From Alicante: Speedboat tour to Tabarca Island with snorkeling

This experience made our article of We Rank The 8 Best Snorkeling Experiences In Alicante.

Discover the Speedboat Tour to Tabarca Island from Alicante

Looking for a quick yet memorable escape during your Alicante trip? This speedboat tour to Tabarca Island offers a compact adventure packed with scenic views, marine exploration, and a taste of island life—all in just three hours. The trip departs from Alicante’s busy port and takes you across the sparkling waters of the Costa Blanca, with a lively stopover on the historic, car-free island of Tabarca.

What we love about this experience is its combination of speedboat excitement and relaxed exploration. The 45-minute sail along the coast provides incredible views of the Santa Pola lighthouse and the coastline’s rugged beauty. Plus, the inclusion of snorkeling gear allows you to discover underwater life in the protected waters of the reserve—an activity that appeals to both adventurous and casual travelers.

One possible consideration is the sailing pace. As one reviewer mentioned, the boat cruises at a calm, steady speed, which might be less stimulating for those seeking high adrenaline. Still, if you prefer a more tranquil water journey paired with scenic vistas, this tour hits the spot.

This tour suits travelers who appreciate a balanced mix of scenery, leisure, and light activity. It’s especially great if you’re short on time but want to experience a charming island and some snorkeling. Families with older children and those looking for an easy, well-organized outing will find this trip ideal.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

Fast-paced, scenic sail: Enjoy a 45-minute coast-hugging speedboat ride with excellent views.
Island exploration: Free time to walk around Tabarca’s quaint village and learn about its history.
Snorkeling included: Dive into the marine reserve with provided gear—no guided activity but plenty of underwater discovery.
Comfortable group size: Up to 12 people, making it intimate enough for a relaxed experience.
Flexible booking: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance or reserve now and pay later.
Language options: Tours are offered in Spanish, English, French, and German, accommodating a range of travelers.

Fascinated by underwater life? Here are other snorkeling spots we've covered in Alicante

A Closer Look at the Tour Experience

This 3-hour adventure begins right next to the Noray bar, opposite Alicante’s lively Esplanada de España. From there, you’ll board a speedboat with a small group—up to 12 people—guided by a knowledgeable skipper who keeps the mood lively with music and commentary.

The first leg of your journey lasts about 45 minutes, during which you’ll sail along the coast, soaking in panoramic views of the Costa Blanca’s cliffs, beaches, and the iconic Santa Pola lighthouse. This part of the trip is perfect for snapping photos or simply relaxing with the sea breeze.

Once you arrive at Tabarca Island, you’re granted 1.5 hours to explore. The island is a true gem—historically a pirate haven, today a peaceful retreat with narrow streets and charming houses. You can stroll around on your own, discovering the island’s history and enjoying its laid-back vibe.

A highlight of the stop is the opportunity to snorkel in the clear waters of the Marine Reserve. Provided with snorkeling gear, you can float over the vibrant underwater life, which is often praised for its richness. One reviewer mentioned, “Beautiful views and great snorkeling,” which suggests the marine life lives up to expectations.

After your island stop, you’ll set sail back to Alicante for another 45-minute ride. The return offers more scenic vistas, this time of the coastline at sunset or in daylight, depending on your departure time.

The entire experience wraps up back at the original meeting point, making it a convenient and well-organized outing.

Why This Tour Offers Good Value

While this isn’t a full-day excursion, the price reflects its compact, all-in-one format. You get a speedboat ride, snorkeling gear, a visit to an authentic Mediterranean island, and a small snack and soft drink—all of which would cost more if booked separately.

The inclusion of free time on Tabarca allows you to stretch your legs, explore at your own pace, and enjoy the island’s peaceful charm. The boat’s size and the small group setting foster a more personal atmosphere, enabling you to ask questions and enjoy the scenery comfortably.

For families or travelers with limited time, this tour delivers a rich experience without the hassle of complicated logistics or long travel days. Plus, the multilingual guides ensure that language barriers are minimized, making it accessible for a diverse range of travelers.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This trip appeals most to those looking for a relaxed, scenic water adventure rather than high-energy thrills. It’s perfect if you’re eager to explore a unique island, see the coastline from the sea, and snorkel in protected waters. Those who appreciate well-organized, small-group outings will find this experience especially enjoyable.

It may not be suitable for pregnant women or children under 18, as specified, but older children and teenagers who are comfortable with boats and water activities will likely have a good time.

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Final Thoughts

For travelers wanting a short yet immersive taste of the Alicante coast and Tabarca Island, this speedboat tour offers excellent value. It combines stunning views, a touch of adventure with snorkeling, and leisurely exploration of a historic island—all within a compact three-hour window.

The small group size fosters a friendly atmosphere, and the ease of booking with flexible options makes it an attractive choice, especially for those with tight schedules. If you love scenic boat rides, discovering new marine environments, and wandering charming Mediterranean villages, this tour is well worth considering.

The only downside is the slower sailing pace, which might lack the adrenaline some seek. But if your goal is tranquility, beautiful scenery, and light activity, it hits the mark.

Ultimately, it’s a great way to add a splash of adventure and authentic local flavor to your Alicante trip—an experience that’s memorable without being overwhelming.

While you're exploring Alicante, here are other experiences we've looked into

FAQ

How long is the speedboat tour?
The entire tour lasts about 3 hours, including the sail to and from Tabarca and the time spent on the island.

Where does the tour depart from?
It departs from Alicante’s port, specifically next to the Noray bar, opposite the Esplanada de España.

What is included in the tour price?
Your ticket covers the speedboat trip with a skipper, fuel, music, passenger insurance, snorkeling equipment, a small snack, a soft drink, and a map for the visit to Tabarca.

Is this a private tour?
No, it’s a public tour shared with other groups, with up to 12 participants on the boat.

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

Are there any restrictions?
Pregnant women and children under 18 are not permitted on this tour. Travelers are advised to arrive 15 minutes early and be punctual.

What language options are available?
Guides speak Spanish, English, French, and German, accommodating a broad audience.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, sun protection, and a towel. Snorkeling gear is provided, but if you prefer, you can bring your own mask and fins.

Is the snorkeling guided?
No, snorkeling is unguided, but equipment is supplied, and you can explore the marine life at your own pace.

In essence, this speedboat trip to Tabarca balances scenic beauty, light adventure, and cultural discovery. It’s a smart choice for travelers seeking a relaxed and authentic mini escape from Alicante’s bustling streets.