Everyone knows Ibiza as a place of endless partying and clubbing under the baking Mediterranean sun, but its sailing potential should not be dismissed either. From its remote, rugged coves and caves – perfect for an anchorage in the evening – to its sandy beaches, Ibiza and the tiny island of Formentera nearby lend themselves to a suberb sailing experience in August.
Explore Ibiza Town
Most holidaymakers who hire a boat in Ibiza arrive at the airport of Eivissa close to Ibiza Town, on the southeast of the island. This is the capital of the municipality of Ibiza and Formentera, also known in the local lingo as Pityuses – the Pine Islands, due to the abundance of pine trees. Ibiza Town is famous all over the world for its vibrant nightlife. No clubber who respects herself can visit Ibiza and not pay a visit to Pacha, a temple of house and techno music that hosts some of the world’s most famous DJs in July and August. If you hire a boat in Ibiza you can dock in the trendy Marina Botafochm, Port Esportiu Marina d’Eivissa next to it or the local Nautical Club. All of them host some of the Med’s most impressive luxury yachts and occassionally Hollywood celebrities too. They are also very busy in the summer and pricey too, so make sure that you have reserved a place in advance if you charter a yacht in Ibiza. A walk in the cobbled streets of the old town with its whitewashed houses, towered by the 14th century citadel of Dalt Vila, will compensate you with a stunning view of the sea. This is also the right place for a shopping spree, as you will find here many gift shops, luxury boutiques and galleries.
Es Cubells, a tiny paradise
Holidaymakers who arrange a boat hire in Ibiza Town can sail to the picturesque village of Es Cubells on the southern part of the island, by and large unspoiled by mainstream tourism. The village sits on the top of a cliff, giving you a splendid view of the island of Formentera. You will enjoy a visit to the old church of Mare de Déu del Carme, the patron saint of seafarers. If you happen to be in Es Cubells on 16th July, you can attend the local feast, including a procession by the sea. Just below the church is the village’s main beach, a tranquil place where you can still spot fishermen’s boats and huts. Next to it is the Ses Boques beach, equally serene and beatiful. You can try some of the local specialties at the traditional restaurant by the beach. From there you can sail to Cala Llentrisca, a rugged cove where you can dock and spend the night.
To take a short detour for something completely difficult, your next stopover should be the islet of Es Vedra, a Mediterranean Bermuda Triangle that conspiracy theorists have named the ‘Triangle of Silence’ for its mystical vibes. Locals and visitors have seen UFOs and reported various others paranormal activities. But fear not, all the bad spirits are scared away by the unique light of the Med in the summer. You have to charter a yacht in Ibiza to visit this unique place, as you can only reach it by boat.
Discover the calas
From Es Vedra you can make your way to the western coast of Ibiza. You are now on the part of the island that makes sailing an once-in-a-lifetime experience if you have opted for a boat hire in Ibiza, as you will instantly fall in love with the island’s snall bay beaches, the famous ‘calas’. Cala Salada and Cala Saladeta are very popular for their turquoise waters, tranquil background and copious restaurants and beach bars. Then there is Cala Bassa, famous for the local beach club. The background is stunning, with a pine forest reminding you that you are still in the Med and not in Miami. From there you have many options for a quick stopover or to dock your boat and spend the night in a unique scenery of pine trees, rugged cliffs and the inevitable song of crickets and cicadas at night: Cala Conta, Cala Tarida, Cala Vedella, Cala Truja and Cala Carbo are some of the most beautiful ones.
Your next stopover? San Antonio, home to what is perhaps the most beautiful sunset background in the Med! But more on this in the next part of our Ibiza guide.
