From Alicante: Speedboat tour to Tabarca Island with snorkeling

If you’re looking for a quick but memorable escape from Alicante’s bustling streets, a speedboat trip to Tabarca Island offers the perfect blend of scenery, activity, and local charm. This tour, rated 4.8 out of 5 with nine reviews, is designed for those who enjoy water-based adventures with a touch of exploration. Whether you’re traveling solo, with friends, or family (note: not for young children or pregnant women), this trip promises a lively ride with plenty of opportunities to snap photos, snorkel, and enjoy the Spanish coast.

We particularly appreciate how this tour combines stunning coastal views with a relaxed visit to a small island that’s brimming with character. The snorkeling equipment included makes it easy to discover the marine life, and a half-hour stop allows for some self-guided wandering around the village. One minor consideration is the speedboat’s pace — some travelers might prefer a slightly more dynamic ride, as noted in reviews, but overall, the experience balances scenic sailing with fun on the water.

This tour suits travelers who love a mix of adventure, sightseeing, and a touch of local culture. If you’re short on time but want to make the most of Alicante’s coastline and visit the charming Tabarca Island, this trip offers good value and memorable moments.

Key Points

• Fast-paced but scenic 3-hour boat trip from Alicante.
• Includes snorkeling gear for discovering marine life.
• Free time on Tabarca Island to explore on your own.
• Stunning views of Costa Blanca and Santa Pola lighthouse.
• Snacks and soft drinks included for refreshment.
• Group size limited to 12 for a more intimate experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Speedboat to Tabarca Island Tour

What the Tour Entails

This 3-hour motorboat journey starts right at Alicante’s port, specifically next to the Noray bar, across from the Explanada de España. The boat is shared among up to 12 passengers, making it more personal than a large cruise. The trip includes a skipper, fuel, music, and passenger insurance — essentials that make for a smooth ride.

The itinerary is straightforward: after departing from Alicante, you’ll cruise for 45 minutes along the coast, enjoying some of the best views of the Costa Blanca and passing the Santa Pola lighthouse. This part of the journey is perfect for snapping photos or simply soaking in the scenic shoreline.

The Stop at Tabarca Island

Once at Tabarca, you’ll have about 1.5 hours to explore independently. The island, often called a “pirate island” and a historic village, offers narrow streets, small cafés, and waterfront views. This free time is ideal for wandering, taking photos, or relaxing on the sand.

Here, snorkeling gear is provided — a highlight for many travelers. The marine reserve surrounding the island is known for its diverse marine life, making it a compelling reason to bring your mask and fins. However, note that snorkeling is unguided, so you’ll need to be comfortable with going solo or with your group.

The Return Journey

After the exploration and a swim or snorkel, you’ll set sail back to Alicante. The 45-minute return trip offers one last chance to enjoy the coast, with some travelers noting that the ride is quite calm and relaxing.

More Great Tours Nearby

What’s Included and What to Consider

The tour price covers the speedboat, skipper, fuel, music, passenger insurance, and some snacks and soft drinks. Snorkeling equipment is included — no need to rent or bring your own. The visit to Tabarca comes with a map, helping you navigate and make the most of your free time.

Because it’s a public tour, other groups will be sharing the boat, which can be a plus or minus depending on your preference for intimacy. The tour is not suitable for pregnant women or children under 18, information that’s important for family travelers.

Reviews and Authentic Feedback

Travelers generally love the experience. One review highlights the well-organized and punctual nature of the trip, praising the beautiful views and snorkeling opportunities. However, some found the sailing slow and calm, wishing for a bit more excitement or energy on the water. “The trip was very enjoyable, everything was well organized and punctual,” says Anna, adding that the views and snorkeling were highlights.

Another reviewer appreciated the helpfulness of the crew and noted the great overall experience, emphasizing the value of the small group size and friendly atmosphere.

Is This Tour Worth It?

Absolutely, if you’re after a short, scenic, active day that combines boat travel with some leisure on land and in the water. It’s especially good for those who appreciate stunning coastlines and want to see a charming island without spending a full day traveling or on a larger cruise.

The price point is reasonable, considering all inclusive aspects — snorkeling gear, snacks, soft drinks, and the scenic ride. For travelers who want a balanced mix of relaxation and adventure, this tour hits the mark.

Who Would Love This Experience?

This trip is perfect for adventurous travelers seeking a quick coastal escape. It’s ideal if you enjoy boating, snorkeling, and exploring small villages. It’s also well-suited for those who prioritize small group experiences and appreciate helpful, knowledgeable crew members.

However, if you’re looking for a lively, high-energy ride or traveling with very young children or pregnant women, you might want to consider other options. The calm, scenic pace and limited duration appeal most to those comfortable with water activities and a moderate pace.

Final Thoughts

This speedboat to Tabarca Island delivers a compact, scenic, and activity-rich experience that showcases some of Alicante’s best coastal highlights. The snorkeling gear and free time on the island make it more than just a boat ride — it’s a mini adventure with a touch of local flavor.

The small group size, friendly crew, and stunning scenery combine to create a memorable outing. It’s a smart choice for anyone short on time but eager to see and experience the coast from a different perspective.

For those who love natural beauty, a splash of adventure, and discovering a historic fishing village, this tour offers excellent value. Just keep in mind comfort with water activities and pace preferences when booking.

FAQ

How long is the trip?
The total duration is about 3 hours, including sailing, exploring, and the return journey.

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes the speedboat trip, skipper, fuel, music, passenger insurance, snorkeling equipment, a snack, and a soft drink.

Is snorkeling guided?
No, snorkeling is unguided, so you explore marine life at your own pace once you’re in the water.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins next to the Noray bar in Alicante, opposite the Explanada de España, and ends back there.

Can children participate?
No, children under 18 are not allowed, and pregnant women should avoid this activity.

How many people go on each boat?
Up to 12 passengers share the boat, making for a more intimate experience.

What are the main highlights?
Stunning coastal views, free time on Tabarca, snorkeling, and the lively trip along the coast.

How do I book?
Reservations are flexible; you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. You can also reserve now and pay later.

Is this a private tour?
No, it’s a public group experience, so you’ll share the boat with others.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, a towel, sun protection, and a sense of adventure. Snorkeling gear is provided.

This tour offers a nice mix of nature, culture, and fun, perfect for those wanting a quick yet immersive coastal experience in Alicante. Whether you’re a water enthusiast or just seeking some scenic downtime, it’s a well-rounded option worth considering.

You can check availability for your dates here: