Formentera Cruise Ship Port Guide

How to get to the port, by air, train, road

Getting to La Savina port means flying to Ibiza Airport (IBZ) first, as Formentera doesn’t have its own airport. After landing, you’ll need to get to Ibiza Town’s port and hop on a ferry to Formentera.

No trains run on either island, so you can get around by:

1. Airport transfer services – they’ll drive you straight from Ibiza Airport to the ferry terminal (about 20 minutes)
2. Public bus line L10 between the airport and Ibiza port (roughly 30 minutes)
3. Taxis – you’ll find plenty outside the airport (15-20 minutes depending on traffic)

From Ibiza’s port, ferries sail to Formentera’s La Savina port all year round, with more trips during the busy summer months. The boat journey takes about 30 minutes.

Port Parking Options

Near La Savina port, you can find both short-term and long-term parking spots. The main car park at Marina de Formentera has covered and uncovered spaces with round-the-clock security cameras. It’ll cost you £15 per day, or £90 if you’re parking for a week.

If you just need a quick stop, try the pay-and-display street parking on Passeig de la Marina – you can park for up to 4 hours at £2 per hour. There’s also a free car park on Carrer des Far, roughly a 10-minute walk from the terminal, but it gets packed during busy seasons.

For stays longer than a week, the port’s official long-term car park might be your best bet, with monthly rates of £200. You’ll need to book ahead through the port authority’s website.

Local Transport & Transfers

From La Savina port, you’ll spot plenty of ways to get around Formentera. The island’s quite small, so you can get almost anywhere within 30 minutes. Regular public buses run from the port to the lovely beaches and towns like Es Pujols and Sant Francesc Xavier.

1. Grab a scooter or bicycle right at the port – you’ll find lots of rental shops with good prices, and it’s how most people prefer to see the island
2. Jump in a taxi from the official rank outside the terminal – fares are set by the council and drivers can manage basic English
3. Catch the L1 or L2 public bus that links all the main spots – buy your ticket from the driver or nip to the tourist office for a multi-journey pass

Port Terminal Facilities

Getting around the island is dead simple, and La Savina’s port terminal comes with all the basics you’d need. Inside, you’ll find toilets, tourist info desks and a handful of small shops selling everyday items and local bits and bobs. There’s a nice little café for snacks and coffee, plus water fountains dotted about the place.

The terminal has free Wi-Fi, though it can get a bit rubbish when it’s busy. You’ll spot ATMs by the main entrance, and thankfully the building’s air-conditioned – a proper relief from Formentera’s heat. There’s a modest seating area where you can rest your legs, and the tourist office lot are brilliant for sorting you out with maps, tour bookings, or any questions about the island. If you need to stash your bags for a bit, they’ve got storage lockers too.

Things to Do Before Your Cruise in a Day

Making the most of your pre-cruise day in Formentera is simple – there’s loads to do on this lovely little island. With its gorgeous beaches and clear blue waters, it’s brilliant for a day of wandering before you set sail. Getting about is easy – just grab a bike or scooter near the port and you can zip around the whole 20-kilometre island.

1. Pop over to Playa de Ses Illetes, one of Europe’s finest beaches, for a splash in the bright turquoise sea and a bit of sunbathing on the soft white sand
2. Make your way up to La Mola Lighthouse at the island’s highest spot – the views are amazing and you’ll get some brilliant photos
3. Have a wander through Sant Francesc Xavier village, where you can tuck into fresh seafood at local restaurants, browse the boutique shops, and see the old fortress church from the 1700s

Just remember to head back to the port area with plenty of time – at least two hours before your cruise leaves.

Walks near the port

The area around Formentera’s port is brilliant for walks just before you hop on your cruise. A lovely coastal path runs from La Savina port to Es Pujols – it’s about 3 kilometres long and gives you cracking views of the Mediterranean. If you fancy seeing some wildlife, follow the paths to Estany Pudent, a saltwater lagoon where you might spot flamingos and other birds that call it home.

If you’d rather keep it short and sweet, stroll along the marina boardwalk, where you can watch the mix of fishing boats and posh yachts whilst getting a nice bit of sea air. Feeling up for something a bit more challenging? The path to Es Caló de Sant Agustí comes with rocky bits and impressive cliffs. The lighthouse walk near the port is well worth it too – you’ll get brilliant views of Ibiza and the sea all around.

Dining and Shopping

La Savina’s waterfront has plenty of lovely restaurants serving fresh seafood and classic Balearic cooking. You can get local favourites like bullit de peix (fish stew) and paella marinera without breaking the bank. Most places have tables outside where you can eat while looking at the harbour.

The port’s shops mainly sell beachwear, local handicrafts, and day-to-day bits and bobs. Walking along Passeig Marítim, you’ll come across small boutiques selling:

1. Handmade jewellery with Mediterranean pearls and coral
2. Traditional Formentera baskets and hats woven by locals
3. Local food items like salt, honey, and hierbas ibicencas liqueur

For better value, pop over to Es Pujols shopping area, about 10 minutes away by taxi. Remember that many shops shut for siesta between 2 PM and 5 PM, so time your shopping carefully.

Accommodation near the port

You can find all sorts of places to stay near La Savina port – from cheap and cheerful hostels right up to fancy boutique hotels. Several lovely guesthouses sit within a five-minute walk of the ferry terminal, with Hostal La Savina and Hostal Bellavista being quite popular. If you fancy something a bit posher, Hotel Bahía might be your cup of tea, with its sea-view rooms and brilliant rooftop terrace.

For proper luxury, Es Marès Hotel & Spa is just around the corner, complete with modern touches and a lovely Mediterranean restaurant. There are plenty of holiday flats and apartments on Airbnb too, especially along Passeig Marítim. Just remember – if you’re coming in the busy season (June-September), you’ll want to sort your booking at least three months ahead, as places near the port get snapped up quickly.

Tips for First-Time Cruisers from The Port

Best tips if you’re new to hopping off at Formentera port: it’s a bit basic compared to bigger Med stops, so you’ll want to sort a few things beforehand. Getting from your ship to land means taking a smaller boat (called a tender), which usually takes about 15-20 minutes – keep this in mind when planning your day.

1. Get some Euros before you go – lots of beach spots and little shops don’t take cards, and cash machines are few and far between near the port
2. Pop on decent shoes for the tender boats, and think about packing water shoes if you fancy the rocky beaches
3. If you’re coming in busy season (June-September), book your bike or scooter ahead – they can be hard to find if you wait until you get there

Top tip: Set an alarm on your phone so you don’t miss the last tender back to your ship. Missing it would be a right pain!

Customs & Immigration at The Port

Customs and immigration at Formentera port is quite simple and quick. Since it’s an EU port, just have your passport and cruise card ready when you get off the ship. Spanish officials will give your documents a quick scan and send you on your way.

No need to bother with arrival cards or customs forms unless you’re bringing in more than the EU duty-free allowance. If you’ve got over €10,000 in cash or valuables, you’ll need to tell them about it. The customs area sits right in the port terminal, and it usually takes under 10 minutes per person. Keep your cruise card with you – you’ll want it handy when you come back to the ship later.

Local Currency & Payment Options

The euro (€) is the official currency in Formentera, as it’s part of Spain. You’ll spot cash machines at the port and in Sant Francesc town centre, though they’re not as common as on bigger islands. While most restaurants, shops and hire services take major credit cards, it’s smart to have some cash handy for smaller places and taxi rides.

1. Local beach bars (chiringuitos) generally prefer cash, particularly for small bits like drinks and snacks
2. Transport services, including bike hire and local buses, take both cash and cards, but card machines can be iffy when the internet’s patchy
3. Tourist shops near the port usually accept different currencies like US dollars and British pounds, but you’ll get better value using euros

Emergency Contacts

When you’re on Formentera, keep these important numbers with you: 112 for emergencies, 061 if you need medical help, and 062 for the Guardia Civil (police).

You can find the main hospital (Hospital de Formentera) in Sant Francesc Xavier – their number is +34 971 321 212. There’s a pharmacy that’s open all day and night in Sant Francesc, and if you need the local police for non-emergencies, ring +34 971 322 100.

Remember to carry your cruise card – it’s got important contact details you might need whilst on shore. If you run into any problems at the port, call the Port Authority of Formentera on +34 971 323 130. Having trouble with Spanish during an emergency? Your ship’s port agent or the tourist info office (+34 971 322 057) can help with translation.

History of The Port

The port of Formentera started life as a simple fishing pier back in the early 1800s, well before it became the cruise stop it is today. You can see how it’s changed over the years, growing from a basic Mediterranean trading spot into a proper maritime centre.

The port grew in three main stages:

1. 1878: They built the first stone jetty for bigger fishing boats and small cargo ships
2. 1962: The main harbour got bigger to handle more ferries going between Ibiza and Formentera
3. 1995: A modern makeover added facilities for cruise ships, including the passenger terminal we see now

If you look around today, you’ll spot bits of the old pier right next to the new buildings. The way the port has grown tells the same story as Formentera itself – from a quiet fishing island to a popular holiday spot.

Environmental Initiatives at The Port

The port team in Formentera takes looking after the environment quite seriously these days. You’ll spot proper recycling spots all around the port, with different bins for sorting your rubbish. They’ve got a clever water cleaning system that keeps dirty water from getting into the Mediterranean.

If you’re moored here, you’ll notice they’re rather strict about what ships can pump out. All cruise ships have to use cleaner fuel whilst in port, and they won’t let anyone dump waste in the harbour. They’ve put up solar panels that now run 40% of what goes on at the port, and you’ll see them swapping old port vehicles for electric ones. They keep a close eye on the sea life too, with a proper monitoring scheme to protect the local waters – especially those precious Posidonia seagrass beds.

