When the party takes to the sea
Boat parties are, for me, one of the purest expressions of what Ibiza represents. Combining music, sea, sun and that sense of absolute freedom that only comes from sailing through crystal-clear waters is something no land-based club can replicate.
Since I was a teenager, I've seen how this tradition has grown into one of the pillars of the Ibiza summer, and each year the offering becomes more varied and exciting.
A boat party in Ibiza is freedom in its purest form: music, open sea, the sun setting over Es Vedrà and the feeling that time stands still.
The different options
Classic boat parties
Not all boat parties are the same, and that's what makes them great. The most popular ones depart from the Port of San Antonio in the afternoon, coinciding with the sunset, and sail along the island's west coast while a DJ spins on deck.
They usually last between three and four hours and include an open bar or basic drinks included in the price.
Premium options
There are also more exclusive options available on private yachts or luxury catamarans, with small groups, champagne and stops to swim in secret coves.
Then there are the large boat parties organized by major promoters. These typically use larger capacity boats with two or three decks, professional sound systems and line-ups featuring recognized DJs. The experience is closer to a floating mini-festival than a boat ride.
The typical circuit
The most classic route departs from the Port of San Antonio and hugs the coast toward the south, passing by Cala Bassa, Cala Conta and sometimes reaching all the way to Es Vedrà.
The highlight comes when the boat positions itself in front of the Es Vedrà islet and the sun begins to set: the combination of that imposing rock, the fiery sky and the music is simply breathtaking. Some boats make a stop to swim in a cove, which is the perfect respite before the second part of the party.
Practical tips
If you've never done a boat party, there are a few things you should know:
- Sunscreen and hat: the sun on the sea is twice as strong and you don't realize it until it's too late
- Eat before boarding: the combination of sun, boat movement and alcohol on an empty stomach is not a good idea
- Water-friendly footwear: on many boats the deck gets wet and you'll be moving between different areas
- Small towel: useful if there's a swimming stop at a cove
- Waterproof bag: to protect your phone and belongings from water and splashes
Tickets and prices
Tickets are purchased in advance, almost always online. Prices range from 50 euros for the most basic boat parties to 150 or more for premium options with a full open bar. Many include bus transfers from key points on the island to the departure port.
An essential Ibiza experience
Boat parties are Ibiza in its purest state: music, sea, people from all over the world dancing together, and that feeling that time stands still when you're in the middle of the Mediterranean with the island as your backdrop.
Whether it's an intimate catamaran at sunset or a boat full of people dancing techno, doing at least one boat party during your Ibiza trip is as essential as watching a sunset or stepping foot in a legendary club. It's the island experienced from the water, and that has a special magic.
Practical information
- Departures: mainly from the Port of San Antonio; some from Ibiza City
- Duration: 3-4 hours (typical departure: 16:00-17:00)
- Prices: from 50 € (basic) to 150 €+ (premium with open bar)
- Includes: depending on the type: open bar, basic drinks or just the boat ride
- Transfer: many include bus from key points on the island
- Season: May to October, with peak in July-August