If you are organising a hen do in Marbella and you want something more memorable than a sticky-floored club on the Golden Mile, a boat charter is your answer. Puerto Banus boat rental for hen do means a private yacht, a licensed skipper who handles the navigation, and a floating party base where you control the playlist, the drinks, and the itinerary. No crowds, no queues, no last-minute bar tab surprises.
BoatHire24 connects you with the best boats in Puerto Banus and across the Costa del Sol. We have motor yachts with sun pads and sound systems, catamarans with plenty of deck space for dancing, and even RIBs for a high-speed blast to Cala del Faro. Every charter includes a professional skipper, so you can focus on the prosecco and the photos. You can browse available boats on our search page, or read on for the full lowdown.
What You Get with a Puerto Banus Boat Rental for Hen Do
A hen do boat rental from Puerto Banus is not just a boat trip. It is a private charter for your group, typically lasting 4, 6, or 8 hours. You get the whole vessel to yourselves, a licensed skipper who knows the coast, and fuel for the day. Most boats include a sound system (Bluetooth or AUX), a sun deck or bow cushions, and a shaded saloon or bimini. You bring your own food and drink, or you can order catering through the boat owner. Some skippers will also stop for a swim if the sea is calm and you fancy a dip off the coast of Marbella.
Because it is a hen do, you want space to mingle, dance, and take group photos. Catamarans are a popular choice because the deck is wide and stable. Motor yachts offer a more glamorous feel, with a flybridge and a saloon for escaping the sun. We have options from around EUR 1,200 for a half-day on a 10-metre motor yacht up to EUR 4,000 for a full day on a 15-metre catamaran. Prices vary by season and demand, so check the listings for exact numbers.
Puerto Banus: The Best Departure Point for a Hen Party
Puerto Banus is the obvious base for a hen do charter. The marina is full of superyachts, designer shops, and bars. You can meet your skipper at the port, step straight onto the boat, and be out on the water within 10 minutes. The port has plenty of parking nearby, or you can get a taxi from Marbella centre (about 15 minutes). If your group is staying in the old town of Marbella, the Marbella Marina (Puerto Deportivo) is another option, about 20 minutes by road.
From Puerto Banus you can head west towards Estepona and the Strait of Gibraltar, or east towards Cabopino and Cala del Faro. The typical hen do route goes to Cala del Faro, a small cove with clear water where you can anchor for a swim. You might also see the La Concha mountain in the background, which makes a good photo backdrop. If you want to spot dolphins, the Strait of Gibraltar is a longer trip but often worth it for the pod sightings.
Boat Options for Your Hen Do
Not all boats suit a hen do. You need space, a good sound system, and ideally a toilet on board. Here are the main types available through BoatHire24.
Motor Yachts
Motor yachts from 10 to 20 metres are the classic hen party choice. They have a flybridge with sun pads, a saloon with a table and seating, and a bow area for lounging. The skipper is usually in the wheelhouse, so you have privacy. Examples include the Azimut 55 or the Sunseeker 50, both available in Puerto Banus. Prices from around EUR 1,500 for a half day.
Catamarans
Catamarans are wider and more stable, which matters if someone in the group gets seasick. The deck space is generous, and the trampoline net at the bow is a popular spot for sunbathing. A Lagoon 42 or a Bali 4.5 can take 10 to 12 guests comfortably. Prices from around EUR 2,000 for a half day.
Sailing Yachts
Sailing yachts are quieter and more traditional. If the hen group prefers a relaxed sail with occasional swimming, a 12-metre Bavaria or Dufour works well. The skipper will hoist the sails if the wind is right. Prices from around EUR 900 for a half day.
RIBs and Speedboats
For a smaller group (up to 6 or 8 people), a RIB is a fun option. It is fast, open, and you can feel the wind. Not ideal for dancing, but great for a quick trip to Cala del Faro or to watch the sunset. Prices from around EUR 600 for 3 hours.
Pricing Guidance for a Puerto Banus Hen Do Boat Rental
Pricing depends on the boat size, duration, season, and any extras like catering or water toys. As a rough guide, expect to pay between EUR 1,000 and EUR 4,000 for a half-day charter (4 hours) for a group of 10 to 12 people. Full-day charters (8 hours) are typically 50 to 80 percent more. High season (June to September) is the most expensive, with prices often 30 percent higher than in May or October.
Some boat owners include a paddleboard or snorkelling gear. Others charge extra for a hostess or for catering. Always check the listing on BoatHire24 for the full inclusions. You can filter by price, boat type, and capacity on our search page.
Best Time of Year for a Hen Do Boat Trip
The Costa del Sol has a Mediterranean climate with mild winters and hot summers. For a hen do, the best months are May through October. In May and June, the water temperature is around 18 to 22 degrees C, and the air temperature is 25 to 30 degrees C. July and August are peak season with temperatures above 30 degrees C and water up to 24 degrees C. September and October are still warm but less crowded.
Avoid November to March unless you are happy with cooler weather (15 to 20 degrees C) and a chance of wind. The sea can be choppy in winter, which might not suit a party vibe.
How to Book a Puerto Banus Boat Rental for Hen Do
Booking through BoatHire24 is straightforward. Go to the BoatHire24 homepage and use the search filters to select Puerto Banus as the departure port, your preferred date, and the number of guests. You will see a list of available boats with photos, specs, and prices. Click on a listing to see the full details, including the skipper's experience and any reviews from previous renters. Once you choose a boat, you can send an enquiry or book directly through the site. The owner will confirm availability and send you a contract. Payment is usually via bank transfer or credit card, with a deposit (typically 30 to 50 percent) to secure the date.
We recommend booking at least two weeks in advance for hen dos, especially in high season. For last-minute bookings, you can try the contact form on the site, but availability is limited.
Who Is a Puerto Banus Boat Rental for Hen Do For?
This type of charter is for any hen group that wants a private, flexible day on the water. It suits groups of 6 to 12 people, though some boats can take up to 20. It is not a party boat with a DJ and a bar, you bring your own vibe. If your hen group wants a wild party with loud music and unlimited drinks, you might prefer a dedicated party boat with a DJ. But if you want a classy, private charter where you control the atmosphere, a Puerto Banus boat rental for hen do is the right choice.
It also works well for a more relaxed hen do: a day of sunbathing, swimming, and chatting with a few bottles of cava. The skipper will take you to quiet coves and you can anchor away from the crowds. For a truly bespoke experience, you can combine the boat trip with a visit to Estepona old town or a stop at a beach club for lunch.
What to Bring on a Hen Do Boat Charter
Pack sunscreen, towels, swimwear, sunglasses, and a hat. Bring your own drinks and food, most boats have a cool box or fridge. Some owners provide ice, but check. A Bluetooth speaker is usually not needed because the boat has a sound system. Bring a camera or phone for photos, and maybe a waterproof case. If you plan to swim, bring a dry bag for wet clothes. And bring cash for tips for the skipper, if you want.
Do not bring glass bottles on board, some boats forbid them for safety reasons. Use plastic cups or cans. Also, remember that the skipper is in charge of the itinerary and safety. They will decide whether to anchor or move based on sea conditions and weather.
Alternatives to Puerto Banus for a Hen Do Boat Rental
If Puerto Banus is too busy or you want a different vibe, consider these other departure ports on the Costa del Sol.
Marbella Marina (Puerto Deportivo) is a 15-minute taxi ride from Puerto Banus. It is less flashy but still has good facilities. Cabopino is a small marina near the dunes of Artola, quieter and more relaxed. Estepona has a charming old town and a marina with good restaurants. Sotogrande is upscale but further west, near the Gibraltar border. Benalmádena is east of Marbella, popular for its marina and proximity to the Nerja caves (though that is a longer trip).
Each port has its own character, but for a hen do, Puerto Banus is the most convenient because of the nightlife and the glamour factor. You can read more about the options on our blog.
Final Thoughts on a Puerto Banus Boat Rental for Hen Do
A Puerto Banus boat rental for hen do is a solid choice for a group that wants a private, memorable day on the Mediterranean. You get a skipper, a boat, and the freedom to party, swim, or just relax. Book early, bring your own drinks, and enjoy the coast from the water. For more ideas, check the blog or start your search on the search page.
What to Expect from the Skipper and Crew
The skipper on your Puerto Banus boat rental for hen do is a licensed professional who knows the local waters. They handle navigation, mooring, and safety briefings. Most skippers are happy to let you play your own music and set the mood, but they will enforce safety rules like not sitting on the bow while underway. Some charters offer an optional hostess for an extra fee, around EUR 150 to EUR 250 for the day, who can help with serving drinks, cleaning up, and taking group photos. The skipper will also suggest a route based on the weather and your preferences, whether that is a fast run to Cala del Faro or a leisurely cruise past the Marbella coastline.
Hen Do Itinerary Ideas from Puerto Banus
A typical 4-hour charter from Puerto Banus might head east to Cala del Faro, anchor for a 30-minute swim, then cruise back past the Puerto Banus skyline. For a 6-hour trip, you can go west to Estepona, stop at a beach club like Chiringuito Guadalmina for lunch (you pay separately), and then return. An 8-hour full-day charter could reach the Strait of Gibraltar area, where you might spot dolphins, or go east to Cabopino and the Artola dunes. Some groups prefer to stay close to Puerto Banus and anchor near the Rio Verde estuary, which is calm and shallow for swimming. The skipper will tailor the route to your group, but you need to communicate any must-see spots beforehand.
How Many Guests Can You Bring on a Hen Do Boat
Boat capacity is strictly limited by the vessel's licence, not just by space. On BoatHire24, each listing shows the maximum number of guests, and you cannot exceed that number for insurance and safety reasons. For a hen do, typical capacities are: RIBs and speedboats up to 8 guests, motor yachts 10 to 12 guests, catamarans 10 to 14 guests, and sailing yachts 8 to 10 guests. Some larger catamarans and superyachts can take up to 20 guests, but prices start from around EUR 3,500 for a half day. If your hen group is larger than 12, you might need to split into two boats or look for a larger vessel. Always check the capacity before booking, and do not assume you can squeeze extra people on board.
What to Do If Someone Gets Seasick
Seasickness can ruin a hen do, but the Costa del Sol is generally calm, especially in summer. The Mediterranean here has minimal swell most days, and the skipper will avoid rough areas. If someone in your group is prone to motion sickness, choose a catamaran, which is more stable than a monohull motor yacht or sailing yacht. You can also take anti-seasickness medication an hour before departure, available at any pharmacy in Puerto Banus. Ginger tablets or wristbands are a non-drowsy alternative. The skipper will also anchor in sheltered coves like Cala del Faro if the sea gets choppy. Avoid heavy drinking before the trip, as alcohol can worsen nausea. Most people on a Puerto Banus boat rental for hen do feel fine, but it is worth preparing.
Extras You Can Add to Your Hen Do Charter
Many boat owners offer add-ons to make your day more special. A paddleboard or kayak costs around EUR 50 to EUR 100 extra for the day. Snorkelling gear is sometimes included or can be added for EUR 10 to EUR 20 per set. Catering is popular for hen dos, with options like a tapas platter (EUR 15 to EUR 25 per person), a paella lunch cooked on board (EUR 30 to EUR 50 per person), or a champagne and fruit platter (EUR 20 per person). Some boats have a barbecue on the back deck, which the skipper can fire up for an extra fee. If you want decorations like bunting or balloons, you can bring them yourself, but check with the owner first because some boats forbid loose decorations that could blow overboard. Water toys like a floating inflatable platform are also available for around EUR 200 for the day.
How to Get to Puerto Banus for Your Hen Do Charter
Puerto Banus is about 60 kilometres west of Malaga Airport, which takes 40 to 50 minutes by taxi or private transfer. A taxi from the airport costs around EUR 70 to EUR 90, and a pre-booked minibus for a group of 8 to 12 people costs EUR 120 to EUR 150. If you are staying in Marbella centre, a taxi to Puerto Banus is about EUR 15 to EUR 20 and takes 15 minutes. Parking at Puerto Banus is expensive, around EUR 25 for a few hours in the underground car park, so taxis or transfers are easier. The meeting point is usually at the main entrance of the marina, near the statue of the bull, or at a specific dock number given by the owner. Arrive 15 minutes early so the skipper can do a safety briefing before departure.
Weather and Sea Conditions for a Hen Do in Puerto Banus
The weather on the Costa del Sol is reliable, but you should still check the forecast a few days before your charter. In summer, the sea breeze picks up around midday, creating a light chop that is usually fine for most boats. The prevailing wind is from the west, so the coast is sheltered. If the wind exceeds 20 knots, the skipper may suggest a different route or stay closer to shore. Rain is rare from May to September, but if a storm is forecast, the owner will offer to reschedule or provide a full refund. Winter charters are possible but less common for hen dos because the water temperature drops to 15 degrees C and the air is cooler. For the best experience, book between June and September, when the sea temperature is above 20 degrees C and the sun is strong.
Related guides
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Frequently asked questions
Can we bring our own alcohol on a Puerto Banus hen do boat rental?
Yes, you can bring your own drinks. Most boats have a fridge or cool box. Avoid glass bottles as some skippers ban them for safety. Bring plastic cups and cans instead.
How many people can fit on a hen do boat in Puerto Banus?
Typical hen do boats hold 6 to 12 guests. Some larger catamarans and yachts can take up to 20. Check the boat listing for the maximum capacity. The skipper counts as crew, not a guest.
Do we need a licence to rent a boat for a hen do in Puerto Banus?
No, because every charter includes a licensed skipper. You do not need any boating licence. The skipper handles all navigation and safety.
What happens if the weather is bad on the day of our hen do charter?
The skipper has the final say on whether it is safe to sail. If the weather is dangerous, the charter will be rescheduled or cancelled with a full refund. Check the cancellation policy on the booking page.
Can we choose the itinerary for our hen do boat trip?
Yes, you can discuss the route with the skipper. Typical hen do itineraries include Cala del Faro for swimming, the Marbella coastline, or a dolphin-watching trip towards Gibraltar. The skipper will advise based on sea conditions.
How far in advance should we book a Puerto Banus hen do boat rental?
Book at least two weeks ahead, especially in high season (June to September). Last-minute bookings are possible but availability is limited. Use the BoatHire24 search page to check dates.
Is it possible to add catering or decorations for a hen do?
Some boat owners offer catering (tapas, paella, or barbecue) for an extra fee. You can also arrange decorations yourself, but confirm with the owner first. Most skippers are happy to accommodate reasonable requests.
