Marbella Boat Trip to Benalmadena Guide: Marina Trip

The 30-second answer

A Marbella boat trip to Benalmadena is a straightforward coastal hop of about 10 nautical miles, taking roughly 45 minutes to an hour depending on your boat and speed. You depart from Puerto Banus or Marbella Marina, cruise past Cala del Faro and the Torrequebrada coastline, and arrive at Benalmadena Marina, a purpose-built leisure port with restaurants, bars, and the Sea Life aquarium. The trip works well on a motor yacht, catamaran, or RIB. Every charter includes a licensed skipper, so you just sit back and enjoy the views of La Concha mountain and the Mediterranean. Expect to pay from around EUR 400 for a half-day RIB charter up to EUR 1,500 for a motor yacht with crew.

Why take a boat from Marbella to Benalmadena

Benalmadena Marina, also known as Puerto Marina, is one of the most visited leisure ports on the Costa del Sol. It was designed by the architect Miguel Sarasola and looks like something out of a fantasy novel, all winding canals and whitewashed buildings. The marina itself has over 900 berths and is packed with seafood restaurants, chiringuitos, and shops. A boat trip from Marbella gives you a different perspective on the coast. You see the Sierra de Mijas mountains rising behind Fuengirola and the Torre Bermeja lighthouse before you round the point into Benalmadena. The water is usually calm, especially in the morning before the sea breeze picks up. If you are staying in Marbella and want a day out without the hassle of driving or parking, this trip is a solid choice. You can also combine it with a stop at Cala del Faro for a swim. The route is short enough that you can do it in half a day, including a couple of hours ashore for lunch. For a longer day, you could push on to the Strait of Gibraltar to spot dolphins, but that is a different trip altogether.

Route overview and distances

The direct distance from Puerto Banus to Benalmadena Marina is approximately 10 nautical miles (18.5 km). If you are departing from Marbella Marina (Puerto Deportivo), add another 2 nautical miles east. The route is a straight line east-northeast along the coast. You pass the following landmarks:

• Puerto Banus, departure point with luxury yachts and designer shops
• Cala del Faro, a small cove with a lighthouse, good for a quick swim
• Torre Bermeja, a historic watchtower on the cliffs
• Fuengirola beachfront, you will see the castle and the long sandy beach
• Benalmadena Marina, your destination, with the Sea Life building as a landmark

The cruising speed of a typical motor yacht is around 20 knots, so the trip takes about 30 minutes. On a sailing yacht, you are looking at 1.5 to 2 hours depending on the wind. RIBs and speedboats can do it in 20 minutes. The sea state is usually calm in summer, with wave heights under 0.5 metres. In winter, you might get a light chop, but it is still manageable. The best time to go is between May and October, when the water temperature is above 20 degrees C and the air temperature is in the high 20s. You can also go in April or November, but you might need a light jacket.

Boat types suitable for this trip

You have several options for a Marbella boat trip to Benalmadena. Each boat type gives a different experience. Here is a quick comparison:

For a quick day trip, a RIB or motor yacht is the most practical. If you want to make a day of it with lunch on board, a catamaran or motor yacht with a flybridge gives you more space. All charters include a licensed skipper, so you do not need a licence. You can also add water toys like a paddleboard or snorkel gear for an extra fee. Check the boat rental search page for availability and prices.

What to do in Benalmadena Marina

Benalmadena Marina is not just a place to tie up your boat. It is a destination in itself. The marina has a large central square with a fountain and palm trees, surrounded by restaurants and bars. You can eat fresh grilled fish at one of the seafront places or grab a tapas lunch at a smaller spot. The marina also has a Sea Life aquarium, which is good if you have kids. There is a small beach called Playa de la Carihuela just west of the marina, but it gets busy in summer. If you want a quieter swim, head to the small cove near the Torre Bermeja on the way back. The marina has a chandlery and a few shops selling nautical gear and souvenirs. You can also take a short walk to the Benalmadena Pueblo, the old town on the hill, but that is a 30-minute walk uphill. Most people stay in the marina area. The atmosphere is lively but not as flashy as Puerto Banus. It is more of a family and local vibe. You can easily spend 2-3 hours here before heading back to Marbella. If you want to stay longer, you can book a full-day charter and also visit Fuengirola or the Strait of Gibraltar on the same trip, but that would be a long day.

Timing and weather considerations

The best time of day for a Marbella boat trip to Benalmadena is in the morning, between 9am and noon. The sea is usually calm, and you avoid the afternoon heat. The wind picks up around 2pm, which can make the return trip choppier, especially on a RIB. In summer, the temperature can reach 35 degrees C, so bring sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of water. The boat will have shade from the bimini or cabin, but you still need protection. In spring and autumn, the temperature is milder, around 22-28 degrees C, and the water is still warm enough to swim until October. Winter trips are possible but less popular. The water temperature drops to around 15 degrees C, and you might get a light jacket. The sea is usually calm in winter too, but you have fewer daylight hours. The sunset is around 6pm in December, so plan accordingly. Always check the weather forecast before you go. The wind can pick up suddenly, especially if a poniente (west wind) blows. The skipper will handle the navigation and will decide if it is safe to go. If you are prone to seasickness, take a tablet an hour before departure. The trip is short, but the swell can be noticeable in a small boat.

Costs and booking tips

The cost of a Marbella boat trip to Benalmadena varies by boat type, duration, and season. Here are typical ranges for a half-day charter (4 hours):

• RIB or speedboat: from EUR 400 to EUR 800
• Motor yacht (up to 12 guests): from EUR 1,200 to EUR 2,500
• Catamaran (up to 18 guests): from EUR 1,500 to EUR 3,000
• Sailing yacht: from EUR 800 to EUR 1,500
• Fishing boat: from EUR 500 to EUR 1,000

Prices are higher in July and August, when demand peaks. You can often get a better deal in May, June, or September. All prices include the skipper and fuel. Some charters include drinks and snacks, but check the listing. You might need to bring your own food or order catering. To book, use the boat rental search page to filter by boat type and date. Book at least a week in advance in summer. You can also contact the boat owner directly through the platform. The cancellation policy is usually flexible if you cancel 48 hours before. If you are a group of 6 or more, a catamaran is often the best value because it is stable and has plenty of deck space. For a couple or small family, a RIB or small motor yacht is fine. You can also book a full-day charter (8 hours) and include a stop at Cala del Faro or Fuengirola on the way back.

Local tips and alternative routes

If you have done the Marbella to Benalmadena trip before, or if you want something different, consider these alternatives:

• Go east to Cabopino instead. It is closer to Marbella, about 5 nautical miles, and has a small marina with a dune reserve.
• Go west to Estepona. The old town is charming, and the marina is quieter. Distance from Puerto Banus is about 10 nautical miles.
• Combine Benalmadena with a stop at Fuengirola. You can dock at the Fuengirola marina, visit the castle, and then continue to Benalmadena.
• If you want a longer trip, head south to the Strait of Gibraltar. You can see dolphins and maybe whales. Distance is about 30 nautical miles from Marbella, so you need a full day.

For the Benalmadena trip, a good tip is to bring a camera for the views of La Concha mountain from the sea. The mountain is visible for most of the trip. Also, bring swimwear and a towel if you want to swim at Cala del Faro or at the beach in Benalmadena. The water is clear and clean. If you are on a RIB, the ride can be bumpy, so hold onto your belongings. The skipper will provide life jackets for everyone. You can also ask the skipper to point out landmarks and tell you about the history of the coast. Many skippers are local and know the area well. For more ideas, read the BoatHire24 blog for other destination guides and tips.

Common questions

How long does it take to sail from Marbella to Benalmadena?
On a motor yacht at 20 knots, about 30 minutes. On a sailing yacht, 1.5 to 2 hours. On a RIB, about 20 minutes.

Do I need a boat licence to charter a boat for this trip?
No. Every charter on BoatHire24 includes a licensed skipper, so you just relax and enjoy the ride.

