Alicante: 6-Hour Catamaran Cruise to Tabarca Island

Thinking about spending a day soaking up the sun, sailing along the coast, and exploring a charming island? This 6-hour catamaran cruise from Alicante to Tabarca Island might just be what you’re looking for. While we haven’t personally hopped on this tour, it’s consistently praised for its stunning scenery, friendly crew, and great value, making it a favorite among travelers.

One thing we particularly like is how flexible the experience appears — you can snorkel, visit the village, or relax on the boat, choosing what suits your mood. Plus, the homemade paella and drinks included in the price add a lovely touch, turning a boat ride into a full, satisfying meal. On the flip side, it’s worth noting that this trip relies on a minimum of 15 guests to run, so if you’re traveling in the off-season or in a small group, your plans might need a little flexibility.

This cruise seems best suited for those who enjoy scenic sailing, good food, and a relaxed vibe. If you’re looking for a memorable day that balances adventure and leisure without a heavy price tag, this tour could be just the ticket.

Key Points

• Beautiful Coastal Views: You’ll get to enjoy panoramic sights of Costa Blanca, Carabassi Beach, and the Cape of Santa Pola.
• Flexible Schedule on Tabarca: Time on the island is loosely managed, giving you freedom to snorkel, explore or relax.
• All-Inclusive Food & Drinks: Homemade paella, soft drinks, and one alcoholic drink are included, making it easy to indulge.
• Snorkeling Equipment Provided: Masks and fins are available, with the option to buy additional gear onboard.
• Family-Friendly Aspects: The trip is suitable for those who enjoy a relaxed, scenic day but note that it isn’t suitable for wheelchair users or unaccompanied minors.
• Weather & Sea Conditions: Some reviews mention choppier seas, but the crew is experienced and attentive, ensuring safety and comfort.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Experience: What to Expect on the Cruise

This cruise begins at the Adventurer Catamaran docked next to Noray bar in Alicante, and most departures start with a short check-in around 15 minutes before setting sail. From there, it’s all about enjoying the journey, with the boat cruising along the Costa Blanca for about 1.5 hours before reaching the island.

The Journey Out – Sailing Along the Coast

Once underway, you’ll get a chance to relax, sunbathe, and take in views of Alicante’s coastline. The boat is spacious enough to keep everyone comfortable, with onboard music adding to the laid-back atmosphere. As you sail, you might find yourself snapping photos of white beaches, rocky cliffs, and the distant lighthouse at Santa Pola — all part of what makes this stretch of coast so captivating.

The boat’s crew and sailor-lifeguards are there not only to navigate but also to supervise snorkeling activities and ensure everyone feels safe. Several reviews highlight how attentive and friendly the crew is, making the trip feel welcoming and secure, even if the seas are a bit rough at times.

On Arrival at Tabarca Island

Once you reach Tabarca, the first thing that hits you is its charm. This small island is Spain’s first marine reserve, packed with clear waters, lively marine life, and a quaint village. You’re free to explore at your own pace, whether that means wandering through the narrow streets, grabbing a quick bite, or heading straight into the water for snorkeling.

The snorkel gear provided allows you to float above vibrant fish and coral, with some reviewers mentioning seeing octopuses and other marine creatures. The loose management of the island visit means you can come and go as you wish, which adds a sense of freedom — you can snorkel, swim, or simply sit back and enjoy the scenery.

Lunch on Board: Homemade Paella

When you’re ready for a break from water activities, the boat serves up a delicious homemade paella — options include chicken, fish, or vegetarian. The paella receives high praise in reviews, with many calling it “amazing” and “the best in Alicante” they’ve had. It’s served with a refreshing mixed salad, and one drink (beer, wine, or tinto de verano) is included in the price.

This meal is a real highlight for many travelers, turning a simple boat trip into a satisfying culinary experience. Soft drinks, water, and juices are unlimited, so you can stay refreshed throughout the day.

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The Return Sail

After about three hours on the island, it’s time to sail back to Alicante. The return journey offers even more scenic views of the Costa Blanca, with opportunities to spot Carabassi Beach or the Cape of Santa Pola from the sea. Many reviews mention how the sails are put up during the return trip, adding a touch of classic sailing charm.

The crew’s professionalism and friendliness shine through at this stage, making sure everyone is comfortable and well looked after. The trip concludes back at the starting point, usually around 6 hours after departure, with many travelers feeling they got excellent value for the price.

What’s Included & What to Expect

This tour offers a lot of value packed into its $82 per person price. Included are:

• The catamaran cruise, with onboard music and a restroom for convenience.
• Welcome fruits to start the journey on a fresh note.
• Homemade paella with options to suit different dietary preferences.
• One free alcoholic drink — beer, wine, or tinto de verano.
• Unlimited water, soft drinks, and juice.
• Basic snorkeling equipment — masks and fins, with the option to buy additional tubes onboard.
• The chance to snorkel without a guide, supervised by the crew.

However, some things are not included, such as pickup/drop-off services and additional alcoholic drinks or food. The meeting point is straightforward, next to Noray bar, and punctuality is encouraged to keep the schedule smooth.

Practical Considerations

• The cruise requires at least 15 guests to operate; if the number isn’t met, you might need to reschedule or get a refund.
• Be sure to bring essentials like sunscreen, sunglasses, swimwear, towel, and water shoes.
• High-heeled shoes, jewelry, large bags, pets, and unaccompanied minors are not allowed for safety and hygiene reasons.
• The tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, so keep that in mind if you or someone in your group needs accessible facilities.

Authentic Traveler Feedback

With a 4.7/5 rating from 678 reviews, it’s clear that most travelers have a positive experience. Many rave about the friendly staff, the quality of the food, and the stunning scenery. One review mentions the “amazing, friendly, and very helpful staff,” highlighting how much the crew makes a difference.

The homemade paella, in particular, gets frequent praise, with guests describing it as “amazing,” “delicious,” and “the best in Alicante.” Plus, travelers love the flexible island visit, allowing them to snorkel or explore at their own pace, and many appreciate the opportunity to relax without feeling rushed.

A few reviews mention choppier seas at times, but overall, guests feel safe and well cared for — thanks to experienced crew members. The boat’s spacious layout and onboard amenities contribute to a comfortable day out, even when weather conditions aren’t perfect.

The Sum Up: Is This Tour Right for You?

If you’re someone who loves a relaxing day on the water, with chances to snorkel, explore a quaint island, and enjoy a homemade meal, this cruise offers a well-rounded experience. It’s especially appealing if you value good food, friendly service, and scenic views — all at an accessible price.

This tour is best suited for travelers who want a mix of adventure and leisure with minimal hassle. It’s ideal if you’re comfortable with a group setting and don’t require special accessibility features. The flexible schedule on Tabarca makes it a great choice for those who like to pace themselves and explore at their own rhythm.

While it’s not perfect for those seeking a private or ultra-luxurious trip, the overall value and friendly vibe make this cruise a solid pick for a memorable day along Spain’s beautiful Costa Blanca.

FAQs

How long is the cruise?
The entire experience lasts about 6 hours, including sailing, time on Tabarca Island, and the return trip.

What’s included in the price?
You get the catamaran cruise, welcome fruits, homemade paella, one free alcoholic drink, unlimited non-alcoholic drinks, water, soft drinks, juice, and snorkeling equipment.

Can I snorkel alone?
Yes, snorkeling is offered as a free activity without a guide, supervised by crew members for safety. Tubes are not provided but can be purchased onboard.

What should I bring?
Bring essentials like sunglasses, sun hat, swimwear, towel, sunscreen, and water shoes. Avoid bringing large bags or valuables.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While not specifically marketed for families, children who are comfortable in water and can follow safety instructions should enjoy the trip. It’s not suitable for unaccompanied minors.

What happens if not enough people book?
The tour requires a minimum of 15 guests. If the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be contacted to reschedule or receive a full refund.

Where is the meeting point?
Next to Noray bar, in front of Mundo de los Niños, about 15 minutes before departure.

Are there any extra costs?
Additional alcoholic drinks and food aren’t included in the price. Snorkel tubes for sale on board cost about €5.

In the end, this catamaran cruise seems like a fantastic way to enjoy Alicante’s coast, with plenty of opportunities for relaxation, adventure, and good eats. Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with friends, it offers a straightforward, enjoyable way to spend a day on the water and discover the beautiful Tabarca Island.

You can check availability for your dates here: