You want a catamaran charter in Cancun, but you're on the Costa del Sol. That is a problem, because we don't operate there. BoatHire24 is based in Marbella, Spain, and we only list boats available for rent in Puerto Banús, Marbella Marina, Cabopino, Estepona, Sotogrande, and Benalmádena. If you are looking for a catamaran in Cancun, you are on the wrong website. But if you are open to a similar experience on the Mediterranean coast, keep reading. We have catamarans, motor yachts, and sailing yachts for charter, all with a licensed skipper included.
What a Catamaran Charter in Marbella Includes
When you book a catamaran charter through BoatHire24, you get a boat with a professional skipper. You do not need a licence. The skipper handles navigation, safety, and mooring. Most charters include fuel, water toys (paddleboards, snorkel gear), and a basic welcome pack. Some include food and drinks, but check the listing. You can customise the itinerary, within reason. The skipper knows the coast and will suggest anchorages like Cala del Faro or the coves near Cabopino. You pay from around EUR 200 per person for a half-day trip, depending on the boat and season.
Departure Ports on the Costa del Sol
You can start your catamaran charter from any of our ports. Puerto Banús is the most famous, with its superyachts and designer shops. Marbella Marina (Puerto Deportivo) is quieter and closer to the old town. Cabopino is small and relaxed, near the Artola dunes. Estepona has a modern marina and a charming old town. Sotogrande is exclusive, with a polo club and golf courses. Benalmádena is lively, with a large marina and waterpark. Each port gives you access to different stretches of coast. From Puerto Banús, you can reach the Marbella coastline in 15 minutes. From Estepona, you are closer to Gibraltar and the dolphin pods.
Boat Options: Catamarans and More
We list catamarans from 30 to 50 feet, with capacities from 8 to 20 guests. Lagoon and Fountaine Pajot are common brands. Catamarans are stable, spacious, and have shallow drafts, so you can anchor close to beaches. If you want something faster, try a motor yacht or a RIB. If you prefer sailing, we have sailing yachts. For fishing, there are fishing boats with gear. For a day without a skipper, look at licence-free day boats (up to 15 hp). Superyachts are available on request. Prices vary: a half-day catamaran charter for 10 people costs from around EUR 1,000 to EUR 2,500, depending on the boat and extras. Full-day charters start from EUR 1,800.
Pricing Guidance and What Affects the Cost
Catamaran charter prices depend on several factors. Boat size and age matter. Newer, larger catamarans cost more. Season is a big factor: July and August are peak, with prices 30-50% higher than May or October. Half-day (4 hours) is cheaper than full-day (8 hours). Extras like food, drinks, jet skis, or a hostess add cost. You can often negotiate for a group booking. Always ask the owner or broker for a detailed quote. We list prices as from around EUR X, but the final price is confirmed when you book. For a group of 10, expect to pay EUR 100 to EUR 300 per person for a half-day, including the skipper and fuel.
Best Seasons for a Catamaran Charter
The Costa del Sol has a Mediterranean climate. Summer (June to September) is hot, 28-32 degrees C, with calm seas and long days. This is the busiest season, so book early. Spring (April to May) and autumn (October) are milder, 20-26 degrees C, with fewer crowds and lower prices. Winter (November to March) is cooler, 15-20 degrees C, but sunny. Some boats operate year-round, but many are dry-docked for maintenance. If you want to swim, summer is best. If you want to sail without sweating, spring and autumn are ideal. The wind is light in summer, stronger in spring and autumn, making for better sailing.
How to Book a Catamaran Charter with BoatHire24
Booking is straightforward. Go to our search page and filter by catamaran, port, date, and number of guests. You will see available boats with photos, specs, and prices. Click on a listing to see the full description and inclusions. Send an enquiry through the form, and the owner or broker will reply with availability and a quote. You can also call or email us. We do not take payment directly; you pay the owner. We act as a marketplace. Once you agree on a price and date, you pay a deposit (usually 30-50%) to secure the booking. The balance is paid on the day, often in cash. Read the cancellation policy before booking.
Who Is a Catamaran Charter For
A catamaran charter works for families, groups of friends, couples, and corporate events. The stable platform suits people who get seasick. The space works for parties, with a large deck and trampolines. Kids can swim and snorkel safely. For a romantic trip, a sunset cruise on a catamaran is hard to beat. For a bachelor or bachelorette party, you can bring music and drinks. For a team-building event, you can do a day sail with a barbecue. The skipper handles everything, so you just relax. If you want a private chef or a photographer, ask the owner. Most are flexible.
Local Attractions and Activities on Your Charter
On a catamaran charter from Marbella, you can visit Cala del Faro, a secluded cove with clear water. You can see La Concha mountain from the sea. You might spot dolphins in the Strait of Gibraltar if you go south from Estepona. You can anchor off Puerto Banús and watch the superyachts. You can visit the Nerja caves from the sea (you need a full-day trip and a car from the port). You can stop for lunch at a chiringuito on the beach, like the ones at Cabopino. Your skipper will know the best spots. If you want to fish, some catamarans have fishing rods. If you want to snorkel, the water is clearest in summer.
Why Choose BoatHire24 for Your Catamaran Charter
BoatHire24 lists only verified boats with licensed skippers. We do not list unskippered boats. We show real photos and prices. You can compare multiple boats in one place. We cover all major ports on the Costa del Sol. We do not charge a booking fee. We are based in Marbella, so we know the area. If you have questions, you can call us. We are not a big aggregator; we are a small team. Our BoatHire24 homepage has more information. You can also read our blog for tips on charters and destinations. If you are still set on Cancun, we cannot help. If you want the Mediterranean, we can.
Comparing Catamarans by Size and Capacity
Not all catamarans are the same. A 32-foot Lagoon 380 sleeps 8 but works well for a day charter with 10 to 12 guests. A 40-foot Fountaine Pajot Lucia can take 12 to 15 people comfortably, with a larger saloon and better galley. A 50-foot Lagoon 500 or similar handles up to 20 guests, with a flybridge, multiple seating areas, and a proper kitchen. For a group of 6, a smaller catamaran keeps costs down. For a party of 15, you need the bigger boat. Check the deck space: trampolines at the bow are great for sunbathing, while a flybridge gives shade and a better view. The skipper will brief you on safety and layout before you leave port.
Puerto Banús: The Glamour Option
Starting from Puerto Banús puts you in the heart of Marbella's luxury scene. The marina is full of superyachts, sports cars, and designer boutiques. You can board your catamaran right next to the famous casino. From here, you can head west to the San Pedro coast or east to the Marbella shoreline. The sea is usually calm in summer. You can anchor near the beach of Puerto Banús itself, but it gets busy. A better spot is the cove at Cala del Faro, 15 minutes east. That cove has clear water and fewer boats. If you want lunch, the chiringuito at El Faro serves fresh fish. The skipper can drop you off by dinghy. Expect to pay a premium for departing from this port, but the convenience and atmosphere justify it.
Marbella Marina: Quiet and Central
Marbella Marina, also called Puerto Deportivo, is a less flashy alternative to Puerto Banús. It is closer to Marbella old town, with its orange trees and tapas bars. The marina has fewer superyachts, so it feels more relaxed. Catamaran charters from here cost slightly less than from Puerto Banús, sometimes by EUR 100 to EUR 200 for a half-day. The coast east of the marina has small beaches like Playa de la Venus and Playa del Faro. You can anchor there for swimming. The marina has good parking and is walkable from the town centre. If you are staying in Marbella, this is the easiest port to use. The skipper can pick you up from the marina office.
Cabopino: Small and Secluded
Cabopino is a tiny marina near the Artola sand dunes, a protected natural area. It is quieter than the big ports, with fewer bars and restaurants. The beach at Cabopino is wide and sandy. The marina has a small boatyard and a few cafes. Catamaran charters from here are ideal if you want a peaceful start. You can reach the coves of Calahonda and Cala del Moral in 20 minutes. The water is clearer here than near the busy ports. The marina has limited parking, so arrive early. Cabopino is good for families who want to avoid crowds. The prices are similar to Marbella Marina, but the experience is more low-key. The skipper might suggest a stop at the chiringuito on the beach for a simple lunch.
Estepona: Old Town Charm and Dolphin Spotting
Estepona marina is modern and well-equipped, with a promenade and restaurants. The old town is a 10-minute walk, with whitewashed houses and flower pots. Catamaran charters from Estepona can head south towards the Strait of Gibraltar, where you often see dolphins and pilot whales. The trip to Gibraltar takes about 90 minutes by catamaran. You can anchor off the coast and watch the monkeys on the Rock. Alternatively, go east to the beaches of Guadalmina or San Pedro. The water is cooler here than in Marbella, but still swimmable in summer. Estepona is less crowded than Puerto Banús, so prices are lower. A half-day charter for 10 people might cost from EUR 1,200 to EUR 2,000. The marina has good facilities, including showers and a chandlery.
Sotogrande: Exclusive and Spacious
Sotogrande is a gated community with a marina, golf courses, and polo fields. The marina is large and well-maintained, with plenty of space. Catamaran charters from here are popular with families and corporate groups. The coast south of Sotogrande has long, empty beaches like Playa de Torreguadiaro. You can anchor there for a quiet swim. The marina has restaurants and a supermarket. Sotogrande is further from Marbella, so you need a car or taxi. Prices are similar to Puerto Banús, but the atmosphere is more exclusive. The skipper can arrange a barbecue on the beach or a visit to the nearby town of San Roque. If you want privacy, this is a good choice.
Benalmádena: Lively and Family-Friendly
Benalmádena marina is one of the largest on the Costa del Sol, with a waterpark, aquarium, and many restaurants. Catamaran charters from here are good for families with children. The marina has a beach and a promenade. You can head east to the cliffs of Torremolinos or west to the beaches of Fuengirola. The water is warm in summer. Benalmádena is less expensive than Puerto Banús, with half-day charters from around EUR 900 for a 10-person catamaran. The marina has plenty of parking. The skipper can recommend a stop at a chiringuito for lunch. If you want a lively atmosphere, this port works. The downside is the noise from the beach bars, but you leave it behind once you sail out.
