If you are looking for a luxury yacht hire Marbella week, you are probably after more than just a day trip around the coast. A seven-day charter gives you time to explore the Costa del Sol properly, from the glitz of Puerto Banús to the wild coves near Estepona, and even across to Gibraltar for dolphin spotting. Every boat on BoatHire24 comes with a licensed skipper, so you can relax and let someone else handle the navigation.
We are BoatHire24, a marketplace for boat rental and yacht charter on the Costa del Sol. We list motor yachts, catamarans, sailing yachts, RIBs and superyachts from Marbella, Puerto Banús, Cabopino, Estepona, Sotogrande and Benalmádena. For a week-long charter, you typically need a larger vessel with cabins, a galley and decent range. Most of our listings are for day charters, but many owners offer multi-day trips by arrangement. Here is how to book a luxury week on the water.
What a 7-Day Luxury Yacht Charter Includes
A week-long luxury yacht hire Marbella week is not the same as a standard day rental. You get the yacht for seven consecutive days, usually with a professional skipper included. Depending on the boat, you might also have a stewardess, a chef or a deckhand. The crew handle all the sailing, cleaning and cooking, so you can focus on swimming, sunbathing and exploring. Fuel, food and drinks are often extra, but some all-inclusive packages exist. Check the listing details on BoatHire24 for what is covered.
Typical itineraries include day sails to Cala del Faro, a stop at the sandbank off Cabopino, and an overnight anchorage near Sotogrande. You can also cross the Strait of Gibraltar to see the wild dolphins and maybe spot a whale. Some guests use the yacht as a floating hotel, staying in Puerto Banús each night and going out for lunch at beach clubs like Ocean Club or Nikki Beach. Others prefer to anchor in a quiet cove and sleep under the stars.
Departure Ports for Your Week-Long Charter
Your luxury yacht hire Marbella week can start from several ports along the Costa del Sol. The most popular is Puerto Banús, the superyacht hub with designer shops, restaurants and a lively marina. From here you can reach Marbella town in 20 minutes or Estepona in 45 minutes. Marbella Marina (Puerto Deportivo) is quieter but closer to the old town and the beach clubs. Cabopino is a small, charming port near the Artola dunes and Cala del Faro. Estepona has a modern marina and easy access to the Strait of Gibraltar. Sotogrande is upmarket and close to Gibraltar airport, ideal if you are flying in. Benalmádena is further east, near Torremolinos and Fuengirola.
For a 7-day trip, starting from Puerto Banús gives you the most options for dining and nightlife. If you want peace and nature, start from Cabopino or Estepona. Most skippers are flexible about the itinerary, so you can decide each morning where to go. Browse all available yachts for week-long hire on our site.
Boat Types Suitable for a Week at Sea
Not every boat is designed for a week-long charter. You need a vessel with comfortable sleeping cabins, a working galley, a shower and enough fuel capacity for several days of cruising. Here are the most common options for a luxury yacht hire Marbella week.
Motor yachts from 40 to 80 feet are the most popular. They offer speed (20-30 knots), air conditioning, multiple cabins and a flybridge for sunbathing. A 50-foot Sunseeker or Princess can sleep 6-8 guests in 3-4 cabins. Prices for a week start from around EUR 15,000 for a mid-range model, up to EUR 50,000 for a 80-footer with crew.
Catamarans are stable, spacious and fuel-efficient. A 45-foot Lagoon or Bali has 4-5 cabins, a large saloon and a front trampoline for lounging. They are ideal for families or groups of friends. Week-long catamaran charters from Marbella start around EUR 10,000 for a standard model, with premium options costing EUR 25,000.
Sailing yachts are quieter and more traditional. A 50-foot Bavaria or Dufour can sleep 8-10 guests in 3-4 cabins. They are slower (6-8 knots) but offer a more authentic sailing experience. Week-long sailing charters from EUR 8,000 to EUR 20,000.
Superyachts over 80 feet are available for those who want the ultimate luxury. These come with a full crew, jet skis, tenders and sometimes a jacuzzi. Prices are on request, but expect EUR 50,000 to EUR 150,000 per week.
RIBs and speedboats are generally not suitable for a week-long charter because they lack cabins and range. Stick to the larger vessels for a multi-day trip.
Pricing Guidance for a 7-Day Luxury Charter
Pricing for a luxury yacht hire Marbella week varies massively depending on the boat size, age, crew and season. As a rough guide, here are typical weekly rates (including skipper, excluding fuel and food).
Low season (November to March): EUR 8,000 to EUR 15,000 for a 40-50 foot motor yacht. Catamarans from EUR 6,000. Sailing yachts from EUR 5,000.
Mid season (April, May, October): EUR 12,000 to EUR 25,000 for a 50-60 foot motor yacht. Catamarans from EUR 10,000. Sailing yachts from EUR 8,000.
High season (June to September): EUR 20,000 to EUR 50,000 for a 50-70 foot motor yacht. Superyachts from EUR 60,000. Catamarans from EUR 15,000. Sailing yachts from EUR 12,000.
Fuel for a week can add EUR 2,000 to EUR 5,000 depending on how far you cruise. Food and drink for 8 guests might be EUR 1,500 to EUR 3,000. Marina fees are usually included in the charter price, but check. Always ask for a detailed quote before booking.
Best Seasons for a Week-Long Yacht Charter in Marbella
The Costa del Sol has a Mediterranean climate with mild winters and hot summers. For a luxury yacht hire Marbella week, the best time is May to October. In May and June, the weather is warm (25-30 degrees C) but not too hot, and the sea is calm. July and August are peak season with temperatures above 30 degrees C, strong afternoon winds (the Poniente) and crowded beaches. September and October are still pleasant (25-28 degrees C) with fewer tourists.
Winter months (November to March) are cooler (15-20 degrees C) and sometimes windy, but you can still have sunny days. Charter prices are lower, and you will have the coast to yourself. Some superyachts operate year-round, but smaller boats may be laid up. If you want to swim, the sea temperature drops to 16-18 degrees C in winter, so a wetsuit helps.
Spring (April) is a good compromise: warm enough for sunbathing, quiet marinas, and lower rates than summer. The water is still cool (17-19 degrees C), but the scenery is green and the mountains behind Marbella are spectacular.
Sample Itinerary for a 7-Day Luxury Yacht Charter
Here is a typical week-long itinerary starting from Puerto Banús. Your skipper will adjust based on weather and your preferences.
Day 1: Embark at Puerto Banús in the afternoon. Settle in, meet the crew, and do a safety briefing. Motor to Marbella Marina for dinner at a beachfront restaurant. Anchor overnight in the bay.
Day 2: Sail east to Cabopino. Swim at Cala del Faro, a beautiful cove with turquoise water. Lunch on board. In the afternoon, head to the Artola dunes for a walk. Overnight at anchor near Cabopino.
Day 3: Cruise west to Estepona. Visit the old town with its flower-filled streets and tapas bars. Anchor off the coast for the night.
Day 4: Cross the Strait of Gibraltar to see the dolphins. There are often pods of common dolphins and pilot whales. Continue to Sotogrande for the night. Dinner at a marina restaurant.
Day 5: Explore the coast near Gibraltar. You can go ashore at La Línea or take a tender to the Rock of Gibraltar. Overnight at Sotogrande or anchor near the sandbank.
Day 6: Return east, stopping at a quiet cove near Estepona for swimming and paddleboarding. Lunch on board. Arrive back at Puerto Banús in the evening for a final dinner at a beach club.
Day 7: Breakfast on board, then disembark by 10am. The crew will clean the yacht and prepare for the next charter.
How to Book Your Luxury Yacht Hire Marbella Week
Booking a 7-day charter through BoatHire24 is straightforward. Use the search filters to select your dates, number of guests, and boat type. Most listings show daily rates, but you can contact the owner directly to ask about weekly pricing. We recommend booking at least 2-3 months in advance for summer, and 1 month for other seasons.
When you find a yacht you like, send an enquiry through the listing page. The owner will respond with a custom quote for the week, including crew costs and any extras. You will typically pay a 50% deposit to secure the dates, with the balance due 2-4 weeks before departure. Payment is usually by bank transfer or credit card. Check the cancellation policy carefully.
All charters include a licensed skipper. Some boats also offer a hostess or chef for an additional fee. If you want a specific menu or dietary requirements, discuss this with the owner before booking.
For more advice on planning your trip, read our blog posts about Costa del Sol yacht charters. We cover topics like what to pack, how to choose the right boat, and the best anchorages.
Who Is This Charter For?
A luxury yacht hire Marbella week is ideal for groups of family or friends who want a private, flexible holiday. It works well for milestone birthdays, anniversaries, corporate retreats, or just a big group that wants to avoid hotels. Because the yacht is self-contained, you can change your plans daily without worrying about restaurant bookings or hotel check-in times.
It is also suitable for couples who want a romantic getaway on a smaller yacht with a skipper. Some yachts have a master cabin with a king-size bed and ensuite bathroom, perfect for two. If you are a solo traveller, you can join a crewed charter but expect to pay for a full cabin.
Children are welcome on most yachts, but check the safety equipment and age restrictions. Some owners require children to be at least 5 years old. Pets are usually not allowed on luxury charters, but you can ask.
Local Attractions and Activities During Your Week
Beyond the yacht itself, the Costa del Sol offers plenty to do. From the water, you can see the iconic La Concha mountain behind Marbella, the Río Verde valley, and the cliffs of Cala del Faro. On land, visit the Nerja caves (about 1.5 hours east by car) or the Alhambra in Granada (2.5 hours). Your skipper can arrange a car or driver for day trips.
Water activities include jet skiing, paddleboarding, kayaking, snorkelling, and fishing. Many yachts carry a tender and water toys. If you want to try deep-sea fishing for tuna or marlin, some charters include a fishing rod and bait. The Strait of Gibraltar is a prime spot for big game fishing.
For nightlife, Puerto Banús has clubs like Pangea and Aqwa Mist. Marbella's old town has quieter bars and restaurants. Estepona is more laid-back, with chiringuitos (beach bars) serving grilled sardines. Sotogrande is exclusive, with polo matches and golf courses.
Frequently Asked Questions
Fuel Costs and Distance Planning for a Week-Long Charter
Fuel is one of the biggest variable costs for a luxury yacht hire Marbella week. A 50-foot motor yacht burns between 100 and 200 litres per hour at cruising speed (20-25 knots). At EUR 1.50 per litre, that is EUR 150 to EUR 300 per hour. For a week with 20-30 hours of engine time, budget EUR 3,000 to EUR 9,000. Catamarans and sailing yachts use much less: a 45-foot catamaran might burn 20-40 litres per hour at 8-10 knots, costing EUR 600 to EUR 1,200 for the week. Your skipper will plan the route to minimise unnecessary motoring. If you want to cover long distances, like crossing to Gibraltar or heading to the Nerja caves, expect higher fuel bills. Ask the owner for an estimated fuel cost before you book, and check if it is included in the price.
Typical distances from Puerto Banús: Marbella Marina is 3 nautical miles (NM), Cabopino is 10 NM, Estepona is 15 NM, Sotogrande is 30 NM, and Gibraltar is 40 NM. A round trip to Gibraltar and back is about 80 NM, which is 4-5 hours of cruising in a motor yacht. For a week-long trip, you can easily cover 150-250 NM without feeling rushed. Just remember that slower boats (sailing yachts at 6 knots) need more time to cover the same ground.
Licence-Free Day Boats vs. Fully Crewed Yachts for a Week
You might see "licence-free day boats" on BoatHire24, which are small motorboats (up to 15 horsepower) that you can drive without a boating licence. These are great for a few hours in a calm bay, but they are not suitable for a luxury yacht hire Marbella week. They have no cabins, no toilet, no galley, and limited range. For a 7-day charter, you need a fully crewed yacht with a professional skipper. The skipper holds the required qualifications and knows the local waters, weather patterns, and anchorages. You do not need any boating experience yourself. Just turn up, relax, and let the crew handle everything. If you want to learn some sailing basics, most skippers are happy to teach you on calm days, but that is optional.
What to Pack for a 7-Day Luxury Yacht Charter
Packing for a week on a yacht is different from a hotel holiday. Space is limited, so bring soft bags instead of hard suitcases. Essentials include swimwear (at least two pairs), light cotton clothing, a windbreaker or fleece for cooler evenings, non-slip shoes for deck walking, and a hat with a strap to avoid losing it in the wind. Sunscreen with high SPF is critical, as the sun reflects off the water. Bring a reusable water bottle, as many yachts have a water maker or bottled water. If you plan to eat ashore, casual smart attire is fine for most restaurants in Marbella and Puerto Banús. Beach towels are usually provided, but bring your own if you prefer. Do not forget seasickness tablets, even if you think you have good sea legs. The Mediterranean can get choppy, especially in the Strait of Gibraltar.
