Ibiza: Formentera Trip with Paddle, Snorkel and Lunch

Planning a day trip from Ibiza to Formentera? This 10-hour cruise offers a chance to enjoy the island’s famous beaches, water activities, and a tasty onboard meal. We’ve reviewed countless tours, and this one stands out for its blend of fun, relaxation, and good value.

What we particularly like are the variety of water sports options, the well-organized itinerary, and the delicious food (especially the paella, which is a highlight). The unlimited drinks keep the mood lively, and the guides’ local knowledge makes the experience more meaningful.

One consideration is the size of the boat—it can get pretty busy during peak times, which might make paddleboarding or finding a quiet spot a challenge. Also, if you’re prone to motion sickness, the boat’s rocking could be an issue—reviewers recommend anti-nausea meds if needed.

This tour suits travelers who love active days on the water, want flexible exploration time on Formentera, and enjoy social, lively atmospheres. If you’re looking for a relaxed, serene beach holiday, this might be a bit more energetic than you prefer.

Good To Know

• All-inclusive Drinks & Food: Soft drinks, beer, sangria, and a freshly cooked paella on board.
• Water Activities Galore: Paddleboards, snorkeling gear, inflatables, and mats to keep everyone entertained.
• Flexible Island Time: Free time on Formentera for exploring, shopping, or relaxing on the beach.
• Expert Guides & Tips: Friendly guides like Damian and Damiano enhance the experience with local insights.
• Great Value for Money: For around $81, you get a full day of activities, food, drinks, and island exploration.
• Stunning Scenery & Water: Stops at Espalmador and Ses Illetes showcase some of the most beautiful coastlines in the Mediterranean.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Starting Point & Departure

The journey begins at Carrer de Formentera 17, next to the Ibiza Playa hotel. Check-in is early, at 8:30 am, giving you plenty of time to settle in before departure. The boat is described as comfortable and large enough to handle the number of guests, which keeps the atmosphere lively but not claustrophobic.

The Cruise & First Sightseeing

The cruise kicks off with a 45-minute sightseeing cruise along Ibiza’s coast. It’s a great chance to snap photos of the shoreline, enjoy the sea breeze, and settle into holiday mode. Reviewers mention the crew’s friendliness and the informative commentary—a good way to learn about the area’s highlights from the start.

Ses Illetes: Swimming & Snorkeling

Next, the boat anchors at Ses Illetes, famous for its crystal-clear waters. You’ll have about 1.5 hours here to snorkel, paddleboard, or simply lounge on the beach. Reviewers often rave about the quality of the snorkeling gear, with some noting stunning underwater visibility.

One guest from Jersey enthused, “The water was so clear, and we enjoyed snorkeling and paddleboarding. The crew’s equipment was well-maintained, and the guides kept an eye on everyone.” Better yet, the water activity gear is included, so no extra costs here.

S’Espalmador: Lunch & Water Fun

The next stop is S’Espalmador, a small, uninhabited island with pristine beaches and shallow waters. Here, you’ll enjoy a delicious onboard cooked meal—ranging from seafood paella and chicken paella to vegan options, complemented by bread, alioli, mixed salad, and fresh fruit.

Guests like Gabrielle from France mention, “The food was really good, and the staff even brought out extra plates for seconds.” During this 1.5-hour break, you can explore the island’s shores, swim, or relax on the deck. Many reviews highlight the quality of the meal, with some saying it’s “better than expected for a tour meal,” especially noting the fresh ingredients and tender seafood.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Formentera Free Time

After lunch, the boat departs for Formentera proper, where you get approximately five hours of free time. This is the ideal moment for exploring on your own—renting a scooter, sunbathing, shopping, or visiting a local beach bar.

According to reviews, some guests rent mopeds or bikes to maximize their island experience. Damian, the tour guide, often gives helpful tips, like the best beaches to visit or where to find the hippie markets. It’s a great way to personalize your day, though you’ll need to organize transport within Formentera yourself, as that’s not included.

Return Journey & Evening Vibe

The tour provides two departure options:

• The first leaves Formentera at 13:15, arriving back in Ibiza at 14:15, perfect for an early return.
• The second, at 18:15, is ideal if you want to enjoy extra time on the island and the open bar onboard.

The return trip features music and drinks, with reviewers often mentioning the lively, upbeat atmosphere, especially when a DJ is onboard. Some guests mention that the boat can get quite rocky, so bringing anti-nausea medication might be wise if you’re sensitive.

Paddleboarding & Snorkeling: The tour supplies multiple paddleboards, bodyboards, floating mats, and pool noodles. Reviewers like Kenzo from the Netherlands note that “there was only one paddleboard per group, but it was still plenty of fun,” highlighting the importance of being quick to secure equipment during busy times.

Inflatables & Floating Mats: These are perfect for relaxing or playing with friends. The overall vibe onboard is energetic, with many guests reporting that the water activities made the day especially memorable.

Swimming & Sunbathing: The stops at Ses Illetes and S’Espalmador offer ideal spots for floating and cooling off. Many reviewers mention the refreshing water and the stunning scenery that makes for fantastic photo opportunities.

Onboard Meal: The highlight is undoubtedly the seafood paella, which is cooked fresh on the boat. Multiple guests praise the quality of the food, with some saying it exceeded expectations for a tour meal. The menu also includes chicken paella and vegan options, ensuring there’s something for all.

Drinks: The tour’s unlimited soft drinks, beer, sangria, and water keep everyone refreshed throughout the day. Reviewers frequently mention the fun lively atmosphere, especially when the drinks flow freely during the cruise back.

Additional Snacks: Some reviews mention snacks such as chips and fruits being available during the return, making the journey even more enjoyable.

Guests often mention the friendly, knowledgeable guides who make the experience special. Damian, in particular, is singled out as super helpful, giving insider tips on the best beaches, transportation options, and local spots.

Reviewers appreciate guides who are attentive, engaging, and keen to ensure everyone has a good time, whether by sharing stories, giving water safety tips, or helping accommodate special needs.

At around $81 per person, this tour offers a lot of value—from water sports to a full meal and island exploration. The included amenities mean you won’t need to carry much extra cash, aside from optional extras like scooter rentals or beach beds.

However, it’s worth noting that boat capacity can lead to crowded conditions, especially during peak season. Arriving early to secure upstairs seats is recommended for those wanting a better view and more space.

If you’re prone to seasickness, consider bringing motion sickness remedies, as reviews warn that the boat can rock quite a bit. Also, remember to bring sunscreen and a towel (not supplied), and plan ahead for transportation on Formentera, since that’s not included.

This trip is perfect for adventurous travelers who love water activities, great food, and social atmospheres. It’s especially suited for those who want a full day of exploration with plenty of downtime to relax or explore the island at their own pace.

While it’s not ideal for travelers seeking total tranquility or with mobility restrictions, those who enjoy a lively, activity-filled day will find it hard to top this experience. The mix of scenic stops, good food, and friendly guides creates a memorable day out in the Balearics.

The Ibiza to Formentera trip with paddle, snorkel, and lunch provides fantastic value, blending water-based fun with cultural exploration and delicious local cuisine. The organized yet flexible itinerary ensures you experience the highlights of Formentera without feeling rushed, while the onboard amenities keep spirits high.

Whether you’re into paddleboarding, snorkeling, or just soaking up the sun with a drink in hand, this tour covers all the bases. The guides’ enthusiasm and knowledge make it even more enjoyable, giving insider tips that enhance your island trip.

For travelers seeking an active, social, and photo-worthy day in the Balearics, this tour hits all the marks. It’s a lively, well-rounded experience that balances adventure with relaxation—perfect for making lasting memories in one of Spain’s most beautiful regions.

FAQ

What time does the tour start?
Check-in begins at 8:30 am at Carrer de Formentera 17, next to Hotel Ibiza Playa. Exact start times vary, so verify when booking.

How long is the cruise?
The whole experience lasts about 10 hours, including stops at Ses Illetes, S’Espalmador, and free time on Formentera.

Is food included?
Yes, a freshly cooked onboard meal is part of the package, with options like seafood and chicken paella, plus vegan choices.

Are drinks included?
Unlimited soft drinks, beer, sangria, and water are included throughout the day and during the return journey.

What water activities are available?
Paddleboards, snorkeling gear, inflatables, floating mats, and pool noodles are all provided for water fun.

Can I explore Formentera on my own?
Yes, you get about five hours free on the island for sightseeing, shopping, or renting bikes or scooters (not included).

What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, a towel, ID (for children under 12), and any personal essentials. Towels and transportation on Formentera are not included.

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s not recommended for children under 3 or pregnant women. Children under 12 need ID to prove age.

What if I get seasick?
The boat can be rocky; bringing motion sickness medication is advised, especially for sensitive travelers.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour.

Whether you’re after a fun-filled day of water sports, a scenic island escape, or a lively cruise with great food and drinks, this trip to Formentera from Ibiza offers a solid mix. It’s a fantastic way to see one of Spain’s most iconic islands without the hassle of organizing transport or meals—plus, you get to do it with a cheerful crew and plenty of local flavor.

You can check if your dates are available here: