Boat Rental and Yacht Charter in Marbella

Experience the glamour of Marbella, Spain, where luxury yachts and golden beaches define the Costa del Sol. A knowledgeable guide will unveil exclusive resorts, hidden coves, and the vibrant nightlife of this Mediterranean gem.

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Sailing in Marbella

Marbella is a luxurious holiday destination located on the southern coast of Spain, known for its glitzy nightlife, high-end restaurants and luxury resorts. But did you know that Marbella is also a great destination for sailing enthusiasts? With its sunny climate, calm waters and stunning coastline, the bustling city is the perfect destination for a sailing holiday. A boat rental in Marbella allows you to explore the stunning coast at your own time and pace.

Things to do and see when sailing in Marbella

While sailing in Marbella, there are plenty of activities and sights to see that are sure to keep you entertained. From exploring historical sites and using your energy to participate in various water sport activities to relaxing beach days, Marbella has something to offer for everyone.

Activities in Marbella

  • Explore Marbella's Old Town: Take a stroll through the narrow streets of Marbella's Old Town and admire the beautiful architecture of the historic buildings. Be sure to stop by the Plaza de los Naranjos, the central square of Marbella.
  • Visit the Puerto Banus Marina: Known as the playground of the rich and famous, the Puerto Banus Marina is a must-visit destination in Marbella. Marvel at the luxurious mega yachts and supercars that line the marina, and enjoy a meal at one of the many high-end restaurants.
  • Relax on one of Marbella's beaches: Marbella is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in Spain. From the wide and sandy beaches of Puerto Banus to the secluded coves of Cabopino, there is a beach for every type of traveler.
  • Take a day trip to Gibraltar: Located just a short sail away from Marbella, Gibraltar is a British Overseas Territory known for its stunning natural scenery and unique culture. The rock of Gibraltar is one of the most well-known landmarks
  • Enjoy some fun water sports: From jet skiing to parasailing, Marbella offers a variety of water sports that are sure to get your adrenaline pumping - especially should you get tired of relaxing on board your boat all day long without lifting a single or foot, in this case
  • Rent a boat in Marbella and explore the coastline: With its clear waters and stunning coastline, Marbella is the perfect destination for a sailing holiday. A yacht hire in Marbella allows you to explore the many coves and bays that line the coast.
  • Play a round of golf: Marbella is home to some of the best golf courses in Spain, many of which offer stunning views of the Mediterranean.
  • Visit Marbella’s fishing port and bear witness to a more traditional way of operating a boat and fishing
  • Marbella is also a popular destination for a bachelorette party, so why not opt for a boat charter in Marbella and bring all your besties on board a nice yacht for a few days

Beaches in Marbella

  • Playa de la Fontanilla: Located in the heart of Marbella, this beach is a favorite among tourists and locals alike. It's a long and wide beach with soft sand and clear waters. There are plenty of restaurants and bars nearby, as well as showers and toilets. You can even rent lounge chairs at an affordable price
  • Playa de Puerto Banús: This is a popular beach located in the upscale Puerto Banús area. The beach is long and wide, with plenty of space to relax and sunbathe. The mountains in the background give it a very interesting look
  • Playa de la Bajadilla: This is a small and quiet beach located near the Marbella fishing port. Stretching a very long way, you have plenty of options to choose where to sit in the golden sand. It's a great spot for swimming and relaxing, with clear waters and soft sand. There are a few restaurants and bars nearby, as well as facilities like showers and toilets.

Restaurants in Marbella

Casual dining in Marbella:

  • Yaba Of: Try some traditional Lebanese food like hummus and babaganoush. A big plus: Everything is super fresh and healthy!
  • Pizzeria Pacman: As you probably already know from reading the name, this wonderful establishment offers some very delicious pizza

Best restaurants with a view in Marbella:

  • Restaurante La Bocana: Located in Puerto Banus, this wonderful restaurant offers stunning views of the sea and serves the most delicious seafood
  • The Harbour Bar & Restaurant Marbella: The sea views are just an added bonus to the fantastic food that is served here. The surf and turf makes for a wonderful dining experience you won’t easily forget

Fine dining in Marbella:

  • Meksian: This French steakhouse offers the best meat dishes you could ask for. Accompanied by a fancy cocktail or a fine wine this is a fine dining experience you won’t easily forget
  • ERRE & Urrechu Marbella: As a Michelin rated restaurant, this lovely place is serving you classics in a way you won’t ever be able to look at these dishes the same again. And don’t forget to order one of their lovely desserts!

Bars and Clubs in Marbella

  • Belvue Rooftop Bar: This lovely rooftop bar is overlooking Marbella’s old town and makes for a wonderful spot to rewind after a long day out on a boat
  • Olivia Valère: It won’t get more glamorous than this! You will feel like partying in the Alhambra Palace and Mezquita, but open-air and with crazier music

Explore historical Marbella

Marbella has a rich history dating back thousands of years, with a unique blend of cultural influences from the Phoenicians, Romans, Moors, and Christians. There are plenty of historical sites you can visit while exploring the city.

  • Visit the Old Town: Marbella's charming Old Town, or Casco Antiguo, is a maze of narrow streets and alleys lined with whitewashed buildings, orange trees, and colorful flowers. The streets are steeped in history, with ancient walls, towers, and arches still visible. The Old Town also boasts several beautiful plazas, including the Plaza de los Naranjos, which is the beating heart of Marbella. You can find plenty of restaurants, bars, and shops in this area
  • Explore the Moorish Castle: Located on a hill overlooking the city, the Moorish Castle, or Castillo Árabe, dates back to the 10th century when the Moors ruled over this part of Spain. Although much of the castle is now in ruins, visitors can still see the remains of the original walls and towers, as well as enjoy the stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea and the city. A truly magical experience you wouldn’t want to miss!
  • Discover the Roman Villa: The Roman Villa in Marbella is a 1st-century AD villa that was discovered in the 1980s during the construction of a new building. Today, the ruins of the villa are open to the public and visitors can explore the remains of the thermal baths, the mosaic floors, and the peristyle garden. Isn’t it so fascinating to see how people used to live back in the day?
  • Admire the architecture of the San Juan de Dios Church: This Baroque-style church was built in the 18th century and is one of the most beautiful churches in Marbella. Its ornate façade and bell tower are a must-see, as is the impressive altarpiece inside.

Sailing conditions in Marbella

Marbella is located on the Costa del Sol in the south of Spain and is the perfect spot for a sailing adventure. The sailing conditions in Marbella can vary depending on the time of year you plan on coming here. During the summer months, the weather is generally sunny and hot, and the winds tend to be light to moderate, making it perfect for leisurely sailing. Keep in mind that the afternoon sun can feel particularly strong - especially if you are not used to this kind of climate. On the contrary, in the winter months, the weather can be colder and more unpredictable, with stronger winds and rougher seas.

The Mediterranean Sea around Marbella is usually calm, and the sea temperature is pleasant for swimming, snorkelling, and other water activities. The sea breeze usually picks up in the afternoon, making it perfect for sailing. The coast around Marbella offers some sheltered bays and coves where you can safely anchor for the night while enjoying the beautiful scenery and pleasant atmosphere.

It's important to note that Marbella is known for its busy coastline. The city and surrounding area can become especially popular during the busy summer months, with a higher number of motorboats and other water vessels mooring at the marinas.

How much does it cost to rent a boat in Marbella?

Marbella might be known as a popular holiday destination for the rich and famous, but renting a boat in Marbella doesn’t have to break your bank. Prices can also vary depending on the time of year you plan on vacationing here, the type of boat you choose and how many people are travelling with you.

