You want to hit the water fast, skip the queues, and feel the Mediterranean wind in your hair. Speedboat hire in Puerto Banús is exactly that: no fuss, no licence required, and a guaranteed dose of adrenaline. BoatHire24 connects you with owners and operators based right here on the Costa del Sol, so you can book a RIB, a day boat, or a sporty motorboat with a licensed skipper included. No hidden catches, just a straightforward rental that gets you from the dock to the open sea in minutes.
Puerto Banús is the obvious starting point. It is the glitziest marina on the coast, packed with superyachts, designer shops, and bars that stay open late. But the real draw is the water. Within 15 minutes of leaving the harbour, you can be anchored off Cala del Faro, snorkelling in clear water, or cruising past the golden beaches of Marbella. A speedboat gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace, without the commitment of a full day charter. You can go for a couple of hours, a half day, or a full day. The skipper handles the navigation, so you can just enjoy it.
This page covers everything you need to know about speedboat hire in Puerto Banús: what boats are available, how much it costs, where you can go, and how to book without getting ripped off. No fluff, just the details that matter.
What Is Included with a Speedboat Hire in Puerto Banús
Every speedboat rental through BoatHire24 comes with a licensed skipper as standard. That means you do not need a boating licence, a powerboat qualification, or even any experience. The skipper handles the driving, mooring, and safety briefing. You just sit back, or take the helm if you want to, under their supervision. It is a practical arrangement, especially if you are on holiday and do not want the paperwork hassle.
Fuel is usually included in the price, but you should confirm with the operator. Some rentals charge fuel separately based on usage. Insurance, life jackets, and basic safety equipment are always included. Most boats also come with a Bluetooth speaker system, a sunshade, and a cooler for drinks. You can bring your own food and drink, or ask the operator about catering options. The skipper will also provide local knowledge, pointing out the best spots for swimming, lunch, or dolphin-spotting.
Typical inclusions: skipper, fuel (check), insurance, life jackets, Bluetooth, sunshade, cooler, local advice. Exclusions usually: food, drinks, dockage fees at private beaches, and tips for the skipper (10-15% is customary if you are happy).
Puerto Banús: The Ideal Departure Point
Puerto Banús is not just a pretty marina. It is a purpose-built luxury port with direct access to the Mediterranean, no locks, and no tidal restrictions. You can launch any time of day. The marina is sheltered, so even on breezy days, the inner harbour is calm. The main departure channel leads straight out past the famous ‘Paseo Marítimo’ and the rows of million-euro yachts. Within five minutes you are in open water.
The port has plenty of parking (paid, but reasonable), public toilets, and a few chiringuitos where you can grab a coffee before departure. If you are staying in Marbella or nearby, most operators offer a free pick-up from your hotel or apartment to the marina. The address for GPS is Puerto Deportivo de Marbella, but note that ‘Puerto Banús’ and ‘Puerto Deportivo’ are two different marinas, about 5 km apart. Make sure you know which one you are departing from. BoatHire24 listings clearly state the departure port, so you can check before booking.
Types of Speedboats Available for Hire
Not all speedboats are the same. Here is a breakdown of what you can rent in Puerto Banús.
RIBs (Rigid Inflatable Boats). These are the most popular choice for speedboat hire. A RIB is basically a fibreglass hull with inflatable tubes around the sides. They are fast, stable, and can handle a bit of chop. Typical sizes range from 6 to 10 metres, with outboard engines from 150 to 350 hp. Speeds of 30-40 knots are common. RIBs are ideal for short trips, water sports, and reaching distant spots like Cala del Faro or even Gibraltar. They seat between 6 and 12 passengers.
Licence-Free Day Boats. These are smaller, simpler motorboats, usually under 6 metres, with a 15-20 hp engine. They are slow (5-8 knots), but you do not need a licence to drive them yourself. The BoatHire24 operators include a skipper, so the licence-free aspect is less relevant, but the boats are cheaper and more relaxed. Perfect for a gentle cruise along the coast, stopping for a swim, without the noise or speed of a RIB.
Semi-Rigid Speedboats. A hybrid between a RIB and a traditional motorboat. They have a deeper V hull for comfort in rougher seas, but still have tubes for stability. These are good for longer trips, up to 30-40 nautical miles. They often have a small cabin or a toilet, which is useful for families.
Sporty Motor Yachts (under 10m). Some operators offer smaller motor yachts that are more like a mini-cruiser. They are slower than RIBs but more comfortable, with a sun deck, a small galley, and a cabin. These are good if you want a mix of speed and luxury, though they are less common for pure speedboat hire.
Pricing Guidance for Speedboat Hire in Puerto Banús
Prices vary depending on the boat, the season, and the duration. Here is a rough guide. For a RIB (6-8m, 150-250 hp), expect to pay from around EUR 350 for a 2-hour trip, EUR 500 for a half day (4 hours), and EUR 800-1,200 for a full day (8 hours). Licence-free day boats are cheaper, from EUR 200 for 2 hours, EUR 350 for a half day. Larger RIBs (9-10m) or those with more powerful engines can cost EUR 600-800 for 2 hours and up to EUR 1,800 for a full day.
High season (June to September) prices are 20-30% higher. Low season (November to March) you can often negotiate a discount, especially if you book last minute. Fuel is usually included in the advertised price, but always confirm. If fuel is extra, budget EUR 100-200 for a half day, depending on how fast you go.
Deposits are typically EUR 200-500, refundable after the trip if there is no damage. Payment is usually by bank transfer or credit card. Cash is accepted by some operators, but not all. BoatHire24 listings show the price in EUR and whether fuel is included. You can filter by price range on the search page.
Best Routes and Destinations from Puerto Banús
With a speedboat, you can cover a lot of ground. Here are the most popular routes.
Cala del Faro (15 minutes). A small cove just east of Puerto Banús, near the lighthouse. It has clear water, rocky cliffs, and usually fewer crowds than the main beaches. The water is deep enough for jumping off the rocks. The skipper will anchor up and you can swim, snorkel, or just float. There are no facilities, so bring your own water and snacks.
Marbella Coastline (20-30 minutes). Cruise east past the Marbella Marina, the old town, and the long stretch of beaches like Nagüeles and La Fontanilla. You can stop at a beach club like La Sala or Mosh for lunch, but you need to reserve a mooring or anchor offshore and swim in. The skipper will know the best spots.
Estepona (45 minutes). Head west along the coast to Estepona. The old town is worth a visit, but from the water, the best stop is the port or the beach at Playa de la Rada. You can also anchor off the ‘Costa del Sol’ beach and walk into town. Estepona has a lovely promenade and a few good seafood restaurants.
Gibraltar and the Strait (1.5-2 hours). If you have a full day, you can go all the way to Gibraltar. The crossing takes about 1.5 hours from Puerto Banús in a fast RIB. You can see the Rock, the monkeys, and maybe even dolphins. The Strait is known for its pilot whales and common dolphins. The skipper will know the best spots. You can anchor off Catalan Bay for lunch, but you cannot land without a passport (Gibraltar is British territory).
Nerja Caves (2 hours). A longer trip east, past Málaga city, to the Nerja caves. The caves are not accessible from the water, but you can anchor at the nearby beach of Burriana and walk up. It is a full day trip, so budget for fuel and possibly lunch.
For a shorter trip, just head out to the open sea, drop anchor, and swim. The water is usually 18-24 degrees C from May to October.
Seasons and Weather Considerations
The Costa del Sol has over 300 days of sunshine a year, so you can hire a speedboat almost any month. But the sea conditions vary. From May to October, the sea is generally calm, with light winds and water temperatures of 18-24 degrees C. This is the peak season. July and August can be busy, with more boat traffic, but the weather is reliable.
From November to April, the water is cooler (14-18 degrees C) and the sea can be choppier, especially in the afternoons when the Levante wind picks up. Morning trips are usually calmer. Some operators run all year, but others close from December to February. You can still book, but check the weather forecast and be prepared for a bumpy ride. The advantage of low season is lower prices and fewer people.
Always check the marine forecast before you go. The skipper will make the final call on safety. If the sea is too rough, they will cancel or suggest an alternative. BoatHire24 operators have a flexible cancellation policy for weather-related issues.
How to Book a Speedboat in Puerto Banús
Booking through BoatHire24 is straightforward. Go to the search page, filter by ‘Speedboat’ or ‘RIB’, and select Puerto Banús as the departure port. You will see available boats with prices, photos, and a description. Each listing shows the maximum capacity, the included amenities, and the cancellation policy.
