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

Planning a day out in Ibiza that combines stunning scenery, delicious food, lively drinks, and a touch of luxury? This full-day all-inclusive catamaran cruise to Formentera might just be one of the best ways to experience these Balearic Islands. While we haven’t personally taken this exact tour, reviews and detailed descriptions suggest it offers a well-rounded, memorable day that balances relaxation, adventure, and indulgence.

What we love most about this experience? First, the luxury catamaran seems spacious and well-equipped, providing comfort during the 10-hour journey. Second, the water sports options—from paddleboarding to snorkeling—are perfect for active travelers wanting more than just sunbathing. Lastly, the gourmet meals and premium open bar elevate the trip from typical boat rides into a true feast for the senses.
A possible consideration? The full-day format requires a good level of energy and patience for long hours at sea and on land, which might be tiring for some.

This experience suits those who crave a mix of scenic beauty, lively social atmosphere, and gourmet food, especially if you enjoy a lively vibe with a DJ and open bars. If you’re after a relaxed, laid-back day, or prefer independent exploration, this might not be your perfect match. But for anyone wanting an all-in-one luxury day trip in Ibiza, this cruise ticks many boxes.

Good To Know

• All-Inclusive Luxury Experience: Enjoy premium food, drinks, and water sports on a spacious catamaran.
• Five-Hour Excursion in Formentera: Explore one of Europe’s top-rated islands and its famous beaches.
• Water Sports Galore: Paddleboards, snorkeling, and seabobs provide plenty of active fun.
• Iconic Beaches: Anchors in front of Ses Illetes, ranked 4th in Europe, and Espalmador, a pristine nature reserve.
• Flexible Ticket Options: Standard, Advance, and Premium packages cater to different tastes and budgets.
• Balanced Schedule: Combines sightseeing, beach time, swimming, and onboard entertainment.

You can check if your dates are available here:

The Experience: What It’s Like from Start to Finish

Boarding and Departure

The tour kicks off early at 9:00 am from the designated meeting point in Ibiza. The process is smooth—just show your ticket at the Ibiza VIP Cruises stand and collect your wristband. Most guests report friendly staff and a quick boarding process, setting the stage for a stress-free day.

The catamaran itself is described as luxury, spacious, and well-maintained. With a multilingual guide on board speaking English, Spanish, and Italian, you’re set for engaging commentary along the way. Expect a relaxed vibe, with plenty of space to spread out, sip drinks, or take photos of the stunning coastline.

The Cruise to Formentera

The one-hour sightseeing cruise provides ample opportunity to enjoy panoramic views of Ibiza’s coastline. Many reviews mention the friendly crew and the music set by the DJ, which gets everyone in a lively mood before reaching the islands. The boat’s open bar is well-stocked, with different options depending on your ticket type, and the breakfast offers a tasty start with tropical fruits, pastries, and coffee.

Stops at Espalmador and Ses Illetes

The first swim stop is at Espalmador, a protected natural island known for its unspoiled beaches and calm, clear waters. Guests often describe it as a picture-perfect paradise, ideal for swimming and snorkeling. The water here is shallow and warm, making it perfect for families or non-swimmers. One reviewer even mentioned scuba diving, which indicates the water clarity and marine life are impressive.

Next, the boat anchors at Ses Illetes, ranked among the best beaches in Europe and the world. Its powder-white sand and turquoise waters are truly postcard-worthy. Guests praise the convenience of swimming right from the boat and the chance to relax on the sand or explore the shoreline. Many reviewers noted that water sports like paddleboarding and Seabobs add extra fun to these stops. One reviewer raved about the “incredible” water sports, especially the snorkeling and sliding into the ocean from the boat.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

In-Depth Exploration of Formentera

After about five hours of beach and water fun, the boat heads to Formentera itself. Here, you have approximately six hours to explore, relax, or grab a bite. Reviewers highlight that this free time allows for discovering local shops, enjoying scenic vistas, or renting bikes or scooters, which are not included but highly recommended if you want to see more.

The island’s relaxed vibe is often praised, and many mention that the highlight is the chance to see the landscape and enjoy authentic local food. A notable point from reviews is that some guests appreciated the opportunity to rent scooters independently, although this is optional and not included in the tour.

Return and Onboard Entertainment

As the day winds down, the cruise makes a brief one-hour sightseeing loop before returning to Ibiza by 7:15 pm. The DJ takes center stage again during the journey back, spinning tunes that keep the energy high. Guests often mention the quality of the cocktails and the deliciousness of the paella and BBQ served onboard, especially in the Premium package.

Food and Drinks

One of the standout features is the variety and quality of meals and drinks. Depending on your ticket level, you’ll enjoy a hearty breakfast, succulent paella—seafood, vegetarian, or mixed options—and a BBQ with different meat options. The open bar ranges from simple sangria and beer to a selection of cocktails, with the Premium option offering seven different mixed drinks, including mojitos and Bellinis.

Many reviewers like Amanda’s comment about the “delicious paella,” and others mention that the drinks kept flowing, making the entire day feel like a celebration. The food is served in generous portions, and the onboard setup ensures that everyone gets a chance to indulge.

Water Sports and Free Time

Water sports are included at both swim stops, with paddleboards, snorkel gear, and seabobs available. Reviewers describe trying paddleboarding and snorkeling as “so fun” and “incredible,” emphasizing how these activities enhance the overall experience.

Guests have also noted the convenience of the boat’s facilities, with some mentioning the water slide during the swim stops, which adds a playful element to the day. The length of the water stop at Ses Illetes—about 1.5 hours—offers ample time for swimming, relaxing, or taking photos of the stunning scenery.

The Value and Practicalities

The price point of $88 per person offers good value considering the all-inclusive nature of the trip, the multiple stops, and water sports included. When you factor in the premium meals, unlimited drinks (depending on ticket type), and the scenic beaches, it’s a comprehensive way to pack a lot into a single day.

Guests with the Premium ticket report that the extra cost is worth it for the unlimited cocktails and gourmet food. A few reviewers mentioned that drinks and seats can be limited, especially if booking last minute or during peak season, so early booking is advisable.

Comfort and Group Size

Most reviews mention a comfortable, well-organized experience with a decent-sized group that doesn’t feel overcrowded. The crew, often praised as attentive and friendly, ensures everyone’s needs are met, whether it’s helping with water sports or serving food and drinks.

Timing and Flexibility

The schedule is tightly packed but well-paced, with enough free time to explore or relax. The departure at 9 am and return at 7:15 pm make it a full day, but some guests mention that the long hours are worth the immersion in such a beautiful setting.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Appreciate This Tour?

This trip is perfect if you’re after a luxurious, all-in-one day in Ibiza and Formentera. It’s ideal for groups of friends, couples, or even families who want a mix of beach, adventure, good food, and lively music. The variety of water sports and the quality of the meals make it a comprehensive experience, especially for those who value comfort and good service.

Travelers who enjoy social atmospheres, with a DJ and open bar, will find this tour particularly appealing. But if you prefer a more independent, low-key day or dislike long boat rides, you might want to consider other options.

This cruise combines the best of Ibiza’s scenery, Formentera’s tranquility, and a lively onboard vibe, making it a standout choice for those looking to make the most of a day in this beautiful part of Spain.

FAQs

Is the tour suitable for non-swimmers?
Yes, many stops involve swimming and snorkeling, but guests can enjoy the scenic views from the boat if they prefer not to swim.

What are the ticket options?
There are three: Standard (basic open bar and breakfast), Advance (plus paella and more drinks), and Premium (all-inclusive with cocktails, gourmet meals, and unlimited drinks).

How long do we stay in Formentera?
You have about 5 hours to explore the island, beaches, or relax, making it a good balance between sightseeing and leisure.

Are water sports equipment included?
Yes, paddleboards, snorkel masks, and seabobs are included at both swim stops.

Is the food quality good?
Guests consistently praise the paella and BBQ, describing the meals as tasty and generous.

Can I rent scooters or bikes in Formentera?
While not included, many reviews suggest renting scooters independently is a popular way to explore the island during your free time.

Is the trip kid-friendly?
Yes, the activities and stops are suitable for families, especially with plenty of water-based fun.

What should I bring?
Swimwear, towel, sunscreen, and a passport or ID are recommended. Some guests also suggest bringing a hat and sunglasses.

The Sum Up

This Ibiza: Formentera trip offers a fantastic way to experience the islands in style. You’ll enjoy a luxurious catamaran with stellar views, indulge in gourmet food and drinks, and have fun with water sports and beach exploration. The combination of scenic beaches like Ses Illetes and Espalmador, along with the lively onboard atmosphere, makes it a well-rounded choice for travelers seeking a memorable day.
The premium options ensure a high-quality experience, but even the standard package provides excellent value for money. If you’re looking to balance relaxation with adventure, and want all the logistics handled for you, this tour is a smart pick.

Ideal for groups, couples, or anyone who loves a good party with their scenery, this trip promises a full day of sunshine, good vibes, and unforgettable sights in Ibiza and Formentera.

You can check if your dates are available here: