Planning a Marbella yacht charter in 2028? The good news: you don't need a boating licence for most private charters. All our boats from Puerto Banús include a licensed skipper who handles navigation, safety, and docking. This guide covers exactly what you need — from licence requirements to passenger limits and documents.
Do You Need a Licence for a Skippered Charter?
No. If you book a skippered charter with us, you do not need any personal boating licence. The skipper holds a valid Spanish qualification (PER or higher) and is responsible for the vessel. You just show up, relax, and enjoy the Costa del Sol. This applies to every boat in our fleet, from the 6.4m Mariah SX21 up to the 29m Ferretti 94.
Bareboat Charter: When a Licence Is Required
If you want to charter a boat without a skipper (bareboat), you need a Spanish PER (Patrón de Embarcaciones de Recreo) licence or an International Certificate of Competence (ICC) accepted in Spain. The PER allows you to operate motor yachts up to 24m in length. For non-residents, an ICC from your home country is often sufficient. Bareboat charters are less common in Marbella and subject to boat availability and insurance approval.
Passenger Limits on Our Fleet
Spanish maritime law limits passengers to 12 on most motor yachts over 12m. Smaller boats have lower caps:
- Astondoa 40 (12.5m): 9 pax
- Azimut 39 (12.5m): 11 pax
- Mangusta 80 (24m): 12 pax
- Bandido (11.5m): 8 pax
- Dubhe (8m): 5 pax
- Mariah SX21 (6.4m): 5 pax
Always check the specific boat page for exact numbers. Overloading is illegal and unsafe.
Documents You Need to Bring
For a skippered charter, bring a valid passport or national ID for every passenger. No licence, no certificate. The skipper handles all paperwork. For bareboat charters, you must present your PER or ICC and passport. It's also wise to carry travel insurance covering water activities.
Jet Ski Licence Rules
Jet skis require a separate licence in Spain (Spanish or international). On our Mangusta 80 charters, a jet ski is included free for 4-hour bookings. The skipper operates it unless you hold a valid jet ski licence. You can also hire a jet ski separately from Puerto Banús with a short-term permit from the rental company.
Age Restrictions
You must be 18 or older to book a charter. There is no upper age limit. Children are welcome on skippered charters. For bareboat charters, the licence holder must be at least 18. Life jackets are provided for all ages.
What's Included in Every Skippered Charter
Every booking includes: licensed skipper, fuel, water, soft drinks, beer, white wine, cava, light snacks, insurance, safety equipment, and Spanish IVA (21% VAT). No hidden fees. Prices start at €749 for 2 hours on the Astondoa 40 or Azimut 39.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a licence to charter a yacht in Marbella in 2028?
No, you do not need a personal licence if you book a skippered charter. All our boats come with a licensed skipper who handles navigation. You simply relax and enjoy. This applies to boats like the Astondoa 40 or Mangusta 80 up to 24m.
Can I charter a boat without a skipper in Marbella?
Yes, but only if you hold a valid Spanish PER (Patrón de Embarcaciones de Recreo) licence or an International Certificate of Competence (ICC) accepted in Spain. Bareboat charters are less common and subject to boat availability and insurance approval.
What is the maximum passenger limit on a skippered charter?
Most motor yachts over 12m in our fleet carry up to 12 passengers. Smaller boats like the Mariah SX21 (6.4m) take 5, and the Dubhe (8m) takes 5. The Bandido (11.5m) takes 8. Always check the specific boat page for exact numbers.
What documents do I need to bring for a skippered charter?
You need a valid passport or national ID for all passengers. No boating licence is required. The skipper handles all paperwork. For bareboat charters, you must present your PER or ICC and passport.
Do I need a licence to drive a jet ski in Marbella?
Yes, jet ski hire requires a Spanish or international jet ski licence (or a short-term permit from the rental company). Our Mangusta 80 charters include a jet ski, but the skipper operates it for safety unless you have a licence.
What is the PER licence and how do I get one?
The PER (Patrón de Embarcaciones de Recreo) is the Spanish licence for boats up to 24m. You can obtain it through a Spanish nautical school after a theory exam and practical course. It takes about 2-4 weeks. Non-residents can use an ICC instead.
Are there age restrictions for chartering a yacht?
You must be at least 18 to book a charter. There is no upper age limit. Children are welcome on skippered charters. For bareboat charters, the minimum age for the licence holder is usually 18.
What happens if I don't have a licence but want to drive the boat?
On skippered charters, the skipper is in command at all times. You cannot legally take the helm without a licence. However, some skippers may offer a supervised 'try it' experience in open water for a short period — ask at booking.