Choosing between a catamaran and a flybridge for your Marbella boat charter often comes down to how you want to spend the day. The Lagoon 380 (11.6m, 10 pax) and the Azimut 58 Flybridge (17.6m, 12 pax) represent two very different philosophies: stability and space vs speed and style. Both depart from Puerto Banús and include a skipper, drinks, snacks, insurance, and 21% IVA. Below we break down the differences so you can pick the right boat for your group.
Lagoon 380 – The Stable Catamaran
The Lagoon 380 is a 11.6-metre catamaran that sleeps up to 10 passengers. Its twin hulls provide exceptional stability, making it ideal for families or groups with anyone prone to seasickness. The wide beam (6.25m) creates a spacious aft deck and a large saloon that connects to the cockpit. A trampoline net at the bow is perfect for sunbathing or lounging over the water. Cruising speed is around 8-10 knots, so this boat is best for relaxed coastal cruising, anchoring in coves like Cala del Faro or Cala Cortés, and swimming stops.
Azimut 58 Flybridge – The Speedy Motor Yacht
The Azimut 58 Flybridge is a 17.6-metre motor yacht with a single hull and a top speed of over 30 knots. It accommodates up to 12 passengers and features a flybridge with sun pads, a helm station, and seating – ideal for panoramic views of the Marbella coastline, La Concha, and the Golden Mile. Below deck, you’ll find a modern galley, a dining saloon, and three cabins. The Azimut 58 can reach Estepona in 30 minutes or Sotogrande in 1.5 hours, making it perfect for day trips that cover more distance.
Space and Layout Comparison
| Feature | Lagoon 380 | Azimut 58 Flybridge |
|---|---|---|
| Length | 11.6m | 17.6m |
| Max passengers | 10 | 12 |
| Cruising speed | 8-10 kts | 20-25 kts |
| Deck space | Wide aft deck + trampoline bow | Flybridge + foredeck sun pads |
| Stability | Excellent (twin hulls) | Good (monohull) |
| Best for | Relaxed cruising, families, swimming | Speed, longer trips, sunset views |
Speed and Range
The Azimut 58 can cruise at 20-25 knots, meaning you can cover 20 nautical miles in under an hour. That makes trips to Estepona (10 NM), Sotogrande (25 NM), or even Gibraltar (30 NM) feasible in a half-day charter. The Lagoon 380, with its 8-10 knot cruising speed, is better suited for shorter distances – think Marbella Marina to Cabopino (5 NM) or anchoring off the Golden Mile. If you want to explore multiple coves or visit a beach club further along the coast, the Azimut 58 is the better choice.
Stability and Comfort at Anchor
When anchored in a bay like Cala Cortés or off the coast of Puerto Banús, the Lagoon 380’s twin hulls keep the boat almost level, even with a light swell. This makes it a favourite for families with children or anyone who feels queasy on a monohull. The Azimut 58 is stable for a motor yacht but will roll more in beam seas. However, its gyroscopic stabilisers (if fitted) can reduce motion. For a full day at anchor with swimming and lunch, the Lagoon 380 offers superior comfort.
Sunbathing and Social Areas
The Azimut 58’s flybridge is the star: a large sun pad aft of the helm, a U-shaped settee, and a small table for snacks. From here, you get unobstructed views of the coast. The foredeck has additional sun pads. The Lagoon 380’s aft deck is wide and shaded, with a fixed table for dining. The trampoline net at the bow is unique – you can lie directly over the water, feeling the spray. Which you prefer depends on whether you want a raised vantage point (Azimut) or a more integrated, water-level experience (Lagoon).
Pricing and Booking
Pricing for both the Lagoon 380 and Azimut 58 is available on request via WhatsApp. As a reference, our Tier A boats (Astondoa 40, Azimut 39) start at €749 for 2 hours, but these larger vessels have different rates. We recommend contacting us for a custom quote based on your group size, duration, and preferred itinerary. Both charters include a licensed skipper, fuel, water, soft drinks, beer, white wine, cava, light snacks, insurance, safety equipment, and IVA. You can view our full fleet here.
Which One Should You Choose?
If your priority is stability, family-friendly space, and a relaxed day swimming and sunbathing, go with the Lagoon 380. It’s perfect for groups up to 10 who want to anchor in a quiet cove and enjoy the water without rushing. If you want to cover ground, enjoy a flybridge with panoramic views, and have the option to visit Estepona or Sotogrande in a half-day, the Azimut 58 Flybridge is the better fit. Both boats deliver a premium Marbella charter experience, but they suit different styles of day on the water.
Frequently asked questions
Which boat is more stable in choppy waters off Marbella?
The Lagoon 380 catamaran is significantly more stable due to its twin hulls. It reduces roll and makes seasickness less likely, especially on days with light chop. The Azimut 58, while stable for a monohull, will have more motion in swells.
Can I take the Azimut 58 to Estepona or Sotogrande in one day?
Yes. The Azimut 58 cruises at 20+ knots, so you can reach Estepona (10 NM) in about 30 minutes or Sotogrande (25 NM) in 1.5 hours. The Lagoon 380 is slower (8-10 knots), so you'd need a full day for longer trips.
Which boat has more deck space for sunbathing?
The Azimut 58 offers a large flybridge with sun pads and a forward sunbathing area. The Lagoon 380 has a wide aft deck and a trampoline net at the bow, but the flybridge of the Azimut provides more dedicated lounging space.
Is the Lagoon 380 suitable for a party of 10?
Yes, the Lagoon 380 accommodates up to 10 passengers comfortably. Its open-plan saloon and twin hulls provide ample room for socialising without feeling cramped. However, for a larger party with more luggage, the Azimut 58 is better.
Do both boats include a skipper and drinks?
Yes. Every charter from our fleet includes a licensed skipper, fuel, water, soft drinks, beer, white wine, cava, light snacks, insurance, safety equipment, and Spanish IVA (21%). You just need to bring your own food if desired.
Which boat is better for a sunset cruise along the Golden Mile?
Both are excellent, but the Azimut 58’s flybridge offers a higher vantage point for panoramic views of La Concha and the coastline. The Lagoon 380’s wide aft deck is also great for lounging with drinks during sunset.
Can I swim and anchor near Cala del Faro with either boat?
Yes. Both boats can anchor in shallow coves like Cala del Faro or Cala Cortés. The Lagoon 380’s shallow draft (approx. 1.2m) allows it to get closer to shore. The Azimut 58 has a deeper draft but can still anchor safely in most spots.
How do I book either boat for a charter in Marbella?
Contact us via WhatsApp for availability and pricing. Both boats depart from Puerto Banús. We recommend booking at least 48 hours in advance, especially during July and August. You can also check our full fleet.