Santa Pola sits just 3 nautical miles from Tabarca: it's the shortest crossing (15-20 minutes), the cheapest, and the one with the most daily departures. Travelling with kids, prone to seasickness, or simply want to maximise your hours on the island? This is your route.
Two types of vessel operate from Santa Pola. The classic boat (from ~€15 return) is the relaxed option: a ~20 minute crossing with more room and a calmer pace. The fast launch or taxi boat (~€20 return) shortens the trip and adds frequencies — handy on busy days or if you want more freedom choosing your return time. Details and departures for each are on the schedules and prices pages.
Boarding is at Santa Pola port, well signposted from the edge of town. Most visitors arrive by car: in summer the parking around the port fills up early in the morning, so allow margin or check our alternatives in the parking guide. Be at the desk/jetty 20-30 minutes before departure with your e-ticket on your phone.
Tabarca has been a Marine Reserve since 1986 — Spain's first — and its posidonia meadows are a natural aquarium. From Santa Pola there's a trip combining the crossing with a guided snorkel stop: gear included and the best coves picked for the day's conditions. If it's your first time on the island, it's the most complete way to see it.
Santa Pola makes the best base: plenty of hotels, gentler prices than Alicante, and the boat 5 minutes from your room. But if you can spare one night, sleeping on Tabarca turns the day trip into something you'll remember: the whole island empties at dusk.
🏨 Hotels in Santa Pola → 🏝️ Stay on Tabarca →
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How long is the crossing from Santa Pola?
Between 15 and 20 minutes depending on the vessel and sea state. It's the shortest route.
Do I need to book, or can I buy at the port?
Off-season there's usually space at the ticket booth; in summer and at weekends
booking online saves queues and the risk of being left ashore.
Do children pay?
Under-4s travel free on the classic boat. Check each fare when booking.
Will I get seasick on this route?
It's the least likely one: 15-20 minutes, much of it sheltered by the bay.
Still, with strong easterly winds check the sea conditions first.
→ See all frequently asked questions about Tabarca