Renting a boat in Ibiza: a complete guide to sailing in the Mediterranean paradise

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On 14 de May de 2025

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Ibiza is not only known for its nightlife and turquoise beaches, but also for being one of the most prestigious nautical destinations in the Mediterranean. Its rugged coastline, dotted with hidden coves and corners inaccessible by land, makes the island a perfect setting to explore from the sea. The favorable weather conditions, the offer of first class moorings and the proximity to Formentera consolidate it as a strategic point for sailing enthusiasts.

Why renting a boat in Ibiza is a must experience?

Discovering Ibiza from the sea offers a completely different perspective of the island. By renting a boat, travelers can access hidden coves, snorkel in crystal clear waters away from the tourist hustle and bustle, watch spectacular sunsets from the sea or simply relax on board while sailing to Formentera. It is a personalized experience, adaptable to any profile: from romantic getaways to group excursions or luxury trips with all services included.

In addition, boat rental in Ibiza is a very accessible and flexible option thanks to the variety of boats available, the possibility of hiring skipper and crew, and complementary services that facilitate the entire management.

What does this guide bring to the reader?

This article is designed for those who are considering renting a boat in Ibiza for the first time or for those who want to learn more about the different options available. Here you will find:

A clear and comparative overview of the types of boats you can rent.
Practical advice according to your profile, needs and level of nautical experience.
Recommendations on how to choose the ideal boat and enjoy the experience to the fullest.

Types of boats that can be rented in Ibiza

Choosing the right type of boat is key to a satisfactory sailing experience. Below, we present the most common options that you can find in specialized companies in Ibiza, with their characteristics, advantages and recommended public.

Boats and motorboats: agility to cross coves in a day

Boats and motorboats are fast and versatile, ideal for those who want to make the most of the day exploring various coves without wasting time on transfers. They are easy to handle, require less previous preparation and, in many cases, no previous experience is necessary if hired with a skipper.

Main advantages:

Agility and speed to visit multiple points in one day.
Perfect for water sports such as wakeboarding or snorkeling.
Affordable price compared to other boats.

Who is it ideal for?
Couples, small groups of friends, or families looking for a fast and fun day trip.

Sailboats: a quiet experience, ideal for calm sailing in Ibiza

Sailing is a more leisurely experience and connected with nature. It requires more technical knowledge, although it can also be hired with a skipper. Ideal for those looking to disconnect from the hectic pace and let themselves be carried away by the wind.

Main advantages:

Silence and sustainability: navigation without engines most of the time.
Ideal for multi-day trips.
Direct contact with the art of sailing.

Who is it ideal for?
Adventurers, couples or small groups with a quiet spirit, who wish to experience sailing from a more authentic perspective.

Catamarans: more space and stability, perfect for groups or families

Catamarans stand out for their spaciousness, stability and comfort. Having two hulls, they offer independent areas, spacious decks and usually have private cabins and kitchen. They are perfect for organizing events, parties or family getaways.

Main advantages:

Great stability in the water, ideal for those who get dizzy easily.
Ample living space both indoors and outdoors.
Privacy between cabins.

Who is it ideal for?
Large groups, families with children, or events such as farewell parties, anniversaries or private celebrations.

Luxury yachts: privacy and exclusivity in high-end in Ibiza

If you are looking for an absolute luxury experience, yachts are the ultimate choice. With professional crew on board, personalized services and high-end design, they offer everything you need for a five-star stay at sea.

Main advantages:

Full service: captain, chef, cleanliness and personalized attention.
Relaxation areas, Jacuzzi, solarium, water toys and more.
Maximum privacy and comfort.

Who is it ideal for?
Demanding clients, celebrities, businessmen or couples looking for an unforgettable honeymoon.

Boats without license: options for beginners or short trips in the Balearic Islands

Ibiza also allows the rental of small boats that do not require nautical qualifications. They are perfect for beginners who want to try for the first time the experience of being captains for a day.

Main advantages:

Easy to operate after a short initial training.
Ideal for short routes near the coast.
Very affordable price.

Who is it ideal for?
Young couples, inexperienced tourists, or those looking for a relaxed ride without administrative complications.

