CRYSTAL WATERS SEA EXPERIENCE, from Figueretas

Planning a day trip to Formentera? This boat tour offers a chance to relax, swim in pristine waters, and see some of the island’s most famous spots—all from a comfortable boat with plenty of amenities. While it might not be a party boat, it’s a solid choice for those looking for a laid-back, scenic excursion.

What we really like about this tour is its combination of sightseeing and leisure—stopping at beautiful beaches like Cala Saona and Illetas, complemented by onboard food, drinks, and nautical toys. The flexibility to explore Formentera afterwards is another plus. The main drawback? The overall review score of 3.5 suggests it’s not a perfect experience for everyone, perhaps due to variability in boat quality or weather-dependent cancellations. Still, for those wanting a taste of Formentera’s famous waters without breaking the bank, it’s worth considering.

This tour is ideal for travelers who enjoy relaxing boat trips, want to visit iconic beaches, and appreciate good food and drinks included in the price. If you’re after adventure or a lively party atmosphere, you might want to look elsewhere. But if your goal is a peaceful day on the water with some sightseeing, you’ll find this trip offers good value and a pleasant experience.

Good To Know

• Scenic stops at Cala Saona and Illetas for swimming and relaxation.
• All-inclusive catering with food, drinks, beer, and sangria.
• Flexible return times to Ibiza, allowing for independent exploration of Formentera.
• Comfortable boats with nautical toys for fun in the water.
• Short stop in Formentera’s port for disembarkation and embarkation.
• Guided tour of Cap de Barbaria with expert commentary.
• Varied boat types may affect the return experience; always look for Sea Experience Ibiza logo.
• Weather-dependent cancellations could impact plans, especially in rough seas.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour

Starting Point and Check-In

The journey begins at the Sea Experience Ibiza ticket office in Figueretas, conveniently located on Passeig de ses Pitiüses. Travelers are advised to check in 30 minutes before the 10:30 am departure, giving ample time to settle in and get acquainted with the crew. The boat departs from right in front of the Ibiza Playa hotel, close to local bars and public transportation, making it easy to reach.

Stops and Itinerary Breakdown

Stop 1: Figueretas and Playa den Bossa

The tour kicks off with a brief 15-minute stop at Playa den Bossa, mainly for picking up additional guests. This is a quick but practical way for the tour operator to gather all passengers before heading to Formentera proper.

Stop 2: Embarkation and Transition to Formentera

Once onboard, the journey to Formentera is made seamless, with a 15-minute stop at the Formentera port where some guests disembark, and new ones board. This means you’re never required to leave the boat, and it keeps the flow moving smoothly.

Stop 3: Cap de Barbaria

The boat then heads to the western tip of Formentera, reaching Cap de Barbaria. This rugged and dramatic coastline is a highlight, offering stunning views and photo opportunities. The guide here shares insights into the area’s geological features and significance, making it a worthwhile stop.

Stops at Cala Saona and Illetas

The main attraction is the time spent at Cala Saona and Ses Illetes—both renowned for their crystal-clear waters and soft sand. Each stop lasts about an hour, giving plenty of time for swimming, relaxing, and enjoying nautical toys like floats and inflatables. The reviews mention that the boat crew keeps the atmosphere lively with music, and the calm waters make for perfect swimming.

Food and Drinks Onboard

The tour includes a complementary lunch with pasta salad, roast beef, bread, fruit tortillas, and soft drinks. From noon to around 3:30 pm, you can indulge in water, soft drinks, beer, and sangria, all included in the ticket price. Reviewers commend the quality of the food and the “good” drinks, enhancing the overall experience.

Free Time and Return

Arriving back at Formentera around 4 pm, guests have about three hours to explore the island independently—whether that’s relaxing on the beaches, grabbing a quick bite, or wandering the quaint streets. The flexibility to choose your preferred return time (varies seasonally) is a convenient feature, especially for those wanting to extend their day in Formentera.

