Free water taxi Vaporetto keeps Sotogrande marina moving this summer

Everyone down in Puerto Sotogrande can jump aboard the popular free water taxi service throughout August, making getting around the marina easier than ever. Known locally as the “Vaporetto”, this handy boat shuttle launched on July 1 and will keep running right up until August 30, connecting key drop-off points across the marina complex without costing passengers a single penny.

Skipper Mark Houlbourne takes the helm once again

Skipper Mark Houlbourne is back at the wheel for another busy summer, steering passengers safely between docking stations every day. His familiar face has become part and parcel of the marina experience over the summer months, offering passengers a relaxed journey across the water while taking in views of luxury yachts and waterfront properties.

Five main stops connecting the marina

Cruising between five strategic stops, the ferry route connects major leisure, dining, and sporting locations around the port. Passenger pick-up points include:

• Control Tower (Torre de Control)
• Boarding point opposite KE Sotogrande restaurant (between pontoons 3 and 4)
• Ribera del Marlin
• Real Club Maritimo Sotogrande (RCMS)
• Sailing School (Escuela de Vela) on the outer breakwater

Passengers can hop on and off to reach their favourite restaurants, visit local shops, or drop kids off for sailing lessons without having to trek around the marina on foot.

Timetable and operating schedule

Operating hours run from 10am to 3pm and 4pm to 6pm, Tuesday until Sunday. Mondays are rest days for the crew, so the boat will be out of service then. Running continuously until the end of August, the shuttle provides reliable water transport for anyone spending time in the San Roque district of Cadiz.

Boosting sustainable mobility in San Roque

Environmental credentials also play a major role in keeping the service running. Port management links the free boat shuttle directly to sustainable development goals set out by the United Nations, specifically targeting sustainable communities (SDG 11), decent work and economic growth (SDG 8), and partnerships for goals (SDG 17). By reducing car journeys around the port area, the water shuttle cuts localised vehicle exhaust and keeps traffic congestion down during peak holiday months.

Visitors wanting to explore the wider region can find more Costa del Sol news or check details on the official Puerto Sotogrande website. Whether you are popping over for lunch or simply fancy a free boat ride across the harbour, the Vaporetto remains one of the best summer perks in the area.