You want to rent a boat in Puerto Banus. The glitz, the glamour, the rows of superyachts. But you also want a straightforward booking, a boat that fits your group and a skipper who knows the coast. That is exactly what BoatHire24 offers. We list hundreds of boats based in Puerto Banus and the surrounding Costa del Sol ports, all with a licensed skipper included. No licence, no stress, no hidden fees.
Whether you are after a sleek motor yacht for a birthday bash, a catamaran for a family day out or a RIB for a high-speed dolphin chase, the fleet in Puerto Banus is wide. And you can compare prices, specs and availability in one place. This page covers everything you need to know about renting a boat in Puerto Banus: what to expect, which boat type suits you, how much it costs and how to book.
Why Rent a Boat in Puerto Banus
Puerto Banus is the most famous marina on the Costa del Sol. It is a playground for the rich and famous, but you do not need a superyacht budget to enjoy it. The marina itself is lined with designer shops, expensive cars and seafood restaurants. But the real attraction is the water. From Puerto Banus you can cruise along the coast to Marbella, stop at Cala del Faro for a swim, or head further west to Estepona and the Strait of Gibraltar. The sea is calm for most of the year, the sun is reliable and the views of La Concha mountain are stunning.
Renting a boat here gives you access to some of the best anchorages on the Mediterranean. You can drop anchor off the sandbanks of Cabopino, explore the coves near Sotogrande or even take a day trip to Gibraltar if the weather allows. Every charter includes a skipper, so you can sit back and enjoy the ride.
What Is Included in a Boat Rental Puerto Banus
Every boat rental through BoatHire24 includes a licensed skipper. That is the standard. You do not need a boating licence. The skipper handles navigation, mooring and safety. You handle the drinks and the music. Fuel is usually extra, unless stated otherwise in the listing. Some boats include a hostess or a steward, which is common on larger yachts. Check the individual listing for details.
Typical inclusions: life jackets, first aid kit, dinghy or tender, sound system, sun pads, a bimini shade or hardtop, and a cooler or small fridge. Most boats have a toilet or a small cabin. Catamarans and larger motor yachts have proper kitchens and multiple cabins. If you want water toys such as a jet ski, paddleboard or snorkel gear, ask the charter company when you book. Many can add them for a fee.
The Boats Available in Puerto Banus
The fleet in Puerto Banus is wide. You can rent a small RIB for a quick blast along the coast, a sailing yacht for a relaxed day, a catamaran for stability and space, or a motor yacht for speed and luxury. Superyachts are also available for those with a bigger budget. Here is a breakdown of the main types.
Motor yachts: The most popular choice for groups. They range from 30 feet to over 100 feet. A typical 40-foot motor yacht costs from around EUR 1,200 for a half day. They are fast, stable and have plenty of deck space. Great for parties, family outings or a sunset cruise.
Catamarans: These are wide, stable and spacious. They are ideal for families with children or anyone prone to seasickness. The deck area is huge, with trampolines at the front and a shaded cockpit at the back. A 40-foot catamaran costs from around EUR 1,500 for a full day.
Sailing yachts: If you want a more traditional experience, a sailing yacht is a good choice. They are quieter and more fuel-efficient. The skipper will let you help with the sails if you want. Prices start from around EUR 800 for a half day on a 40-foot yacht.
RIBs and speedboats: These are small, fast and fun. Perfect for a couple or a small group of up to six. They can reach 40 knots and are great for dolphin watching or a quick trip to Cabopino. Prices from around EUR 500 for a half day.
Fishing boats: Purpose-built boats for angling. They come with fishing gear and a skipper who knows the best spots. Prices from around EUR 600 for a half day.
Superyachts: For the ultimate luxury, you can charter a superyacht with a crew. These boats have jacuzzis, helipads and multiple staterooms. Prices are on request, but expect to pay upwards of EUR 10,000 per day.
Departure Ports Near Puerto Banus
While Puerto Banus is the main departure point, you can also rent boats from other ports along the coast. BoatHire24 lists boats in Marbella Marina (Puerto Deportivo), Cabopino, Estepona, Sotogrande and Benalmadena. If you are staying in Marbella town, it is often easier to depart from Marbella Marina. If you are in Estepona, you can save travel time by departing from there. The choice depends on your location and the boat you want.
For a day trip, departing from Puerto Banus gives you access to the best anchorages: the sandbanks of Cabopino to the east, the coves of Cala del Faro to the west, and the open sea towards Gibraltar. Most charters are for half a day (4 hours) or a full day (8 hours). You can also book sunset cruises, usually 2 to 3 hours in the evening.
Pricing Guidance for Boat Rental Puerto Banus
Prices vary depending on the boat size, type, season and duration. As a rough guide, here are the starting prices for a half-day charter (4 hours) in low season. High season (June to September) can be 20-50% higher.
- RIB or speedboat: from around EUR 500
- Sailing yacht (40 ft): from around EUR 800
- Motor yacht (40 ft): from around EUR 1,200
- Catamaran (40 ft): from around EUR 1,500
- Fishing boat: from around EUR 600
- Superyacht (over 80 ft): price on request, from EUR 10,000
These are starting prices. Many boats have a maximum capacity of 8 to 12 passengers. Larger boats can take up to 20 or more. Always check the listing for exact capacity and inclusions. Fuel is usually extra and can cost between EUR 100 and EUR 400 depending on distance and boat type. Some charters include fuel in the price, so read the fine print.
Best Seasons for Boat Rental in Puerto Banus
The Costa del Sol has a Mediterranean climate with mild winters and hot summers. The best time for boating is from April to October. In April and May, the sea temperature is around 17-18 degrees C, but the air is warm and the crowds are thin. June, July and August are peak season: sea temperature reaches 24-26 degrees C, and the marinas are busy. September and October are still warm, with fewer tourists and lower prices.
Winter months (November to March) are less popular for boat rentals, but you can still find boats available. The sea can be choppy, and the air temperature drops to 15-18 degrees C. If you want a winter charter, a motor yacht with a heated cabin is a good option. Prices are lower, and you might have the coast to yourself.
How to Book a Boat Rental in Puerto Banus
Booking through BoatHire24 is straightforward. Go to the search page, select your dates, group size and preferred boat type. You can filter by port, price and capacity. Each listing shows photos, specs, availability and the price. Click on a boat to see the full details, including what is included and any extras. Then send a booking request. The charter company will confirm availability and send you a payment link. You pay a deposit (usually 30-50%) upfront, and the balance is due on the day of the charter.
Cancellation policies vary. Most boats offer free cancellation up to 7 days before the charter. Some are more flexible. Read the terms before you book. For popular boats in high season, book at least two weeks in advance. For last-minute bookings, you might find availability if you are flexible with the boat type.
Who Is Boat Rental Puerto Banus For
Boat rental in Puerto Banus is for anyone who wants to enjoy the sea with a group. It works for families with children, groups of friends, couples, corporate events and celebrations. The wide fleet means there is a boat for every budget and occasion. If you want a party boat, go for a motor yacht with a sound system. If you want a quiet day with the family, a catamaran or sailing yacht is better. If you are a fishing enthusiast, hire a fishing boat with gear.
The only people who might not enjoy it are those who get seasick very easily. In that case, a catamaran is the best option because it is stable and does not roll as much as a monohull. Also, if you are on a very tight budget, a RIB or a small sailing yacht is the cheapest option. But remember, the skipper is included, so you do not need to pay extra for a licence.
Local Attractions and Activities
While out on the water, you can see the coast from a different angle. The view of Marbella and La Concha mountain is spectacular. You can stop for a swim at Cala del Faro, a small cove near Puerto Banus with crystal-clear water. Further west, the coastline becomes more rugged, with cliffs and hidden beaches. If you head east, you pass Cabopino, a quiet beach with sand dunes, and continue towards Calahonda and Fuengirola.
For a longer trip, you can go to the Strait of Gibraltar, where you can spot dolphins and sometimes whales. The strait is about 40 nautical miles from Puerto Banus, so it takes a full day. Some boats offer a dolphin-watching tour. Another option is to visit Estepona old town, a charming Andalusian village with whitewashed houses and flower pots. You can dock at the Estepona marina and walk into town.
If you want a more adventurous day, you can combine a boat rental with a trip to the Nerja caves, located about 50 km east of Marbella. But that would require a car or a taxi from the port. The caves are worth a visit, with impressive stalactites and stalagmites.
