Perfect Day in Private Catamaran by Formentera

Introduction:
This review takes a close look at a highly-rated private catamaran tour from Ibiza to Formentera, offered by Holistic Sailing. Priced at $1,355 per group (up to 11 people), this fully private experience lasts around 8 hours and promises a blend of sailing, swimming, and discovering some of the most beautiful spots in the Balearic Islands. With excellent reviews and a consistent 5-star rating, it’s clear many travelers find this trip well worth the cost.

What I love about this experience is first, the personalized attention. As a private tour, it’s tailored to your group’s interests, whether that’s relaxing on deck, snorkeling, paddleboarding, or exploring hidden caves. Second, the variety of stops—from the elegant Cala Jondal to the Caribbean-like sands of S’Espalmador—means you get a rich taste of Formentera’s unspoiled beauty, all within one day. On the flip side, it’s quite an investment, so it’s best suited for travelers who want a flexible, luxurious experience and are comfortable with a day on the water.

Key Points

• Private and Customizable: The tour is exclusive to your group, allowing for a personalized day at sea.
• Stunning Destinations: From Cala Jondal to Ses Illetes, each location offers remarkable scenery and opportunities for swimming and relaxing.
• Active and Relaxed Balance: Options for paddleboarding, snorkeling, hikes, and lounging cater to different tastes.
• Expert Guidance: Passions guides and captains, like Calixto and Gustavo, make the journey more engaging and reassuring.
• Unparalleled Views: Sunset from the sea remains a highlight, creating unforgettable memories.
• Excellent Value: The all-inclusive fees—covering fuel, equipment, restrooms, and WiFi—mean fewer surprises.

Detailed Experience Breakdown

Starting Point at Cala Jondal

Your day begins at Tropicana Eivissa Cala Jondal, a sophisticated spot that combines natural beauty with a lively vibe. After a brief safety briefing, you’ll step aboard the Lagoon 400 catamaran, where sleek comfort meets practicality. Many reviews, including one mentioning “Gustavo and Sebastian” as excellent hosts, confirm that the crew’s professionalism enhances the experience. Expect to immediately relax, soaking in the sun as the boat slowly departs.

The highlight of this first leg is the chance to unfurl sails if the wind allows, giving you a taste of real sailing. A typical navigation takes around 1 hour and 45 minutes, during which I love the way the boat feels like a floating retreat — open-air, breezy, and beautifully simple. It’s a perfect way to disconnect and let the scenery wash over you, with guides sharing stories and insights about the landscape and marine life.

Exploring S’Espalmador

The first major stop is S’Espalmador, a tiny island that’s a well-kept secret of Formentera. As it’s only accessible by boat, it retains a pristine feel. Its waters are “so crystal clear they seem unrealistic,” one reviewer remarks, and the white sands evoke the Caribbean. Here, you’ll have about an hour to swim, snorkel, or just lie back and soak up the quiet. The guides delight in sharing little-known facts that add flavor to the visit, making it more than just a scenic stop.

This pause introduces you to the Calm of unspoiled nature, perfect for reconnecting with the sea and uncovering peaceful corners few travelers see. The reviews praise this spot as “the perfect place to explore or simply marvel at the silence,” giving it a genuine sense of magic.

Time at Ses Illetes

Next, you arrive at Playa de Ses Illetes, often ranked among Europe’s top beaches. Its expansive white shores and turquoise waters are almost impossible to describe without sounding cliché, but I’ll say this — photos don’t do it justice. It’s a postcard scene, and many reviews rave about the “amazing snorkeling and paddleboarding,” which are included in the package.

Lunchtime is flexible here. You can choose to dine at one of the exclusive waterfront restaurants such as Molí de Sal or Can Carlitos, known for their fresh seafood and lively atmospheres, or opt to stay on the boat and enjoy catering options. Many report that having lunch on deck with panoramic views adds a special touch to the day, creating a relaxed vibe second to none.

Cala Saona’s Hidden Caves

The last stop of the day is Cala Saona, a small cove framed by reddish cliffs and known for its sea caves and scenic beauty. With about an hour and a half here, you can paddle, swim, or explore caves that are only accessible from the water, according to seasoned reviews. This spot is a favorite for photography and unwinding, offering one last splash or quiet float.

