Formentera by sea feels like instant vacation. This full-day catamaran mixes Ses Illetes beach time with an open bar and a real paella lunch, so you don’t just ride around—you actually eat, swim, and explore. It’s built for people who want the wow-factor views without a complicated plan.

I also like the way the day balances structure and freedom. You get scheduled water fun (plus a slide into the sea), then you land on Formentera with 5 hours to go at your own pace. That freedom is what makes this feel more than a long boat ride.

One thing to consider: the ride can get windy and choppy, and the boat experience depends on weather. If you’re sensitive to motion, this is noted as not suitable for motion sickness, and you’ll want to dress for cool, breezy moments even in summer.

Key things I’d zero in on

• Ses Illetes + S’Espalmador stops that include photos, swimming time, and water-toy access
• 5 hours on Formentera so you can actually explore beyond the shore line
• Paella plus breakfast served on the water, with vegetarian paella needing booking ahead
• Slide, paddleboards, snorkel masks, and sometimes seabob depending on season
• Open bar on board (beer, sangria, soft drinks, juices, and water) kept topped up
• VIP Balinese beds are extra and sold only onboard, so standard seating can feel limited in busy moments

How a 10-hour sea day fits Ibiza and Formentera

This is the kind of trip that makes sense when you’re short on time. You’re staying in Ibiza, but you still want to experience the Formentera beach vibe without committing to ferries, schedules, and logistics all day. The plan runs long enough to cover the highlights, but it doesn’t keep you trapped on a boat the entire time because you get real time on Formentera.

The best value piece is that the basic day is bundled: transportation by a large catamaran, multiple sea stops, breakfast, a paella lunch, and an open bar while you’re on board. At $102 per person, the price feels most reasonable if you were already picturing a beach day plus food plus drinks. If you hate sitting on sun-and-salt time, then it’s probably not for you—because the core of the experience is enjoying the water.

Also, you’re not just watching the coast. You get organized water activities at a few points in the day, and you can use gear like snorkel masks and paddleboards when staff make it available.

Getting on board: Happiness Beach Ibiza and the vibe on deck

The day starts at Happiness Beach Ibiza. You need to arrive 30 minutes early for check-in, because boarding depends on everyone getting sorted in time. You’ll get identified with a brazalete (the hostess hands out a Silver one for standard entry), and your ticket—printed or digital—matters for getting on.

Once you’re on, the boat is sized for lounging. It’s a 25-meter catamaran with two decks, and there’s a shaded lower level called the Main Room, which is handy if you want a break from direct sun. Upstairs and around the decks are where the wind hits and the views are widest, especially during movement between stops.

If you’re the kind of person who really wants comfort with minimal hassle, note the Balinese beds. There are 14 available for €60 purchased onboard (with champagne included). Standard common areas are included, but if the day gets busy, those beds are the closest thing to a guaranteed “today I’m not lifting a finger” setup.

Finally, the sound system is by Martin Audio, so music is part of the atmosphere. On the way back, you can get live vibes like sax or DJ sets—fun, and very different from the quiet-stroll style of many beach days.

S’Espalmador stop: shoreline walking and a one-hour hit of sea time

S’Espalmador is the kind of place you can fall in love with quickly because it’s close to Formentera but feels like its own little world. Here, you’re scheduled for a photo stop and then a guided shoreline visit. The walking part matters: it’s not only about getting in the water. You get a chance to take in the island feel before you’re back in swim mode.

The sea-time window is about an hour, and this is where you’ll typically see snorkeling and paddle gear used. The idea is simple: you enjoy the clear water, look for marine life while you’re on the surface, and mix in active play if you want it. Gear access is handled by staff, and the rules can shift slightly based on conditions.

One practical note: snorkel masks are provided without the tube, mainly for hygiene reasons. If you’re used to bringing your own kit, you might prefer doing that anyway. If you don’t, just know the equipment style may feel a little different than what you’re familiar with.

Ses Illetes: the beach stop that makes people book this day

Ses Illetes is the headline. It’s often listed among the world’s top beaches, and it’s easy to see why: the sand-to-water contrast is eye-catching, and the shallow areas are great for getting comfortable in the water. On this stop, you’re not only passing by—you’re set up to swim, snorkel, and use paddle equipment.

Timing matters here because this is also where lunch lands. You’ll typically have a food break as part of the beach stop, so it’s a good time to cool off, eat, and then go back for more water time. If you’re the type who gets hangry on beach days, this schedule is a lifesaver.

What I’d plan for: bring a towel and something light you don’t mind getting sandy. The day is sun-forward, and even with shade options on the boat, Ses Illetes itself is largely about open-air time.

A downside from real-world comfort: seating can vary depending on where your meal ticket area puts you. Some people have reported less protection from the sun and tight space during lunch. If this matters to you, I’d aim for earlier lunch access when offered and spend a few minutes relocating to whatever shade you can find.

Formentera’s 5-hour free time: how to make it count

The best part of the whole day for many people is the 5 hours in Formentera. That chunk of time changes the trip from a tourist ride into a real island experience. You can explore independently, shop for beach necessities, walk, or just choose a spot to relax.

There’s also a hop-on, hop-off style option built into the stop, which makes it easier to move around without needing to solve a puzzle on your own. The tradeoff is that you’ll still want to decide quickly what you want most—beach time, viewpoints, or a slow wander.

Here’s how I’d use your time if you like structure but hate rushing:

• Start with a beach swim if you didn’t get enough sea time earlier.
• Then do a short walk to orient yourself.
• Save one “slow” segment for when you’re tired—because boat days add up.

And don’t underestimate what your body feels after all that sun and wind. The boat keeps moving between stops, and you’ll likely arrive on Formentera ready to recharge. Bring sunscreen and a hat you’ll actually wear.

Food and drinks: breakfast, paella, and the open bar rhythm

This is where the day earns its value. You get a welcome cocktail when you board, then breakfast on the boat: tropical fruit, assorted pastries, coffee, tea, and juices. That’s not just filler—it helps you avoid the mid-morning crash that makes long sea days feel longer.

Lunch is paella in your choice of mixed, vegetarian, or seafood. Vegetarian paella needs to be booked when you reserve, so don’t assume you can switch later on the day. You’ll also get aioli bread with the meal, which is a small detail that helps turn lunch into something satisfying instead of just a quick plate.

If you select the Gold Ticket option, there’s an additional BBQ for you during the day. That includes a set of grilled meats (hamburgers, chicken breast, loin, German sausage) plus vegetables. If you’re hungry and you like variety, that’s a good upgrade. If you already eat lightly, you might not need it.

The open bar is ongoing while you’re cruising: beer, sangria, soft drinks, juices, and water. Drinks beyond the open bar aren’t included, like wine or extra cocktails. Still, this is enough to keep you refreshed without feeling like you’re constantly reaching for your wallet.

Music on the return trip also shapes the pacing. If you want a sunset with energy, the sax or DJ vibe can turn the ride into a mini party—even though the day itself stays focused on beach time and relaxation.

Slide, snorkel masks, paddleboards, and seabob rules

This catamaran is set up for active sea time, not just lounging. The big fun factor is the slide down into the water—simple, fast, and exactly the kind of thing that gets smiles from people who don’t even plan to do it at first.

You can also use paddleboards, and you’ll get snorkeling masks. Kayaks and seabob are also part of the gear list, but access depends on staff rules and timing:

• Seabob is available from June till September (and also described as available from the end of May).
• Kayak is only available for families with kids and people with reduced mobility.
• Other gear availability is ultimately “at the discretion of the boat’s staff,” and conditions matter.

One more real-world thing: the captain may adjust the route or cancel water activities due to adverse weather. That’s common on the Mediterranean, but it’s still important. If the wind is strong, they may limit the toys and focus on safe cruising.

If you’re planning to snorkel, keep it easy. The masks are provided without tubes for hygiene, so expect a different setup than some rental gear. And if you’re prone to getting cold on windy days, plan for that too—one reason this can feel less comfortable than it looks in photos.

Comfort and logistics: seating, wind, and what to pack

You’ll spend hours in sun and wind, so comfort comes from your prep. Bring the basics they ask for: sunglasses, sun hat, towel, sunscreen, and beachwear. Also consider a light layer for the boat ride back. Even when the beach is warm, the wind can cool you quickly on deck.

