Kemer Catamaran Hire: Private Boat Trips Guide

You want a private catamaran trip in Kemer, but you are probably looking at the wrong coastline. Kemer is a Turkish resort near Antalya, not a port on the Costa del Sol. However, if you are searching for catamaran hire in the Marbella area, you have come to the right place. BoatHire24 connects you with private catamarans, motor yachts, and sailing boats based in Puerto Banús, Marbella Marina, Cabopino, Estepona, Sotogrande, and Benalmádena.

Every charter includes a licensed skipper, so you can relax, drink, and swim without worrying about navigation. This guide covers what you get, which ports to depart from, boat options, pricing, and how to book a trip that actually delivers. No Turkish coast, just the best of the Costa del Sol.

What Is Included in a Catamaran Hire

When you book a catamaran through BoatHire24, the price typically includes the vessel, a professional skipper, fuel for a standard itinerary, and basic safety equipment. Most charters also provide a cooler with ice, onboard Bluetooth speakers, and a shaded deck area. You pay extra for food and drinks unless you opt for a catering package, which can be arranged through the charter company. The skipper handles all mooring and navigation, so you can focus on sunbathing, snorkelling, or just drinking sangria. Some operators allow you to bring your own alcohol, but check the policy first. The standard charter duration is 4 hours, with full-day (8-hour) trips available on request. Overnight stays are possible on larger catamarans, but those are less common for day hire.

Ports of Departure for Your Trip

Your Kemer catamaran hire departs from one of the main marinas along the Costa del Sol. Puerto Banús is the most popular, with its superyacht vibe and proximity to Marbella's nightlife. Marbella Marina (Puerto Deportivo) offers a more relaxed setting and easier parking. Cabopino is a smaller, quieter port near a nature reserve, ideal for a peaceful start. Estepona Marina has a charming old town nearby, and Sotogrande is upscale with a golf-and-polo crowd. Benalmádena is close to Málaga airport and has a lively promenade. Each port gives you access to different cruising grounds. For example, from Puerto Banús you can head toward Cala del Faro or the Río Verde area, while from Estepona you can cruise toward the Strait of Gibraltar and spot dolphins. Choose your departure port based on where you are staying and what you want to see.

Catamaran Options and Sizes

Catamarans available for hire range from 35 to 50 feet in length, accommodating 8 to 20 guests comfortably. A 40-foot Lagoon or Fountaine Pajot is typical for a group of 10 to 12. These boats have two or three cabins, a saloon, and a flybridge with sun pads. The catamaran design offers more deck space and stability than a monohull, so you will not get seasick easily. Some catamarans come with water toys like paddleboards, snorkel gear, or an inflatable kayak. If you have a larger group, you can book a 50-foot catamaran that sleeps up to 12 overnight. For a smaller, more intimate trip, a 35-foot catamaran works for 6 to 8 people. All catamarans have a licensed skipper who knows the local waters and can suggest the best anchorages. You can also request a hostess for an additional fee to serve drinks and food.

Pricing Guidance for Catamaran Hire

Prices for catamaran hire on the Costa del Sol vary by season, boat size, and duration. In low season (October to April), a 4-hour trip on a 40-foot catamaran starts from around EUR 1,200. High season (June to September) pushes that to EUR 1,800 or more for the same boat. Full-day charters range from EUR 2,000 to EUR 3,500 depending on the vessel and extras. Fuel is usually included for a standard itinerary of about 20 to 30 nautical miles. If you want to go further, such as to the Strait of Gibraltar or Nerja, fuel surcharges apply. Catering packages add EUR 30 to EUR 50 per person for a barbecue or paella lunch. You should always confirm what is included in the quote to avoid surprises. For the most accurate prices, use the BoatHire24 search tool to compare availability and rates from different operators.

Best Seasons for a Catamaran Trip

The Costa del Sol enjoys over 300 days of sunshine a year, so you can hire a catamaran almost any month. The peak season is July and August, when temperatures hit 30 degrees C and the sea is warm at 24 degrees C. This is also when prices are highest and availability is tightest. May, June, and September offer a sweet spot with pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and lower rates. April and October can be good if you get a calm day, but expect cooler evenings and possible wind. November to March is low season; many catamarans are still operational, but you might encounter rain or choppy seas. If you are flexible, booking in May or September gives you the best balance of cost and conditions. Always check the marine forecast before your trip, especially if you plan to go offshore.

How to Book Your Catamaran Hire

Booking a catamaran through BoatHire24 is straightforward. Go to the BoatHire24 homepage and enter your preferred date, group size, and port. The search results show available catamarans with photos, specifications, and prices. You can filter by boat type, length, and amenities. Once you find a catamaran you like, click through to the listing page to see the full details and the operator's terms. Most operators require a 50% deposit to confirm the booking, with the balance due on the day of the trip. Payment is usually via bank transfer or credit card. You will receive a confirmation email with the skipper's contact details and meeting point instructions. Cancellation policies vary, but many operators offer a full refund if you cancel at least 7 days in advance. For last-minute bookings, call the operator directly to check availability.

