The tuna fishing season in Marbella runs from June to November, peaking in August–October when Atlantic bluefin tuna migrate through the Alboran Sea. With water temperatures hitting 26 °C and fish weighing over 200 kg, it’s one of Europe’s most exciting sport‑fishing windows. This guide covers what you need to know for a 2046 charter from Puerto Banús — the best months, target species, and which boats to book.
Why Marbella for tuna fishing?
Marbella sits on the Costa del Sol, 30 NM from the Strait of Gibraltar — a natural bottleneck for bluefin tuna migrating from the Atlantic into the Mediterranean. The deep waters off Cabopino and Cala del Faro hold tuna from early summer through late autumn. Puerto Banús gives you direct access to these grounds, with no long transit times. In 2046, the season is expected to follow the same pattern, with early arrivals in June and the heaviest fish in September.
Best months for bluefin tuna
| Month | Water temp (°C) | Activity level | Typical weight (kg) |
|---|---|---|---|
| June | 20–22 | Moderate | 30–80 |
| July | 22–24 | Good | 50–120 |
| August | 24–26 | Excellent | 80–200+ |
| September | 24–26 | Peak | 100–250+ |
| October | 22–24 | Very good | 60–150 |
| November | 18–20 | Moderate | 30–70 |
August and September are the prime months for trophy bluefin. If you want a quieter trip with fewer boats, June and November offer decent action with lighter crowds.
What tackle and techniques are used?
Tuna fishing in Marbella typically uses trolling with artificial lures or live bait. Skippers deploy rigged ballyhoo, squid skirts, or poppers to attract surface‑feeding fish. For larger bluefin, stand‑up rod and reel combos with 80–130 lb class gear are standard. If you prefer a more active approach, spinning with heavy poppers works well when fish are breaking water. Your skipper will provide all necessary gear — just let us know your experience level when booking.
Which boats are best for tuna fishing?
For small groups (up to 8 pax), the Bandido (11.5 m) is a nimble choice. For larger parties, the Azimut 58 Flybridge (17.6 m, 12 pax) offers comfort and range. The Mangusta 80 (24 m, 12 pax) includes a jet ski and is ideal for a luxury day out. All boats depart from Puerto Banús. See our full fleet on the Boat Rental Marbella homepage.
Pricing and what’s included
- Tier A (Astondoa 40, Azimut 39): €749 for 2 h, €2,299 for 8 h — all inclusive.
- Tier B (Mangusta 80): €4,719 minimum 4 h, includes a jet ski.
- Other boats: pricing on request via WhatsApp.
Every charter includes a licensed skipper, fuel, water, soft drinks, beer, white wine, cava, light snacks, insurance, safety equipment, and Spanish IVA (21%). Fishing tackle can be arranged on request.
Where to fish: hotspots near Marbella
Popular grounds include the waters off Cabopino, Cala del Faro, and the deep channel south of Estepona. The drop‑off near the Río Verde river mouth also holds tuna in late summer. Your skipper will know the day’s best location based on sea temperature and bird activity. A full‑day charter (8 h) gives you time to explore multiple spots.
How to book a tuna fishing charter for 2046
Reserve your boat early — August and September slots fill quickly. Contact us via WhatsApp for availability on your preferred dates. For more tips on planning your trip, read our tuna fishing season guide or browse the full fleet.
Frequently asked questions
When does tuna fishing season start in Marbella?
The bluefin tuna season typically runs from June to November, with the peak catch months being August, September, and October. Water temperatures in the Alboran Sea reach 22–26 °C, attracting large schools close to the coast.
What type of tuna can I catch off Marbella?
The primary target is Atlantic bluefin tuna (Thunnus thynnus), which can weigh over 200 kg. You may also encounter skipjack and albacore, especially in late summer. The Strait of Gibraltar migration route passes just 30 NM from Puerto Banús.
Do I need a fishing licence to charter a boat in Marbella?
No. When you charter a boat with a licensed skipper, the boat’s commercial fishing permit covers the trip. You can fish without a personal licence, provided you follow the skipper’s instructions and local catch limits.
What is included in a fishing charter 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%). Fishing tackle can be arranged on request – just ask when booking.
How many people can go on a tuna fishing charter?
Our fleet ranges from the Dubhe (8 m, 5 pax) to the Ferretti 94 (29 m, 12 pax). Most tuna fishing trips work well with 6–10 guests. Smaller boats like the Bandido (8 pax) are ideal for a focused day on the water.
Can I keep the tuna I catch?
Yes, within legal limits. Bluefin tuna is subject to strict EU quotas. Your skipper will advise on size and bag limits. Many charters practise catch-and-release for large breeders to support sustainable stocks.
What is the best time of day for tuna fishing?
Early morning (06:00–09:00) and late afternoon (16:00–19:00) are most productive, as tuna feed actively near the surface. A full-day charter (8 h) gives you the best chance to follow the fish as they move.
How much does a tuna fishing charter cost in Marbella?
Tier A boats (e.g., Azimut 39) cost €749 for 2 h or €2,299 for 8 h. Tier B boats (Mangusta 80) start at €4,719 for 4 h and include a jet ski. For other boats, pricing is on request via WhatsApp. All prices include skipper, fuel, drinks, snacks, and VAT.