You can book online directly through the website. Payment is processed securely. After booking, you will receive a confirmation email with the operator’s contact details and meeting instructions. Most operators ask you to arrive 15 minutes before departure for the safety briefing. Bring sunscreen, a towel, and a change of clothes if you plan to swim. The skipper will provide water and ice.
If you are unsure which boat to choose, contact the operator via the BoatHire24 messaging system. They can advise on the best option for your group size and plans. You can also book a custom itinerary, like a sunset cruise or a trip to a specific beach club, for an additional fee.
For more tips on renting a boat in Marbella, check the BoatHire24 blog.
Who Is Speedboat Hire For?
Speedboat hire in Puerto Banús suits a range of people. Couples looking for a romantic sunset cruise. Groups of friends wanting a party boat (RIBs are great for music and drinks). Families with children, as long as the kids are old enough to wear a life jacket and sit still. Business groups or corporate events, for a team-building trip or client entertainment. Photographers or videographers who want to capture the coast from a different angle.
It is not ideal for anyone who gets seasick easily, especially in a fast RIB. The ride can be bumpy in choppy conditions. If you are prone to motion sickness, take medication an hour before departure. Also, speedboats have limited shade, so fair-skinned people should bring a hat and high-factor sunscreen.
If you want a slower, more relaxed experience, consider a catamaran or a sailing yacht. But for speed, thrill, and efficiency, a RIB or speedboat is the best choice.
Why Choose BoatHire24 for Your Speedboat Rental
BoatHire24 is a marketplace, not a rental company. That means you get multiple options from different operators, all vetted for safety and reliability. You can compare prices, read descriptions, and book directly. No middleman markups. The platform handles the booking and payment, but the operator runs the trip.
All operators are licensed, insured, and based locally. They know the coast, the weather patterns, and the best spots. You are not dealing with a faceless call centre. If you have a problem, BoatHire24 support is available via email or phone. The site is in English, and most operators speak English and Spanish.
Speedboat hire in Puerto Banús is a simple, enjoyable way to spend a few hours on the water. Book with BoatHire24 and get on with it.
Related guides
- Yacht Charter Puerto Banús, Day & Sunset Hire
- Speedboat Rental Puerto Banus: Fast & Fun
- Speedboat Charter Puerto Banus: Fast Fun on the Water
- Speedboat Hire Puerto Banus: No Licence Needed
- Marbella vs Puerto Banús: Which Departure Port to Choose
- Jet Ski Mykonos: Rent the Best Jet Skis on the Island
Own a boat? Airbnb for Boats: The Owner's Guide.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a boating licence to hire a speedboat in Puerto Banús?
No. Every speedboat rental through BoatHire24 includes a licensed skipper who handles the driving. You can take the helm under their supervision, but you do not need any licence or experience.
How much does speedboat hire in Puerto Banús cost?
Prices start from around EUR 350 for a 2-hour RIB rental and go up to EUR 1,200 for a full day, depending on the boat size, season, and duration. Licence-free day boats are cheaper, from EUR 200 for 2 hours. Fuel is usually included, but confirm with the operator.
Can I bring my own food and drink on the speedboat?
Yes, you can bring your own. Most boats have a cooler for drinks. Some operators offer catering options for an extra fee. You can also stop at a beach club for lunch, but you need to reserve a mooring in advance.
What is the maximum number of people on a speedboat?
It depends on the boat. RIBs typically seat 6 to 12 passengers. Licence-free day boats usually take up to 6 people. Check the listing for the exact capacity. The skipper is not counted in the passenger limit.
Is it safe to go on a speedboat with children?
Yes, but children must wear a life jacket at all times, which the operator provides. The skipper will give a safety briefing. For very young children, a slower boat or a catamaran might be more suitable. Ask the operator before booking.
What happens if the weather is bad on the day of my booking?
The skipper will assess the conditions and may cancel for safety reasons. BoatHire24 operators have a flexible cancellation policy for weather-related issues. You will receive a full refund or the option to reschedule.
Can I book a speedboat for a sunset cruise?
Yes, many operators offer sunset trips. They are usually 2-3 hours, departing around 18:00 in summer. The price is similar to a daytime rental. You can request a sunset cruise when booking through BoatHire24.