The Torrevieja route has an ace up its sleeve: the boat has a glass bottom, so the crossing itself is part of the excursion. You'll watch the seabed on the way, and Spain's first Marine Reserve is waiting when you arrive. Ideal if you're staying in Torrevieja, Orihuela Costa or the south of the province.
All three routes reach the same island, but the on-board experience differs. From Torrevieja the draw is the underwater view: the glass viewing chamber in the hull lets you watch fish and the seabed while sailing — especially entertaining for kids on what is the longest of the three crossings. If your priority is getting there fast, the Santa Pola route remains unbeatable; if you're already in the south of the province, Torrevieja saves you the drive and makes the journey part of the plan.
The full guide is at what to see in Tabarca: snorkelling the Marine Reserve, the walled village, the lighthouse and the local "caldero" rice. And to squeeze the most out of the trip, sleep on the island and keep it to yourself once the last boat leaves.