Indicative prices according to type of boat and season

In Ay Ibiza, the price of boat rental varies depending on the type of boat, the duration of the rental and the time of the year. As a general guideline:

Full day charter: from 1000 € per day for basic boats with medium capacity.
Weekly rental: for medium and high-end boats, it can range from 7,000 to 25,000 €, with significant discounts compared to the daily price.

These rates include the use of the boat during the contracted period, but may vary if additional services are included.

Factors affecting price

The cost of renting a boat in Ibiza is conditioned by several factors:

Season: in high season (June to September), prices may increase up to 30-50% compared to low season.
Type of boat: basic motorboats are more economical, while luxury yachts and large catamarans require a higher investment.
Services included: skipper, hostess, catering, beverages, water sports equipment or premium moorings may or may not be included, depending on the package.
Duration of rental: weekly or multi-day rentals usually include more competitive daily rates.

Skippered or bareboat?

In Spain, to rent a boat without a skipper it is mandatory to have a valid nautical license, depending on the length of the boat and the distance to the coast:

For boats up to 6 meters in length and engines up to 15 hp, it is possible to rent without a license.
For boats up to 8 meters, a minimum of a Basic Navigation Skipper’s Certificate (PNB) is required.
For larger vessels or night navigation, you need to be a recreational boat skipper (PER) or higher.

Without the proper qualifications, the customer must opt for the rental with a professional skipper. And in our case in AyIbiza we always rent with skipper.

Advantages of renting a boat in Ibiza with skipper

Having a skipper on board is a highly recommended option, even for those with experience:

Greater safety: the skipper knows the area, the routes, the sea conditions and how to react to any unforeseen event.
More relaxed experience: allows passengers to enjoy themselves without worries, focusing on leisure, gastronomy or scenery.
Local knowledge: skippers know the best coves, restaurants accessible by sea, safe anchorage areas and secrets of the Ibizan coast.

When is each option convenient?

With skipper: ideal for those who do not have a license, want to live a stress-free experience or wish to discover little-known corners with an expert guide.
Without skipper: recommended for experienced sailors who are looking for more autonomy, intimacy or already know the waters of Ibiza.

Practical advice before renting

Ibiza receives thousands of visitors every summer, and the demand for boats is especially high between June and September. To guarantee availability and best rates, it is ideal to book at least one month in advance, especially in July and August. Booking in advance will be the key to guarantee the best prices.

Verify licenses, insurance and contract conditions

Before formalizing the rental, be sure to check:

That the vessel has liability insurance and all risk insurance.
Licenses and registrations are up to date.
That the contract clearly indicates the fuel policy, the expenses included or not, and the conditions of use.

What to take on board?

Although many boats are equipped with the basics, we recommend carrying:

Sun protection: sunscreen, sunglasses, cap.
Comfortable clothing and nautical or non-skid footwear.
Water and snacks, if catering is not included.
Towels and bathing suit, if bathing stops are planned.

Checking with the supplier what is included in the equipment can help you to optimize your luggage.

Checking the condition of the ship prior to departure

Before starting the journey, it is advisable:

Check the general condition of the boat (deck, engine, equipment).
Verify the inventory delivered (vests, flares, first aid kit…).
Take photos or videos of the boat as a preventive measure against possible claims.

Recommended routes for a day of sailing

Exploring Ibiza and Formentera by boat allows you to discover corners inaccessible by land and live an unforgettable experience in contact with nature. Below, we propose several ideal routes for a day of sailing, adapted to different preferences: tranquility, iconic landscapes or marine gastronomy.

Route through the south of Ibiza: Cala Jondal, Porroig and Es Vedrà

Starting on the south coast of the island, this route combines sheltered coves, crystal clear waters and postcard landscapes:

Cala Jondal: known for its select atmosphere and its beach bars such as Blue Marlin. Good spot to anchor and enjoy chill-out music.
Porroig: a less crowded cove, ideal for swimming and relaxing against the backdrop of a small traditional fishing pier.
Es Vedrà: the mythical rocky islet off the coast, surrounded by legends. Anchoring nearby offers one of the most impressive sunsets in the Mediterranean.

