If there's one type of boat that suits almost every kind of Ibiza trip, it's the catamaran. With their wide, twin-hull design, catamarans offer more deck space, more stability, and more comfort than any monohull of the same length. Whether you're a family with small children, a group of friends celebrating a birthday, or a couple looking for a luxurious day on the water, there's a catamaran in Ibiza for you.
This guide covers everything you need to know about catamaran rentals in Ibiza for 2026 — from the types of catamarans available and what they cost, to the best routes, packing lists, and booking tips that will make your day unforgettable.
Why Choose a Catamaran in Ibiza?
Catamarans have become the most popular charter choice in Ibiza for good reason. Here's what sets them apart from other boats:
Unmatched Stability
The dual-hull design means catamarans barely rock, even in moderate swell. This is a game-changer for anyone prone to seasickness, for families with young children, and for anyone who wants to eat, drink, and move around the boat without holding on to something. You can walk from bow to stern with a glass of cava in hand and never spill a drop.
Massive Deck Space
A 14-metre catamaran has roughly twice the usable deck area of a 14-metre monohull yacht. You get wide trampolines (the nets between the bows) for sunbathing, a shaded cockpit for dining, a flybridge on larger models, and a spacious swim platform at the stern. Nobody feels crowded, even with 15 people aboard.
Low Fuel Costs
Under sail, a catamaran uses zero fuel. Even when motoring, the efficient hull design means fuel consumption is far lower than a comparable motor yacht. A full day's sailing typically uses only €40–€80 of diesel for engine manoeuvring, compared to €200–€600+ for a motorboat covering the same distance. For a full cost breakdown, see our Ibiza yacht charter prices guide.
Shallow Draft
Catamarans sit higher in the water than keelboats, which means they can anchor closer to shore in shallow, sandy bays. In Ibiza, where some of the most beautiful spots — like the turquoise shallows around S'Espalmador or the sandbar at Ses Illetes — are in very shallow water, this is a significant advantage.
Types of Catamarans Available in Ibiza
The Ibiza charter fleet includes several categories of catamaran, each suited to different needs and budgets:
Sailing Catamarans (38–50 ft / 12–15 m)
The classic charter catamaran. Brands like Lagoon, Bali, Fountaine Pajot, and Leopard dominate the Ibiza fleet. These boats typically have 3–4 cabins, 2–4 bathrooms, a fully equipped galley (kitchen), and can accommodate 10–20 guests for a day charter or 6–8 for overnight stays.
- Best for: Families, friend groups, day sailing, multi-day trips
- Capacity: 10–20 day guests (varies by model and license)
- Price range: €800–€3,500/day depending on size and season
- Skipper: Required (usually included in the price)
Power Catamarans (35–60 ft / 11–18 m)
A newer category that combines the space and stability of a catamaran with the speed of a motor yacht. Power cats can reach 15–25 knots, letting you cover more of Ibiza's coastline in a single day. They're less common in Ibiza than sailing cats, but growing in availability.
- Best for: Groups wanting speed + space, Formentera day trips, island-hopping
- Capacity: 10–15 day guests
- Price range: €1,500–€5,000/day
- Skipper: Required (included)
Party Catamarans (50–70 ft / 15–21 m)
Large-capacity catamarans specifically outfitted for group events. These come with premium sound systems, large bar areas, and open-plan deck layouts designed for dancing and socialising. Some carry up to 30–40 guests.
- Best for: Birthdays, hen/stag parties, corporate events, celebrations
- Capacity: 20–40 guests
- Price range: €3,000–€8,000/day
- Extras often included: DJ, drinks packages, water toys
Small / No-License Catamarans
Some operators offer small, electric-powered catamarans under 4 metres that don't require a boating license. These are perfect for couples or small families who want a quiet, self-drive experience close to shore. Read more in our no-license boat guide.
