From Alicante: Roundtrip to Tabarca Island
Hightlight
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English-Speaking
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Group-Friendly
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Local guide
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Non smoking
History
Tabarca Island, located off Alicante’s Costa Blanca, has a storied past rooted in the 18th century when it was settled by Genoese fishermen freed from Tunisian captivity. Fortified by King Charles III as Nova Tabarca, it served as a defensive outpost against pirates, with its preserved walls, Baroque church, and lighthouse reflecting its maritime heritage. Designated a Marine Reserve in 1986, Tabarca’s crystal-clear waters teem with vibrant marine life, making it a key eco-tourism destination.
The island’s fishing village charm and strategic role in Alicante’s maritime history draw visitors to its historic streets and pristine coves. Modern ferry services from Alicante, like those by Kontiki Alacant-Tabarca, have made Tabarca accessible since the mid-20th century, offering a window into its cultural and ecological significance as a Mediterranean gem.
Highlights
- Enjoy a 1-hour ferry ride from Alicante to Tabarca Island.
- View marine life through the glass-bottom boat (select vessels).
- Explore Tabarca’s historic village, lighthouse, and beaches at your leisure.
- Benefit from flexible return times (4:00 PM or 5:30 PM).
- Relax on an open deck with stunning Mediterranean sea views.
Full Description
Set sail from Alicante’s port on a 1-hour ferry ride to Tabarca Island, a jewel of the Costa Blanca, aboard a comfortable Kontiki Alacant-Tabarca vessel. Relax on the open deck, soaking in breathtaking Mediterranean views, or, on select glass-bottom boats, marvel at the underwater world filled with colorful fish and seagrass beds within Tabarca’s Marine Reserve.
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Upon arrival, enjoy several hours of free time to explore the island at your own pace. Wander through the charming fishing village, with its cobbled streets, historic walls, and Baroque church, or visit the iconic Tabarca lighthouse for panoramic views. Relax on turquoise coves ideal for swimming or savor local cuisine, like Tabarquino caldero, at seaside restaurants. Nature lovers can stroll trails or enjoy quiet beachside moments.
With flexible return times at 4:00 PM or 5:30 PM (check signs or staff for updates), you can choose to return the same day or another, offering scheduling freedom. The pet-friendly ferry and luggage storage ensure a hassle-free journey, making this an ideal escape for families, couples, or solo travelers seeking history, nature, and relaxation.
Why Choose This Experience?
This roundtrip ferry to Tabarca offers an affordable, flexible way to explore a historic Mediterranean island, blending scenic beauty with cultural and ecological richness. The glass-bottom boat option (available on two of three vessels) provides a unique glimpse into the Marine Reserve, while free time allows you to tailor your island adventure, from beach relaxation to historical exploration.
The open-deck ferry, friendly staff, and pet-friendly policy make it accessible for all, with clear instructions ensuring a smooth experience. Its value and flexibility, including open return dates, make this a perfect addition to an Alicante itinerary, offering a serene escape to a coastal paradise.
What’s Included
- Round-trip ferry ticket from Alicante to Tabarca.
- Access to glass-bottom viewing (on select boats).
- Open-deck seating for sea views.
- Luggage storage during the journey.
- Pet-friendly travel accommodations.
- Flexible return schedule (4:00 PM or 5:30 PM, subject to change).
Itinerary
- Meet at Kontiki Alacant-Tabarca in Alicante’s port.
- Board the ferry and sail to Tabarca (1 hour).
- View marine life through glass-bottom (select boats).
- Free time on Tabarca for exploration, swimming, or dining (several hours).
- Return ferry to Alicante (1 hour, 4:00 PM or 5:30 PM).
- Note: Itinerary subject to change due to weather or operational adjustments.
Pricing
From $27 per person
Meeting Point
Show your ticket at the Kontiki Alacant-Tabarca boarding area in Alicante’s port, opposite the Esplanade. Arrive 15-20 minutes early for smooth check-in and boarding.
How to Get There
- By foot: The port is a 5-minute walk from Alicante’s Esplanade or city center.
- By bus: Lines 5 or C6 stop at Explanada de España, a 2-minute walk.
- By tram: Take L1-L4 to Mercado station, then walk 7 minutes to the port.
- By car: Park at Puerto de Alicante lot (paid); walk 5 minutes to Kontiki.
Good to Know
What to Bring
- Sunscreen, hat, and comfortable clothing.
- Swimwear and towel for beach time.
- Cash for dining or souvenirs on Tabarca.
- Camera for photos.
Know Before You Go
- Only two of three boats have glass-bottom viewing; confirm at boarding.
- Return times (4:00 PM, 5:30 PM) may vary; check signs or staff.
- Tour may be canceled due to weather, with refunds or rescheduling offered.
- Pet-friendly; ensure pets are controlled.
- Luggage storage available onboard.
Reviews
- Smooth boarding and clear instructions. Tabarca’s beauty made it a perfect day trip—highly recommend!
- Great value with flexible return times. The ferry was safe, and we loved exploring the island longer.
- Lovely trip with a clean boat and friendly staff. Tabarca’s beaches and village were unforgettable.
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FAQ's
What is included in the tour price, and are there any additional costs?
The tour includes a round-trip ferry ticket from Alicante to Tabarca, a 1-hour journey each way, with open-deck seating and luggage storage. Select boats offer glass-bottom viewing of the Marine Reserve’s marine life. The ferry is pet-friendly, and return times are flexible (4:00 PM or 5:30 PM, or another day). No additional costs apply for the ferry, but budget €10-20 for meals, snacks, or souvenirs on Tabarca. Optional rentals like snorkeling gear may incur fees, ensuring a budget-friendly trip with clear inclusions.
How long is the tour, and what is the physical demand involved?
The tour spans 5-7 hours, including 1-hour ferry rides each way and several hours of free time on Tabarca. The ferry ride is seated and relaxed, with no physical demands beyond boarding. On Tabarca, walking cobbled streets or beaches is optional and low-effort, suitable for all fitness levels. Bring seasickness remedies if prone to motion sickness. The flexible pace and lack of structured activities make it an easy, leisurely outing for exploring the island’s charm.
Is the tour suitable for families with children, and are there any age restrictions?
The tour is family-friendly with no age restrictions, welcoming children accompanied by adults. The ferry’s open deck and glass-bottom viewing (select boats) captivate kids, while Tabarca’s beaches and short village paths are ideal for family exploration. The flexible return schedule accommodates family needs, and the pet-friendly policy adds inclusivity. Parents should supervise young children during boarding and on beaches, but the relaxed format ensures a fun, safe experience for all ages on this Mediterranean adventure.
Can I take photos during the tour, and are there any restrictions?
Photography is encouraged on the ferry and Tabarca, capturing sea views, marine life (via glass-bottom), and island landmarks like the lighthouse. No restrictions apply for personal cameras or phones, though flash is unnecessary in the glass-bottom area. On Tabarca, respect private properties while photographing the village or coves. The open deck offers prime angles for Alicante’s coastline and sunlit beaches. Keep devices charged for the full day to preserve memories of this scenic journey without disrupting others.
What happens if the tour is canceled due to weather or I miss the ferry?
If weather conditions cancel the trip, Kontiki offers a full refund or rescheduling to another date; check with staff for updates if seas are rough. Missing the ferry due to late arrival (arrive 15-20 minutes early) may forfeit your ticket, as boarding is strict, with no guaranteed rescheduling. Contact Kontiki immediately if delayed. Confirm return times (4:00 PM or 5:30 PM) on-site, as they may vary, ensuring a smooth experience with clear communication and contingency plans.
