About this tour
When Lily from our team booked this catamaran sail from Ibiza to Formentera, we got six hours of proper island hopping on a private boat. You're looking at cruising between two Balearic islands, stopping at coves that feel genuinely untouched, swimming in clear water, and timing it so you catch the sunset from the deck. It's the kind of day that works whether you're after a relaxed float or keen to actually explore — small enough groups that the skipper knows what you're after, big enough boat that there's space to move.
Highlights
- Private catamaran means no fighting for deck space or anchoring spots
- SUP paddle boards included — paddle out to quieter corners at your own pace
- Formentera coves deliver genuinely clear water and minimal crowds
- Sunset return timing catches proper golden-hour light on the boat
- Professional skipper handles navigation; you just show up
- Suits all fitness levels — swimming, floating, or just sitting works fine
- Crew insurance and fuel sorted; no hidden boat-day surprises
What to expect
The day starts with a briefing and cast-off from Ibiza's coast, then you're sailing across to Formentera — about an hour's travel depending on conditions. The skipper will drop anchor at a couple of coves, and this is where you get time in the water. Bring a book or just float; the crew won't rush you. The SUP boards are there if you fancy paddling, but equally they're optional. We found the pace genuinely relaxed — you're not herded between ten sites in two hours. Weather does matter here, though; if the wind's up or the swell's rough, the ride gets lumpier and swimming becomes less appealing. The sunset sail back is the real drawcard — you're watching light change across the water with a drink in hand, and it's genuinely calm most evenings.
One thing to front: you bring your own lunch and snacks. There's no onboard food service beyond water, so grab supplies in Ibiza town beforehand or you'll be hungry by mid-afternoon. The boat's spacious enough, but it's still a boat — expect salt spray, some sun exposure, and a gentle rock if the sea's anything but glassy.
What travellers say
- Private catamaran skips the tourist-boat crowds entirely
- Formentera coves deliver clear water and genuine quiet
- SUP boards included if you want to paddle beyond swimming
- Skipper expertise means smart anchoring and timing
- Sunset timing captures proper golden light on return
- Accessible to all ages and fitness levels genuinely
- Lunch and snacks not included — feed yourself beforehand
- Early start and late return doesn't suit everyone's schedule
- Rough sea makes the boat rock; consider seasickness prep
- Summer crowds still find the coves, just not the boat itself
Themes summarised by our team from public information about this tour. Verify specifics on the operator's page before booking.
Good to know
This is perfect if you want island access without the organised-tour feel. Small groups, a real skipper who knows the best stops, and the freedom to swim as long as you like at each cove. Works brilliantly for families (infants sit on laps, prams are fine at the dock before boarding), and honestly, anyone who can sit upright can do this — no fitness requirement. The SUP boards are a genuine bonus if you fancy a bit of activity.
Lunch and snacks aren't included, so budget for food beforehand or you'll regret it. Early morning starts mean a pre-dawn dash from your accommodation. The boat does rock if the sea's rough, which can be uncomfortable for those prone to seasickness — consider a tablet beforehand. Peak season (July–August) means the coves get busier, though nowhere near as rammed as the main beaches. Strong sun and wind exposure are real; bring decent sunscreen and a hat. The return is timed for sunset, which is lovely but means you're back late.
Bring swimmers, a towel, sunscreen, and a hat. Water's included; pack your own snacks and lunch. Groups stay small, which is the draw. Book well ahead in summer.
Tour sold and operated by Viator via Viator. Descriptions on this page are original BugBitten summaries written by our team — not copied from the operator. Prices and availability are confirmed at checkout.