Can I swim during the trip?
Yes. Most charters allow a stop at Cala del Faro or a quiet spot for swimming. The skipper will choose a safe location.

What is the best time of year for this trip?
May to October is ideal. Water temperature is above 20 degrees C, and the sea is calm. April and November are also possible but cooler.

How much does a half-day charter cost?
From around EUR 400 for a RIB up to EUR 1,500 for a catamaran. Prices vary by season and boat type.

Can I bring my own food and drink?
Yes, most charters allow you to bring your own. Some boats have a fridge and a sound system. Check the listing for details.

Is Benalmadena Marina worth visiting?
Yes. It is a lively marina with restaurants, bars, an aquarium, and a beach. It is a popular destination for a day trip from Marbella.

Why Puerto Banus is the best departure point for this trip

Puerto Banus, the glitzy marina in Marbella, is the most convenient departure point for your Benalmadena trip. It sits just 10 nautical miles west of Benalmadena, so you are already halfway there. The marina itself is worth a look before you leave, with its superyachts, designer shops, and the famous Casino Marbella. You can grab a coffee at one of the waterfront cafes before boarding. The marina has a dedicated charter area where you meet your skipper. If you are staying in Marbella town, the journey to Puerto Banus is about 10 minutes by taxi or 20 minutes by bus. Parking is expensive, around EUR 20 for a few hours, so consider a taxi. The departure time is flexible, but the skipper will usually suggest a morning start to avoid the afternoon wind. You can also depart from Marbella Marina (Puerto Deportivo), which is closer to the town centre and has cheaper parking. The extra 2 nautical miles east means you add about 10 minutes to the trip. Both ports have good facilities, including toilets, shops, and restaurants. For a full list of boats departing from Puerto Banus, check the boat rental search page.

What to expect at Benalmadena Marina on arrival

When you arrive at Benalmadena Marina, the skipper will dock at one of the visitor berths. The marina has a dedicated area for day charters, usually near the main square. You step off the boat and straight into the action. The marina is designed like a small village, with canals, bridges, and whitewashed buildings. The central square has a large fountain and is surrounded by restaurants serving fresh seafood, paella, and grilled meats. Prices are reasonable, around EUR 15-25 per person for a main course. You can also find chiringuitos on the beach side, serving grilled sardines and beer. The marina has a Sea Life aquarium, which costs around EUR 15 for adults and EUR 10 for children. It is small but well-maintained, with a tunnel through the shark tank. If you want to shop, there are a few boutiques selling clothes and souvenirs. The marina is pedestrian-friendly, so you can wander without worrying about traffic. The atmosphere is lively but not as pretentious as Puerto Banus. You can easily spend 2-3 hours here, eating, drinking, and exploring. If you want to swim, the nearest beach is Playa de la Carihuela, a 5-minute walk west. It is a sandy beach with loungers and umbrellas for rent. The water is clean and calm, ideal for a quick dip.

How to combine this trip with a stop at Cala del Faro

Cala del Faro is a small cove about 3 nautical miles east of Puerto Banus, roughly halfway to Benalmadena. It is a popular spot for swimming and snorkelling, with a lighthouse on the cliffs above. The water is clear and deep, so you can jump in from the boat. The cove is sheltered from the wind, so it is usually calm. Most skippers will offer a stop here if you ask. You can spend 20-30 minutes swimming, snorkelling, or just floating. The cove has no facilities, so bring your own water and snacks. The seabed is rocky in places, so wear water shoes. You can also see small fish and sometimes octopus if you snorkel. After the swim, you continue east to Benalmadena. The stop adds about 30 minutes to the trip, so factor that into your charter time. If you are on a half-day charter, you can do the swim, then have lunch at the marina, and head back. On a full-day charter, you can also stop at Fuengirola on the way back. The skipper will know the best spots and can adjust the route based on your preferences. For more ideas on combining stops, read the BoatHire24 blog for other itinerary suggestions.

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• Snorkel Coves Marbella Boat Trip: Hidden Gems to Explore
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• Jet Ski Rental Benalmadena

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