The perfect Ibiza – Formentera route

Crossing to Formentera by boat is one of the star trips from Ibiza. In normal conditions the passage takes around 30–45 minutes from Marina Ibiza to the Ses Illetes area, depending on the type of boat and sea state. Best time to leave: it's best to leave early in the morning (between 9:00 and 10:00) for calmer seas, a good anchoring spot in Formentera and plenty of time for swimming and lunch. By mid-afternoon the wind often picks up; the return can be a bit choppier but is usually manageable. Where to anchor in Formentera: Ses Illetes and the Llevant area are the classics. Turquoise water, white sand and shallow depth. It gets very busy in summer; arriving early helps you find a spot. Es Cavallet, a bit further south, is another option with fewer crowds and a more natural setting. Between Illetes and Cavallet there are several coves where you can anchor if there's space. Rules: in some areas of Formentera anchoring is regulated (moorings or restrictions to protect posidonia seagrass). Respect the signs and don't anchor over the meadows. The skipper knows the permitted areas and will tell you where it's best to drop anchor. What not to miss: besides Illetes and Cavallet, it's worth heading towards La Savina if you want to see the harbour and island life. For lunch, there are beach bars you can reach by boat; bringing a picnic is also a very practical option. Tip: check the wind forecast before you leave. In strong easterly or windy conditions the channel can be uncomfortable; in that case you can choose to stay in Ibiza coves instead. With a skipper, he'll decide the best route and whether the day is suitable for crossing.