A day on Formentera feels different when you own the ride. This private catamaran charter pairs your own boat with a full day’s worth of time around Formentera’s famed shoreline, including Ses Illetes Beach plus in-water breaks for swimming and snorkeling.

I like how the day is built around easy fun: snorkel gear and a stand-up paddleboard are included, and the boat setup makes it simple to relax between swims. One practical drawback: lunch isn’t included, so you’ll want to plan snacks and water before you head out.

Key points before you book

• Ses Illetes Beach time with the kind of views you get best from the water
• Snorkel + SUP included so you’re not renting gear mid-trip
• Megaboom Bluetooth speakers and onboard Wi‑Fi for comfort on calm-water cruising
• Bow lounging nets and pulpits for that sideways-sunbathing boat life
• Skipper-led grottos and swim stops based on repeat captain names like Martin and Juan
• Up to 12 people privately (no sharing the boat with strangers)

Formentera From Ibiza, But With Your Own Catamaran

If you want the Formentera look—white sand, bright water, that postcard feeling—this is the way to chase it without the hassle of crowded ferries and rigid group schedules. A private charter means your day is shaped around your group’s pace: swim when you want, paddle when conditions are right, and spend time on the beach without rushing to match someone else’s plan.

The other big win is comfort between stops. This isn’t just transportation. You’re spending real hours on board with gear ready to go and space to spread out, including lounging areas on the bow.

Duration is about 7 hours, and the trip starts at 10:00 am. You’ll meet at Es Xarcu (Restaurante Playa) in Cala Es Xarco, Sant Josep de sa Talaia, then return back to the same meeting point.

Ses Illetes Beach: How to Make the Most of Your Time There

Ses Illetes is the reason many people do this route at all. It’s known for super-clear water and that clean, light-sand look that changes minute to minute depending on the sun and wind. On a catamaran day, you don’t just arrive—you’re already in the right mood for it, with sunscreen on and swim gear sorted.

Because the plan includes time at the beach, you’ll want to treat it like a mini beach day inside a larger boat adventure:

• Go for a first swim early, when water clarity is often best and you’re freshest.
• Take a slow walk and look for the shallow stretches where you can wade while staying close to shore.
• If you’re bringing kids, choose calmer moments to enter the water and keep an eye on shade and hydration.

One thing I’d flag: conditions on the Balearics change fast. If wind kicks up, your captain may shift the best spots for swimming and snorkeling. That’s not a failure—it’s how you keep the day fun.

Snorkel and SUP Gear: Your Day’s Built-In Activity Plan

This tour includes snorkel equipment and a stand-up paddleboard. That matters because you’re not trying to assemble your “water day kit” on the fly. You can get in the water, switch to paddling, and then head back onboard without negotiating rentals or last-minute shortages.

What you can do with this setup:

• Snorkel during calmer stretches where visibility is strong and the water is shallow enough to feel confident.
• Use the SUP as a low-effort way to explore near the boat without needing to be an expert paddler.
• Spend the in-between time relaxing. The route is also set up for sunbathing, so you’re not trapped in constant motion.

One practical tip: bring a small dry bag or waterproof phone pouch. Wi‑Fi is on board, but you shouldn’t plan your whole day around connectivity in open water.

On Board Comfort: Speakers, Bow Lounging, and Real Space

A lot of day tours say you’ll have a “relaxing experience.” This one backs it up with details that actually change how the day feels. You’ll have nets to relax on, plus pulpits at the bows designed for that classic leaning-and-sun-watching boat position. That’s the difference between sitting upright in a chair and stretching out like you’re on your own yacht for the day.

Then there’s the mood. Megaboom Bluetooth speakers are included, which is great for a family playlist or a group vibe without needing to bring extra hardware. It also helps if the boat is quieter than you expected—music turns waiting time into part of the experience.

And yes, onboard Wi‑Fi is included. Don’t expect miracles everywhere at sea, but it’s handy for sharing photos, checking messages, or pulling up restaurant ideas for after the trip.

The Captain’s Role: Martin, Juan, Teo, and Other Names to Watch For

On a private charter, the skipper isn’t just “the driver.” They’re the person making your day smarter. Across the feedback for this operation, certain captain names come up again and again, including Martin, Juan, Teo, Ale, Pedro, Fran, and Andrés.

What I’d take from that pattern is simple: captains here tend to focus on the good stuff—spotting calm swim areas, guiding snorkeling breaks, and finding coves that feel special. Some descriptions specifically mention secret grottos, cave time for kids, and plenty of swim-friendly stop locations.

So when you book, think like this:

• If you want a day built around water play and short adventures, a skipper with strong local instincts will make it feel effortless.
• If you want a day that’s more about beach time, you’ll still benefit because they can time stops around safer, calmer water.

