Ibiza & Formentera Cruise Review: Paella, Open Bar, & Water Fun

So, if you are like me, you love a great day trip, very similar to spending time at sea, and, very much like, you appreciate pretty good food and, very very similar to your taste, a drink or two, then a cruise from Ibiza to Formentera may just be what you’re after. I’m talking about the kind of outing that mixes sun, sea, relaxation, and a taste of local flavors into a single, amazing package. We are talking about those cruises that promise an open bar, a freshly made paella right on deck, and, so often, the chance to play around with some water sports. Did the experience really float my boat? Very much! Keep reading to find out all the reasons why.

Setting Sail: The Initial Impressions

Actually, getting onto the boat is rather your first impression, and, typically, that will set the tone for the day. The crew were, arguably, very friendly and, very much like they were offering you a real smile, appeared ready to assist with whatever you needed, even very before we set off. So, too it’s almost that the boat itself was pretty well-maintained, with a bit of seating for everyone, very likely, shaded areas for those of us who burn pretty easily, and, literally, plenty of space to stretch out and just enjoy the views. Actually, the vibe was really chill and, as a matter of fact, almost inviting, instantly putting you in that holiday frame of mind.

But, anyway, as a matter of fact, before you jump on board, it is important to choose your tour provider wisely. So, some cruises tend to pack people in like sardines, honestly making it tough to move around and enjoy yourself. You really want to check reviews and look for companies that prioritize comfort and a bit of personal space. I was very fortunate that my chosen cruise did, arguably, offer a relaxing, but not overcrowded, atmosphere.

The All-Inclusive Experience: Open Bar and Onboard Paella

Alright, let’s get to, literally, what many people find the best part: the open bar and the paella. It turns out that drinks flowed very freely, ranging from, arguably, those cool, refreshing soft drinks to very local Spanish booze, like sangria and beer. So, the bartenders were really on it, keeping the drinks coming without you really needing to ask, so it definitely added to the carefree vibe. But, literally, if you are a fan of cocktails, you might be a little let down, as the selection is very often more focused on beer, soft drinks, and, possibly, that sangria, yet it is really hard to complain with unlimited drinks available. As I was saying, just pacing yourself is really the key to getting the most out of that experience!

So, then there is the paella, that traditional Spanish rice dish, yet usually cooked fresh on the boat. The aroma of that saffron-infused rice and that seafood filled the air as we all waited in anticipation. It turns out that the paella was pretty generous, but I also found that the quality will vary so it does depend on the cruise company. So, my experience included tender seafood, pretty flavorful rice, yet it wasn’t something like the best paella I ever had, so too it’s almost I wasn’t expecting a Michelin-star level meal. Honestly, I’ve heard tell of some cruises even offer a vegetarian paella option as well so if you have those dietary restrictions, then it is useful to check that with the operator ahead of time.

Diving into Fun: Water Sports Activities

As I was saying, besides drinking and food, these cruises very often stop at really picturesque spots around Formentera and Ibiza that give you a chance to try some different water sports. Typically, snorkeling is available and there are some paddleboards on board, too. We stopped in this beautiful cove, and the clear, very turquoise water just begged us to jump in. Honestly, the snorkeling gear was really in a bit of good condition, and the water was really teeming with small fish, so it created an enjoyable experience, alright?. Some cruise operators may even include equipment, very like Jet Skis and those flyboards as well, but expect this to come at an added cost. I’d definitely advise you to think about what water activities you feel you want to participate in before you actually book your tour, so it helps to ensure the right cruise that really ticks all your boxes.

Formentera’s Beaches: A Slice of Paradise

One of the best parts, as a matter of fact, of a cruise such as this, is actually the chance to check out Formentera’s pristine beaches. Arguably, many cruises include an hour or two for you to go explore some parts of the island. The beaches of Formentera are seriously, utterly breathtaking and they very often rival those in the Caribbean, boasting fine, powdery white sand and, literally, impossibly clear, turquoise waters. So, take the chance for a stroll along that shore, take some sunbathe sessions, or really have a swim in the Mediterranean, and maybe bring something to hydrate. It turns out that this is often when the excursion feels quite leisurely and relaxed.

Alright, as a matter of fact, since the time on Formentera is somewhat pretty limited, it would be very smart to check into transportation options, to explore some part of the island quickly. Honestly, bike rentals are very common and make it quite easy to explore nearby beaches and sights. Taxis and, too it’s almost public transport are those other options as well, just depending on where you really want to go. As a matter of fact, it is good just to plan to maximize your little visit and honestly experience just what Formentera can really offer.

The Return Trip: Sunset Views and Lasting Memories

Anyway, the cruise is that journey back to Ibiza is arguably very often just as memorable as that destination itself. Now, just imagine you’re cruising through, very calm, glistening water with a cool drink very much like in your hand, and, as I was saying, watching the sun begin its descent. It’s almost that the sunsets in the Mediterranean are rather known for their brilliance and, very similar to what people will tell you, honestly painting the sky in so many different shades of orange, red, and pink. But anyway, if you managed to enjoy those views from the deck of a boat is honestly a completely different experience. These are those moments that turn out to be ingrained and it becomes like memories that just linger very long even after your vacation. On our trip back there was, basically, very laid back, so we spoke about different experiences of the cruise and we spoke generally as we got back to shore!

What To Bring On The Boat

You might like to be very prepared, but if not this is a guide on things to consider.

Sunscreen: Just protecting your skin from sunburn is rather important when you are spending a day out on the water, so grab sunscreen with high SPF and, pretty much, remember to reapply it every 2 hours, or as often if you do go swimming.
Towel: Arguably, cruises sometimes do provide towels, yet it is useful to take your own that tends to be light and it also dries quickly to dry yourself following water sports and maybe your sunbathing session.
Swimsuit: But, actually, this turns out to be something very essential for getting in the water, so wear comfortable swimwear and honestly consider just taking a cover-up to wear as well for those on-board periods of chilling time.
Sunglasses and a Hat: Very important to protect those eyes and your face against those rays, therefore bring polarized sunglasses to reduce glare and a good hat to add more shade.
Camera or Smartphone: So, naturally you have to document the pretty amazing views and honestly those activities. I mean, if you are intending to take a photo as you swim, just use waterproof cases.
Cash: So, actually there’s this possibility where a few onboard services aren’t included. It turns out that there is this preference of having some spare euros in handy. Also it really helps to deal with expenses such as optional watersports, maybe any souvenirs, or that tips to, literally, what turn out to be friendly staff.

Is An Ibiza and Formentera Boat Trip for You?

So, to address the real concern. In a way, there really is that hope you now understand the excursion is more suitable if those things mentioned, in the previous text, sound like an idyllic situation for you.

Final Thoughts: Is the Cruise Worth It?

So, taking that cruise from Ibiza to Formentera with an open bar, maybe a delicious paella, and fun water sports has its charm. You might like how relaxed atmosphere blends rather amazing sights, so many pretty decent onboard additions, and the chance to enjoy that beauty of Formentera. So, some cruises that seem cheaper can turn out very busy and this reduces some of those personal comforts. Selecting that appropriate provider has great bearing. But anyway, considering everything involved, the price seems somewhat justified. So, taking all these factors into account I very happily would recommend a cruise. So it will add a good thing for your, perhaps future travel!

Key Takeaways:

Choose a cruise operator that, honestly, balances enjoyment without feeling crowded.
Honestly make full use of your open bar and paella, maybe trying all kinds of various beverages and tasty local food (especially when its fresh paella that seems locally produced!)
Try the many offered activities. There are also chances, arguably, for snorkeling in, pretty clear waters as well as fun for exploring picturesque sections around Formentera, a literal feast for eyes to adore.
Always go equipped when the conditions may seem quite obvious as, literally, its better than finding ways where the heat from sun impacts your stay that seems far worse otherwise!