Insurance and Safety Considerations for a Week-Long Charter
All yachts listed on BoatHire24 are insured for third-party liability and damage. However, your personal belongings are not covered by the yacht's insurance. Consider travel insurance that covers water activities, medical evacuation, and cancellation. Some policies specifically cover yacht charters. The crew will conduct a safety briefing on the first day, showing you the location of life jackets, fire extinguishers, flares, and the emergency radio. Children should wear life jackets on deck at all times, and the yacht should have appropriate sizes. In case of bad weather, the skipper has the final say on the itinerary. They will not take risks with the boat or your safety. If a storm is forecast, you might stay in port or anchor in a sheltered bay. Trust their judgment.
Food and Dining Options During Your Week
Most luxury yacht hire Marbella week charters do not include food in the base price, but you can arrange catering. Some yachts have a chef who prepares breakfast, lunch, and dinner on board. That costs extra, typically EUR 50 to EUR 100 per person per day for meals, plus the cost of groceries. Alternatively, you can eat at beach clubs, chiringuitos, and restaurants along the coast. Popular spots include Ocean Club Marbella, Nikki Beach, and the chiringuitos at Cabopino. For a special dinner, try the restaurants in Puerto Banús like Bibo or La Pesquera. If you prefer to self-cater, the crew can take you to a supermarket in a tender or car. Most yachts have a fully equipped galley with a fridge, freezer, hob, and oven. Discuss your preferences with the owner before booking to ensure the yacht can accommodate your dietary needs.
Environmental Considerations and Responsible Yachting
The Costa del Sol is a protected marine area, and responsible yachting is important. Avoid anchoring in seagrass meadows (Posidonia oceanica), as they are essential for the ecosystem. Your skipper knows the correct anchoring spots. Do not throw rubbish overboard; keep all waste on the yacht and dispose of it in port. Some yachts have a holding tank for sewage, which must be pumped out at a marina. If you see dolphins or whales, keep a safe distance (at least 100 metres) and reduce speed. The Strait of Gibraltar is a busy shipping lane, so always follow the skipper's instructions. By respecting the environment, you help preserve the beauty of the coast for future charters.
Related guides
- Luxury Motor Yacht Hire Marbella: Premium Charter Deals
- Luxury Yacht Hire Puerto Banus Week: Weekly Charter
- Luxury Yacht Charter Marbella for a Week: Your Guide
- Luxury Yacht Charter Marbella: Premium Experiences
- How Much Does a Yacht Charter in Marbella Cost?
- Boat Rental Benalmadena Marina: Compare & Book Online
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Frequently asked questions
Can I book a luxury yacht hire Marbella week for less than 7 days?
Most owners prefer a minimum of 3-5 days for a multi-day charter, but you can often negotiate a shorter trip. Check the listing or contact the owner directly. A 7-day charter gives you the best value per day and allows a proper itinerary.
Do I need a boating licence for a week-long charter?
No. Every charter on BoatHire24 includes a licensed skipper. You do not need any licence or experience. The skipper handles all navigation, mooring and safety.
What is the cancellation policy for a 7-day charter?
It varies by owner. Typically, you get a full refund if you cancel 30-60 days before departure, a partial refund up to 14 days, and no refund within 14 days. Always read the terms before paying the deposit.
Can I choose the itinerary for the week?
Yes. You and your skipper will agree on a plan before departure, but you can change it daily based on weather and your mood. The skipper will advise on safe anchorages and weather windows.
Are food and drinks included in the price?
Usually not. Most charters include the boat, skipper and basic amenities. You pay extra for fuel, food, drinks and marina fees. Some all-inclusive packages exist, so check the listing details.
What happens if the weather is bad during my week?
The skipper will adjust the itinerary to avoid storms and high winds. You might stay in port for a day or move to a sheltered anchorage. Safety is the priority. If the whole week is unsafe, you may get a partial refund or reschedule.
Can I bring my own music or decorations for a special event?
Yes, as long as it does not damage the yacht. Many guests bring a Bluetooth speaker, balloons or banners for birthdays. Check with the owner first, especially for superyachts with strict rules.