Ibiza: Formentera Cruise w/Breakfast, Paella, and Open Bar

Introducing the Ibiza: Formentera Cruise with Breakfast, Paella, and Open Bar
This 10-hour boat trip offers an easy way to see some of the most beautiful spots in the Balearics without the hassle of arranging transport or activities yourself. The experience combines a modern catamaran, delicious Mediterranean food, water sports, and ample free time in Formentera, making it a solid choice for travelers looking for a fun, all-in-one day.

Two standout features I love are the generous open bar—which keeps the mood lively—and the flexibility to explore Formentera at your own pace for five hours. It’s rare to find a full day tour that balances guided cruising with plenty of free time in such a scenic setting. That said, the tour’s duration and the size of the group might be a consideration if you’re seeking a more intimate experience or prefer shorter outings.

A possible drawback is that some of the water sports equipment and second-floor beds require extra fees or have limited availability, which could be disappointing for those expecting everything included. Still, for most, the value of the food, drinks, and scenic stops outweighs these minor inconveniences.

Key points / Takeaways

• Stunning Destinations: The cruise visits Ses Illetes, Espalmador, and Formentera, offering crystal-clear waters and pristine beaches.
• All-Inclusive Comfort: Breakfast, paella, barbecue, and open bar make this a stress-free day on the water.
• Water Activities: Snorkeling, paddleboarding, seabobs, and even a slide ensure fun for all levels of adventure-seekers.
• Flexible Free Time: You get five hours to explore Formentera on your own, ideal for a relaxed, personalized experience.
• Quality Food and Drinks: Breakfast options include tropical fruits, pastries, and a full hot breakfast with eggs and meats; lunch features authentic Mediterranean paella.
• Varied Ticket Options: Silver and Gold tickets differ mainly in food and open bar service, with Gold offering a more extensive breakfast and unlimited cocktails.

The Allure of Ibiza’s Coastal Waters

I love the way this cruise combines sightseeing with leisure. You’ll start your day at Platja de ses Figueretes, hopping onto a sleek motor catamaran with a capacity designed for comfort and style. The boat itself is spacious—25 meters long with a broad 9-meter width—and features both shaded and open decks perfect for lounging or soaking up the sun.

Once underway, the views are spectacular. The boat’s modern design and the crew’s friendly vibe set the tone for a relaxed day. The first stop at the Balearic Islands, with coffee and breakfast served onboard, is a nice touch, giving you time to settle in and enjoy the scenery. The atmosphere is lively but not overwhelming, and the music—whether with a DJ or saxophonist—adds a touch of magic during the return.

Exploring the Highlights: Formentera’s Top Spots

Ses Illetes and Espalmador

These are what most travelers come for. Ses Illetes is often called one of the most beautiful beaches in the world, with soft white sands and shallow, turquoise waters perfect for swimming and snorkeling. The boat anchors nearby, giving you a chance to explore beneath the surface with provided masks and seabobs.

Paige’s review mentions the need for better organization around Formentera’s beaches, which is worth noting—this tour drops you off for five hours, so planning ahead (like renting a bike or scooter) could help you make the most of your time. Keep in mind, expenses like bike rentals are not included, so bring some cash if you want to explore more extensively.

Espalmador is a private island with a rugged, untouched feel. It’s a great spot for photos and a quick swim. The crew usually offers drinks and snacks here, making it a relaxing break before heading to the next location.

The 5-Hour Free Exploration in Formentera

This is a real highlight for most travelers. Five hours might seem brief, but it’s enough to kick back, explore local beaches, or grab a bite at a seaside café. The flexibility is appreciated—your options range from lounging on the beach to wandering through charming villages, if you rent a scooter or bike (which you handle yourself).

One of the reviews notes that the drop-off location can be somewhat remote, with limited options for food and transport. Planning ahead by bringing snacks or renting equipment in advance can turn this free time into a more enjoyable experience.

Water Sports and Onboard Fun

The boat is equipped with plenty of water toys—snorkel masks, paddleboards, seabobs, and even a slide—making this more than just a sightseeing cruise. For adventure lovers, these add a layer of excitement. You might find the seabob particularly amusing, offering a motorized way to glide underwater.

Keep in mind, all equipment is available under the staff’s discretion, and some water toys may be limited or unavailable during bad weather or busy days. The crew, often praised for their helpfulness and humor, do their best to keep everyone entertained.

The Food and Drinks: A Major Draw

The culinary aspect is surprisingly good for a day cruise. The breakfast options vary depending on your ticket type—Gold tickets include a more elaborate spread with tropical fruits, pastries, and hot breakfast items like scrambled eggs and pancakes. Silver tickets have a more basic breakfast with fruits and pastries but still enjoyable.

Lunch is centered on Mediterranean paella, with vegetarian, seafood, or mixed options available—be sure to request your choice when booking. The bar, especially on the Gold ticket, offers unlimited cocktails like mojitos, caipiroskas, and spritzes, along with cava, wine, and soft drinks. Many reviews praise the quality of the drinks and the friendly bar staff, contributing to a festive atmosphere.

The Experience of the Crew

Reviewers often mention the crew’s friendliness and helpfulness, which makes a difference in creating a relaxed vibe. The onboard entertainment—whether a DJ or live sax—adds to the laid-back, party-like ambiance on the return trip.

Pricing and Value: Is It Worth It?

The tour’s pricing reflects the all-inclusive nature: breakfast, drinks, water sports gear, and hours of free exploration. For a full 10-hour journey with multiple stops, the cost is reasonable—particularly when considering the quality of food and drinks supplied. It’s a good value if you want a hassle-free way to see Formentera’s highlights without organizing transport or activities yourself.

However, if you’re planning to explore deeply in Formentera—renting bikes or scooters—you’ll need to budget separately. Also, note that beds on the second floor are extra and only available for purchase onboard, which might be worth considering if you like the idea of lounging in a more private space.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience suits travelers who enjoy social atmospheres, good food, and a mix of guided and free time. It’s ideal if you want to relax, sip drinks, and see some of the most iconic beaches in the Balearics without the stress of planning every detail. Families, groups of friends, or couples looking for a lively day out will find it particularly appealing.

If you prefer quieter, more intimate experiences or short trips, this might feel a bit busy or lengthy. Also, those who love water sports will appreciate the variety of equipment available.

Practical Tips for the Best Experience

• Arrive at least 30 minutes early for check-in and carry your ticket and ID.
• Bring sunscreen, a sunhat, and sunglasses—shade can be limited on decks.
• Consider renting bikes or scooters in Formentera in advance for more flexibility.
• If you’re a vegetarian, request the vegetarian paella when booking.
• Be aware that water sports and certain amenities might be suspended due to weather or capacity.
• Optional beds on the second floor can be purchased onboard at extra cost from €60, including cava.

Final Verdict

This cruise offers one of the most relaxing and fun ways to experience some of the Balearic Islands’ most stunning beaches. The combination of scenic cruising, delicious Mediterranean food, lively drinks, and free time in Formentera makes for a well-rounded day. The crew’s friendly attitude and quality amenities elevate the experience, making it suitable for many types of travelers.

While it comes at a fair price, just keep in mind that some extras—like second-floor beds or additional water sports—cost extra. Planning ahead for your free time or exploring in Formentera can help you maximize this experience.

Overall, if you’re after a lively, scenic, and well-organized day tour with plenty of options for relaxation and fun, this cruise hits the mark. It’s a great way to check off a trip to Formentera without the hassle, especially if you value good food, drinks, and a friendly crew.

FAQ

Is transportation to the starting point included?
No, you need to meet at the pier in front of Figueretas Beach, arriving 30 minutes before departure.

What should I bring on the cruise?
Comfortable shoes, sunglasses, sun hat, and sunscreen. Towels are not included, so bring your own if you plan to swim.

Are water sports equipment included?
Yes, snorkeling masks, paddleboards, seabobs, and a slide are available to all guests under staff discretion.

Can I buy a bed on the second floor?
Yes, beds there are available only onboard for an extra fee of €60–€150, with cava included, but only on certain days.

What are the ticket options?
Silver and Gold tickets differ mainly in breakfast and open bar offerings—Gold includes a more extensive breakfast and unlimited cocktails.

Is there a vegetarian meal option?
Yes, vegetarian paella is available if requested when booking.

How long is the free time in Formentera?
You get about 5 hours to explore the island at your leisure.

What happens in bad weather?
The captain may change anchoring points or suspend water sports for safety, but refunds or compensation are not provided for these changes.

This cruise offers a lively, scenic, and well-organized way to enjoy Formentera’s beauty, especially if you value good food, drinks, and a friendly crew. Perfect for travelers who like a bit of everything—relaxation, adventure, and authentic island vibes.