- Best for: Couples, beginners, short bay explorations
- Capacity: 2–5 guests
- Price range: €100–€200/half day
- License: Not required
Best Catamaran Routes in Ibiza
A catamaran's combination of comfort and range makes it ideal for full-day cruises that cover significant stretches of coastline. Here are the most popular routes:
Route 1: South Coast Classics (Marina Botafoch / Ibiza Town)
Depart from Ibiza's main marina and head south along the stunning southeast coast. Key stops include:
- Cala Jondal — Famous for the Blue Marlin beach club. Anchor offshore and swim in.
- Es Vedra viewpoint — Sail past the iconic 400-metre rock tower. Incredible photo opportunity.
- Cala d'Hort — Anchor with Es Vedra as your backdrop. Crystal-clear water, great snorkelling.
- Cala Comte — End the day at Ibiza's most famous sunset beach. Multiple small coves to choose from.
Route 2: Ibiza to Formentera (Full Day)
The most popular catamaran day trip. Cross the narrow channel to Formentera and spend the day exploring its Caribbean-quality beaches. Typical stops:
- S'Espalmador — Uninhabited island with a natural mud bath and powder-white sand
- Ses Illetes — Consistently ranked among Europe's best beaches
- Es Pujols — Optional lunch stop at a beachfront restaurant
- Sunset return — Cross back to Ibiza as the sun drops behind the island
For the full Formentera itinerary, see our dedicated Ibiza to Formentera guide.
Route 3: North Coast Adventure (San Antonio / Portinatx)
The north coast of Ibiza is wilder, quieter, and more dramatic. This route is perfect for nature lovers:
- Cala Salada & Cala Saladeta — Twin coves with pine-shaded shores
- Punta Galera — Flat rock shelves perfect for cliff jumping and sunbathing
- Cala Xarraca — A protected bay with shallow turquoise water, ideal for snorkelling
- Tagomago Island — Sail around this private island on the northeast tip of Ibiza
Catamarans for Families vs. Catamarans for Parties
Not all catamaran charters are created equal. The boat, the operator, and the vibe can be completely different depending on whether you're bringing kids or cocktails:
| Feature | Family Catamaran | Party Catamaran |
|---|---|---|
| Typical size | 38–45 ft (12–14 m) | 50–70 ft (15–21 m) |
| Guest count | 6–12 | 15–40 |
| Sound system | Standard Bluetooth speaker | Professional DJ-grade system |
| Water toys | Paddleboard, snorkels, floats | Jet ski, towable tube, waterslide |
| Food & drinks | Self-catering or family-style lunch | Open bar, catering packages |
| Route focus | Calm coves, snorkelling, beaches | Scenic cruising, anchoring near beach clubs |
| Departure time | 10 AM – 5 PM | 1 PM – 9 PM (sunset focus) |
| Price (high season) | €1,500–€3,000 | €3,000–€8,000 |
Tips for Family Catamaran Charters
- Choose a boat with a rigid bimini top — shade is essential for children
- Ask if the operator provides children's life jackets — reputable ones always do
- Request a slow, easy route with long anchor stops so kids can swim and play
- Bring plenty of snacks, water, and sunscreen — more than you think you'll need
- The trampoline nets are the highlight for kids — they'll spend hours bouncing and looking at fish
Tips for Party Catamaran Charters
- Book at least 4–6 weeks ahead in July/August — party cats sell out fast
- Clarify the music policy upfront — some areas around Ibiza have noise restrictions
- Discuss the drinks package in detail — unlimited vs. limited, spirits vs. beer/wine only
- Check if you can bring a DJ or your own playlist connected to the ship's system
- For large groups, browse our events page for organised catamaran party packages
What's Included in a Catamaran Charter?
