There is nothing that quite beats the feeling of cruising on the Med around Ibiza; the sense of adventure, taste of luxury and infrequent opportunity to experience it, all contribute to a something quite memorable.
Boats Ibiza operate out of San Antonio and have developed a strong reputation for providing high quality experiences including speed boats, sail boats and water-sports. Arrving at 11am in San Antonio port, we discussed possible routes for the day. Having originally wanted to head north from San Antonio, our skipper for the day, Paul, suggested Atlantis, which was only about 30 mins the other way, south along the coast towards Es Vedra. Surprised that this was possible and excited by the propsect, we happily changed our minds.
It was a perfect day for being out the water, temperature in the 20s, no clouds and no wind at all, giving the sea a reflective majestic look, without even a ripple to speak of. The boat comes stocked with cold beers, wine and refreshments so by noon, the temptation was too much and the cool box had been firmly opened.
We soon passed Cala Bassa and Cala Conta and arrived at Atlantis in what seemed like no time. Amazingly, there was only one other boat around and one lone couple who must have made the arduous descent down the steep path from above. We sunk anchor and set about taking advantage of what is some of the bluest and most clear water I've experienced in Ibiza.
Boats Ibiza provided snorkeling gear, so we spent a good while diving, enjoying the stunning underwater views and interacting with the masses of fish everywhere. You can feed them bread but beware they have quite a bite. The diving left us low on energy levels, so it was time to eat. We took our own lunch and tucked into sandwiches, chicken drumsticks and pasta salad along with a few more beers of course.
We explored the quarried rock of Atlantis, we'll keep this bit deliberately light on details for when you experience it yourself, then had a final swim before heading off to Es Vedra island. The short trip to Es Vedra is breathtaking, with the huge sheer rock face diving down into the dark, blue, abyss-like sea below. We got close enough to lay our hands on the spiritual island rock but you're not allowed to go ashore.
On the way back, we had time to enjoy some water sports, taking turns on the doughnut fun off the back of the boat. Despite all 8 of us enjoying a turn, 4 adults and 4 kids, we were still able to make a final stop off, at Cala Codolar, where we were able to enter one of the caves there that has a 'secret' staircase/tunnel leading to the cliffs above. The perfect place for a cool photo opportunity before we headed back to San An with a glass of champagne in hand!
Big Thanks to our skipper Paul (who was awesome!) and Neil from Boats Ibiza.
Quick Facts
What: Boat Charters around Ibiza with Boats Ibiza
Where: departing from San Antonio, trips anywhere around the island.
When: Whenever the weather is good enough May to October
Why: The ultimate way to experience Ibiza
Cost: Day Charters start from €645 (May) or about 70€ per person.
More information: Boats Ibiza
WORDS and PHOTOS | Peter Young
