If there is one experience almost everyone recommends when visiting Ibiza, it is discovering Formentera. Just 19 kilometres of Mediterranean sea separate these two islands, offering two completely different yet perfectly complementary experiences.
While Ibiza captivates visitors with its combination of nature, gastronomy, hidden coves and cosmopolitan atmosphere, Formentera represents pure tranquillity. Its white sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters and slower pace of life have led many travellers to describe it as the Caribbean of the Mediterranean.
The best part? Getting there is incredibly easy. Travelling from Ibiza to Formentera by boat takes just around half an hour, making it one of the most popular day trips in the Balearic Islands.
You can leave in the morning, explore the island at your own pace and return at sunset to continue enjoying the comfort of your private villa in Ibiza.
Ibiza is home to more than 50 beaches and coves, yet around a third of them can only be reached by boat. The most spectacular spots have no roads, no car parks and no beach bars—just crystal-clear water, dramatic white cliffs and complete tranquillity.
In this guide, we’ll show you the best routes, the different types of boats available and how to organise the perfect day on the water without any hassle.
Why Visit Formentera During Your Ibiza Holiday?
Although Ibiza is home to some of the Mediterranean’s most beautiful beaches, Formentera offers something completely different. It is smaller, quieter and remarkably well preserved.
With just 83 km² of surface area, Formentera is the smallest inhabited island in the Balearics. It has no airport, meaning that every visitor arrives by sea. This natural isolation has helped preserve much of its landscape and maintain a slower, more authentic Mediterranean lifestyle.
One of the reasons behind its incredibly clear waters is Posidonia oceanica, a marine plant recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage asset. Its extensive underwater meadows act as a natural filter, keeping the water exceptionally clean and supporting the island’s marine ecosystem.
It is no coincidence that beaches such as Ses Illetes regularly appear among the best beaches in Europe and even worldwide.
Visiting Formentera is not simply about changing islands. It is about discovering a different way of experiencing the Mediterranean.
How to Get from Ibiza to Formentera by Boat
One of the biggest advantages of this excursion is how easy it is to organise. Unlike other Balearic islands, Formentera is located just a short distance from Ibiza and benefits from regular boat connections throughout the year. There are three main ways to make the journey:
Regular Ferry
The most convenient option for most travellers. Ferries depart from Ibiza Port several times a day and arrive directly at La Savina Port, Formentera’s main maritime gateway.
It is the perfect choice for those who want to explore the island independently.
Private Boat
For a more exclusive experience, you can also charter a private boat or yacht with a skipper. This option allows you to discover hidden coves, anchor wherever you choose and make the journey itself part of the experience.
Our concierge team at Green & Blue Villas can help organise a private boat experience tailored to your group.
Organised Excursions
Some companies offer return trips that include different activities or stops along the way. They are a good alternative for travellers who prefer everything arranged in advance, although they offer less flexibility than travelling independently.
How Long Does the Boat from Ibiza to Formentera Take?
The short answer: not long at all. The journey from Ibiza to Formentera takes approximately 30–35 minutes, depending on the type of boat and sea conditions. This makes Formentera the perfect day trip, even for travellers with limited time on the island.
During summer, departures are very frequent, with boats often running approximately every 30 minutes. The journey itself is comfortable and offers spectacular views of the turquoise waters separating the two islands.
Our advice? Try to take one of the earliest boats of the day. Arriving early means enjoying the beaches before they become busy and making the most of your time in Formentera.
Trasmapi: The Easiest Way to Travel Between Ibiza and Formentera
If you are looking for a reliable company for your Ibiza to Formentera by boat journey, Trasmapi is one of the most recommended options. With decades of experience connecting both islands, the company offers a fast, comfortable service with frequent daily departures, especially during the summer season.
Its reliability and short crossing time make it an excellent choice for travellers who want to enjoy a full day in Formentera without complications. Additionally, guests staying with Green & Blue Villas can enjoy an exclusive discount of 5% on their Trasmapi tickets. Our concierge team can provide all the information you need and help organise your booking before you even arrive in Ibiza.
Formentera Facts You Probably Didn’t Know
Before setting foot on the island, there are a few fascinating facts that make the experience even more special.
- Formentera has no airport. Every visitor arrives by sea, helping preserve its peaceful and exclusive character.
- The Posidonia oceanica surrounding the island is thousands of years old. Some Mediterranean meadows are considered among the oldest living organisms on Earth.
- Formentera’s waters are among the clearest in Europe, thanks largely to the presence of Posidonia.
- Many artists, writers and musicians have found inspiration here, attracted by its natural beauty and peaceful atmosphere.
- Despite its small size, the island has more than 20 kilometres of beaches and coves, many accessible only by foot or bicycle.
The Best Beaches to Visit in Formentera
One of the main reasons to travel from Ibiza to Formentera by boat is to discover its extraordinary beaches.
Although the island is only around 20 kilometres long, it is home to some of the most beautiful coastal landscapes in Europe.
Ses Illetes
Talking about Formentera means talking about Ses Illetes. Located within the Ses Salines Natural Park, this beach is famous for its white sand and incredibly turquoise waters, often compared to Caribbean landscapes.
National Geographic and many specialised travel publications have included it among the world’s best beaches — and it only takes one visit to understand why.
Its shallow waters make it perfect for swimming, relaxing and enjoying the scenery. During July and August, arriving early is highly recommended.
Playa de Llevant
Just a few minutes from Ses Illetes, Playa de Llevant offers a quieter atmosphere. Its location makes it ideal depending on wind conditions and perfect for those looking to enjoy the sea away from the busiest areas.
Cala Saona
On the western side of the island lies one of Formentera’s most iconic views. Surrounded by reddish cliffs and overlooking turquoise waters, Cala Saona becomes especially magical at sunset.
Playa de Migjorn
Stretching almost six kilometres along the southern coast, Migjorn offers a wilder side of Formentera. Here you will find small coves, hidden beach bars and untouched corners where you can enjoy the sea at your own pace.
Es Arenals
Located at the southern end of Migjorn, this beach is a favourite among paddle surfers and snorkelling enthusiasts thanks to its incredibly clear waters.
When Is the Best Time to Visit Formentera?
Is Visiting Formentera from Ibiza Worth It?
Discover Formentera with Green & Blue Villas
At Green & Blue Villas, we want you to experience Ibiza and Formentera without worrying about the organisation.
Our concierge team can help arrange your Trasmapi tickets, organise transfers, recommend restaurants, arrange scooter or bicycle rentals and even plan private boat excursions.
Thanks to our collaboration with Trasmapi and the code 2026GREENVILLAS, Green & Blue guests can enjoy an exclusive discount on their tickets between Ibiza and Formentera.
Simply contact our team before your trip and we will take care of the details.
Start Planning Your Ibiza Escape
Discover our collection of villas in Ibiza, plan your Formentera adventure and enjoy a complete Mediterranean experience with the peace of mind of having a local team supporting you before and throughout your stay.
Request more information and start planning your Ibiza getaway with Green & Blue Villas.
