Planning a day on the water in Marbella? The first question most people ask is: do I need a boat licence to rent a boat in Marbella in 2025? The short answer: no, if you book a skippered charter. All our boats come with a licensed skipper, so you can simply step aboard and enjoy. But if you're considering a bareboat rental or want to know the rules for driving yourself, here's everything you need to know.
Do you need a licence for a skippered boat rental?
No. When you rent a boat with a skipper, the captain is responsible for navigation, safety, and docking. You don't need any licence, not even a basic one. This is the most common way to charter in Puerto Banús, and it's perfect for families, groups, and celebrations. You can still take the helm under the skipper's supervision if you want a go.
All our charters include a licensed skipper, fuel, water, soft drinks, beer, white wine, cava, light snacks, insurance, and safety equipment. The Spanish IVA (21%) is also included in the price. So the only thing you need to bring is sunscreen.
What about bareboat rental (no skipper)?
If you want to rent a boat without a skipper, you'll need a valid boating licence. In Spain, the requirements depend on the boat's length and engine power. For boats up to 6m and 40kW, a basic 'Licencia de Navegación' suffices. For boats up to 8m, you need a PER (Patrón de Embarcaciones de Recreo). For boats up to 15m, you need a PPER (Patrón de Embarcaciones de Recreo) or an acceptable equivalent.
Note: We don't offer bareboat rentals. All our boats, from the 6.4m Mariah SX21 to the 29m Ferretti 94, are skippered. This ensures your safety and lets you relax.
Spanish boating licences explained (2025)
Spain has a tiered system for recreational boating licences. Here are the main ones:
- Licencia de Navegación – for boats up to 6m and 40kW (approx. 54hp). Minimum age 16. Requires a short theory test and practical training.
- Patrón de Navegación Básica (PNB) – for boats up to 8m and 40kW, and jet skis. Minimum age 16. More comprehensive than the Licencia.
- Patrón de Embarcaciones de Recreo (PER) – for boats up to 8m and 12 nautical miles from shore. Minimum age 18. This is the most popular licence for recreational sailors.
- Patrón de Yate – for boats up to 15m. Requires a PER as a prerequisite.
- Capitan de Yate – for boats up to 24m. Advanced qualification.
For non-residents, the International Certificate of Competence (ICC) is generally accepted for boats up to 15m, provided it's issued by a recognised authority (e.g., the RYA in the UK).
What licence do I need for a specific boat size?
| Boat length | Required licence (Spain) | International equivalent |
|---|---|---|
| Up to 6m | Licencia de Navegación | ICC |
| Up to 8m | PER or PNB | ICC |
| Up to 15m | PPER or Patrón de Yate | ICC (up to 15m) |
| Over 15m | Capitan de Yate (or higher) | Not typically accepted |
As you can see, most bareboat charters in Marbella are for boats under 15m. If you want a larger vessel, a skipper is mandatory.
Do you need a licence for a jet ski in Marbella?
Yes, to drive a jet ski independently you need a 'Licencia de Navegación' or a PNB. However, on our Mangusta 80 charter, a jet ski is included free of charge (minimum 4 hours, €4,719). The jet ski is used under the captain's supervision, so no extra licence is required for you.
Our fleet and licence-free charters
All our boats depart from Puerto Banús, Marbella's glamorous marina. You can choose from:
- Astondoa 40 (12.5m, 9 pax) – €749/2h, €2,299/8h
- Azimut 39 (12.5m, 11 pax) – €749/2h, €2,299/8h
- Mangusta 80 (24m, 12 pax) – €4,719/4h minimum
- Azimut 58 Flybridge (17.6m, 12 pax) – pricing on request
- Ferretti 94 (29m, 12 pax) – pricing on request
- And many more: view the full fleet.
Every charter includes a licensed skipper, so you don't need any licence. Just bring your swimsuit and sunglasses.
What about insurance and age requirements?
All our charters include full insurance and safety equipment. The minimum age to charter a boat with us is 18, and children are welcome. There is no upper age limit. For skippered charters, there are no medical requirements beyond being fit to enjoy a day at sea.
If you have specific questions about your situation, contact us via WhatsApp. We'll advise you on the best boat and any licence considerations (though for our charters, none are needed).
Renting a boat in Marbella without a licence – step by step
- Choose your boat from our fleet – from the compact 6.4m Mariah SX21 to the 29m Ferretti 94.
- Pick a time slot – morning, sunset, or full day.
- We confirm availability and send you a quote.
- Show up at Puerto Banús, meet your skipper, and board.
- Enjoy the Costa del Sol – from Cala del Faro to Cala Cortés, or head to Cabopino or Estepona.
No paperwork, no licence checks, no stress.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a boat licence to rent a boat in Marbella?
No, if you book a skippered charter. All our boats come with a licensed skipper, so you don't need any licence. You can relax and enjoy the coast. For bareboat (self-drive) rentals, you would need a valid licence, but we don't offer bareboat charters.
What licence do I need to drive a boat in Spain?
For recreational boating in Spain, you need a Spanish 'Licencia de Navegación' (up to 6m and 40kW), a 'Patrón de Embarcaciones de Recreo' (PER) for boats up to 8m, or a 'Patrón de Yate' for larger vessels. Non-residents can use an International Certificate of Competence (ICC) for boats up to 15m.
Can I rent a boat in Marbella without a licence?
Yes. The easiest way is to book a skippered charter: our captain handles everything. You can still steer under supervision if you like. This is the most popular option for tourists and requires zero paperwork.
Is an ICC accepted for boat rental in Spain?
Yes, the International Certificate of Competence (ICC) is accepted for bareboat charter in Spain for boats up to 15m (approx. 49ft). It must be issued by a recognised authority. For boats over 15m, you'd typically need a higher qualification.
What is the PER licence in Spain?
PER stands for Patrón de Embarcaciones de Recreo. It's the most common Spanish recreational boating licence, allowing you to operate boats up to 8m (26ft) within 12 nautical miles of the coast. It requires a theory exam, practical training, and a medical certificate.
Can I rent a boat in Marbella with a foreign driving licence?
No, a car driving licence is not valid for boats. You need a specific boating licence. However, if you book a skippered charter, no licence is needed at all.
Do I need a licence for a jet ski in Marbella?
Yes, to drive a jet ski independently you need a 'Licencia de Navegación' or a PNB (Patrón de Navegación Básica). But on our Mangusta 80 charter, a free jet ski is included and operated under the captain's supervision, so no extra licence is needed.
Last updated: 2025. Always verify current regulations with the relevant Spanish authority, as rules can change.