Who Is a Catamaran Trip For

Catamaran hire works for almost any group. Families with children appreciate the stable platform and shallow draft, which allows anchoring close to beaches. Groups of friends use it for birthday parties, bachelor or bachelorette celebrations, or just a day of fun on the water. Couples can book a private sunset cruise for a romantic evening. Corporate groups often charter catamarans for team-building events or client entertainment. The key advantage is space: catamarans have a large deck area for lounging, dining, and dancing. If you have guests who get seasick easily, the catamaran's twin-hull design minimises roll. The skipper can tailor the itinerary to your preferences, whether that is swimming in secluded coves, visiting beach clubs, or exploring coastal landmarks like the BoatHire24 blog has guides to the best anchorages.

Local Attractions You Can Visit

From the Costa del Sol, your catamaran can reach several notable spots. Cala del Faro is a quiet cove near Marbella with crystal-clear water, perfect for snorkelling. The Río Verde area offers a scenic estuary and a chance to see birdlife. If you depart from Estepona, you can cruise toward the Strait of Gibraltar, where dolphins and even whales are common. The Nerja Caves are inland, but you can anchor near the town of Nerja and take a short taxi ride to the caves. Puerto Banús itself is a spectacle, with luxury cars and designer shops lining the marina. Your skipper can also take you to a beach club for lunch, such as Ocean Club or Nikki Beach, where you can moor offshore and take a tender to the shore. For a more relaxed day, anchor in a quiet bay and have a barbecue on board.

What to Bring on Your Catamaran Trip

Pack light but smart. Bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen (reef-safe is better for the environment), sunglasses, a hat, and a light jacket or windbreaker for the afternoon breeze. If you plan to snorkel, some catamarans provide gear, but you can bring your own mask and fins. A waterproof phone case is useful for photos. You can bring your own food and drinks, but check with the operator first. Many catamarans have a fridge and a grill, so you can prepare a meal on board. Avoid glass bottles on some boats because of safety and cleanup. A small bag for rubbish is considerate. If you are prone to seasickness, take motion sickness tablets an hour before departure even on a catamaran, which is generally stable. The skipper will have a first-aid kit, but bring any personal medication.

Frequently Asked Questions About Catamaran Hire

Choosing the Right Catamaran for Your Group

Not all catamarans are the same, and picking the right one depends on your group size and what you want to do. For a group of 8 to 10 people, a 38-foot Lagoon 380 or a Fountaine Pajot Lucia 40 works well. These have a forward seating area, a flybridge with sun pads, and a saloon with a table for dining. If you have 12 to 16 guests, look at a 45-foot Leopard or a Bali 4.5, which have more deck space and a larger flybridge. For parties of 18 to 20, a 50-foot catamaran like the Lagoon 52 or the Fountaine Pajot Samana 59 gives you multiple lounging areas and a hydraulic swim platform. Some newer models have a foredeck trampoline, which is great for sunbathing. If you want water toys, check the listing for paddleboards, kayaks, or a water slide. Not all boats have them, but many operators can add them for an extra fee. The skipper will brief you on safety and the itinerary before departure, so ask questions if you are unsure about anything.

Specific Ports and Their Advantages

Each departure port on the Costa del Sol offers a different experience. Puerto Banús is the busiest and most glamorous, with easy access to the Marbella coastline and the Sierra Blanca mountains behind. From here, you can reach Cala del Faro in 20 minutes and the Río Verde estuary in 30 minutes. Marbella Marina is quieter and closer to the old town, so you can walk to restaurants before or after your trip. Cabopino is a small port near a sand dune nature reserve, ideal if you want a quick escape to the open sea without crowds. Estepona Marina is 20 minutes west of Marbella and gives you access to the waters toward Gibraltar, where dolphin sightings are common. Sotogrande is the most exclusive, with a golf resort atmosphere, and its marina is close to the Strait of Gibraltar. Benalmádena is near Málaga airport, making it convenient for tourists staying in Torremolinos or Fuengirola. Each port has parking, but space can be limited in high season, so arrive early or use a taxi.

Weather and Sea Conditions on the Costa del Sol

The Mediterranean off the Costa del Sol is generally calm, but conditions vary by season and location. In summer, the sea is flat with light winds, making for a smooth ride. The water temperature in August reaches 24 to 26 degrees C, comfortable for swimming without a wetsuit. In spring and autumn, you might encounter a light chop, especially in the afternoon when the Levante wind picks up. The Levante blows from the east and can create short, steep waves near the Strait of Gibraltar. If you are prone to seasickness, choose a morning departure when the wind is lighter. Winter months see rougher seas and cooler temperatures, around 14 to 16 degrees C. Most catamarans have a bimini top or full flybridge cover to provide shade or shelter from light rain. Your skipper will monitor the forecast and may adjust the itinerary if conditions change. Always trust their judgment; they know the local waters and will prioritise safety.

