You want a hen party that doesn't involve a sticky-floored club in Marbella at 2am, surrounded by strangers and regret. A private yacht charter Puerto Banus hen trip is the opposite of that: your own boat, your own playlist, and a skipper who handles the navigation while you handle the prosecco. BoatHire24 connects you with licensed skippers and a fleet of motor yachts, catamarans, and sailing yachts departing from Puerto Banus, Marbella Marina, Cabopino, Estepona, Sotogrande, and Benalmadena. This page covers exactly what you get, how much it costs, which ports work best, and how to book without the faff.
What a Private Yacht Charter Puerto Banus Hen Party Includes
When you book a private yacht charter Puerto Banus hen party through BoatHire24, you are renting the entire boat for your group. There is no mixing with strangers, no queuing for the bar, and no one telling you to keep the noise down. Every charter comes with a licensed skipper who knows the local waters, so you don't need a boating licence or any experience. You just show up with your girls, your drinks, and your playlist.
The boat is yours for the agreed duration, typically 4 hours, 6 hours, or a full day. Most charters include fuel, insurance, and the skipper's fee. Some operators throw in a welcome bottle of cava or a fruit platter. You can bring your own food and drink, or arrange catering through the charter company. Many boats have a Bluetooth speaker system, a sun deck, and a shaded cabin area for when the Andalusian sun gets too much.
You can customise the itinerary. Common stops include the sandbanks off Puerto Banus for swimming, the Cala del Faro cove for a quieter spot, or a slow cruise past the mansions of the Golden Mile. If you want to see dolphins, the skipper can head towards the Strait of Gibraltar, though no one can guarantee wildlife. The point is: you decide.
Why Puerto Banus Is the Best Port for a Hen Party
Puerto Banus is the obvious choice for a hen party because it is the epicentre of Marbella's glitz. The marina is full of superyachts, designer shops, and bars that stay open late. You can start your private yacht charter Puerto Banus hen trip from the marina itself, step off the boat at the end, and walk straight into a restaurant or club. The port is well-served by taxis and private transfers from Malaga Airport (50 minutes) and Marbella town (10 minutes).
The departure point matters because it affects your cruising time. From Puerto Banus, you can reach the Marbella coastline in 15 minutes, the Cabopino dunes in 20 minutes, and Estepona in 30 minutes. That means more time anchored and less time motoring. For a 4-hour charter, you can realistically do a swim stop, a slow cruise past the luxury villas, and still have time for a floating picnic.
If Puerto Banus feels too flashy for your group, consider Marbella Marina (Puerto Deportivo) which is a 5-minute walk from the old town and has a more laid-back vibe. Cabopino is quieter and closer to the sand dunes, good for a nature-focused day. Estepona is charming but further south, while Sotogrande is more exclusive and quieter. Benalmadena is a solid option if you are staying on the Costa del Sol east of Malaga. Search our listings by port to see what is available.
Boat Types for a Hen Party: Motor Yachts, Catamarans, and More
The best boat for a private yacht charter Puerto Banus hen party depends on your group size and vibe. Motor yachts are the most popular choice for hen dos. They are fast, sleek, and have plenty of deck space for lounging and dancing. A typical 40-foot motor yacht can take up to 12 guests. Larger models, like a 60-foot Azimut, can handle 15 to 20 people. Expect a flybridge with a sun pad, a saloon with air conditioning, and a small galley for drinks.
Catamarans are a strong alternative. They are more stable, which matters if anyone in the group gets seasick (and you do not want a hen party spent leaning over the rail). Catamarans have a wider beam, so there is more deck area for sunbathing and socialising. A 40-foot catamaran can accommodate 12 to 15 guests comfortably. They are also quieter, so you can hear the music and each other.