Tips for a Successful Boat Rental
Here are a few practical tips. First, confirm the departure time and meeting point with the charter company. Most boats depart from the marina in Puerto Banus, but some may be based in Marbella Marina. Second, bring sunscreen, a hat and sunglasses. The sun is strong, even in spring and autumn. Third, bring your own food and drinks. Most boats have a cooler, but you can also ask the charter company to provide catering for an extra fee. Fourth, if you are prone to seasickness, take a pill an hour before departure. Fifth, respect the skipper's instructions. They know the local conditions and safety rules.
Finally, read the BoatHire24 blog for more tips on boat rentals in the Costa del Sol. We cover topics like what to pack, how to choose the right boat and the best anchorages in the area.
Dolphin Watching from Puerto Banus
One of the best reasons to rent a boat from Puerto Banus is the chance to see dolphins in the wild. The Strait of Gibraltar is a migration route for several species, including common dolphins, striped dolphins and pilot whales. From Puerto Banus, it is about 20 nautical miles to the strait. A half-day charter can get you there and back with time for a swim. The best months are April to October, when the sea is calm. You can spot dolphins year-round, but winter seas can be rough. Some charter companies offer dedicated dolphin-watching tours, but you can also book a standard motor yacht and ask the skipper to head west. The dolphins often approach the boat, especially if the sea is flat. Bring a camera with a fast shutter speed. If you want a guarantee, choose a RIB or speedboat, which can reach the dolphin zones faster.
Fuel Costs and How to Budget
Fuel is usually not included in the rental price, and it can add a significant amount to your day. A typical half-day charter on a 40-foot motor yacht might use between 50 and 100 litres of diesel, depending on how fast you go and how far you travel. At current prices of around EUR 1.50 per litre, that is EUR 75 to EUR 150 extra. A catamaran uses less fuel, around 30 to 50 litres for a half day, so EUR 45 to EUR 75. A sailing yacht uses almost no fuel if the wind is good, but the skipper will use the engine for manoeuvring and in calm conditions. RIBs and speedboats use petrol, which is more expensive, around EUR 2 per litre, and they consume more. A half day on a RIB could cost EUR 100 to EUR 200 in fuel. Always ask the charter company for an estimate of fuel costs before you book. Some boats include fuel in the price, so look for those listings if you want to avoid surprises.
Private Events and Celebrations on the Water
Puerto Banus is a popular spot for private events, and renting a boat is a unique way to celebrate. You can book a motor yacht for a birthday party, a bachelor or bachelorette party, or a corporate event. The skipper and crew handle the logistics, so you can focus on the party. Most boats have a sound system, and some have a Bluetooth connection for your playlist. You can bring your own food and drinks, or arrange catering through the charter company. For a wedding, you can charter a superyacht with a crew and have a ceremony on deck. The views of the coast and La Concha mountain make a great backdrop. Larger boats can accommodate up to 20 guests for a seated dinner, or 30 for a cocktail party. Prices for private events start from around EUR 2,000 for a half day on a 50-foot motor yacht, and go up from there. Book at least a month in advance for popular dates like New Year's Eve or the Marbella summer season.
Related guides
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a licence to rent a boat in Puerto Banus?
No, you do not. Every boat rental on BoatHire24 includes a licensed skipper. The skipper handles all navigation and safety. You just enjoy the ride.
How much does a boat rental in Puerto Banus cost?
Prices start from around EUR 500 for a half day on a RIB, up to EUR 1,500 for a catamaran. Superyachts are price on request. Fuel is usually extra.
Can I rent a boat for a party in Puerto Banus?
Yes, many motor yachts are suitable for parties. They have sound systems, deck space and a bar. Check the maximum passenger capacity before booking.
What is the best time of year for boat rental in Puerto Banus?
April to October is the best period. June to August are peak months with warm sea temperatures. September and October are still good with fewer crowds.
How many people can fit on a boat rental?
It depends on the boat. A RIB can take up to 6 people. A 40-foot motor yacht or catamaran can take 8 to 12. Larger yachts can take 20 or more.
Can I bring my own food and drinks?
Yes, you can bring your own. Most boats have a cooler or fridge. Some charter companies offer catering for an extra fee.
What happens if the weather is bad on the day of my charter?
The skipper will assess the conditions. If it is unsafe to sail, the charter can be rescheduled or cancelled with a full refund. Check the cancellation policy before booking.