Planning a Marbella boat rental what to bring food and drinks onboard is one of the most common questions we hear. You've booked your dream day on the water – now you need to pack smart. This guide covers what's included, what you can bring, and what to leave at home, based on years of experience cruising from Puerto Banús to Cala Cortés and beyond.
What's Already Included in Your Charter
Every boat in our fleet comes with a licensed skipper, fuel, insurance, and a welcome pack. The welcome pack includes water, soft drinks, beer, white wine, cava, and light snacks (crisps, olives, nuts). This is included in the price – no hidden extras. For the full list of inclusions, see our Marbella boat rental hub.
Can You Bring Your Own Food and Drinks?
Absolutely. You are welcome to bring your own food and additional drinks on any charter. There is no corkage fee, no surcharge, and no restrictions – just common sense. We recommend avoiding glass bottles for safety, especially on smaller boats like the Dubhe (8m) or Mariah SX21 (6.4m). Use shatterproof containers and plastic bottles instead.
Best Foods to Bring Onboard
Skippers recommend easy-to-eat finger foods. Think sandwiches, wraps, fruit skewers, cheese and crackers, sushi, or pre-made salads. Avoid anything too saucy or messy – the boat will rock, and spills happen. Popular spots like Cala Cortés and Cabopino are perfect for a picnic lunch between swims.
For longer charters (8 hours on the Astondoa 40 or Azimut 39), consider a proper picnic. For shorter trips (2–4 hours on the Speedboat or Red Tide), light snacks suffice.
Drinks: What to Bring and What's Provided
Your charter includes water, soft drinks, beer, white wine, and cava. If you prefer spirits or cocktails, bring your own in plastic bottles. The cooler on boats like the Azimut 58 Flybridge (17.6m) can handle plenty of provisions. Remember: the Mediterranean sun amplifies alcohol effects, so pace yourself.
For families, bring extra juice boxes and water for kids. The Mangusta 80 (24m) has ample fridge space for everyone.
What Not to Bring
- Glass bottles – safety hazard on deck and in the water
- Heavy coolers – our boats have built-in coolers
- Red wine (stains decks) – stick to white or rosé
- Open flames (BBQs, candles) – not permitted on any charter
- Large suitcases – pack a soft bag instead
Supermarkets and Shopping Near Puerto Banús
Within a 5-minute walk from Puerto Banús, you'll find a Mercadona and a Carrefour Express for last-minute supplies. Local delis offer pre-made catering hampers. We recommend shopping the morning of your charter for freshness. If you're staying on the Golden Mile, many hotels can prepare a picnic box on request.
Dietary Restrictions and Special Requests
Our included snacks are vegetarian-friendly. If you need vegan, gluten-free, halal, or other specific options, please bring your own. The skipper can recommend quiet coves like Cala del Faro or Cala Cortés where you can moor and enjoy your own food. For larger groups on the Ferretti 94 (29m), we can arrange catering on request – just ask when booking.
Packing Checklist for Your Marbella Boat Day
- Sunscreen (SPF 50+) – reapply every 2 hours
- Sunglasses and hat
- Swimwear and towel
- Change of dry clothes
- Phone waterproof case
- Your own food and drinks (if supplementing)
- Plastic bottles for drinks (no glass)
- Motion sickness tablets (if prone)
- Camera or GoPro
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I bring my own food and drinks on a Marbella boat rental?
Yes, you are welcome to bring your own food and drinks on any of our charters. There is no corkage fee or extra charge. We do recommend using shatterproof containers and avoiding glass bottles for safety, especially on smaller boats like the Dubhe (8m) or Mariah SX21 (6.4m).
What food is already included in the charter?
Every charter includes light snacks (typically crisps, olives, or nuts), plus a selection of drinks: water, soft drinks, beer, white wine, and cava. This is included in the price – see our fleet page for full details. For longer charters (8 hours), you may want to supplement with a proper meal.
What are the best foods to bring on a boat in Marbella?
Skippers recommend finger foods that don't require cutlery: sandwiches, wraps, fruit skewers, cheese and crackers, sushi, or pre-made salads. Avoid anything too saucy or messy. Cala Cortés and Cabopino are popular swimming spots where you'll want easy-to-eat snacks between dips.
Is it okay to bring glass bottles on a boat?
We strongly advise against glass bottles. Broken glass is a safety hazard on deck and in the water. Transfer drinks to plastic or stainless steel bottles. Our boats like the Azimut 58 Flybridge (17.6m) have plenty of cooler space for your provisions.
Can I bring alcohol on board?
Yes, you can bring additional alcohol if you wish. Our charters already include beer, white wine, and cava. If you prefer spirits, bring them in plastic bottles. The skipper will keep them chilled. Remember to drink responsibly – the Mediterranean sun can intensify effects.
What should I bring for kids on a boat charter?
Pack extra snacks, juice boxes, and plenty of water. Bring floaties or life vests (we have children's sizes onboard). Sun hats and rash guards are essential. The Bandido (11.5m) and Lagoon 380 (11.6m) are popular family-friendly options.
Are there supermarkets near Puerto Banús to buy supplies?
Yes, there's a Mercadona and a Carrefour Express within 5 minutes' walk of Puerto Banús. You can also pre-order a catering hamper from local delis. We recommend shopping the morning of your charter for freshness.
What if I have dietary restrictions?
Our included snacks are vegetarian-friendly (olives, nuts, crisps). If you have specific dietary needs – vegan, gluten-free, halal – bring your own food. The skipper can advise on suitable picnic spots like Cala del Faro where you can moor and eat.