Custom Itineraries and Special Requests

Most catamaran charters allow you to customise the itinerary. Tell the skipper what you want to see, and they will plan a route. Popular options include a sunset cruise along the Marbella coastline, a trip to the Cabo de Gata natural park, or a dolphin-watching excursion near the Strait of Gibraltar. If you want to visit a beach club like Ocean Club Marbella or Nikki Beach, the skipper can anchor offshore and use the tender to take you in. Some operators offer a barbecue lunch on board, with fresh fish, paella, or grilled meat. For a special occasion, you can arrange for champagne, flowers, or a private chef. These extras cost more, but they make the trip more memorable. If you have a specific departure time, such as a sunset trip starting at 18:00, confirm it when booking. Most operators are flexible, but they need advance notice to adjust the schedule.

Cost Breakdown and Hidden Fees

When you get a quote for catamaran hire, ask what is included. The base price usually covers the boat, skipper, fuel for up to 30 nautical miles, and basic safety gear. Some operators charge extra for port fees, which can be EUR 50 to EUR 100 per trip. If you want a hostess or steward, expect to pay EUR 150 to EUR 250 extra for the day. Catering packages range from EUR 30 to EUR 60 per person for a three-course meal with drinks. If you bring your own alcohol, some operators charge a corkage fee of EUR 5 to EUR 10 per bottle. Gratuity for the skipper and crew is not included; 10 to 15 percent of the charter fee is standard if you are happy with the service. For a full-day charter with 12 guests, the total cost including catering and tips can be EUR 3,000 to EUR 4,500. Always get a written breakdown before paying the deposit to avoid surprises.

Safety and Licensing Requirements

All catamarans on BoatHire24 come with a licensed skipper who holds a valid Spanish or RYA qualification. The boat is insured and equipped with life jackets, a first-aid kit, fire extinguishers, and a VHF radio. The skipper will give a safety briefing at the start of the trip. You do not need a boating license to be a passenger. If you want to take the helm under the skipper's supervision, ask politely; some skippers allow it in open water. Children must wear life jackets on deck, and the skipper will provide child-sized vests. Alcohol consumption is allowed, but the skipper has the right to refuse service if someone is intoxicated and a risk. The boat will have a maximum capacity, and you must not exceed it. If the weather turns bad, the skipper may cancel or shorten the trip for safety. In that case, operators usually offer a reschedule or partial refund.

Booking Tips for First-Timers

If you have never hired a catamaran before, start by deciding your budget and group size. Use the BoatHire24 search tool to filter by date, port, and boat type. Read the listing details carefully, especially the cancellation policy and what is included. Contact the operator with any questions before booking. For a first trip, a 4-hour charter is enough to get a feel for the experience without getting bored. Book at least two weeks in advance in high season, as popular catamarans sell out. If you are flexible, consider a weekday trip; prices are lower and the marinas are less crowded. Arrive at the marina 15 minutes before departure to meet the skipper and load your belongings. Wear non-marking shoes on deck, and leave high heels behind. Bring cash for tips and any onboard extras like drinks or snacks. The skipper will appreciate a clear idea of your plans, so communicate your preferences early.

Environmental Considerations and Responsible Boating

The Costa del Sol's marine environment is fragile, and responsible boating helps preserve it. Avoid anchoring in posidonia seagrass meadows, which are protected. Your skipper knows the designated anchoring zones. Do not throw rubbish overboard; use the bins on the boat. If you see marine life like dolphins or sea turtles, keep a respectful distance and reduce speed. Do not feed the animals. Use reef-safe sunscreen to minimise chemical pollution in the water. Some operators provide biodegradable sunscreen on board. If you smoke, use a portable ashtray and never toss butts into the sea. The local authorities enforce fines for littering, so be mindful. By following these practices, you help keep the coastline clean for future visitors. Your skipper can tell you more about local conservation efforts, such as the dolphin-watching guidelines in the Strait of Gibraltar. Enjoy the trip, but leave no trace.

Related guides

• Marmaris Catamaran Hire: Private Boat Trips & Prices
• Latchi Catamaran Hire: Private Boat Trips Cyprus
• Antalya Catamaran Hire: Private Boat Trips Guide
• Alanya Catamaran Hire: Private Boat Trips Guide
• Dolphin Watching Boat Trips from Marbella: A Full Guide
• Starlite Boat Rental Marbella: Concert Transfer by Sea

Own a boat? Click&Boat Alternative for Owners (2026).