Seating is the other comfort variable. Standard areas are included, but some people feel the lunch or drink setup can get tight, especially if you end up higher on deck. If you know you hate being in direct sun for long periods, look for shade early and plan your routine accordingly.

Weather is the wild card. The schedule is built around beach stops, but if conditions change, the captain can modify activities. That’s not a reason to skip the trip—it’s a reason to pack like a pro and keep your expectations flexible.

Good to know: the activity is wheelchair accessible, so at least that barrier is addressed. And it’s not suitable for people with motion sickness, which matters because the boat can be choppy when the weather pushes back.

Price and value: does $102 really cover the day?

At $102 per person, this is priced like a premium day trip, but the value isn’t just marketing—it’s in the bundle.

You’re paying for:

• A large catamaran day that includes multiple sea stops
• Breakfast and a full paella lunch onboard
• Open bar drinks during the cruise
• Water equipment access (slide, masks, paddleboards, plus seabob/kayak depending on conditions)
• The big time payoff: 5 hours on Formentera

If you were to recreate this on your own, you’d still be paying for transport, buying food, and likely paying extra for beach-entry add-ons and drinks. Even without a direct apples-to-apples comparison, this package is designed to reduce decision fatigue. You show up, check in, eat, swim, explore Formentera, and leave with everything handled.

Where the price becomes less great is if you only want one thing—say, just a beach stop—and you don’t care about paella or water toys. In that case, you might feel like you paid for parts you didn’t use. But if you want a full day that hits the highlights, it’s a solid deal.

Who should book this boat trip (and who should skip it)

This trip fits best if you:

• Want a one-day plan that covers Ibiza-to-Formentera without extra research
• Like a mix of structured stops plus time to explore on your own
• Enjoy being active in the water—slide time, snorkel time, paddle time
• Want food and drinks handled for you with paella and an open bar

It might not fit if you:

• Get motion sickness easily (this is explicitly marked not suitable)
• Prefer a quiet, low-energy day with no wind-exposed deck time
• Are very sensitive to sun/heat and need lots of covered seating

Families can still have a great day, especially because the boat offers a lot of water-play options. Just note that kayak access rules are limited to specific groups (families with kids, people with reduced mobility).

Should you book: my call

I’d book this if you’re trying to maximize Formentera in a single day from Ibiza. The combo of Ses Illetes, a shoreline stop at S’Espalmador, and that 5-hour free Formentera window makes the day feel balanced. Add in breakfast, paella, and an open bar, and it’s a strong value for the amount of “done for you” time you get.

Skip it if you’re motion-sickness prone or you know you’ll hate windy deck time. Also, if shade and guaranteed seating are your top priorities, plan to arrive with a strategy—get to meals when you can and grab shade whenever possible.

If you want a fun, sun-and-sea day that still leaves you enough freedom to feel like you actually reached Formentera, this is one of the better ways to do it.

FAQ

How long is the boat trip?

The total duration is 10 hours.

Where do I meet the group?

Meet at Happiness Beach Ibiza. Arrive 30 minutes before departure time for check-in.

Is breakfast and paella included?

Yes. You get breakfast and paella lunch onboard. Vegetarian paella must be booked when you reserve.

What drinks are included in the open bar?

The open bar includes beer, sangria, soft drinks, juices, and water while you are on the boat.

How much free time do I get in Formentera?

You get 5 hours of free time on Formentera.

Do I need to bring a towel and sunscreen?

Yes. You’re advised to bring a towel, sunscreen, and beachwear, plus items like sunglasses and a sun hat.

What water activities are included?

Snorkeling masks, paddleboards, seabob, and kayak are listed as available. Seabob is available from June till September, and kayak access is limited to families with kids and people with reduced mobility.

Are VIP beds included?

No. VIP Balinese beds are available to purchase only onboard, and they cost extra.

What happens if weather is bad?

The captain can modify the route or cancel water sports activities due to adverse weather conditions for safety.

Is it suitable for motion sickness?

No, it’s marked as not suitable for people with motion sickness.