Boat rental in Ibiza

The harbour you choose sets the route for the day. Sant Antoni, on the west coast, is home to most licence-free boats: from its bay you quickly reach Cala Bassa, Cala Comte and the islet of sa Conillera, and in the evening the sunsets facing Es Vedrà.

Santa Eulària, on the east coast, has the largest marina on the island and companies with motorboats, RIBs, sailing boats and catamarans. From there you head to Tagomago, Cala Llonga and the northeast coves, quieter than the west in high summer. Ibiza harbour and Marina Ibiza are mainly for skippered yachts and larger motorboats, with Formentera less than an hour away.

Formentera is the highlight, but not every boat can do it. Licence-free boats may only go 2 miles from the coast or a shelter, and most companies do not let you cross with them. To reach Illetes or Espalmador you need a motorboat with a licence or, if you have no licence, a skippered boat.

In the ses Salines natural park, which includes Illetes and Espalmador, there are regulated mooring buoy fields so boats do not anchor on posidonia seagrass, protected throughout the Balearics. In July and August the buoys are booked in advance: ask the company whether it books them or you have to.

For a family day out the usual choice is a motorboat or a RIB; for several days, a sailing yacht or catamaran with cabins. Without a licence, many areas allow small licence-free boats, or you can rent with a skipper.

Compare capacity, engine power, equipment (bimini, swim ladder, cool box, snorkelling gear) and what the price includes: fuel, insurance, final cleaning and deposit.

Book ahead for July and August, check the weather forecast and ask about the cancellation policy in bad weather. When you pick up the boat, check its condition and take photos.

Contacting companies in Ibiza directly on Nautify means you talk to the people renting you the boat and can ask everything before booking.