The guides often encourage exploring these caves or snorkeling, making it more than just a scenic photo op. It’s a fitting finale, wrapping up your day with a sense of discovery and tranquility.

Returning to Cala Jondal

After exploring Cala Saona, the boat makes its way back, about 1 hour and 30 minutes. Many reviews mention that the return leg feels like a gentle glide, giving you time to reflect on the day and savor the last views of the water. If there’s still time, some travelers take one final swim before disembarking, often feeling this was one of their best days of the trip.

What’s Included and What to Consider

The all-inclusive fee covers fuel, snorkeling gear, paddleboards, WiFi, and restrooms, making it easy to relax without worrying about additional costs. You’ll also be able to enjoy your own music, and the crew, often praised for their friendliness and professionalism, enhances the experience with personalized touches.

Meals are not included in the standard price, but the option for catering makes things even easier if you prefer not to leave the boat. Many reviews mention that the catering is delicious and hassle-free, and recommended if you want to maximize your sea time.

One thing worth noting is the price point, which might seem high at first glance. However, considering the private nature of the tour, the luxury comfort, and the access to exclusive spots, many travelers find it offers excellent value — especially given the positive reviews about the guides and the itinerary.

Who This Tour Is Perfect For

This experience suits those who value privacy, personalized service, and scenic variety. It’s ideal for couples celebrating a special occasion, friends wanting a memorable day together, or families seeking a relaxed but engaging adventure. If you’re comfortable spending around 8 hours on a boat and want the flexibility to choose your activities, this tour delivers.

Potential Drawbacks

The main consideration is cost — it’s an investment, but one that many feel is justified by the exclusivity and quality. Also, weather conditions can impact sailing and stops, so flexibility is helpful. For travelers on a tighter budget, more affordable group tours or shared trips might be worth exploring, though they won’t offer the same level of customization.

Final Thoughts

A private catamaran trip from Ibiza to Formentera offers a luxurious yet authentic day on the water. You’ll visit some of the island’s most iconic beaches, explore hidden caves, and enjoy the company of a passionate crew dedicated to making your day special. The ability to tailor your stops, combined with the inclusion of snorkeling, paddleboarding, and excellent scenery, makes this a high-value adventure.

If you’re seeking a relaxed, scenic, and personalized escape that balances activity with downtime, this tour fits the bill. It’s best suited for those who prioritize comfort and exclusivity but still crave authentic encounters with nature. Whether celebrating a special event or simply wanting the best of what Ibiza and Formentera have to offer, this experience will likely leave you with lasting memories.

FAQ

Is this tour private only for my group?
Yes, the tour is exclusive to your group, meaning no outsiders will join, allowing for a fully personalized experience.

How long is the entire trip?
The total duration is approximately 8 hours, including sailing, stops, and onboard time.

Do I need to bring my own snorkeling or paddleboarding gear?
No, the tour provides snorkeling equipment and paddleboards as part of the package.

Are meals included?
Meals are not included in the standard price but can be arranged as catering, which many reviews praise for its deliciousness.

What is the starting point?
The tour begins at Tropicana Eivissa Cala Jondal, a well-known and accessible marina in Ibiza.

Is WiFi available onboard?
Yes, WiFi is included, so you can share your photos or check messages during the trip.

Can I swim or snorkel at each stop?
Absolutely, each location is ideal for swimming and snorkeling, and guides are happy to assist and suggest spots.

Is there a minimum or maximum group size?
The maximum group size is 11, making it suitable for intimate gatherings or small families.

Are there any age restrictions?
Most travelers can participate, and service animals are allowed. Check with the operator if you have specific needs.

What happens in case of bad weather?
The experience offers free cancellation if the weather is unsuitable, ensuring you can reschedule or get a full refund.

In sum, this private catamaran trip blends luxurious comfort, stunning scenery, and tailored experiences to make for a memorable day at sea. Perfect for those wanting to explore Ibiza and Formentera with a touch of exclusivity, it offers a graceful mix of adventure and relaxation that many travelers find well worth the price.