Alicante: 6-Hour Catamaran Cruise to Tabarca Island

Alicante: 6-Hour Catamaran Cruise to Tabarca Island
Location: Valencian Community, Spain
Country: Spain
Rating: 4.7 (678 reviews)
Price: $82 per person
Supplier: Alicante Catamaran

When you think of a day at sea near Alicante, imagine a smooth sail along the Costa Blanca, with the wind in your hair, a drink in hand, and the promise of a charming island waiting just off the coast. This 6-hour catamaran cruise to Tabarca Island offers exactly that— a relaxed, well-organized trip that combines scenic sailing, underwater adventures, and good food. Priced at around $82, it’s a solid value for a full day of entertainment, especially considering the included lunch and drinks.

First, we love the personal touch of homemade paella served on board — a true taste of local cuisine— and the informative, friendly crew that makes you feel like a guest rather than just a customer. Second, the freedom to snorkel and explore at your own pace on Tabarca, Spain’s first marine reserve, means this experience is perfect for those who want both relaxation and some adventure.

A potential consideration? The minimum of 15 guests means if you’re traveling off-peak or in a smaller group, the trip might be rescheduled or canceled. Also, note that luggage, pets, and large bags are not permitted, which could be a hassle for some. This cruise suits travelers who enjoy sailing, good food, and the flexibility to explore a scenic island, especially those keen on snorkeling or just soaking up the sun.

Key Points

• Comfortable sailing experience: The catamaran is spacious, with plenty of room to sunbathe and relax.
• Includes a homemade meal: Paella along with unlimited soft drinks, water, and one alcoholic drink offers great value.
• Great for snorkelers: Snorkel gear is provided, and the marine reserve around Tabarca is a highlight.
• Flexible exploring time: You can choose to visit the village or swim, with the option to come and go as you like.
• Impressive scenery: From coastal views to the lighthouse at Santa Pola, the sights are a feast for the eyes.
• Family friendly (with some restrictions): Not suitable for unaccompanied minors and those with large luggage or pets.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Authentic Day at Sea with a Touch of Local Flavor

This cruise from Alicante offers a taste of what makes the Mediterranean coast so special. With a starting point next to the Noray bar, just in front of Mundo de los Niños, the journey begins with a gentle sail from the port, giving you about 1.5 hours of scenic cruising along the Costa Blanca.

What truly makes this tour stand out is the combination of relaxing sailing and active exploration. For some, the highlight might be drifting along, soaking up the sun, and sipping a cold drink. For others, it’s jumping into the crystalline waters for a snorkel adventure. The boat’s crew, who are multilingual and attentive, ensure everyone feels welcomed and safe, especially during snorkeling, with lifeguards present and snorkeling gear provided.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Starting in Alicante:
The trip kicks off near the port, with a relaxing sail out to sea. The first stretch, about 1.5 hours, allows us to settle into the rhythm of the waves, enjoy the onboard music, and admire the coastline. The views of Carabassi Beach’s white sands and the Cape of Santa Pola with its lighthouse are highlights for picture-takers.

Tabarca Island Stop:
Upon reaching the island after roughly 1.5 hours of sailing, you’ll be greeted with a delicious homemade paella lunch— options include chicken, fish, or vegetarian. This meal is more than just filling; it feels authentic and home-cooked, and reviews frequently mention how flavorful and generous the portions are, with some noting the paella as one of the trip’s best features. Complemented by a refreshing drink (beer, wine, or tinto de verano), the meal sets the perfect tone for a relaxing visit.

On Tabarca, you’re free to explore the small village, walk its narrow streets, or simply relax on the beach. The crystal-clear waters invite you for a swim or snorkeling. Reviews are full of praise for the snorkeling equipment— masks and fins are provided, and the marine reserve’s rich sea life, including the chance to see octopuses, makes for an exciting underwater experience.

Return Journey:
After about 3 hours on the island, the boat heads back to Alicante, giving you another about 1.5 hours to enjoy the coast, spot Carabassi Beach or the Santa Pola lighthouse, and perhaps reflect on your day. Many reviews mention how smooth and well-organized the sail back is, often with sails raised, adding to the traditional sailing experience.

What’s Included and What’s Not

For $82, you get a lot of value:
– The catamaran cruise itself, with comfortable seating and onboard amenities.
– Welcome fruits and unlimited soft drinks, water, and juice— perfect for staying hydrated under the sun.
– One alcoholic drink included— beer, wine, or tinto de verano— and the homemade paella lunch.
– Snorkeling gear (masks and fins), with options to buy additional tubes on board for hygiene reasons.
– The onboard music and restroom facilities ensure comfort during the cruise.

Not included are extra drinks or food beyond what’s offered, and transportation to and from the meeting point. The boat’s small group size and friendly crew create an intimate atmosphere, but you’ll want to arrive 15 minutes early to avoid missing out.

A Balanced Review: What You Can Expect

From the reviews and experience details, it’s clear that this trip is best suited for those looking for a relaxed, scenic day out with some active elements like swimming and snorkeling. The friendly, multilingual crew is consistently praised for their attentiveness and helpfulness, making the experience feel personal and approachable.

The home-cooked paella is notably the star of the meal, with many reviewers describing it as flavorful and plentiful. The inclusion of unlimited drinks—both soft and alcoholic—adds to the feeling of value, especially given the duration of the trip.

While the sailing conditions can be a bit choppy, especially if the sea is rough, many travelers mention that the crew’s professionalism and safety measures make even less calm waters manageable. The scenic views of Alicante’s coastline, the lighthouse, and the surrounding sea are an added bonus.

Some travelers might find the loosely managed island visit a plus, offering flexibility, but others who prefer structured schedules might find it a little unpredictable. Still, the freedom to explore at your own pace is a plus for many.

More Great Tours Nearby

Who Will Love This Experience?

This cruise is perfect for couples, families, and groups of friends who enjoy sailing, seafood, and coastal scenery. It suits those who appreciate authentic, home-style food and want a laid-back day rather than a hectic sightseeing tour. It’s also ideal if you’re eager to snorkel in a marine reserve and want to explore a small island with a charming village atmosphere.

Travelers who prioritize value for money, with inclusive drinks and meals, will find this trip a smart choice. However, if you’re looking for a luxury experience with private transportation or a guided tour of the island, this may not be your best fit.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation to the meeting point included?
No, the cruise does not include pickup or drop-off. You’ll need to arrive at the meeting point next to Noray bar 15 minutes early.

What should I bring for the trip?
Bring essentials like sunglasses, sun hat, swimwear, towel, sunscreen, and water shoes. Avoid high heels, large bags, jewelry, pets, and cooler boxes.

How long is each sailing stretch?
The trip includes about 1.5 hours of sailing to Tabarca and 1.5 hours back. The time on the island around 3 hours allows for lunch, exploring, swimming, or snorkeling.

What if the weather is rough?
Sea conditions can vary. Some reviews mention choppier waters, but the crew is experienced and attentive, making safety a priority.

Are snorkel tubes provided?
Yes, masks and fins are included. Tubes are available for purchase at €5 for hygiene reasons.

Is the trip suitable for children?
It’s generally family-friendly, but unaccompanied minors are not allowed. The trip is best for those who can handle being on a boat for several hours.

What happens if the minimum number of guests isn’t met?
In that case, the tour may be rescheduled or canceled, and you’ll be contacted for a refund or alternative date.

Can I cancel the booking?
Yes, up to 24 hours before departure for a full refund.

Wrapping It Up: Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re after a relaxing yet engaging day at sea with plenty of opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, and enjoying good food, this cruise offers excellent value. The friendly crew, authentic homemade paella, and scenic coastline make it an experience worth considering. It’s especially suited for travelers who want to balance comfort with a touch of adventure, without the hassle of planning every detail.

This trip is an ideal choice if you’re seeking a fun, laid-back excursion that provides a taste of local flavor, beautiful scenery, and memorable moments on the water. Whether you’re new to sailing or a seasoned snorkeler, you’ll find plenty to enjoy here— just bring your sunscreen and a sense of curiosity.

In essence, this cruise delivers a straightforward yet charming way to spend half a day exploring Alicante’s coast, discovering Tabarca’s charm, and enjoying the sea in good company. It’s a true testament to the enjoyable simplicity of Mediterranean leisure, with enough flexibility and comfort to satisfy most travelers’ appetites for a memorable day.

You can check availability for your dates here: