[UPDATED 14 AUGUST 2017]
It's not often that you wake up on a Tuesday morning knowing you're about to hop onto a 60ft Sunseeker Predator to sail to Formentera for the afternoon with Boats Ibiza, and, if you were in any doubt - I can confirm it is a good feeling. For starters, an unobstructed view of the Med in all its cerulean glory is nothing to sniff at. Likewise having the glorious summer sunshine warm your back as you lie serenely among friends is really rather quite nice. But when you're doing all this while cruising aboard the kind of luxury yacht that'd make even Beyoncé unleash a little squeal of delight, you know you're onto a winner.
Because let's be honest, a yacht like this is the play thing of the rich and famous, isn't it? Step on board and you'd be stunned by all the deluxe details - the well stocked fridge, the polished wood finish, the immaculate décor. Delve a little further onto this floating palace and you'd be knocked sideways by the plush, cushioned lounge areas that'll easily seat 6-8 people, the white leather seating that's perfect for a tête-à-tête, and the finishing touches that really make this yacht shine. Yes, all this wouldn't look out of place in the world of the A List, but yes, all this can be yours for a sumptuous day of standout perfection - and we have the memories to prove it. From 1 June - 14 July, you can hire this boat for only 1,900€ + VAT, increasing to 2,600€ + VAT between 15 July and 31 August per day.
The day started at 10am, when we met in Marina Ibiza with a little spring in our step in anticipation for the day. We were greeted by Jane - Boats Ibiza's hostess with the mostest - who led us aboard and introduced us to Neil Wood, the company's owner and our captain for the excursion. While we were still busy gaping in awe at our vessel for the day, the cava was un-popped and fresh fruit was delivered to the table - a sign of the kind of service we could get used to for the duration of the trip. As Neil manoeuvred us out of port we found ourselves a sunshine spot and got comfortable - perfecting our best celeb poses in case any paparazzi happened to swim by. Our first stop was S'Espalmador in Formentera, where we moored just offshore and dove into the beautiful, crystal waters for some snorkelling; a gentle soundtrack of our own choosing lilting quietly in the background. Next, we moved round to Ses Illetes, where we were picked up by water taxi and ferried to the shore for an hour of sunbathing and frolicking on one of the most beautiful, unspoiled beaches you're ever likely to lay eyes on.
Back onboard, and it was time for lunch - today a feast of sushi, the freshness of which was complemented by the saltiness of the sea air. We sat back in a moment of appreciation - everyone agreeing that this was a pretty special way to spend a day. Catering isn't usually included in the price of the yacht hire, but limitless drinks are, so often people pack up a picnic and indulge in all their favourite treats, or head to shore to indulge at one of Formentera's famous restaurants. The rest of the afternoon was spent sun worshipping and staring in appreciation at the landscape, before heading towards the towering cliffs of Cap d'es Falco, where the water transforms into a deep, turquoise lagoon, the ideal location for an end of the day dip. We were back in Ibiza Town for 4pm; sun-kissed, satiated and dumbstruck by our own luck. Celebrities can keep their extravagant lifestyles; we don't need it when paradise is on our doorstep.
WORDS | Abby Lowe PHOTOGRAPHY | Julian Farina
