Benidorm: Tabarca Island and Alicante Sightseeing Boat Trip

This tour offers a balanced glimpse into both the tranquil beauty of Tabarca Island and the lively atmosphere of Alicante. It’s a popular choice for those seeking a full-day escape that combines boat travel, scenic views, and urban exploration—all in one package. We haven’t personally taken this trip, but based on detailed descriptions and reviews, it looks like a well-organized way to spend a day soaking up the Valencian coastline.

What we really appreciate about this trip is the combination of relaxing boat rides and ample exploration time—2.5 hours at each destination. Plus, the timing from Benidorm’s Old Town at 10:00 am and returning around 6:45 pm makes it manageable even for travelers with a packed schedule. A slight consideration is that it’s not suitable for those with mobility issues or seasickness, so keep that in mind if you’re prone to motion discomfort. This tour seems perfect for families, friends, or solo travelers eager for a day on the water and a taste of city life.

Key Points

• Dual destinations: Visit both Tabarca Island and Alicante city in one day.
• Flexible exploration: Free time to wander, shop, eat, or relax.
• Scenic boat journey: About 1 hour each way, providing plenty of ocean views.
• Included and optional costs: The trip covers transportation but not food or drinks.
• Availability: Operates every Tuesday and Thursday.
• Age and mobility restrictions: Not suited for those with mobility issues or seasickness.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Overview of the Experience

This seven-hour adventure kicks off in the charming Old Town harbor of Benidorm at 10:00 am, with a scenic one-hour boat ride across the waters of the Valencian coast. The boat trip itself is a highlight—offering plenty of opportunities to enjoy the waves, spot marine life, and admire the coastline. The boat’s departure schedule is reliable, and the journey is comfortable enough for most travelers—though it’s important to remember that it isn’t suitable for those prone to seasickness.

Once on Tabarca Island, you are given 2.5 hours to explore. This small island, with its calm waters and quaint streets, offers enough to see and do without feeling rushed. Many visitors comment on its peaceful charm and the opportunity to stroll through narrow lanes, enjoy a coffee by the sea, or even take a swim if the weather permits. The island’s appeal lies in its simplicity—there are no huge crowds, just authentic Mediterranean scenery.

After returning to the boat, the journey continues to Alicante, a bustling city packed with history, shopping opportunities, and lively seaside cafes. Here, you are granted another 2.5 hours for sightseeing and browsing. Whether you want to visit landmarks like the Santa Bárbara Castle, wander through the old town’s colorful streets, or simply sit in a piazza and watch the world go by, Alicante offers a vibrant contrast to the island’s tranquility.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Departure from Benidorm

Starting from the Old Town harbor at 10:00 am, the boat ride is about an hour. The trip is smooth, with plenty of seating options, and the views along the coast are truly worth the early start.

Time on Tabarca Island

Once docked, travelers are free to explore for 2.5 hours. Many reviews praise the stunning scenery of the island—its turquoise waters and well-preserved old buildings. Some mention that the island is small enough to see on foot in an hour or two, leaving plenty of time for relaxing by the sea or enjoying local seafood. Keep in mind, food and drinks aren’t included, so plan to bring snacks or plan to dine on the island if time permits.

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Return and Transfer to Alicante

After returning to the boat, the journey to Alicante takes another hour, where the real city buzz begins. The city offers a mixture of historic sights, shopping districts, and seaside promenades. With 2.5 hours to explore, you can cover key sights or simply enjoy a leisurely walk along the waterfront.

Return to Benidorm

The boat departs from Alicante around 4:30 pm, bringing you back to Benidorm by 6:45 pm. The timing allows for a full day’s worth of experiences without feeling overly rushed, especially given the scenic nature of the trip.

What Travelers Can Expect at Each Stop

On Tabarca Island:
Many reviews highlight the island’s peaceful atmosphere and picturesque views. Some mention that it’s “perfect for a relaxing stroll,” while others appreciate the chance to take a dip in the clear waters. The island’s small size makes it ideal for quick exploration, but be prepared for uneven paths and some steep steps if you plan on walking around.

In Alicante:
The city offers a contrast—vibrant, lively, and full of sights. You might find the castle views stunning, or enjoy browsing in local shops. Many mention that Alicante is a great place to grab a bite, with plenty of seaside cafes and tapas bars. It’s a city that invites casual wandering rather than strict sightseeing, making it suitable for all ages and interests.

Authentic Insights from Reviews

One reviewer noted, “The views from the boat were simply stunning, and the island was a peaceful escape from the busy coast.” Others mention the convenience of the organized schedule, saying, “It’s nice not to worry about transportation or planning—just enjoy the day.” A few pointed out that food and drinks are not included, so bringing snacks or planning a meal on the island or in Alicante is wise.

While some travelers expressed concern about seasickness, the majority found the boat ride manageable. The tour explicitly states it’s not suitable for those with mobility issues or wheelchair users, which is a considerate detail for travelers with specific needs.

Value and Practical Details

Considering the cost covers the boat trip and five hours of free time, many will find it a good value—especially compared to the expense of organizing separate transport and activities. The flexible booking policy, allowing cancellations up to 24 hours in advance, adds peace of mind.

The duration is perfect for those who want a full day but don’t want to overcommit. The timing makes it accessible for travelers staying in Benidorm or nearby. However, since food and drinks are not included, budget for meals or snacks.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour Most?

This tour is ideal for families, couples, or solo travelers eager to experience both scenic coastlines and urban charm. It suits those who appreciate relaxed exploration and are comfortable with boat rides. If you love stunning views, historic cities, and a flexible schedule, you’ll find this trip offers a balanced day of sightseeing, sun, and sea. But if you need wheelchair accessibility or are prone to seasickness, it’s worth considering other options.

The Sum Up

This Benidorm day trip to Tabarca Island and Alicante offers a well-organized, scenic experience that balances natural beauty with city life. You get to enjoy a comfortable boat ride, explore a charming island, and then wander through a lively Spanish city—each with their own unique appeal. The timing and free exploration periods make it flexible enough to suit different interests, whether you’re seeking relaxation, sightseeing, or a bit of both.

The trip’s value lies in its ability to combine transportation, sightseeing, and free time into one package, saving travelers the hassle of logistics. While it’s not suitable for everyone—particularly those with mobility issues or seasickness—it’s a solid choice for anyone wanting a taste of the Valencian coast without overextending themselves.

In essence, this tour is best suited for those who want a convenient, scenic day out that blends the charm of Tabarca’s quiet beauty with Alicante’s lively streets. If your goal is to see the highlights and enjoy a relaxed pace on the water, it’s a trip worth considering.

FAQ

Is food and drinks included in the tour?
No, food and drinks are not included. Travelers should bring snacks or plan to eat in either Tabarca or Alicante.

What should I bring for the trip?
Comfortable shoes and clothes are recommended, especially since you’ll be walking around on uneven paths and exploring the city.

How long is the boat journey?
The journey takes about 1 hour each way, offering plenty of scenic views along the coast.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While the description doesn’t specify age restrictions, it’s generally suitable for families, but consider children’s comfort with boat rides and walking.

Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Are there any accessibility issues?
Yes, the tour is not suitable for people with mobility impairments or wheelchair users.

What are the departure and return times?
The boat departs from Benidorm at 10:00 am and returns around 6:45 pm, making it a full but manageable day trip.

This trip combines the best of coastal scenery and urban energy, making it a memorable day out for those looking to experience the Valencian coast in comfort and style.

You can check availability for your dates here: