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Ibiza to Formentera, by boat.
Ferry or private yacht: how the day works and the rules that matter.
Formentera is the small island south of Ibiza, and the standard day trip is a short crossing by ferry or a longer, more flexible day on a private yacht. Both work; the difference is timing, privacy and where you can stop.
Ferry or private yacht?
| Ferry | Private yacht | |
|---|---|---|
| Departure | Fixed times, from Ibiza Town to La Savina | Your schedule, from marina or beach |
| Crossing | Short crossing; time depends on the vessel | Typically around an hour or less, depending on boat and departure port |
| Beaches | Reached from La Savina by road | Anchor at bays that are hard to reach by land |
| Privacy | Shared | Private, with crew |
Timetables and prices change by season, so check them with the operators.
Anchoring and Posidonia.
The seabed between Ibiza and Formentera is covered by Posidonia oceanica seagrass, which is protected, and the meadows are part of the UNESCO site “Ibiza, Biodiversity and Culture”. In the Balearic Islands, boats may not anchor on Posidonia meadows, so skippers use sandy areas or mooring buoys.
That is why a good captain matters: they know where you can legally anchor, which bays are crowded and when to arrive. Rules and moorings in popular bays can change, so ask your captain for the current ones.
A day that works.
- Morning: leave early; the sea is calmer and the bays emptier.
- Midday: swim and lunch on board or at a beach restaurant.
- Afternoon: a second bay, then return before the evening traffic.
Add a private chef on board or a chauffeur to the marina and the day is seamless.
Plan it with us.
Tell us how many guests you are and when you want to go. We propose boats and a route, and arrange transfers and catering.
Frequently asked questions.
How long is the crossing?
It depends on the vessel and departure port. Ferries and fast boats differ, so check current timetables; by private yacht it is typically around an hour or less.
Can I anchor anywhere?
No. Anchoring on Posidonia seagrass is prohibited in the Balearics, so captains use sand or moorings.
Is a private yacht worth it?
If you want flexibility, privacy and quieter bays, yes. For a simple beach day a ferry is cheaper.
When is the best time to go?
June and September are quieter than July and August, but the sea is warmest later in summer.
Timetables, mooring rules and prices change; confirm with the operator or your captain.
