How to get to the island
From Moraira to Tabarca
From Moraira, a trip to Tabarca is a great day-trip to break up the beach routine in the Marina Alta. There is no direct ferry from Moraira, so the usual option is to drive to Santa Pola (the quickest way to board) or to Alicante (where there is a regular ferry service all year round).
Your journey, step by step
What is the route like from Moraira
From Moraira, here’s the quickest route: drive along the AP-7 to Santa Pola and take the ferry to Tabarca. If you’d prefer a longer sea crossing and don’t want to do so much driving, Alicante is also a good option.
Total journey time: approx. 1 hr 55 mins via Santa Pola · Alternative route: 2 hrs 10 mins via Alicante (regular ferry service all year round)
Book your tour online
Trips to Tabarca near Moraira
The two most convenient boat options from Moraira depart from Santa Pola and Alicante. Reserva online con cancelación gratuita y asegura tu plaza con antelación, sobre todo en temporada alta.
Quick guide to prices and times
Comparison of options from Moraira
There is no direct ferry from Moraira to Tabarca. The two available routes depart from Santa Pola or Alicante, both of which are accessible via the AP-7. Here is a comparison to help you decide based on your budget and preferences.
| Port of departure | Mode of transport | Journey duration | Approximate price | Frequency |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Santa Pola | Tabarquera (water taxi) | 15–20 mins | €15–€25 | All year round · every 30 mins in summer |
| Alicante | Regular ferry service | 50 mins | €21 – €22 | All year round · reduced fares in winter |
The quickest and most economical option
Vía Santa Pola. Drive along the AP-7 to the port (1 hour 20 minutes, 95 km) and take the ferry in 20 minutes. Cheaper ticket and shorter boat journey.
Option with more navigation
Vía Alicante. A slightly shorter drive (85 km, 1 hour 10 mins), but a 50-minute ferry crossing. Well worth it if you fancy enjoying the boat trip.
Discounts and special rates
- Children aged 4 to 12: standard reduced fares apply. Children under 4 usually travel free of charge.
- Groups: please check with the shipping company for special rates if you are travelling with a group.
- Over-65s: some companies offer discounts without advertising them, so ask when booking.
Practical tips
Things you should know before travelling to Tabarca from Moraira
Moraira has very limited public transport, so almost everyone drives. Here are the key points for planning a perfect day trip to Tabarca from the Marina Alta.
A must-have car
Neither the TRAM nor the train runs from Moraira. Public transport is very limited, so the usual way to get there is by car – either your own or a hire car – via the AP-7.
Santa Pola, a quick option
The quickest way to get there by boat is to drive to Santa Pola via the AP-7 (95 km, 1 hour 20 minutes) and board a ferry. The crossing takes just 20 minutes.
Alicante, more sailing
If you’d rather make the most of the sea journey, Alicante offers a 50-minute crossing on a regular ferry service. The distance by car is similar: 85 km, 1 hour 10 minutes.
Parking at the port
There are pay-and-display car parks near the ferry terminal in both Santa Pola and Alicante. In August, it is advisable to arrive 30–45 minutes early.
Why not stop off on the way?
The AP-7 motorway runs close to Calpe, Altea and Benidorm. If you’ve got time, you can stop off on the way back to explore more of the Costa Blanca.
Book online in advance
In July and August, the boats fill up in a matter of days. It’s a long journey from Moraira, so booking online guarantees you a place and means you won’t come back empty-handed.