A trip to Formentera is a favourite amongst Ibiza locals and holiday-makers alike, but without a doubt, one of the most pleasant and wallet-friendly ways to enjoy this experience is with Aquabus Ferry Boats and a "Paella in Formentera" cruise.
Formentera – accessible for everyone.
The company's three partners - Leo, Jose and Jose's father - are keen to make sure that the beauty of Formentera can be enjoyed by everyone, and not only the wealthy. The island was previously only accessible by yacht or helicopter and whilst, more recently, the larger ferry companies have started to run excursions from Ibiza, these are generally considerably more expensive and certainly don't have the unique character of Aquabus.
Secret nerves
As we set off from Playa d'en Bossa last Sunday morning, however, I confess that I was having a few secret doubts that I hadn't even shared with my two friends. You see, even though I love the sea, I also have a deep-rooted fear of it and tend to avoid boat trips whenever possible. My friends' enthusing that all of Aquabus Ferry Boats are re-conditioned fishing trawlers, meaning we would be sailing in the open air was, frankly, not helping and I was beginning to think that being cooped up inside one of those bigger ferries was not such a bad idea after all. I said nothing, took a deep breath, and embarked with the other 30 or so passengers.
Much to my incredulity, within minutes of setting sail, every single fear had vanished and I found myself standing on the deck, chatting with Leo and Jose, and positively relishing the rolling sensation of the sea beneath me, the uninterrupted views and the wind in my hair. It was impossible not to feel uplifted and safe; these guys clearly knew what they were doing (indeed, Leo is a captain and engineer) and their enthusiasm and confidence on the water was contagious, our boat itself reassuringly secure and sturdy.
The journey from Ibiza to Formentera took around one hour and twenty minutes, during which time we were offered appetisers of bread with cheese or meat, soft drinks and a glass or two of Jose's parents' scrumptious home-made wine.
Arriving in Formentera a little before one o'clock, we had a couple of hours to explore the island. Some of our party hired cars and bikes (cycling is particularly popular in Formentera due to the flatness of the terrain here) whilst my friends and I were happy to have a relaxed stroll around the port, taking lots of photos of the picturesque scenery, before heading to the restaurant for our Paella lunch.
Great value for money
Considering that this whole excursion costs just €29 for adults and €19 for children up to 14 years old, had we any reservations about the quality of the food we could expect, then we were about to be pleasantly surprised. We were all seated together around a long table, where we shared generous amounts of bread and alioli and big platters of mixed salad. The Paella itself was plentiful, and looked and smelled delicious; being traditional Paella, it did contain meat but vegetarians can choose a different option from the menu for their main course if required. I actually declined this offer, as the large servings of bread and salad followed by dessert were more than enough for me. With plenty of bottles of water and wine for us to help ourselves to, it is fair to say that we were extremely well catered for and everyone was happy and relaxed as we headed back to the boat at five o'clock for our return trip to Ibiza.
A thoroughly enjoyable way to spend a Sunday afternoon, as well as being extraordinary value for money. We loved it and have no hesitation in giving the Aquabus Ferry Team a gratitude-filled, big thumbs-up!
Quick Facts.
What Aquabus Ferry Boats Paella in Formentera Cruise.
Where Formentera.
When Every Sunday leaving Ibiza Town at 11.00 am, Figueretas at 11.15 and Playa d'en Bossa at 11.30.
Why A great way to experience a trip to Formentera with the warmth and hospitality of a local Ibiza company.
Veggie Options Yes, on request.
Average Spend Per Head €29 per adult, €19 for children up to the age of 14.
Top Tip Keep a look out for Aquabus's other excursions available as the summer season progresses, including Dolphin Excursions which are supported by a marine biologist who looks out for the well-being of the dolphins and predicts the best places to spot them.
Photo Credits: Cat Milton