You can already hire a sailboat in Spain at an average price of just 68 EUR per person per day. Charter a RIB in Spain at an average price of 54 EUR per person per day or rent a speedboat in Spain for about 85 EUR per person per day on average. RIBs and speedboats are very affordable, but only made for day charters in Marbella as they generally neither have the space or the facilities you would need for a longer boat trip. It will be more expensive to rent a catamaran or a motorboat, but you can easily spend a week or longer on board these types of boat. A catamaran charter in Spain will cost you an average price of 111 EUR per person per day. At an average price of 179 EUR per person per day a motorboat charter in Spain is the most expensive option, but also the most comfortable one.

What type of boat is best for sailing in Marbella?

It all depends on the type of boat holiday you envision for yourself in Marbella and the activities you plan on participating in. If you just want to relax and sunbathe at one of the many beaches this part of Spain has to offer, you should rent a yacht with a shallow draft that allows you to sail in shallow waters. If you are more adventurous and seek to practice your skills on the water a sailboat might be the better choice for you.

Rent a catamaran in Marbella

Pros of renting a catamaran in Marbella

Do you easily get seasick? Then a catamaran charter in Marbella might just be the right choice for you! Standing on two hulls rather than one gives catamarans more stability and prevents them from shaking too much - especially when the wind picks up.

If you are looking for a super relaxing holiday on a yacht, where you don’t actually need to feel like you’re staying on a boat, a catamaran rental in Marbella might be just the right boat for you. Due to the size of catamarans and the way they are built, these boats allow for bigger rooms and more space in general.

A catamaran hire in Marbella is the right choice for anyone who wants to explore all the beautiful beaches the region has to offer. As catamarans have a shallow draft and most of the yacht is on top of the water, you can easily access the beaches and can sail closer to the shore without having to fear for your safety.

Rent a catamaran in Marbella if you enjoy all the flexibility catamarans give you. You can either sail with the winds or opt for driving with the engine if they are not strong enough to move your boat forward.

Cons of renting a catamaran in Marbella

Catamarans are generally wider than monohull sailboats, which can make it more difficult to find a docking space in the crowded marinas. The marinas can be particularly busy during the summer months and you are lucky to find a spot for mooring. Also, keep in mind that taking up more space at the marinas also means that you will have to pay extra.

Something else to keep in mind when opting for a catamaran charter in Marbella is the fact that catamarans are generally lighter than other types of boats. This can slow them down.

Charter a catamaran in Marbella

Rent a sailboat in Marbella

Pros of renting a sailboat in Marbella

A sailboat rental in Marbella is a great choice for anyone who cares about the environment. Sailboats are powered by wind and don’t produce any additional CO2-emissions. With no motor noise, sailing on a sailboat in Marbella allows for a peaceful and serene experience, allowing you to fully take in the beautiful scenery and wildlife. The local wildlife will thank you for it too.

A sailboat charter in Marbella is often more cost-effective than renting a motorboat or a catamaran, as they require less or no fuel at all. Some modern sailboats come with an engine that can be used for mooring at the marinas when the wind is not right or in case of an emergency, but in general it is not necessary.

Cons of renting a sailboat in Marbella

One of the downsides of a sailboat hire in Marbella can be the fact that you might not be able to use the full space on deck. Sailboats are generally smaller than motorboats or catamarans, so there is limited space for amenities and activities on board - especially if you want to sunbathe on deck. If you are traveling with a large group or simply require more space, a sailboat may not be the best option for your boat holiday in Marbella.

Sailboat charter in Marbella

Rent a motorboat in Marbella

Pros of renting a motorboat in Marbella

A motorboat rental in Marbella will bring great joy to anyone who has none to very little sailing experience. Unlike sailboats or catamarans, motorboats don't require a lot of expertise to operate. They are relatively easy to maneuver, and you can quickly get up to speed, making them a great option for those who are less experienced or want a more relaxed boating experience.

A great thing about renting a motorboat in Marbella is the fact that they are generally faster than other types of boats. You can get faster from one place to another and see more places while you’re at it. The perfect choice with a ticking clock and a big bucket list!

Cons of renting a motorboat in Marbella

One of the downsides of a motorboat charter in Marbella is the fact that they are solely running on fuel. This makes them less flexible than a catamaran or sailboat. You always have to ensure that the tank is full enough when leaving the marinas and need to stay close to them just in case you might run out of fuel.