If you have must-see priorities (a certain kind of snorkeling, a preference for more beach vs. more on-water time), I’d message the provider in advance and make sure your captain knows what your group cares about.

Food and Drinks: Lunch Isn’t Included, So Plan Like a Local

Here’s the one real snag in an otherwise smooth-sounding day: lunch isn’t included. The good news is that the operator tries to have soft drinks and mineral water on board, but you shouldn’t assume a full meal plan.

If you’re trying to keep energy steady across a long water day, I’d pack like this:

• A few snack options for before and after beach time
• Something easy that doesn’t get crushed or messy
• Extra water for anyone who drinks more than usual in sun and salt air

Also: sunlight bounces off the water. Even if the day looks mild, you’ll warm up fast. Sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses matter as much as the swimsuit.

Price and Value: What $3,399.57 Buys for Up to 12

This charter runs $3,399.57 per group for up to 12 people. That pricing can look steep if you’re picturing it as a “solo vacation splurge.” But value changes fast when you do the math for a group.

What you’re getting for that group price:

• A private catamaran (so you’re not sharing the boat with strangers)
• Skipper service
• Taxes and required insurance handled
• Snorkel and SUP gear
• Bluetooth speakers and Wi‑Fi
• Nets and lounging space
• Final cleaning

So the best way to judge value is to compare it against what it costs you to cobble together ferry tickets, rentals, and a bunch of separate time blocks. For many groups, the private boat time becomes the main “activity,” not just a transport method. You’re paying for that kind of uninterrupted flow.

If you’re traveling as a smaller group, ask yourself: would you rather pay more per person for comfort and flexibility, or spend less and accept more schedule friction? This tour is built for the first choice.

Logistics That Matter: Meeting Point, Timing, and Mobile Ticket

The trip starts at 10:00 am at Es Xarcu (Restaurante Playa) in Cala Es Xarco. You’ll head out from there, and the experience ends back at the same meeting point.

This is also noted as being near public transportation, which is helpful if you’re not bringing a car. It’s still worth planning to arrive early so you’re not rushing through sunscreen and towels at the last minute.

You’ll receive a mobile ticket. And if you book close to departure, confirmation is sent as soon as possible based on availability.

One more practical note: it’s labeled as a private tour, so only your group participates. That’s exactly what you want if you’re traveling with kids, celebrating, or just hate the awkward “find strangers to share space” vibe.

Who Should Book This Private Ses Illetes Tour?

This is a strong fit for groups who want time on the water plus flexibility without crowd stress. It also seems family-friendly in spirit, with multiple captains praised for making it enjoyable for kids during cave or grotto-type moments.

You’ll probably love it if:

• Your group wants a mix of beach + swim + snorkeling + SUP
• You like your day paced by a captain rather than a timetable
• You’re traveling in a group (because the price is per group)

You might want to think twice if:

• You’re someone who hates any “bring your own food” reality. Lunch isn’t included.
• You have very tight plans for the day after. This runs about 7 hours and returns to the start point.
• You’re picky about the exact boat. One caution from feedback: a past experience flagged a mismatch between shown boat expectations and actual condition, plus limited access on the vessel. If that would bother you, ask what catamaran model you’ll get and confirm photos/details match what you’re expecting.

Should You Book This Formentera Catamaran Charter?

Book it if your priority is a private, water-first day anchored by Ses Illetes, with included snorkeling and SUP so your time feels “full” instead of spent figuring out logistics. It’s also a good deal when you can fill the group size, because you’re paying for the boat experience rather than nickel-and-diming activities.

Skip it or at least ask a few questions first if you need a guaranteed meal, or if you’re anxious about boat condition matching photos. With that in mind, the overall direction here is clear: this is built for people who want the best of Formentera by boat, with comfort and gear already handled.

FAQ

What’s the duration of the Ses Illetes Beach catamaran private tour?

It’s listed at about 7 hours.

How many people can this private charter accommodate?

It’s priced per group for up to 12 people.

Where do we meet for the tour?

You start at Es Xarcu (Restaurante Playa), S/N, Cala Es Xarco, 07839 Sant Josep de sa Talaia, Illes Balears, Spain.

Is pickup offered?

Yes, pickup is offered, and embarkation and disembarkation happen from designated meeting points.

What’s included besides the catamaran ride?

Snorkel equipment and a stand-up paddleboard are included, along with Megaboom Bluetooth speakers, onboard Wi‑Fi, nets to relax on, and required taxes and insurance.

Is lunch included?

No. Lunch isn’t included, though soft drinks and mineral water are intended to be available on board.

What’s the cancellation policy?

This experience is non-refundable and cannot be changed for any reason.

When will I get confirmation after booking?

Confirmation is received at the time of booking unless you book within 6 hours of travel, in which case confirmation is sent as soon as possible based on availability.