The return sail to Ibiza lasts approximately an hour, during which you can relax, take photos, or enjoy the last views of the island’s coastline. Keep in mind that the boat used for return trips may differ from the one used in the morning, which some guests find noticeable if they’re particular about boat comfort or layout.

What Travelers Say

Many reviews highlight the knowledgeable guides and the delicious onboard food as standout features. For example, one reviewer specifically praised the “great experience with my friends”, mentioning the music and the fun in the water, describing the trip as “not a party boat but perfect for relaxing and having fun”. The nautical toys and the easygoing vibe clearly add to the enjoyment.

Conversely, there are some complaints—most notably about cancellations due to weather. One reviewer was upset that their trip was canceled at the last minute due to rough seas, despite having clear weather the next day. This underscores the importance of checking the weather forecast and understanding that cancellations are possible if sea conditions are unsafe.

Guides and Service

Reviewers mention that guides are informative and friendly, often sharing interesting facts about Formentera’s coast and natural features. Good communication and a relaxed atmosphere help make the experience memorable, especially for first-time visitors.

Food and Drink

The onboard catering receives consistent praise. Reviewers note that the pasta salad and roast beef are sufficient to fuel an afternoon of swimming, and the drinks keep everyone refreshed. The inclusion of sangria and beer adds a festive touch, making the tour feel more relaxed and social.

Practical Tips for a Smooth Experience

• Book in advance, as this tour tends to fill up quickly, especially during peak months.
• Arrive early to check in and get comfortable before departure.
• Bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses—there’s plenty of sun on the open water.
• Carry cash or a card for extras or souvenirs on Formentera, since the tour only covers onboard food and drinks.
• Check the weather forecast to avoid last-minute cancellations; seas can be unpredictable.
• Confirm your return time based on the season, as it varies throughout the year.

The Sum Up: Who Is This Tour Best For?

This boat trip is a solid pick for travelers looking for a relaxed, scenic day in Formentera. It offers a good mix of beach time, sightseeing, and onboard amenities, all at a reasonable price. The inclusion of food and drinks makes it particularly appealing for those who want to avoid extra expenses and focus on enjoying the water and scenery.

If you’re after a casual, well-organized day trip that balances leisure and exploration, this tour checks many boxes. It’s ideal for families, groups of friends, or couples who prefer a laid-back atmosphere without the noise and chaos of a party boat. But if you hunger for adventure, lively parties, or exclusive luxury, you might find this experience somewhat modest.

Overall, the combination of beautiful stops, good food, and knowledgeable guides makes it a worthwhile option. Just remember that the experience can depend on weather conditions and the boat used, so plan accordingly.

FAQ

How early should I arrive for check-in?
You should arrive 30 minutes before the 10:30 am departure to ensure a smooth check-in process.

What is included in the price?
Your ticket covers all onboard food and drinks, including pasta salad, roast beef, water, soft drinks, beer, and sangria. Nautical toys are also provided for fun in the water.

Can I stay in Formentera after the tour?
Yes, the tour offers free time in Formentera until your chosen return time, which varies seasonally from 4 pm to 7:45 pm.

Is the boat comfortable?
The tour mentions different boats, so comfort may vary. Always look for the Sea Experience Ibiza logo to ensure you’re on the official vessel.

What if the weather is bad?
Cancellations are possible due to poor weather or sea conditions. If canceled, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Do I need to bring anything special?
Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat for sun protection. Carry cash or a card for extras on land.

Are the nautical toys safe for children?
While not explicitly specified, nautical toys are generally safe for swimmers, but supervision is advised for children.

Can I book this tour last minute?
Booking 9 days in advance is typical, but availability depends on the season. It’s best to book early during peak months.

This tour offers a charming, laid-back way to enjoy Formentera’s renowned waters and beaches, complemented by good onboard amenities and flexible scheduling. It’s perfect for travelers seeking a balance of sightseeing, swimming, and relaxation without the fuss.