Close and similar in their landscapes and fashionable allure, yet distinct in character, Ibiza and Formentera are two jewels of the Balearic Islands waiting to be explored. And not only by those who love long nights at lively beach clubs — these islands have plenty to offer sailors in search of nature and tranquility. They hide countless peaceful corners far from the crowds, where cruisers can drop anchor, relax in crystal-clear waters, and enjoy the untamed beauty of the Mediterranean.

Read also: Here’s why one should organize a sailing cruise in Spain

Day 1, San Antonio de Portmany – Cala Bassa, 8 miles

Our sailing adventure around Ibiza and Formentera begins at the port of San Antonio de Portmany, heading south toward Formentera. Along the way, however, it’s worth making a short detour northwest and northeast to explore Cala Salada and Cala Saladeta — two of the most beautiful bays in Ibiza. Their turquoise, crystal-clear waters make them the perfect spots for swimming and snorkeling. Fun fact: locals, often dressed in a bohemian style, are known for preparing delicious mojitos, which they can even deliver directly to your boat on a pedalo.

Afterward, we set course for Cala Bassa, another stunning cove surrounded by pine trees in a quintessentially Mediterranean atmosphere. Stretching 300 meters long and 30 meters wide, it lies on the west coast of Ibiza and is famous for its fine sand and calm, turquoise waters that look like a giant swimming pool. Cala Bassa is also surrounded by a dense pine grove, ideal for finding shade during the hottest hours. Here we drop anchor for our first night at sea.

This enchanting natural setting also features a couple of restaurants, a sushi bar, and the renowned Cala Bassa Beach Club — the perfect soundtrack to our first sunset. Alternatively, you can admire another spectacular sunset from Cala Conta, where the sun sinks below a sea dotted with small islands. However, this anchorage is more exposed to the wind and offers less shelter than Cala Bassa for a peaceful overnight stay.

Day 2, Cala Bassa – Cala Porroig, 19 miles

We set sail again to visit some of Ibiza’s most famous beaches: Cala Conta, Cala Tarida, and Cala Vedella. These stops are a must for nature lovers, and later you can also explore Cala D’Hort. But the true gem of our itinerary is Cala Porroig, one of my favorite spots in Ibiza for many sailors. It is a stunning cove, hidden in nature and far from the crowds. The fishermen’s huts add to its charm and provide excellent shelter for boats, as it is well protected from most winds. Here, you can enjoy a peaceful night after a delicious seafood dinner. For after-dinner entertainment, the bay also offers some of the island’s best vibes. For example, Blue Marlin lets you sip a mojito on a white beach bed with live music and a parade of stylish guests.

Day 3, Cala Porroig – Cala Saona, 16.5 miles

Today we face one of the longest legs of our Ibiza and Formentera cruise, about three hours. We leave Cala Porroig and head southeast toward Formentera. Our first stop is the island of Espalmador, part of the Ses Salines Natural Park and one of Formentera’s most scenic spots. After mooring the boat, it’s well worth going ashore for a classic island tour. You can also enjoy a beneficial mud bath using the local clay. We then continue sailing along Formentera’s west coast, passing by Ses Illetes beach and the island’s only marina, La Savina.

Our final destination is Cala Saona, a simply stunning bay with crystal-clear waters in incredible shades. It is calm and well sheltered from the wind, making it an excellent anchorage for the night. Onshore, you’ll find the usual chiringuitos and restaurants to enjoy a meal or a cocktail. For those who enjoy walking, there is also an interesting excursion to the cliffs of Punta Rasa.

Day 4, Cala Saona – Ses Illetes, 6 miles

Heading north-northwest, it takes just about an hour of sailing along the coast to reach Ses Illetes Beach, which locals also call the “Spanish Caribbean” due to its turquoise, crystal-clear waters and distinctive white sand. Frequently ranked among the most beautiful beaches in the world, Ses Illetes represents one of the most unique landscapes on this spectacular island. The beach is located within the Ses Salines Natural Park of Ibiza and Formentera, covering much of the Es Trucadors peninsula, the northern tip of the island facing west.

The beach stretches over 450 meters, divided in two by a small rocky area in the center. Its original name refers to several small islets off the coast, known as Illa de Tramuntana, Illa des Forn, Escull des Pou, Illa Redona, and Escull d’en Palla, which make the scenery even more unique. Besides swimming and sunbathing, visitors can stroll through La Savina harbor, explore the local hippy market full of bohemian artists, or take an excursion to the La Mola lighthouse.

Day 5, Ses Illetes – Ses Salines, 7 miles

On this fifth day of our Ibiza and Formentera cruise, we head back toward the “White Island,” sailing north-northwest. Our destination is Ibiza’s most famous beach: Ses Salines, also known as Las Salinas. This little paradise, popular with the international jet set, is located within the Ses Salines Natural Park. The sandy beach is protected by dunes and shaded by pine trees. Its waters are particularly clear and pure, thanks in part to the Posidonia meadows on the seabed. Be careful when anchoring to preserve this precious marine plant.

The beach offers all kinds of bars and venues. From exclusive spots like Malibu, where champagne and gourmet dishes are served directly to yachts, to the more relaxed vibe of Sa Trinxa, where you can dance on the sand to renowned house DJ sets. Ses Salines is also a calm and sheltered spot for enjoying a pleasant evening aboard your boat.

Day 6, Ses Salines – Cala D’Hort, 10 miles

We set off again, and after rounding Cap de Falco, we head toward Sa Caleta, where you can visit the ruins of the first Phoenician settlement on Ibiza. After a few years, the community moved and settled in another part of the island, which is now known as the city of Ibiza, or Eivissa.

Sailing west, we reach Cala D’Hort, our anchorage for the night. Cala D’Hort is a white sandy beach with fishermen’s huts and calm waters, perfect for enjoying fresh seafood. It also offers a privileged view of Es Vedrà, Ibiza’s magical islet. This small island is mysterious and fascinating, at the center of the so-called “Triangle of Silence,” where locals and visitors have reported UFO sightings and other strange phenomena. Legends aside, one thing is certain: Cala D’Hort provides one of the most spectacular sunsets on the island.

Day 7, Cala D’Hort – San Antonio de Portmany, 15.3 miles

On our final day sailing around Ibiza and Formentera, we follow the west coast of the White Island back to the marina of San Antonio. Along the way, we can stop at some of the island’s best beaches, such as Cala Compte or Cala Tarida, and enjoy the day at a relaxed pace, swimming, having a bite at a snack bar, and sipping a cocktail. After all, this is how days are spent on these beautiful Balearic islands—and unfortunately, they pass too quickly, leaving you eager to return!

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