Between Ibiza and Formentera lie just a few miles of sea and some of the clearest waters in the Mediterranean. By boat you go from Formentera’s white beaches to Ibiza’s sunsets in the same day. Here is where to stop and what to know.
Formentera: Ses Illetes and Espalmador
The northern tip of Formentera is a strip of white sand with turquoise water on both sides: Ses Illetes. A little further north is Espalmador, a private islet with a long beach and an inner lagoon. It is the most photographed area of the Balearics and part of the Ses Salines Natural Park.
In summer, to protect the seabed, boats moor here on the Park’s mooring fields, which are booked in advance. The captain takes care of it.
The south coast of Formentera
Migjorn is a six-kilometre beach that is almost entirely free. Further east, the cliffs of La Mola. Formentera can be sailed around in a day, with stops for swimming and lunch ashore.
Ibiza: the western coves and Es Vedrà
- Cala Comte. Emerald-coloured water and the island’s most famous sunsets.
- Cala d’Hort and Es Vedrà. The rocky islet rising from the sea, one of the symbols of Ibiza.
- Cala Bassa. Pine forest down to the sand, perfect for a quiet day.
- The north of the island. Wilder and less crowded, with coves such as Benirràs.
The posidonia rule
In the Balearics it is forbidden to anchor on posidonia meadows, protected by a decree of the Balearic Islands Government. The zones are marked on charts and checks are frequent, with hefty fines. You anchor on sand or use mooring fields: the captain knows where.
When to go
June and September for the most beautiful sea and fewer boats at anchor. July and August are the liveliest months, with Ibiza’s nightlife: early bookings are needed for boats, buoys and restaurants.
Which boat to choose
Between Ibiza and Formentera both motor yachts, for moving quickly between coves, and catamarans, very comfortable for days at anchor, work well. Our proposals are on the yacht charter in Ibiza and Formentera page.
Three days between the two islands
- Day one: departure from Ibiza town, short crossing to Formentera, afternoon at Ses Illetes and Espalmador.
- Day two: tour of Formentera’s south coast, lunch ashore, back towards Ibiza in the afternoon.
- Day three: Ibiza’s west coast, Cala Comte and Cala d’Hort, sunset facing Es Vedrà.
With a week you can add the north of Ibiza and, with the right weather, a crossing to Mallorca.
Wind in the Balearics
In summer the weather is usually settled, with thermal breezes in the afternoon. When the north wind, the tramontana, arrives, the southern bays are sought out. The captain chooses the most sheltered stops every day.
Frequently asked questions
Do you need to book buoys in Formentera?
In summer, in the Park areas with mooring fields, yes. The captain takes care of it and knows the procedures.
Can you do a day charter from Ibiza to Formentera?
Yes, it is one of the most popular days: departure in the morning, a swim at Ses Illetes, lunch ashore and back at sunset.
When is the best time?
June and September for the sea and tranquillity; July and August for those looking for Ibiza’s nightlife.
Want the Balearics from the sea? Discover the destination or request a proposal.
