Planning a Marbella boat rental and wondering what food to bring? You’re not alone. Whether you’re heading out on a Marbella boat rental for a few hours or a full day, knowing what to pack can make or break the experience. This checklist covers everything you need – from what’s already included to the best foods to bring, and what to leave behind.
All our charters depart from Puerto Banús, Marbella, and include a licensed skipper, fuel, insurance, VAT, and a selection of drinks and snacks. But you’re free to bring your own provisions. Here’s how to do it right.
What’s Already Included on Your Charter?
Every boat in our fleet comes with a standard package of drinks and light snacks. You don’t need to bring water, soft drinks, beer, white wine, or cava – they’re all on board. Light snacks like crisps, nuts, and olives are also provided. On Tier A boats (Astondoa 40, Azimut 39) this is included in the €749/2h price. Tier B boats (Mangusta 80, Mangusta 80 Grey) include the same plus a free jet ski from €4,719/4h.
For other boats like the Ferretti 94, Canados 86, or Azimut 58 Flybridge, pricing is on request via WhatsApp, but the same inclusions apply. So you only need to bring extra food you personally want.
Best Foods to Bring on a Marbella Boat Rental
The Mediterranean sun, sea breeze, and slow cruising call for simple, fresh food. Here’s what works best:
- Fresh fruit – grapes, melon chunks, strawberries, and apple slices. Easy to eat, hydrating, and no mess.
- Deli platters – cured meats like jamón ibérico, chorizo, and salami, plus manchego cheese and olives. Buy from a local deli in Puerto Banús.
- Spanish tortilla – a classic that travels well and tastes great at room temperature.
- Sushi or spring rolls – light, cool, and easy to handle.
- Sandwiches or wraps – keep them simple: chicken, lettuce, tomato, or tuna. Avoid mayo if it’s hot.
- Salads in a jar – pre-mixed salads in a sealed container stay fresh and don’t spill.
What to Avoid Bringing
Some foods are best left onshore. Avoid anything that melts, spoils quickly, or creates a mess:
- Chocolate – it melts in the heat and stains upholstery.
- Mayonnaise-based salads – coleslaw, potato salad, egg salad. They can turn in the sun.
- Sticky or saucy dishes – ribs, wings, or anything with barbecue sauce. Too messy on a boat.
- Crumbly pastries – croissants, puff pastry, or anything that sheds crumbs everywhere.
- Glass bottles – never bring glass on a boat. It’s a safety hazard. Use plastic or cans.
Drinks: What to Bring (and What’s Covered)
As noted, all charters include water, soft drinks, beer, white wine, and cava. If you want spirits, cocktails, or premium wines, bring your own in plastic or cans. A small cooler is fine – most boats have fridges and ice boxes. Remember: no glass.
For a longer charter (8 hours on a Tier A boat costs €2,299), you might want more variety. A bottle of gin or rum, some tonic, and fresh lime can make for a great sundowner.
Pro Tips for a Perfect Day on the Water
Here are a few insider tips from our skippers:
- Pack in a soft cooler bag – easy to stow and won’t scratch the deck.
- Bring reusable plates and cups – paper plates blow away. Lightweight melamine or bamboo works well.
- Cut everything before boarding – no need for knives on the boat. Pre-slice fruit, cheese, and meats.
- Stay hydrated – the sun and sea air dehydrate you faster than you think. Our included water is unlimited, so drink up.
- Consider the itinerary – if you’re stopping at a beach club (like at Cabopino or Cala del Faro), you can eat there too. Many guests do a mix of onboard snacks and a lunch stop.
What About Special Diets?
We can accommodate basic requests if advised in advance, but for specific dietary needs (gluten-free, vegan, keto) we recommend bringing your own food. Most boats have a fridge to store it. Local supermarkets in Marbella and Puerto Banús stock plenty of options – just ask us for the nearest one.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I bring my own food and drink on a Marbella boat rental?
Yes, absolutely. You are welcome to bring your own food and drinks on any of our charters. There are no restrictions, though we recommend avoiding glass bottles for safety. Our boats already include water, soft drinks, beer, white wine, cava, and light snacks, so you only need to supplement with your favourites.
What food is included in the boat rental price?
Every charter includes light snacks such as crisps, nuts, or olives, along with unlimited water, soft drinks, beer, white wine, and cava. For Tier A boats (Astondoa 40, Azimut 39) this is part of the €749/2h price. Tier B boats (Mangusta 80) include the same plus a free jet ski.
What are the best foods to bring on a boat in Marbella?
Fresh fruit (grapes, melon, berries), deli platters with cured meats and cheese, Spanish tortilla, sushi, sandwiches, and salads all travel well. Avoid anything that melts easily (chocolate) or requires reheating. Finger foods are ideal because there’s limited table space.
Should I bring glass bottles on a boat?
No. Glass bottles are a safety hazard on a moving boat – they can break and cause injuries or damage. Use plastic or aluminium cans instead. Our included drinks come in cans or plastic, and we recommend you do the same for any extra beverages you bring.
Can I bring a cooler or esky on the boat?
Yes, you can bring a small cooler or esky. Our boats have onboard fridges and ice boxes, but extra cooling space is fine. Just ensure it’s not too large to stow away safely. The skipper can advise on the best spot to keep it.
What foods should I avoid bringing on a boat?
Avoid foods that spoil quickly in heat, such as mayonnaise-based salads, dairy-heavy dishes, or anything that requires refrigeration if left out. Also skip messy foods like sticky ribs or crumbly pastries. Stick to easy, clean finger foods.
Do you cater for dietary restrictions or allergies?
The included snacks and drinks are standard, but we can accommodate basic requests if advised in advance. For specific dietary needs (gluten-free, vegan, etc.) we recommend bringing your own food. Most boats have a fridge to store it.
Can I order catering or a hamper for my Marbella boat trip?
We don’t offer in-house catering, but you can easily arrange a hamper from local delis or supermarkets. Many guests pick up a picnic from places like Mercadona or Carrefour in Puerto Banús. Some premium caterers in Marbella deliver to the marina – ask us for recommendations.
Ready to book? Check our Marbella boat rental options and start planning your perfect day on the Mediterranean.