From Alicante: Speedboat tour to Tabarca Island with snorkeling

This speedboat adventure from Alicante to Tabarca Island offers a lively, scenic, and relaxed way to enjoy Spain’s Valencian coast. With just three hours on the clock, it combines the fun of a quick sea voyage with the chance to explore one of the region’s most charming islands. Snorkeling gear, a free island visit, and the promise of striking views make this a compelling option for travelers seeking a blend of activity and leisure.

What catches our eye? It’s certainly the ease of access—your trip starts right at Alicante’s bustling port with a small group setting that feels intimate even in a shared tour. We particularly love how the cruise includes snorkeling equipment and a snack, making it well-rounded without the extra fuss of organizing your own gear or food.

A potential consideration? Some reviewers noted that the sailing pace tends to be slow and calm, which might not satisfy those craving high-octane watercraft action. In addition, since it’s a shared group experience, it might lack the privacy or exclusivity some travelers prefer. Still, for many, the overall vibe and natural beauty outweigh these minor drawbacks. This tour is ideal for travelers who want a fun, straightforward escape to the coast with a good mixture of sights, swimming, and island exploration.

Key Points

• Quick but comprehensive: A 3-hour trip that hits all the major highlights.
• Includes snorkeling: Equipment is provided for exploring marine life.
• Accessible and social: Small group size offers a relaxed, friendly atmosphere.
• Ideal for casual explorers: Suitable for those looking for a scenic day without intense physical activity.
• Not for everyone: Pregnant women and children under 18 are not recommended.
• Pace may be slow: Some reviews mention calm sailing, which is perfect for relaxing but not for adrenaline seekers.

Our deep dive into this tour reveals a well-thought-out itinerary designed to maximize your enjoyment in a limited time. It’s a trip that balances sightseeing, leisure, and adventure, perfect for a quick escape from Alicante’s urban buzz.

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Starting Point and First Sailing Leg

The adventure begins right next to the Noray bar, opposite the Explanada de España, a lively hub of Alicante’s port area. This location offers a good spot for a quick meet-and-greet with your guide and fellow travelers. The group size caps at 12 people, fostering a cozy, friendly environment, and the departure is punctual—something experienced travelers will appreciate.

The first leg of the trip is a 45-minute sail along the coast of the Costa Blanca, with sights like the Santa Pola lighthouse and the shoreline passing by in a blur of summer colors. This part of the journey often draws praise for the stunning coastal views, and you’ll likely find yourself snapping photos or simply soaking in the scenery.

Visiting Tabarca Island

The highlight of the tour is the 1.5-hour stop on Tabarca Island. Once there, you’re free to explore at your own pace. The island’s village offers charming streets and a laid-back vibe, perfect for meandering around with a map provided by the tour. Although the trip doesn’t include a guided tour of the island, the freedom to wander is a plus for those who enjoy a bit of spontaneous exploration.

Many visitors, as one reviewer noted, enjoy just sitting on the rocks or in a small café and watching the waves. Others take advantage of the snorkeling equipment to discover what lies beneath the surface of the Marine Reserve. The tour’s included gear is unguided, but the rich marine life in the area makes it worthwhile even without a guide leading the way.

A small snack and soft drink are offered during this stop, adding a touch of refreshment to your adventure. It’s a simple gesture, but it enhances the overall value, especially after swimming or exploring.

Return Journey and Additional Views

After the island visit, the boat heads back toward Alicante for another 45-minute sail. This leg is often appreciated for its peacefulness, with many travelers noting the calming effect of the sea and the panoramic views of the coast. Some reviews mention the slow sailing speed, which can be a bit anticlimactic if you prefer high-energy trips, but most find it ideal for relaxing and chatting with fellow travelers.

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Overall Experience and Practicalities

The entire experience lasts around three hours, making it a manageable half-day activity that fits well into a larger travel itinerary. The tour’s price includes the skipper, fuel, music onboard, insurance, snorkeling gear, a snack, and a map of the island—all of which contribute to the experience’s value.

The tour operates with multilingual hosts (Spanish, English, French, German), so language barriers shouldn’t be an issue. The activity is not suitable for pregnant women or children under 18, which is important to note for families or expectant travelers.

One reviewer shared that everything was well-organized and punctual, emphasizing that the guides made the trip enjoyable. The views along the coast are described as “beautiful,” and snorkeling is highlighted as a real perk. Conversely, a noted downside was the calm, slow sailing, which might not satisfy those looking for more excitement on the water.

Another traveler appreciated the helpfulness of the crew, noting that their helpfulness contributed to a greater overall experience. The small group size and friendly crew help make the journey feel more personal and less commercialized, even within a shared tour.

For a price that covers a quick but diverse coastal experience, snorkeling, and island exploration, this tour offers a lot. You get a chance to see the coast from a different perspective, enjoy some swimming in protected waters, and stroll through a quaint island village—all within a compact three-hour window.

Considering the included amenities—snorkeling gear, soft drinks, snacks, a map—you’re getting a well-rounded package that’s ideal for travelers wanting a relaxed, scenic, and fun activity without fuss. It’s especially attractive for those with limited time or looking for a light, enjoyable sea adventure.

This trip appeals most to travelers who love being on the water, enjoy scenic coastal views, and want a casual snorkeling experience. Families with older children, couples, or solo travelers seeking a lively yet laid-back activity will find it perfect.

It’s a good fit if you’re after an authentic taste of the Alicante coastline with the added bonus of exploring a charming island. If you prefer high-energy trips or private experiences, you might want to explore other options or private charters.

If you’re in Alicante and craving a quick, scenic escape to a beautiful island, this speedboat tour hits the mark. It offers a fantastic balance of fun, relaxation, and sightseeing, all wrapped up in a friendly, small-group setting. The inclusion of snorkeling gear and a snack adds to its appeal, making it a practical choice for a memorable day on the water.

While the calm sailing might not satisfy adrenaline junkies, it makes for a peaceful, picturesque cruise that many will find ideal for unwinding and enjoying the coast’s natural beauty. The guides’ helpfulness and the stunning views make this trip a worthwhile addition to any Alicante itinerary, especially if you’re eager to explore the marine life and local charm of Tabarca Island.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately three hours, including sailing to and from Tabarca Island and the stopover at the island.

Is snorkeling equipment included?
Yes, snorkeling gear is provided and is unguided, so you can explore the marine life at your own pace.

Where does the tour start and end?
The tour begins next to the Noray bar, opposite the Explanada de España in Alicante, and returns to the same meeting point.

Can children join this tour?
No, the tour is not suitable for children under 18, and minors must be accompanied by an adult.

Is transportation arranged?
The trip is conducted on a speedboat departing directly from Alicante’s port, so no additional transport is necessary.

What language are the guides available in?
Guides speak Spanish, English, French, and German, making the tour accessible for a variety of travelers.

This trip offers a wonderfully accessible way to enjoy Alicante’s coast and the charming island of Tabarca. It’s perfect for those looking for a relaxed yet lively sea adventure, with stunning scenery and the chance to cool off with some snorkeling.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby