
The price covers drinks, breakfast, lunch, dinner, and snorkeling equipment, providing a full day of activities and sustenance.

What are the main highlights of the tour?
Highlights include a boat tour of Ibiza, swimming in Formentera at Es Trocadors, and viewing Es Vedrà, one of the most magical islands in the world.

Is there enough time for swimming and relaxing?
Yes, you get about three hours at Es Trocadors for swimming, sunbathing, or water sports, and three hours to explore Formentera on your own.

Are the guides knowledgeable?
Yes, reviews mention the crew and guides as friendly, helpful, and well-informed, enhancing the experience.

How is the food onboard?
The food is generally okay—enjoyable but sometimes considered limited or basic. The paella for lunch is a common feature.

What about the boat’s comfort?
Some travelers find the seating arrangements less comfortable for the full 12 hours, with limited berths and some sitting on benches or the floor.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is this tour suitable for children or families?
Many reviews mention family groups enjoying the trip, especially with the water activities and friendly crew. It’s a lively but family-friendly experience.

In summary, this boat tour offers a fantastic way to see Ibiza’s coastline and the pristine beaches of Formentera, perfect for those who want a full, active day with plenty of swimming and scenic views. While some comfort and food expectations vary, the overall experience promises memorable sights and enjoyable water fun for most travelers.