BOAT-COMPARATOR Guide

Ibiza-Formentera by boat: the clearest water in Europe

The Balearics by day or by week: Ibiza-Formentera, the bay of Palma, Menorca — where to rent, when to go, what it really costs.

There is a reason the Ibiza → Formentera run is Spain's best-selling boat day: twenty minutes from port, Ses Illetes beach unrolls water that looks photoshopped. And the archipelago doesn't stop there.

Ibiza-Formentera: the queen of day trips

From Ibiza (Marina Botafoch or San Antonio), count 3 miles to the islet of Es Vedrà on the sunset side, or 8 miles to Formentera: anchor over white sand, lunch with your feet in the water, sail back at sunset. In August the Ses Illetes moorings must be booked — literally: paid buoys reserved online, as the posidonia seagrass is strictly protected (steep fines for an anchor in the meadow).

Palma and Menorca, the alternatives

The bay of Palma is the largest charter base in the Balearics: deep fleets, gentler prices than Ibiza, and Mallorca's coast (Cala Pi, Es Trenc, Dragonera) as a playground. Menorca, wilder, lines up the turquoise calas of its south coast — perfect by the week.

A realistic budget

In Ibiza in August prices soar: €500-900 for a day motorboat, more with a skipper. In Palma or Menorca, or in June/September, the same boats go for 30-40% less. The spread between platforms on the same boat is among the highest we observe: always compare.

Licenses and booking

Spain recognises the French coastal license and equivalents; without one, a skipper (€150-300/day) or the small 'sin licencia' units (under 15 hp, restricted) remain accessible. High season books early: August weekends sell out in spring.

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Also worth reading

• How much does it cost to rent a boat in 2026? Real prices
• License-Free Boat Rental in France: Rules, Prices & Where to Book
• Renting with or without a skipper: how to choose