The Best Boat Rentals in Marbella

Expect small license‑free motorboats to start around €100–€150 per hour, with many half‑day options in the €200–€300 range and full days from roughly €350–€500. Mid‑size powerboats and sailboats commonly run €200–€400 per hour, with half‑day charters between about €400–€800 and full‑day outings from €900–€1,500. Catamarans and motor yachts typically range from about €300–€1,000+ per hour; half‑day private cruises often land around €1,200–€3,000 and full days from €2,500–€6,500+, while larger luxury yachts can exceed €5,000–€10,000 per day in peak season. Most listings include safety gear and a cooler; many captained charters also include the skipper, fuel for standard coastal routes, basic beverages like water or soft drinks, and marina fees. Extras such as catering, premium drinks, toys, longer routes, or late returns are usually added on request.

You’ll find a wide mix: compact motorboats you can drive without a license, RIBs for fast coastal hops, classic sailboats for a relaxed cruise, stable catamarans that are great for groups, and a full spectrum of motor yachts from day boats to larger crewed yachts. Fishing and dolphin‑watching trips are also popular along this stretch of the Mediterranean.

Booking with a professional skipper is the easiest option and requires no license. If you want to drive yourself, Spain allows license‑free rentals for small boats up to 5 meters with engines up to 15 hp (6 meters for sail) within 2 nautical miles of the coast, by day, for adults 18+. For anything larger, you’ll need a recognized certificate (for example ICC, RYA, or Spanish titles like PNB/PER). If your certificate was issued outside Spain, the rental company typically helps confirm its validity with the Harbour Master during booking.

The most common pickup points are Cívitas Puerto Banús on the west side of town, Puerto Deportivo Virgen del Carmen (Marbella Marina) right by the promenade, Marina La Bajadilla next to the fishing port, and Puerto de Cabopino on the eastern side near the dunes. In summer, parking and traffic can be busy around Puerto Banús and the city center, so plan to arrive a little early.

Expect big Mediterranean views with La Concha mountain as the backdrop, the beaches and beach clubs along the Golden Mile, and the luxury yacht scene of Puerto Banús. Cruising east toward Cabopino you’ll pass the protected Artola dunes and watchtower; heading west you’ll enjoy the coastline toward Estepona. On clear days you can sometimes spot the Rock of Gibraltar and even the Rif mountains across the Strait, and it’s common to see pods of dolphins along the Costa del Sol.

Yes—family trips are very common. Every licensed charter carries life jackets for all passengers, including child and infant sizes, and the crew will brief you on safety before departure. Many boats have shaded seating, swim ladders, and fresh‑water showers. If you need multiple child sizes or a travel cot space, ask the owner in advance so they can prepare the right kit and layout.

Most private charters allow you to bring snacks and drinks, and many include bottled water or soft drinks and ice. Some boats offer catering or can arrange platters from local beach clubs. For everyone’s safety and easy cleanup, glass is often discouraged; reusable cups are ideal. Moderate alcohol is typically fine for guests, but your skipper must remain sober and may limit consumption if sea conditions are bumpy.

Pet policies vary by boat, but many private charters are pet‑friendly for small or medium dogs with prior approval. Let the owner know your pet’s size and bring a leash, a towel, and water bowl; some boats may add a refundable cleaning deposit. If your itinerary includes swim stops or beach club tenders, confirm pet logistics in advance.

The Costa del Sol enjoys plenty of calm, sunny days, but easterly “Levante” winds can create rougher seas at times, while westerly “Poniente” winds usually bring cooler, clearer conditions. Captains track forecasts closely and will adjust the route, reschedule, or cancel if conditions aren’t safe. Weather decisions follow the owner’s cancellation policy shown at checkout; in practice, most owners reschedule you or provide a refund if the captain deems it unsafe to go.

Absolutely. Boats here are set up for easy celebrations with Bluetooth sound, shaded deck space, and swim stops. Many hosts can arrange decorations, a cake, cava, or sunset timing. To keep the day stress‑free, lock in your preferred time early in the busy months and let the owner know your group’s vibe—chill cruise, sightseeing, or party energy—so they can tailor the route and pace.

Peak boating runs from late May through September, with July and August the busiest and warmest. The shoulder months of April–June and September–October bring great weather and fewer crowds. Mornings are often calmer at sea and good for families or anyone prone to motion sickness; afternoons and golden‑hour cruises feel livelier and are ideal for swimming and sunsets. Local dates that drive demand include the Feria de San Bernabé in early to mid‑June, the beach bonfires of Noche de San Juan on June 23, the maritime procession of Virgen del Carmen on July 16, and the Starlite concert series through summer. If you’re visiting from the U.S., note that Memorial Day, July 4th, and Labor Day aren’t Spanish holidays, but late June through August still books up fast—weekday mornings usually offer the best availability and value.

Dolphins are frequently spotted off Marbella, especially from spring through autumn and on calmer days, though sightings are never guaranteed. Keep an eye out for bottlenose and common dolphins riding the bow waves; if conditions line up you may see them on short coastal cruises. Crews follow local guidelines for respectful wildlife viewing—boats won’t chase pods, and the captain will maintain a safe distance while you enjoy the moment.

Yes—short hops to Estepona or Cabopino are easy, and many skippers will customize a loop with swim stops and a lunch break. Longer runs toward Sotogrande or the Bay of Gibraltar are possible on faster boats and typically require extra time and fuel; plan on an early start and discuss sea conditions, as the Strait area can be windier. Your captain will advise what’s realistic for your group and the day’s forecast so you spend more time relaxing and less time in transit.