Suggestion: anchor in Porroig for a quiet swim, have lunch on board overlooking Es Vedrà, and close the day with a sunset cocktail in Cala Jondal.

Route through the west of Ibiza: Cala Tarida, Cala Conta and Cala Bassa

The west coast offers some of the best beaches in Ibiza and is ideal for those looking to combine swimming, gastronomy and spectacular views:

Cala Tarida: turquoise waters, family atmosphere and excellent starting point.
Cala Conta: considered one of the most beautiful beaches of the island, perfect for anchoring and swimming among rock formations.
Cala Bassa: with calm waters and fine sand, it has nautical services and the well-known Cala Bassa Beach Club.

Suggestion: anchor in Cala Conta for snorkeling and lunch on board, and end the day in Cala Bassa with direct access to a beach club from the boat.

Route to Formentera: Ses Illetes, Espalmador and La Savina

This voyage is ideal for those who wish to experience a full day of sailing between two islands:

Ses Illetes: a beach of white sand and flat waters, within the natural park. Controlled anchorage and one of the most photographed places in Formentera.
Espalmador: small uninhabited island north of Formentera, with virgin beaches and great ecological value. Accessible only by sea.
La Savina: the main port of Formentera, ideal for refueling or disembarking and visiting the interior of the island.

Suggestion: breakfast sailing to Espalmador, lunch at anchor in Illetes and evening stroll in La Savina.

Eating on board or in beach bars from the sea

Eating on board is a comfortable and private option. At Ay Ibiza we can provide catering or fresh menu recommendations.
For those who prefer to disembark, there are many beach bars accessible from the sea, such as Es Torrent, Juan y Andrea or Beso Beach, some of which offer a pick-up service by dinghy.

Best coves for anchoring in Ibiza

Anchoring is an essential part of the nautical experience. Ibiza offers safe coves, protected from the wind and with adequate bottoms for anchoring, many of them within natural areas that require special attention to environmental impact.

Safe and spectacular coves for anchorage

Cala d’Hort: in front of Es Vedrà, it allows anchoring in sand and offers majestic views. Recommended to be sheltered from north winds.
Cala Xuclar: small, quiet and protected. Ideal for small groups.
Cala Salada and Cala Saladeta: located on the west coast, with transparent waters and good sandy bottom.
Cala Llentrisca: little frequented, only accessible by sea, a real haven of tranquility.
Es Portitxol: closed cove to the north, circular, perfect for quiet anchorages on days without strong wind.

Practical tips for safe anchoring

Bottom type: it is safest to anchor on sand or sand mixed with seaweed, avoiding areas of posidonia oceanica.
Ideal depth: between 3 and 8 meters, to ensure a good anchor hold and ease of swimming from the boat.
Wind orientation: before anchoring, check the wind direction and strength. Many coves are protected only from certain angles.

In case of doubt, Ay Ibiza skippers always advise and choose the safest and legal anchorage.

Respect for the environment and protected areas

Several coves are located in environmentally protected areas (Red Natura 2000, Ses Salines Natural Park). It is essential:

Avoid anchoring on posidonia, a marine plant that is fundamental to the ecosystem. Use authorized buoys or anchor in sandy areas.
Do not dump waste at sea or use soaps or polluting products on board.
Minimize the use of generators and loud music in quiet areas or areas of high natural value.

At Ay Ibiza we encourage responsible sailing, informing our clients and proposing sustainable routes and practices.

Why choose Ay Ibiza for your nautical experience?

Sailing around Ibiza and Formentera is much more than a leisure activity: it is a way to experience the Mediterranean from its most authentic essence. And at AyIbiza, we make that experience easy, safe and totally personalized. We have many unique experiences to enjoy the Balearic Islands as you have always wanted.

With a varied and modern fleet, ranging from agile speedboats to luxury yachts or sailing yachts for leisurely cruising, we offer solutions for all types of travelers: families, groups of friends, couples or corporate clients. Whether for a day of coastal exploration, a special celebration or a romantic getaway, you will find the boat and service that best suits you.