Accessibility Information for Disabled Passengers

The port at Formentera is easy to get around if you have mobility needs. You’ll see flat, even surfaces everywhere in the terminal and boarding areas, and there are ramps instead of stairs at important spots. You can get free wheelchair help from ship to shore – just let them know a day before.

The port has these helpful features:

1. Special disabled parking bays within 50 metres of the terminal entrance, clearly marked and extra-wide
2. Lower counters at check-in and accessible loos with support rails and emergency alarms
3. You can hire electric mobility scooters from the port’s service desk – best to book ahead

For any special help you might need, ring your cruise company or the port’s accessibility helpline directly.

Cruise Insurance and Medical Facilities at The Port

Getting the right cover for your cruise is just as important as having good access to medical help at the port. You’ll see a small medical station at Formentera’s port with a qualified nurse on duty during busy times. For any serious health problems, you’ll need to go to Ibiza’s medical facilities, which you can reach in 30 minutes by fast ferry.

Before sailing, get proper travel insurance that includes cover for activities at sea. Most cruise companies require proof of valid insurance before letting you on board. Your policy needs to include medical evacuation, as getting rushed to mainland Spain can be quite dear. The port’s medical station can check your insurance papers and help with basic first aid, getting more medicine if you’ve run out, and tablets for seasickness. Keep your insurance cards and medical paperwork handy throughout your trip.

Families: Child-Friendly Services and Activities

Looking after little ones is much easier with three family zones at the port. Each zone has baby-changing facilities, nursing rooms, and child-friendly loos. There’s a small playground where kids can run about whilst you’re waiting for your cruise connection.

1. Kids’ Corner: An indoor play space with staff keeping an eye on children, gaming spots, and learning toys for ages 3-12
2. Teen Lounge: A special area with free Wi-Fi, places to charge phones, board games, and comfy seats for teenagers
3. Family Rest Area: A peaceful spot with recliners, snack machines, and a microwave to warm up baby food

Pop by the information desk for pushchair hire, baby bits and bobs, and suggestions for family-friendly shore trips. They can also help families who need extra support or have mobility needs.

Local Cultural Highlights and Events

The port area in Formentera shows off the island’s local culture all year round. You’ll spot craftspeople selling their traditional works at La Savina’s waterfront markets, particularly on summer nights. Pop by the Sant Jaume Festival in July – the port buzzes with folk dancing, music and proper Balearic food.

Between May and October, the Medieval Fair takes over, with locals putting on historical displays and serving old-school dishes near the harbour. The port holds weekly farmers’ markets too, where you can grab local goods like dried figs, herbs and homemade cheeses. In September, watch the Mare de Déu del Pilar celebrations with their beautifully decorated fishing boats and sea processions that honour Formentera’s sailing history.

Best Times of Year to Cruise from The Port

The best time to go cruising to Formentera is between June and September, when the Mediterranean is lovely and warm with hardly any rain – perfect for sailing. The sea temperature sits at around 24°C, making it brilliant for a dip.

If you fancy avoiding the busiest times, try May or October:

1. Spring comes with pleasant 20°C temperatures, lovely wildflowers in bloom, and fewer holidaymakers than summer
2. Autumn keeps the water warm enough for swimming, with better prices and more spaces to moor your boat
3. Both of these quieter periods let you enjoy Formentera’s beaches and sights without summer’s crowds

It’s best to avoid winter cruising, as many places run shorter hours, and the seas can get quite rough from November through March.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Cruise Ships Allowed to Anchor Overnight at Formentera Port?

Cruise ships aren’t allowed to drop anchor overnight at Formentera port. The local rules say all big ships must head off by evening to look after the seabed and keep the island nice and peaceful.

What Is the Maximum Number of Cruise Ships Permitted Simultaneously?

The rules say no more than two cruise ships can stay at the docks at once. This way, the port stays peaceful and the harbour doesn’t get too busy.

Can Passengers Swim at Beaches Directly Adjacent to the Port?

Nice swimming spots are right near the port, but Formentera’s best beaches for a proper dip are just a bit further along the coast. While you can swim by the port, you’ll have a much better time if you pop over to one of the island’s well-known beaches nearby.

Are There Any Restrictions on Private Tender Boats to Cruise Ships?

Just so you know, not any old private boat can pull up next to those huge cruise ships. You’ll need proper permits if you want to run tender services. The port authorities won’t let random vessels ferry passengers back and forth between ships and shore – it’s all about keeping everyone safe and secure.

What Marine Wildlife Can Typically Be Spotted From Cruise Ships Near Formentera?

You’ll regularly see dolphins swimming and splashing about, lots of bright Mediterranean fish, and sea turtles bobbing near the boat. If you’re sailing in summer, keep your eyes peeled for sunfish, and you might be lucky enough to spot different types of whales swimming past.