This is the quickest and cheapest way to reach Tabarca. The boat leaves from Muelle de Ribera in Santa Pola port and crosses in about 25 minutes. The same trip from Alicante takes an hour and costs close to three times as much.
Return fares
| Ticket | Online | At the booth |
|---|---|---|
| Adult | 9 € | 12 € |
| Child | 8 € | 10 € |
| Under 4 and pets | free | free |
Prices and conditions are indicative and subject to confirmation. We confirm them in writing when you book. Last reviewed: September 2026.
Booking online saves 3 € an adult and skips the ticket queue, which in August starts forming early.
Sailings
In high season there are up to 17 departures from Santa Pola between 09:00 and 19:00, with 13 returns from the island between 10:00 and 20:15. Outside summer the frequency drops and the service concentrates on weekends and holidays, so confirm the day before.
The ticket is open — no assigned time. You board whichever boat is going when you arrive, on the same day. Even so, turn up 20 minutes early, because morning sailings fill first.
Where to catch it
Muelle de Ribera, in Santa Pola port, opposite Avenida Pérez Ojeda. There is paid parking in the port itself and metered spaces in the surrounding streets. In July and August, arriving after ten makes parking nearby a lottery.
A day on the island
Tabarca walks end to end in a couple of hours. The walled village is at one end, the flat part with the better coves at the other, and the main beach is right where you land. The whole island is a marine reserve, so the snorkelling is the best around — bring your own mask, hire there is unreliable.
If you are eating on the island, book. There are few restaurants and they fill in summer. Out of season several cut their hours or close, so take food with you.
Common questions
Can we come back on a different boat?
Yes. The return has no fixed time, so you take whichever suits on the day.
Does anyone get seasick?
It is 25 minutes and usually calm. In an easterly it moves more; sit amidships and stay in the open air.
Are there boats in winter?
A reduced service, mostly weekends and in good weather. Message us and we will confirm the sailings for your date.
Can we bring the dog?
Yes, pets travel free. They must be on a lead on the island.
How does this compare with going from Torrevieja?
The Torrevieja crossing is an hour each way and is a full-day outing with a fixed return. From here it is shorter, cheaper and flexible.
Message us on WhatsApp — we will come back with availability and the final price.