Ibiza: Formentera Secret Beaches Half-Day VIP Cruise

A Dreamy Day on the Water: Review of Ibiza’s Formentera Secret Beaches VIP Cruise

If you’re looking for a way to escape the buzz of Ibiza’s lively scene and discover some of the most stunning secret beaches nearby, this half-day VIP cruise to Formentera might just be your ticket. The experience promises a blend of luxury, adventure, and authentic natural beauty, all packed into five hours aboard a luxury catamaran. While the tour does not include a trip to Formentera itself, the stops at Ses Illetes, Espalmador, and Cala Saona offer some truly picture-perfect moments that are worth every penny.

What I really appreciate about this cruise is its versatility. Whether you’re after a relaxing day lounging on deck with a premium open bar, or eager to try out water sports like paddleboarding and snorkeling, there’s plenty to keep you engaged. Plus, the delicious food options—especially the paella—and the lively, all-inclusive atmosphere make it feel like a special outing without the hefty price tag.

However, one thing to keep in mind is that the tour can get crowded, especially at the popular swimming stops. As one traveler noted, “too many people,” which means if you’re craving peace and quiet, you might need to pick your ticket tier carefully or plan for quieter times. Also, it’s worth noting that to truly explore Formentera island itself, an additional fee applies, so this cruise is more about enjoying the views and beaches from the water.

Still, for those seeking a luxurious, fun-filled day with plenty of photo ops, great food, and water adventures, this cruise offers excellent value, especially given the range of ticket options from basic to premium. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want a memorable day on the water, it’s an experience that’s worth considering.

Key points / Takeaways

• All-inclusive luxury: Breakfast, paella, and open bars (depending on your ticket) make it easy to relax without extra costs.
• Visit top-rated beaches: Stops at Ses Illetes (4th best in Europe, 10th in the world) and Cala Saona showcase some of the most beautiful shorelines.
• Unique stops like Espalmador: A nature reserve and difficult-to-access island, perfect for nature lovers and those wanting pristine scenery.
• Water sports galore: Paddleboarding, kayaking, Seabobs, and snorkeling allow you to get close to marine life and explore underwater.
• Multiple ticket tiers: From basic to premium, offering increasing levels of luxury, food, and drink options.
• Group size and crowds: Expect some busy moments, especially at popular swimming spots, as noted by reviews.

Exploring the Experience in Detail

Setting Sail from Ibiza

Your day begins at the Carrer de Formentera & Passeig ses Pitiüses where you check in at the Ibiza VIP Cruises stand. The welcoming atmosphere starts right away with a welcome cocktail as you board the stunning luxury catamaran. I loved the way the crew, speaking multiple languages including Spanish, English, and Italian, made everyone feel at home. The boarding process is smooth, and the boat itself is well-equipped with comfortable seating, umbrellas, and a lively ambiance.

The cruise departs around 9 am, giving you ample time to enjoy the views and get settled in. The first 15-minute stop at Playa Den Bossa is a quick refreshment point, where you can stretch your legs and enjoy some snacks.

Navigating the Coast and Sights

Once underway, the 45-minute sightseeing cruise helps you get a feel for Ibiza’s scenic coastline. The multilingual tour guide shares insights about the islands and notable landmarks, making the journey engaging without feeling rushed. The views of Ibiza’s rugged coastlines are striking, and it’s a perfect time to snap some photos or just relax and take in the scenery.

First Swim Stop: Ses Illetes & Espalmador

The highlight for many is the first anchor point between Ses Illetes and Espalmador. Recognized as the 4th best beach in Europe and 10th worldwide, Ses Illetes is a stretch of powdery white sand that looks almost unreal. The shallow, calm waters make it ideal for swimming and snorkeling, and the backdrop of dunes and dunes here makes for stunning photos.

Espalmador, a private island and protected nature reserve, offers a more untouched, wild vibe. Access is tough, so being on this cruise is a rare opportunity to see its white sands and clear waters without a hassle. Here, water sports are a big hit. I loved trying out the paddleboards and snorkeling masks; the marine life viewing is surprisingly lively.

Second Swim Stop: Cala Saona & Sea Caves

After a 30-minute cruise, the boat anchors at Cala Saona, which ranks as the second-best beach in Formentera. Its dramatic cliffs and sea caves add a sense of adventure, especially for underwater explorers. Some caves are underwater, making snorkeling even more exciting. The seashells and marine life here create a vibrant underwater scene. Guests share that this spot is perfect for kayaking and paddleboarding.

Return & Scenery

The cruise then gently moves back towards Ibiza, with another 30-minute cruise segment providing more scenic views. The final 45-minute stretch includes relaxing, perhaps with a drink in hand, soaking in the last moments of this water-based adventure. The glass-bottom boat ride and scenic bus tour add layers to the experience, especially if you’re eager for varied perspectives.

Food, Drinks, and Luxury Options

No matter your ticket tier, the food and drinks onboard are noteworthy. The standard breakfast with tropical fruits, pastries, and freshly squeezed juices sets a delightful tone. The paella served later is delicious—even better if you’ve gone for the advance or premium tickets, where the paella is done onboard with seafood, chicken, or vegetarian options.

The premium open bar takes the experience up a notch, with seven cocktails, cava, and premium wines like Moët & Chandon available. One traveler raves about the excellent wine selection and delicious tapas, making the cruise feel more like a high-end bar outing on water. The VIP beds on the second open-air deck add a level of luxury, especially if you’re celebrating something special.

Who Will Love This

This cruise is best for lovers of luxury and water adventures. If you enjoy good food, lively drinks, and water sports, you’ll find plenty of value here. It’s also perfect if you want to avoid the crowded beaches and enjoy a more relaxed, scenic experience. Keep in mind that groups can be sizable, and at busy spots, it might feel crowded, so if peace and quiet top your list, consider the premium or VIP options.

Who Might Not Find It Perfect

If your goal is a full-day island visit or exploring Formentera’s towns, this cruise isn’t for you—they don’t visit the island itself unless you pay extra. Also, if you prefer quiet, solitary beaches or dislike large groups, the crowded nature at some stops could be a downside.

Practical Tips for Booking & Enjoying

• Book early: The tour is popular, especially in peak season, and the VIP options fill up fast.
• Choose your ticket wisely: If you love cocktails and premium breakfast, go for the premium ticket. For a more budget-friendly but still enjoyable experience, the standard will suffice.
• Bring essentials: Swimwear, sunscreen, a towel, and a camera are must-haves. No outside food or drinks are allowed onboard.
• Arrive on time: Check-in is straightforward, but punctuality helps you make the most of the schedule.
• Consider the crowds: If you’re sensitive to large groups, aim for earlier departures or premium options with more space.

The Sum Up

This Ibiza to Formentera secret beaches cruise offers a delightful mix of luxury, adventure, and natural beauty. It’s ideal for travelers who want to enjoy exquisite beaches without the hassle of island hopping, combined with top-notch food, drinks, and water sports. The stops at Ses Illetes, Espalmador, and Cala Saona showcase some of the best landscapes in the area, and the all-inclusive setup makes for a convenient, stress-free day.

While it’s not a quiet retreat—expect some crowds and lively groups—the chance to relax on a luxury catamaran with a premium open bar and explore gorgeous coastlines makes it a memorable outing. Perfect for celebrating, socializing, or simply soaking in incredible views, this cruise delivers a solid slice of Ibiza’s stunning surroundings, with enough comfort and fun to keep everyone happy.

If you’re looking for a luxury day on the water with excellent food, water sports, and spectacular scenery, this is a solid choice—just pick the right ticket tier for your priorities.

FAQs

Does the tour include a visit to Formentera? No, this cruise visits the beaches and islands around Formentera but does not include a stop on the island itself unless you pay an extra fee.

How long is the cruise? The cruise lasts for approximately 5 hours, starting around 9 am and returning by 2 pm.

Are water sports included? Yes, paddleboarding, kayaking, Seabobs, and snorkeling masks are shared activities at the swim stops.

What are the different ticket options? Tickets range from Admission (no extras) to Premium, which includes all food, drinks, and water sports. The more expensive tickets offer more upscale food, cocktails, and exclusive areas.

Is there a VIP experience? Yes, VIP beds on the second open-air deck are available, starting at 60 euros, including champagne, or 100 euros for champagne plus premium beverages and shishas.

What should I bring? Swimwear, towels, sunscreen, and ID. No outside food or drinks are allowed onboard.

Are there any age restrictions? The tour is suitable for most ages, but check with the provider about specific restrictions for water sports.

Can I cancel this tour if my plans change? Yes, free cancellation is available up to 12 hours in advance.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible? Yes, the experience is wheelchair accessible.

Will I have a guide? Yes, a multilingual tour guide provides insights throughout the cruise, making the experience informative as well as fun.

This VIP cruise offers a vibrant, comfortable way to enjoy some of Ibiza’s most beautiful waters and beaches — perfect for those who want a bit of everything, with a splash of luxury.