If there is one experience that defines a summer in Ibiza, it is the boat trip to Formentera. Just a short sail from Marina Port Ibiza, Formentera is widely regarded as one of the most beautiful islands in the Mediterranean — and the only way to truly appreciate it is from the water.
This guide covers everything you need to know before booking your boat trip from Ibiza to Formentera: what to expect, where to stop, how long it takes and how to make the most of your day.
How far is Formentera from Ibiza by boat?
Formentera is approximately 8 nautical miles south of Ibiza. Depending on the yacht and sea conditions, the crossing takes between 30 and 60 minutes. On a motor yacht you will arrive faster and in comfort; on a sailing yacht the journey itself becomes part of the experience.
What to expect on the way
Leaving Marina Port Ibiza, you head south along the coastline before crossing the channel that separates the two islands. On a clear day — which in Ibiza is most days — the views are spectacular: the salt flats of Ses Salines to your left, the open Mediterranean ahead, and the first glimpse of Formentera’s white sand beaches on the horizon.
Where to stop in Formentera
Espalmador
Before reaching Formentera itself, most boats anchor at Espalmador — a small uninhabited island with some of the most pristine turquoise water you will find anywhere in the Balearics. The shallow, crystal-clear lagoon is perfect for swimming and snorkelling, and the white sand beach feels impossibly remote for somewhere so close to Ibiza.
Ses Illetes
Ses Illetes is consistently ranked among the best beaches in Europe and it is not hard to see why. A long, narrow spit of white sand with turquoise water on both sides, it is only accessible by boat — which means no coaches, no crowds, just the sea and the sun. Anchoring here and spending a few hours in the water is the highlight of most boat trips to Formentera.
La Savina
The small port of La Savina is where the ferries from Ibiza dock and where most visitors to Formentera arrive. From the water it is a charming stop — a handful of restaurants, a handful of boats, and the beginning of the flat, pine-fringed road that leads across the island. If you want to disembark for lunch, this is the place to do it.
Cova Rosa
Tucked behind dramatic red cliffs in a horseshoe-shaped bay, Cova Rosa is one of Formentera’s hidden gems. The water here is warmer than most of the island’s beaches, making it ideal for swimming even earlier in the season. The contrast between the rust-red cliffs and the turquoise sea is unlike anything else in the Balearics.
Torre de Sa Guardiola
A short distance from Ses Illetes, the 18th-century watchtower of Torre de Sa Guardiola stands on a rocky headland overlooking the channel between the two islands. It is a national cultural heritage site and a fascinating reminder of the islands’ history — when the tower was built, it served as a lookout against pirates.
How long does a boat trip to Formentera take?
A full day trip from Ibiza to Formentera typically lasts around 8 hours, departing in the morning and returning in the late afternoon. This gives you enough time to anchor at two or three spots, swim, snorkel, have lunch and explore the coastline at a relaxed pace.
Half day trips are also possible if you want a shorter experience, though you will have time for fewer stops.
What is included in a boat trip to Formentera?
When you charter a private yacht with Wind3P, your Formentera trip includes:
- Skipper and crew — we take care of navigation so you can focus on enjoying the day
- Soft drinks, water, beers, snacks and fruits throughout the day
- Two bottles of cava to celebrate the occasion
- Towels for everyone on board
- Snorkelling equipment to explore the underwater world around Ses Illetes and Espalmador
- Paddle board for those who want to explore the coastline at their own pace
- Private transfer from your hotel or villa to the marina
Fuel is not included and is charged separately based on the route.
Which yacht is best for a Formentera trip?
The best yacht for your Formentera trip depends on the size of your group and the kind of experience you are looking for.
For groups looking for speed and style, our motor yachts reach Formentera quickly and offer generous deck space for sunbathing. For those who want a more relaxed, authentic sailing experience, our sailing yachts make the crossing at a gentler pace with the sails up.
All our yachts accommodate up to 12 guests, so whether you are a couple, a family or a group of friends, we have the right boat for you.
See our fleet and check availability →
Best time to visit Formentera by boat
The best months for a boat trip from Ibiza to Formentera are June, July and August, when the weather is reliably warm, the sea is calm and the water temperature is perfect for swimming. September is also excellent — the crowds thin out, the prices drop slightly and the sea remains warm well into the month.
May and early October are possible on good days, though the weather can be more unpredictable and some beach bars may not be open yet.
How to book your boat trip to Formentera
Booking a private yacht charter from Ibiza to Formentera with Wind3P is straightforward. Choose your yacht, select your dates and complete your booking online. A deposit of €700 confirms your reservation, with the balance paid on the morning of the charter.