Another con of a motorboat hire in Marbella is the fact that they are generally more expensive than other types of boats. They are more expensive to maintain than other types of boat, which is shown in the rental prices and the extra costs for fuel you might have to pay at the end of your holiday in addition to your bareboat charter in Marbella.

Motorboat rental in Marbella

Luxury boat holidays in Marbella

Marbella is a popular destination for luxury boat holidays in the Mediterranean, offering a variety of experiences and amenities for those seeking a high-end vacation by the sea. A luxury yacht charter in Marbella comes with all the amenities and luxuries you could ask for. The exclusive yachts usually come with a full kitchen, so that you can store and prepare your own food while on board your boat. It is also very common that a full crew is included in the rental price of a luxury yacht in Marbella. Known as a popular luxurious holiday destination for the rich and famous, Marbella boasts a number of exclusive beach clubs that are accessible only by boat. These clubs offer a range of amenities, including private beaches, swimming pools, bars, and restaurants.

What kind of boat licence do you need when renting a boat in Marbella?

Anyone who wants to operate a motorboat in Spain that is longer than 5 metres, needs to be in possession of a valid boat licence. Anyone who plans on sailing a sailboat in Spain that is longer than 6 metres, needs to carry a valid boat licence too. If you want to be on the safe side, you should carry the International Certificate of Competency or short ICC.

You can also always rent a yacht in Marbella with an experienced skipper or captain if you don’t have a valid boat licence or simply prefer to lean back and let someone else do the hard work.

Sailing routes in Marbella

Marbella is a beautiful coastal town in the province of Malaga, Spain, located on the Costa del Sol. There are many great sailing routes you can take from Marbella to explore the stunning coastline and nearby areas. Here is a sample 7-day sailing route from Marbella:

Day 1 - Sail from Marbella to Puerto Banus: Puerto Banus is just 7 km away from Marbella and it's a popular spot for the rich and famous. You can start your sailing trip by exploring the luxurious marina, and enjoy lunch at one of the many restaurants there. In the afternoon, head to the beach and relax before spending the night in the marina.

Day 2 - Sail from Puerto Banus to Estepona: Estepona is about 20 km away from Puerto Banus and is known for its beautiful beaches and charming old town. You can anchor in the marina and explore the town on foot, visiting the many historical sites, including the Torre del Reloj clock tower and the 18th century Nuestra Senora de los Remedios church. In the evening, enjoy the lively nightlife and beachfront bars and restaurants.

Day 3: Estepona to Sotogrande: Sotogrande is a famous resort town and Spain's largest gated community. The marina here is home to many luxury yachts and is a great place to relax and soak up the sun. You can also take a walk to the nearby beach or explore the town, which is known for its fancy golf courses and polo fields.

Day 4 - Sail from Sotogrande to Gibraltar: Gibraltar is a British Overseas Territory located at the southern end of the Iberian Peninsula. The Rock of Gibraltar is a famous landmark and you can anchor your boat in the marina and explore the town on foot. Take the cable car up to the top of the rock for stunning views of the surrounding area and visit the famous Barbary Macaques.

Day 5 - Gibraltar to Tarifa: Tarifa is located about 35 km east of Gibraltar and is known for its stunning beaches and great windsurfing and kitesurfing conditions. You can anchor in the marina and enjoy the many water sports available or relax on the beach.

Day 6 - Sail from Tarifa to Marbella: On your final full day, sail back to Marbella and anchor in the marina. Spend the day exploring the town, visiting the famous Orange Square and the Moorish Castle ruins. In the evening, enjoy the lively nightlife and dine at one of the many restaurants in the Old Town. Don’t forget to stop by Playa de Getares on your way back. You can even admire some interesting mountains in the background.

Day 7 - Departure day: On your last day, return the boat to the rental company and depart from Marbella - but not before trying the food in one of the many fabulous restaurants.