Practical Tips for Your Catamaran Charter Day
Arrive 15 minutes before departure to meet the skipper and stow your bags. Bring sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, and a towel. The sun is strong even in spring. Wear non-marking shoes, as the deck can get hot. Most catamarans have a cooler with ice, but you can bring your own drinks. The skipper will provide water and soft drinks in the welcome pack. If you want alcohol, check the policy; some charters allow it, others do not. Bring a waterproof bag for your phone and wallet. The sea can be choppy in the afternoon, so take seasickness tablets if you are prone. The skipper will anchor in calm coves for swimming. If you want to snorkel, bring your own mask or use the boat's gear. Respect the skipper's instructions, especially about safety and mooring.
How Weather Affects Your Charter
The Costa del Sol has over 300 sunny days a year, but weather can still change your plans. In summer, the Levante wind blows from the east, creating choppy seas in the afternoon. The skipper might adjust the itinerary to stay in sheltered coves. In spring and autumn, the Poniente wind from the west brings calmer seas. If the forecast is bad, the owner may cancel or reschedule. Check the forecast before you book. Most charters have a cancellation policy that covers bad weather. If the sea is too rough, you get a refund or a new date. The skipper will not take risks. In winter, some catamarans are not available, so check the listing. The water temperature in summer is 24-26 degrees C, comfortable for swimming. In spring, it is cooler, around 18-20 degrees C.
What to Eat and Drink on Board
Most catamaran charters include a basic welcome pack with water, soft drinks, and sometimes beer or wine. Some owners offer a catering option with tapas, paella, or a barbecue. You can also bring your own food. The galley on a catamaran has a fridge, stove, and sink. The skipper can prepare simple meals. For a special occasion, hire a private chef. The cost is around EUR 50 to EUR 100 per person for a three-course meal. Popular dishes include grilled fish, seafood paella, and Spanish tortilla. For drinks, sangria and cava are common. If you want a specific wine, bring it. The skipper will provide glasses and ice. For a sunset charter, champagne is a good choice. Check the listing for what is included. Some charters offer a full bar, others just basics.
Extras and Add-Ons to Enhance Your Trip
You can add extras to your catamaran charter. Jet skis are available for rent at some ports, costing around EUR 150 per hour. A hostess or steward can serve drinks and food, adding EUR 100 to EUR 200 for the day. A photographer or videographer can capture the trip, from EUR 300 for a half-day. Water toys like a floating mat, kayak, or inflatable slide can be included or added for a fee. Some catamarans have a sound system for music. If you want a specific playlist, bring a phone or USB. For a special event like a birthday or proposal, the owner can arrange decorations and cake. Ask when you book. These extras are not standard, so confirm the price before the trip. The skipper can also arrange a beach barbecue if you anchor near a chiringuito.
Safety and Insurance on Your Charter
All catamarans on BoatHire24 have licensed skippers with valid qualifications. The boat is insured for liability and damage. You do not need personal insurance for the boat, but you should have travel insurance for personal injury or cancellation. The skipper will do a safety briefing before departure. Life jackets are available for all guests, including children. The boat has a first aid kit and a VHF radio. In an emergency, the skipper will contact the coastguard. The Costa del Sol has a good safety record for charters. The main risks are sunburn, seasickness, and minor injuries from slipping on the deck. Wear shoes with grip. Do not dive from the boat without checking the depth. The skipper will advise on safe swimming areas. If you have medical conditions, inform the skipper before the trip.
Related guides
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- Catamaran Charter Puerto Banus: Group Sailing Fun
- Jet Ski Rental Mijas, Ride the Costa del Sol Coast
- Boat Rental Ibiza, Private Charters from the Costa del Sol
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Frequently asked questions
Can I book a catamaran charter in Cancun through BoatHire24?
No, we only operate on the Costa del Sol in Spain. If you want a catamaran in Cancun, you need to use a local company. We can help you charter a catamaran in Marbella, Puerto Banús, or other nearby ports.
Do I need a licence to rent a catamaran with a skipper?
No, you do not need a licence. The skipper is included and handles all navigation. You just enjoy the trip.
How much does a catamaran charter cost per person?
Prices vary, but for a half-day charter for 10 people, expect from around EUR 100 to EUR 300 per person. This includes the skipper, fuel, and basic equipment. Extras like food and drinks cost more.
What is the best time of year for a catamaran charter?
Summer (June to September) is best for swimming and sunbathing. Spring and autumn offer milder weather and lower prices. Winter is cooler but still sunny.
Can I bring my own food and drinks on the catamaran?
Yes, most charters allow you to bring your own food and drinks. Some boats have a fridge and a cooler. Check with the owner before booking.
How do I book a catamaran charter on your website?
Go to our search page, filter by catamaran and your preferred port and date. Send an enquiry through the listing. The owner will confirm availability and price.
What happens if the weather is bad on the day of my charter?
The skipper decides if it is safe to sail. If the weather is too bad, the charter is usually rescheduled or cancelled with a full refund. Check the cancellation policy before booking.
