Sailing in the Balearic Islands between Formentera and Ibiza

First day

Boarding in Ibiza
We’re on a sailboat in Ibiza, at the Santa Eulària des Riu marina, and we hit our stride right away: we all stock up on provisions at Mercadona, get the boat ready, and cast off. We sail along the island’s west and south coasts, passing by Cala Jondal and heading toward iconic bays like Cala Bassa and Cala Comte (Cala Conta)—perfect for our first swim, a bit of snorkeling, and the first real sunset of this sailing vacation between Ibiza and Formentera.

Second day

From Ibiza to Formentera
We sail along the southern coast of Ibiza and stop between Es Cavallet and Ses Salines, within the protected area of the Ses Salines Natural Park, for a swim in crystal-clear waters and a lunch with our feet almost in the water. Then we set sail for Formentera, entering the most iconic stretch of sea on a sailing vacation in the Balearic Islands: S’Espalmador and Ses Illetes, with their white sand, shallow waters, and turquoise hues. Here, time truly slows down: diving, snorkeling, an aperitif at sunset, and a night at anchor under the stars.

Third day

Formentera: From Llevant to Es Pujols
We continue our sailing vacation in the Balearic Islands along Formentera’s east coast, between Platja de Llevant and Es Pujols. Llevant is the island’s most open and sun-drenched stretch, with white sand and a sea that shifts colors at every turn; Es Pujols, on the other hand, is the liveliest hub, with an urban beach, a seaside promenade, restaurants, and kiosks where you can stop for an aperitif or a barefoot dinner. Between swimming, snorkeling, SUP, and some time ashore, we discover Formentera’s most carefree and authentic side.

Fourth day

Es Caló, the Flavor of Formentera
We continue along Formentera’s eastern coast to Es Caló de Sant Agustí, a small fishing village with a natural harbor and an atmosphere that remains authentically local. Here, we really slow down: a stop for snorkeling, a swim along the coast, and plenty of time to enjoy the sea without rushing. In the evening, we can choose to head down to Sant Francesc Xavier for a traditional dinner with friends, savoring Spanish flavors at waterfront tables and experiencing the island’s liveliest and coolest side.

Fifth day

Cala Saona
After the previous evening, we take it easy for the day—the kind of day that, on a boat, puts everything back in its rightful place. We sail along the southwestern coast of Formentera and stop off at Cala Saona, one of the island’s most beloved coves, nestled between low cliffs and turquoise waters. Here, the plan is simple and perfect: swimming, snorkeling, lunch at anchor or ashore if possible, a bit of relaxation in the sun, and no rush. It’s the ideal day to experience a sailing vacation in the Balearics at its most essential: sea, light, and freedom.

Sixth day

Es Vedrà, onelast dip, and back to Sant Antoni
For the finalday of our sailing vacation between Ibiza and Formentera, we treat ourselves to one of the Balearic Islands’ most iconic sights: sailing past Es Vedrà, the legendary rock that dominates Ibiza’s southwestern coast. Here we put on our masks and snorkels for one last snorkeling session, amidst crystal-clear water, bright sunlight, and the feeling that we want to stay a little longer. Only at the end of the day do we return to Sant Antoni de Portmany, one of the island’s most important ports, to say goodbye with an aperitif on the waterfront or one last evening in the liveliest part of Ibiza.

Seventh day

Disembarkation
Our sailing vacation in Spain comes to a close with final goodbyes on board, disembarkation, and that distinct feeling that well-traveled journeys leave behind: having truly unplugged. We take home coves accessible only by sea, endless swims, nights at anchor, barefoot aperitifs, and the laid-back rhythm of the Balearic Islands. It’s over, yes, but only on paper: because after a week like this, thoughts of the next trip are already beginning to take shape.