You want a day on the water with friends, family, or clients, but you don't want to share the boat with strangers. Private catamaran hire in Marbella is the straightforward answer: you charter the whole vessel, a licensed skipper handles the navigation, and you just turn up with drinks and sunscreen. No hidden crew, no time-share nonsense, just your group and the Mediterranean.
BoatHire24 lists catamarans from 30 to 70 feet, based in Puerto Banús, Marbella Marina, Cabopino, Estepona, and Sotogrande. Every booking includes a professional skipper who knows the local waters, from the cliffs of Cala del Faro to the dolphin grounds off the Strait of Gibraltar. Prices start from around EUR 1,500 for a half-day and go up to EUR 8,000 for a full-day luxury charter with water toys and catering.
You can compare boats, check availability, and book online in under five minutes. No phone tag, no broker fees, no surprises.
What Is Private Catamaran Hire in Marbella?
Private catamaran hire means you rent the entire catamaran for your group only. You are not joining a shared excursion with strangers. The boat comes with a licensed skipper who handles the sailing, mooring, and safety. You can bring your own food and drink, or add catering. Most catamarans have a flybridge, sun loungers, a trampoline net at the bow, and a shaded cockpit. Typical capacities range from 8 to 20 guests depending on the boat and safety regulations.
Unlike a motor yacht, a catamaran offers more deck space, shallower draft (so you can anchor closer to beaches), and less heeling when sailing. That makes them popular for groups that include people prone to seasickness or those who just want a stable platform for swimming, paddleboarding, or sunbathing.
All charters depart from one of the main Costa del Sol marinas. You can choose a half-day (4 hours), full-day (8 hours), or sunset cruise. The skipper will suggest a route based on wind, sea state, and your preferences.
Which Marinas Can You Depart From?
You can start your private catamaran hire from any of these ports, all within 30 minutes of Marbella town.
Puerto Banús is the most famous. It is the superyacht hub, but also has plenty of mid-range catamarans. Departing from here puts you close to the beaches of San Pedro Alcántara and the Benabola beach club. You can head west toward Estepona or east toward Cabopino.
Marbella Marina (Puerto Deportivo) is right in the centre of Marbella. It is less flashy than Banús but well-equipped. From here you can reach the Marbella coast quickly, including the Cala del Faro cove and the dunes of Cabopino.
Cabopino is a small, quiet marina near the Artola dunes. It is a good choice if you want a quicker exit to the open sea and a more relaxed departure.
Estepona marina is about 20 minutes west of Marbella. The old town is worth a pre-charter stroll. From Estepona you can head toward the Strait of Gibraltar, where dolphin sightings are common.
Sotogrande is further west, near Gibraltar. It is a luxury resort with a large marina. Catamarans from here can reach the Gibraltar waters or head east toward Estepona.
Benalmádena is about 30 minutes east of Marbella. It is a busy port with a good selection of catamarans. Departing from here gives you access to the Costa del Sol coast toward Fuengirola and Mijas.
What Catamarans Are Available for Private Hire?
BoatHire24 lists several types of catamaran, from bare-bones sailing cats to full-on luxury power cats.
Sailing catamarans (Lagoon, Fountaine Pajot, Bali) are the most common. They range from 38 to 50 feet, sleep 4 to 10 guests overnight, and carry 8 to 14 day guests. Sailing cats are quieter and more eco-friendly, but rely on wind for speed. They typically cruise at 6 to 9 knots.
Power catamarans (Aquila, Leopard PC, Fountaine Pajot Power) have twin engines and planing hulls. They are faster, cruising at 15 to 25 knots, so you can cover more distance in a half-day. They are also more stable at anchor because of the wider beam. Prices are higher, from around EUR 2,500 for a half-day.
Luxury catamarans (Sunreef, Lagoon SeventyEight) come with crew, chef, jet skis, and inflatable water slides. These are for larger groups or corporate events. Prices on request, but expect EUR 5,000 to EUR 12,000 per day.
Every catamaran on BoatHire24 includes a licensed skipper. Some also include a host or stewardess if you book catering. You can filter by length, guest capacity, year, and amenities.
How Much Does Private Catamaran Hire Cost in Marbella?
Prices depend on boat size, age, season, and duration. Here are rough ranges based on typical listings on BoatHire24.
Half-day (4 hours): from EUR 1,500 for a 40-foot sailing catamaran to EUR 4,000 for a 50-foot power catamaran.
Full-day (8 hours): from EUR 2,500 for a basic sailing cat to EUR 8,000 for a luxury power cat.
Sunset cruise (2-3 hours): from EUR 800 to EUR 2,000.
Multi-day charters: from EUR 3,000 per day for a week-long sailing catamaran, plus expenses.
These prices include the boat, skipper, fuel for a typical itinerary, and basic insurance. Extras like catering, drinks, water toys (paddleboard, kayak, jet ski), port fees, and tips are not included. You can add catering from around EUR 50 per person for a barbecue lunch.
Peak season (June to September) prices are 20-40% higher than shoulder season (April, May, October). Winter charters are possible but less common.
To get exact prices for specific catamarans on your dates, use the search page on BoatHire24. You can filter by boat type, date, and guest count.
What Is Included in a Private Catamaran Charter?
Every private catamaran hire on BoatHire24 includes the licensed skipper, the boat, fuel for a standard itinerary, and safety equipment. Some also include a host, paddleboard, and snorkelling gear.
You can bring your own food and drink, or order catering through the boat. Most catamarans have a fridge, icebox, and a basic galley with a hob and sink. If you want a barbecue or paella cooked on board, you need to arrange catering in advance.
Water toys vary. Many catamarans have a paddleboard and snorkel masks. Some have a kayak, inflatable water mat, or a SUP. High-end charters may include a jet ski, seabob, or inflatable slide. Check the listing details or ask the skipper.
What is not included: port fees (EUR 50-150 depending on marina), tips (10-15% of charter fee is normal), extra fuel if you go beyond the standard range, and any damage deposit (usually EUR 500-1,000, refundable).
Where Can You Go on a Private Catamaran from Marbella?
The skipper will suggest a route based on wind, sea state, and what you want to do. Popular options include the following.
West toward Estepona and the Strait of Gibraltar. This route takes you past the beaches of San Pedro, the cliffs of Cala del Faro, and the marina of Estepona. If the weather is calm, you can cross to the African coast or cruise the Strait, where you often spot dolphins, pilot whales, and even orcas in season. The water is deeper here, so snorkelling is less interesting.
East toward Cabopino and Fuengirola. This is a shorter trip, good for a half-day. You can anchor off the Artola dunes, which are protected and have clear water. Cabopino beach has a chiringuito (beach bar) where you can tie up the dinghy and eat on land.
South toward the coast of Africa. From Marbella, it is about 40 nautical miles to Ceuta or Tangier. This is a full-day trip and requires calm seas. You can anchor off the Spanish enclave of Ceuta for lunch, then return. You need passports for this.
Anchoring off Marbella coast. For a half-day, the skipper will find a sheltered bay near the coast, such as Cala del Faro, Cabopino, or the area off the Marbella Club hotel. You swim, paddleboard, and eat lunch on board. This is the most common itinerary.
If you want a specific destination, tell the skipper when you book. They will confirm if it is feasible given the wind and sea conditions on the day.
When Is the Best Time for Private Catamaran Hire?
The best months are May, June, September, and October. The sea temperature is 18-24 degrees C, the air temperature is 22-30 degrees C, and the marinas are less crowded than July and August. July and August are hot (30-35 degrees C) and busy, but still good if you book early. The wind tends to be lighter in summer, so sailing catamarans may motor more.
Winter charters are possible but less comfortable. The sea temperature drops to 14-16 degrees C, and the wind can be strong. Some catamarans are available for winter charters, but you will need warm clothing and a backup plan for bad weather.
Sunset cruises run year-round, but sunset is earlier in winter (around 6pm) so you can still do a 2-hour cruise after work.
How to Book a Private Catamaran on BoatHire24
Go to the BoatHire24 homepage. Enter your dates, group size, and choose "Catamaran" in the boat type filter. You will see a list of available catamarans with prices, photos, and details. Click on one to see the full description, amenities, cancellation policy, and skipper profile.
You can send a booking request directly through the site. The owner or skipper will confirm availability and send you a payment link. Payment is usually 50% deposit and 50% on the day. You can also arrange catering and extras through the messaging system.
If you are unsure which catamaran suits your group, contact BoatHire24 support (email or WhatsApp) and they will recommend options within your budget.
For a full guide on what to expect, read the BoatHire24 blog on catamaran charter tips.
Who Is Private Catamaran Hire For?
Private catamaran hire works for several types of group.
Families with children: catamarans are stable, have plenty of deck space, and you can bring kids' food and toys. The skipper can anchor in shallow, calm water for swimming.
Friend groups: a day on a catamaran is a better party venue than a restaurant or club. You bring your own music, drinks, and food, and you can swim when you want.
Corporate groups: catamarans are good for client entertainment, team building, or product launches. Many catamarans have a sound system, sun deck, and space for 15-20 people. You can add catering and a host.
Couples or small groups: you can hire a smaller catamaran (30-40 feet) for 4-6 guests. It is more intimate than a large motor yacht and cheaper.
If you want to learn to sail, you can also charter a catamaran with a skipper who offers sailing lessons. That is a different product, but some skippers are happy to teach basic handling during the charter.
What to Bring on a Private Catamaran Charter
Bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen (reef-safe), a hat, and sunglasses. The sun is strong even in spring and autumn. Bring a light jacket or fleece for the evening, especially from October to May. If you bring food and drink, pack it in soft coolers or bags that fit in the galley fridge. Avoid glass bottles on board, as they can break and be dangerous.
If you plan to swim, bring a dry bag for your phone and valuables. The catamaran will have a fresh-water shower on the back deck to rinse off salt.
If you are prone to seasickness, take medication the night before and the morning of the charter. Catamarans are more stable than monohulls, but if the sea is rough, you can still feel motion.
You can also bring snorkel gear, but most catamarans provide it.
Common Questions About Private Catamaran Hire
Can you swim from a catamaran? Yes, the skipper will anchor in a bay where you can jump off the boat. The trampoline net at the front is a popular spot for lounging and diving.
Is the skipper included? Yes, every private catamaran hire on BoatHire24 includes a licensed skipper. You do not need a boating licence.
Can you bring your own alcohol? Yes, you can bring your own drinks. Some boats have a corkage fee if you use their glassware, but most do not.
What happens if the weather is bad? The skipper will decide if it is safe to go out. If the charter is cancelled due to bad weather, you get a full refund or can reschedule. If you cancel for personal reasons, the cancellation policy in the listing applies (usually 50% refund if cancelled 7 days before).
How far in advance should you book? In peak season, book at least 2-4 weeks ahead. In shoulder season, 1-2 weeks is usually enough. Last-minute bookings (1-3 days) are sometimes available.
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Frequently asked questions
How many people can a private catamaran in Marbella hold?
Most catamarans are licensed for 8 to 20 day guests. Smaller sailing cats (38-42 feet) typically hold 8-12 people. Larger power cats (50-60 feet) can hold up to 20. The exact limit is stated in each listing on BoatHire24 and depends on the boat's safety certification.
Do I need a licence to charter a private catamaran in Marbella?
No. Every private catamaran hire on BoatHire24 includes a licensed skipper. You do not need any boating licence or experience. The skipper handles all navigation, mooring, and safety.
Can I choose the route on my private catamaran charter?
Yes, you can discuss the route with the skipper before departure. They will advise on what is feasible based on wind, sea state, and the time you have. Common options include heading west to Estepona, east to Cabopino, or anchoring off Marbella beaches.
What is the cancellation policy for private catamaran hire?
Cancellation policies vary by listing. Most require 7 days' notice for a 50% refund. If the charter is cancelled by the skipper due to unsafe weather, you get a full refund or can reschedule. Check the individual listing on BoatHire24 for exact terms.
Are food and drink included in the charter price?
No. You can bring your own food and drink. Many catamarans have a fridge and icebox. You can also order catering through the boat, such as a barbecue or paella, at an extra cost of around EUR 50 per person.
Can I book a private catamaran for a sunset cruise?
Yes. Many catamarans offer sunset cruises lasting 2-3 hours, typically departing at 5pm or 6pm depending on the season. Prices start from around EUR 800. The skipper will anchor in a spot with a good view of the sunset over the Mediterranean.
What water toys are available on a private catamaran?
Most catamarans include a paddleboard and snorkelling gear. Some have a kayak, inflatable water mat, or SUP. High-end charters may include a jet ski, seabob, or inflatable slide. Check the listing details on BoatHire24 for the specific toys included.