Inclusions vary by operator, but a typical Ibiza catamaran charter includes:
- Always included: Skipper, insurance, mooring at departure port, safety equipment, basic snorkelling gear, dinghy
- Usually included: Paddleboard, Bluetooth speaker, towels, ice cooler
- Sometimes included: Fuel, light lunch, welcome drinks, water toys
- Usually extra: Premium catering, open bar, jet ski, DJ, additional crew (hostess, chef)
Catamaran Rental Prices in Ibiza 2026
Here's a quick pricing overview specifically for catamarans:
| Catamaran Type | Low Season (May/Oct) | Mid Season (Jun/Sep) | High Season (Jul/Aug) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Small / no-license (half day) | €100–€150 | €130–€180 | €160–€200 |
| Sailing cat 38–42 ft (full day) | €800–€1,200 | €1,200–€1,800 | €1,800–€2,800 |
| Sailing cat 45–50 ft (full day) | €1,200–€1,800 | €1,800–€2,800 | €2,500–€3,500 |
| Power catamaran (full day) | €1,500–€2,500 | €2,500–€4,000 | €3,500–€5,000 |
| Party catamaran (full day) | €2,500–€4,000 | €3,500–€6,000 | €5,000–€8,000 |
Find Your Perfect Catamaran
Browse every catamaran available for charter in Ibiza. Compare sizes, prices, and inclusions across all operators.
Browse CatamaransBooking Tips for Catamaran Rentals
- Book early for summer: The best catamarans for July and August sell out by April. Don't wait.
- Read reviews carefully: The catamaran itself matters, but the skipper and crew make or break the experience.
- Confirm the departure marina: Ibiza has several marinas — Marina Botafoch, Ibiza Port, San Antonio, Santa Eulalia. Make sure the departure point is convenient for your hotel.
- Discuss the route: Most skippers have a standard route, but they're usually happy to customise. Tell them what you want — beaches, snorkelling, Formentera, sunset — and they'll adjust.
- Ask about the catamaran's year and condition: A well-maintained 2020 Lagoon 40 will outperform a neglected 2024 budget cat. Age isn't everything, but condition is.
- Check the weather 48 hours before: If the wind is above 20 knots, your trip will be less comfortable. Most operators will offer to reschedule in bad conditions.
What to Bring on a Catamaran Day Charter
- Sunscreen (SPF 50+ reef-safe is best for Ibiza's marine reserves)
- Swimwear and a light cover-up
- Towel (even if the boat provides them — bring a spare)
- Sunglasses with a retainer strap (the sea claims hundreds of sunglasses every summer)
- Seasickness remedy if you're unsure (catamarans are stable, but better safe)
- Waterproof phone case
- Cash for the skipper's tip
- Your own drinks and snacks if catering isn't included
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I drive a catamaran myself in Ibiza?
Small no-license catamarans (under 4 m with engines under 15 HP) can be driven by anyone over 18. For full-size sailing or power catamarans, you need either a valid sailing licence (PER or higher recognised in Spain) or you must hire a skipper. Most catamaran charters include a professional skipper in the price.
How many people can fit on a catamaran?
It depends on the size. A standard 40-foot sailing catamaran can typically take 10–12 day guests. Larger 50-foot models accommodate 15–20. Dedicated party catamarans can carry up to 30–40 people. Check the specific listing for the certified maximum capacity — this is a legal limit, not a suggestion.
Are catamarans good for people who get seasick?
Catamarans are the best choice for anyone concerned about seasickness. Their wide, twin-hull design dramatically reduces the rocking motion that causes nausea. In the typically calm summer waters around Ibiza, most people feel no motion at all on a catamaran. They are significantly more stable than monohull sailboats or motorboats.
Can I take a catamaran to Formentera from Ibiza?
Absolutely — it's the most popular catamaran day trip. The crossing from Ibiza to Formentera takes about 1–1.5 hours under sail (or 30–45 minutes on a power catamaran). Your skipper will handle the route and find the best anchorages. A full-size catamaran with skipper is required for this crossing — no-license boats cannot legally make the trip.
What is the best catamaran for a group of 10 friends?
A 40–45 foot sailing catamaran is ideal for 10 people. You'll have plenty of space without the boat feeling empty, the price per person is very reasonable (€150–€300 each depending on season), and you'll have access to trampolines, a shaded cockpit, and room to spread out. Look for models like the Lagoon 42 or Bali 4.3 in our boat listings.
