When planning a boat charter in Marbella, one of the first decisions is where to set sail. Most visitors choose between Cabopino, a quiet marina east of Marbella, and Puerto Banús, the glitzy superyacht hub west of the city. This guide compares both departure points for your Cabopino charter departure Marbella needs, so you can pick the best base for your trip.
Puerto Banús: The Primary Departure Point
Puerto Banús is our main departure marina for all boats in our fleet, from the Astondoa 40 (€749/2h) to the Mangusta 80 (€4,719/4h). Located 6 km west of Marbella centre, it offers world-class facilities, dozens of restaurants, and easy access to the Costa del Sol's best anchorages. Every charter includes a licensed skipper, fuel, drinks, snacks, and insurance.
Cabopino: A Quieter Alternative
Cabopino is a smaller marina 12 km east of Marbella, near the Cabopino Dunes nature reserve. It's less crowded than Puerto Banús and has free parking. While we don't operate charters from Cabopino, it's a popular departure point for private boats and a great spot to visit during a charter from Puerto Banús.
Distance and Travel Time
Puerto Banús and Cabopino are 8 nautical miles apart. At a cruising speed of 20 knots, it takes about 25 minutes by boat. This means you can easily include Cabopino in your itinerary if you depart from Puerto Banús. Popular stops include Cala del Faro and the Cabopino beach.
Pricing and Boats Available
| Boat | Length | Capacity | Price (2h) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Astondoa 40 | 12.5 m | 9 pax | €749 |
| Azimut 39 | 12.5 m | 11 pax | €749 |
| Mangusta 80 | 24 m | 12 pax | €4,719 (4h min) |
All prices include VAT, skipper, fuel, drinks, and snacks. For other boats like the Ferretti 94 or Azimut 58, pricing is on request via WhatsApp.
Facilities and Amenities
Puerto Banús has luxury boutiques, 24-hour security, and a wide range of dining options. Cabopino is more rustic, with a beach bar and a small supermarket. If you want a pre- or post-charter meal, Puerto Banús is the better choice. Both marinas have public toilets and parking.
Best Itineraries from Each Departure Point
From Puerto Banús, you can head west to Estepona or east to Marbella's Golden Mile. From Cabopino, you're closer to Cala Cortés and the Cabopino Dunes. Most skippers recommend a route that includes both marinas, giving you the best of both worlds.
Which Departure Point Should You Choose?
If you value convenience, facilities, and a lively atmosphere, choose Puerto Banús. If you prefer a quieter, more relaxed start, consider Cabopino – but note that all our charters depart from Puerto Banús. For a seamless experience, book your charter from Puerto Banús and ask your skipper to include Cabopino in your route.
Frequently asked questions
Can I charter a boat from Cabopino instead of Puerto Banús?
All our boats currently depart from Puerto Banús. Cabopino is a possible alternative for private arrangements, but we recommend Puerto Banús for its facilities and convenience.
What is the difference in price between Cabopino and Puerto Banús charters?
Prices are the same regardless of departure point, as we only operate from Puerto Banús. Tier A boats cost €749/2h, and Tier B boats like the Mangusta 80 start at €4,719/4h.
Which departure point is closer to Marbella city centre?
Puerto Banús is about 6 km west of Marbella centre, while Cabopino is 12 km east. Puerto Banús is more accessible for most visitors.
Are there any advantages to departing from Cabopino?
Cabopino is quieter and has a more relaxed vibe. It's also near the Cabopino Dunes, a nature reserve, offering a different coastal scenery. However, we only depart from Puerto Banús.
What is included in the charter price from Puerto Banús?
Every charter includes a licensed skipper, fuel, water, soft drinks, beer, white wine, cava, light snacks, insurance, safety equipment, and Spanish IVA (21%).
How far is Puerto Banús from Cabopino by sea?
Puerto Banús and Cabopino are about 8 nautical miles apart. A boat at cruising speed (20 knots) takes around 25 minutes to travel between them.
Can I visit Cabopino on a charter from Puerto Banús?
Yes, many charters include stops at Cabopino beach or nearby coves like Cala del Faro. Just let your skipper know your preferred itinerary.
Is parking easier at Cabopino or Puerto Banús?
Cabopino has free parking near the marina, while Puerto Banús has paid parking (around €2/hour). Both are accessible, but Cabopino is less congested.