Sailing yachts are less common for hen parties because the deck space is narrower and the mast can be an obstacle. But if your group is into sailing or wants a more authentic experience, a 40-foot Bavaria or Beneteau works for up to 10 people. RIBs and speedboats are for smaller groups (up to 8) who want a faster, wetter ride. Licence-free day boats (under 15 hp) are available but limited to 5 or 6 people and are best for a low-key afternoon on the water. Superyachts (over 24 metres) are price-on-request and require a larger budget, but they offer crew, jet skis, and a level of service that makes the hen feel like a celebrity.
Pricing Guidance for a Private Yacht Charter Puerto Banus Hen Party
Pricing for a private yacht charter Puerto Banus hen party varies by boat size, duration, season, and extras. As a rough guide: a 4-hour charter on a 40-foot motor yacht in May starts from around EUR 1,200 for up to 12 guests. A full day (8 hours) on the same boat is from EUR 2,000. Catamarans tend to be slightly more expensive because of their stability and space: from EUR 1,500 for 4 hours. Superyachts are price on request, but you can expect EUR 5,000 to EUR 15,000 for a day.
High season (July and August) pushes prices up by 20-30%. June and September are still warm but cheaper. April, May, and October are the sweet spot for value and weather. Fuel is included in most charters, but if you want to go further (e.g., Gibraltar or Nerja), there may be a surcharge. Extras like a professional photographer, a DJ, or a private chef will add EUR 200-500 per service. You can also arrange a meet-and-greet with a bottle of champagne and a sign on the dock for that Instagram moment.
To get an accurate price, BoatHire24 lets you filter by boat type, port, and guest count. The total you see on the listing includes the skipper and basic amenities. Always confirm what is included before booking, especially if you want a specific catering menu or a later return time.
Best Seasons for a Hen Party Yacht Charter in Puerto Banus
The Costa del Sol has a Mediterranean climate with over 300 sunny days a year. The best time for a private yacht charter Puerto Banus hen party is May through October, when sea temperatures are above 18 degrees C and air temperatures are 25-30 degrees C. July and August are the hottest, with sea temperatures hitting 24-26 degrees C, but the marina and beaches are packed. If you want a balance of good weather and fewer crowds, aim for late May, June, or September.
April and October are still viable. The air temperature is around 20-22 degrees C, and the sea is cooler (16-18 degrees C), so swimming is possible but brisk. The advantage is lower prices and more availability. November to March is off-season for yacht charters; many boats are out of the water for maintenance, and the weather can be windy. You might find a few operators running trips, but it is not ideal for a hen party where swimming and sunbathing are part of the plan.
If you are booking in high season, reserve at least 4-6 weeks in advance. Popular boats and time slots (especially Saturday afternoons) go quickly. For June or September, 2-3 weeks ahead is usually fine. BoatHire24 shows real-time availability, so you can see what is free without making calls.
How to Book a Private Yacht Charter Puerto Banus Hen Party
Booking through BoatHire24 is straightforward. Go to the homepage, enter Puerto Banus as the departure port, select your date and group size, and browse the results. Each listing shows the boat type, maximum guests, duration options, and price. Click on a boat to see photos, a full description, and any extras available. You can send an enquiry directly to the charter company through the platform. They will confirm availability and send a quote.
Payment is typically 50% deposit to secure the booking, with the balance due on the day. Most operators accept bank transfer, credit card, or PayPal. Cancellation policies vary: some offer a full refund up to 14 days before, others charge 50% if you cancel within 7 days. Read the terms before you pay. On the day, you meet the skipper at the designated port at the agreed time. They will give a safety briefing and then you are off.
For a hen party, you might want to arrange a surprise for the bride. Some charter companies can arrange a cake, decorations, or a banner. You can also hire a photographer to capture the day. Just mention it in the enquiry. Check our blog for tips on planning a hen party on the Costa del Sol, including restaurant recommendations and nightlife options near the marina.
Who Is This For: Hen Party Groups of All Sizes
A private yacht charter Puerto Banus hen party works for groups of 6 to 20 people. Smaller groups (6-10) are best for a 40-foot motor yacht or a catamaran. Larger groups (12-20) need a bigger boat, like a 50-foot motor yacht or a 50-foot catamaran. A few superyachts can handle up to 30 guests, but the price jumps accordingly. The key is to match the boat size to your group so everyone has room to sunbathe, eat, and dance without feeling cramped.
This experience is for hens who want something more than a standard night out. It is for groups that value privacy, flexibility, and a bit of luxury. It is also for those who want to see the Costa del Sol from the water, with the option to swim in the Mediterranean, spot dolphins, and take photos with the La Concha mountain in the background. It is not for people who get seasick easily (unless you choose a catamaran) or for those on a very tight budget (charter prices start around EUR 1,200).
If your group is mixed with non-swimmers or people who prefer to stay in the shade, that is fine. Most boats have a cabin with air conditioning and a saloon with seating. The skipper can anchor in a calm bay so the water is flat. You can also request a route that stays close to the coast, so the journey is smooth.
Local Colour and Highlights Around Puerto Banus
Puerto Banus is the most famous marina on the Costa del Sol, built in the 1970s around a fishing port. It is now home to designer boutiques (Louis Vuitton, Gucci, Versace), high-end restaurants, and nightclubs like Ocean Club and Pangea. The marina itself is worth a walk after your charter, especially at sunset when the superyachts light up. The nearby Rio Verde area has luxury villas and a beach club scene.
From the water, you will see the iconic La Concha mountain, which rises 1,215 metres behind Marbella. The shape resembles a shell, hence the name. The coastline is dotted with small coves, the most photogenic being Cala del Faro near the Marbella lighthouse. Further south, Estepona old town has whitewashed buildings and flower-filled streets, a nice contrast to the glitz of Puerto Banus. If you have a full-day charter, you can head towards the Strait of Gibraltar, where the Atlantic meets the Mediterranean, and you might see pods of common dolphins or bottlenose dolphins. The Nerja Caves are a 45-minute drive east, but you can also approach by boat if you charter from Benalmadena or Cabopino.
For a hen party, the local restaurants near the port are ideal for post-charter dinner. Try the seafood at La Pesquera or the Japanese at Ta-Kumi. If you want to continue the party, Ocean Club has a daytime pool party vibe, while Pangea is more of an evening club. Both are within walking distance of the marina.
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Frequently asked questions
How many people can a private yacht charter Puerto Banus hen party accommodate?
Most motor yachts and catamarans in Puerto Banus can take 10 to 15 guests. Larger superyachts can handle up to 30. Check the specific boat listing on BoatHire24 for the maximum guest count, as it depends on the boat's safety certification.
Can we bring our own food and drink on the charter?
Yes, most operators allow you to bring your own food and drink. Some include a welcome bottle of cava or a fruit platter. You can also arrange catering through the charter company for an extra fee. Check the listing or ask the operator before booking.
What is the cancellation policy for a hen party charter?
Cancellation policies vary by operator. Typically, you get a full refund if you cancel 14 days before the charter, 50% refund up to 7 days before, and no refund after that. Read the terms on the BoatHire24 listing before you pay the deposit.
Do we need a boating licence to charter a yacht in Puerto Banus?
No. Every charter booked through BoatHire24 includes a licensed skipper who operates the boat. You just relax and enjoy the day. The skipper handles navigation, anchoring, and safety.
What is the best time of day for a hen party charter?
A 4-hour afternoon charter from 12pm to 4pm or 2pm to 6pm works well. You get the sun, a swim stop, and time to cruise. For a full day, 10am to 6pm gives you morning calm and afternoon warmth. Sunset charters (6pm to 9pm) are popular for photos and a more relaxed vibe.
Can we swim and snorkel during the charter?
Yes. The skipper will anchor in a safe spot, usually near a cove or sandbank. Most boats have a swim ladder and a shower to rinse off. Bring your own snorkel gear if you want, though some boats provide basic masks.
Is it possible to include a DJ or photographer on the charter?
Yes, many charter companies can arrange a DJ, a photographer, or both for an extra fee. You can also bring your own Bluetooth speaker for music. Mention your requirements when you enquire through BoatHire24.