Planning a Marbella yacht charter in 2026? One of the first questions that comes up is age. Whether you're organising a family day out, a trip with friends, or a solo escape, knowing the Marbella yacht charter minimum age policy ensures a smooth booking. This guide covers everything from passenger age limits to skipper requirements, so you can focus on enjoying the Costa del Sol from the water.
Minimum Age to Charter a Yacht in Marbella
The legal minimum age to charter a yacht in Marbella is 18 years old. You must bring a valid passport or national ID card to check-in. For all our skippered charters, no boating licence is needed – the skipper handles navigation, mooring, and safety. This makes it easy for anyone over 18 to book a trip, whether you're a seasoned sailor or a first-timer.
Minimum Age for Passengers: Children Welcome
There is no minimum age for passengers on our charters. Infants, toddlers, and teenagers are all welcome. We provide life jackets for all sizes, and children under 12 must wear them on deck at all times. Our crew are trained to ensure a safe environment, so families can relax. For example, the Marbella yacht charter fleet includes the spacious Ferretti 94 (29m, 12 guests), perfect for multi-generational trips.
Driving a Boat: Age and Licence Requirements
If you want to drive the boat yourself (bareboat charter), you typically need to be at least 21 years old and hold a valid boating licence recognised in Spain, such as the Spanish PER or an equivalent international certificate. However, all our boats come with a licensed skipper included in the price. This means you can enjoy the ride without any paperwork – just sit back and take in the views of La Concha mountain and the Golden Mile.
Age Restrictions by Boat Type
Our fleet has no specific age restrictions for passengers beyond the general rules. All vessels are skippered and insured for all ages. Here's a quick look at some popular options:
| Boat | Length | Max Guests | Minimum Age (Passenger) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Astondoa 40 | 12.5m | 9 | None |
| Azimut 58 Flybridge | 17.6m | 12 | None |
| Mangusta 80 | 24m | 12 | None |
| Ferretti 94 | 29m | 12 | None |
All depart from Puerto Banús, making it easy to start your adventure.
Safety Measures for Younger Guests
Safety is paramount. We provide life jackets for children of all sizes, and children under 12 must wear them on deck. Our skippers conduct a safety briefing before departure, covering emergency procedures, life raft locations, and fire extinguisher use. The boat is equipped with first aid kits, flares, and VHF radio. If you're heading to Cala del Faro or Cala Cortés, the skipper will anchor in calm, shallow waters for swimming.
Booking Tips for Families and Groups
When booking a Marbella yacht charter with children, let us know the ages of all guests. We can arrange kid-friendly snacks, extra life jackets, and even a dedicated crew member to assist. For groups with teenagers, boats like the Azimut 39 (11 guests) or the Bandido (8 guests) offer plenty of space. Book at least 48 hours in advance via WhatsApp to secure your preferred vessel.
What's Included on Every Charter
Every booking includes a licensed skipper, fuel, water, soft drinks, beer, white wine, cava, light snacks, insurance, safety equipment, and Spanish IVA (21%). This means no hidden costs. For example, the Astondoa 40 costs €749 for 2 hours or €2,299 for 8 hours – all inclusive. The Mangusta 80 starts at €4,719 for 4 hours and includes a free jet ski. No surprises, just a great day on the water.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the minimum age to charter a yacht in Marbella?
The minimum age to charter a yacht in Marbella is 18 years old. You must present a valid passport or national ID card at check-in. For our skippered charters, no boating licence is required, so you can enjoy the trip without any paperwork.
Can children come on a yacht charter in Marbella?
Yes, children of any age are welcome as passengers. There is no minimum age for passengers. We provide life jackets for all sizes, and children under 12 must wear them on deck. Our crew ensures a safe, family-friendly experience.
Do I need a licence to rent a boat in Marbella?
For all our charter boats, a licensed skipper is included. You do not need a licence. If you wish to drive the boat yourself (bareboat), you typically need a valid boating licence and must be at least 21. Contact us via WhatsApp to discuss options.
What is the minimum age to drive a boat in Marbella?
To drive a boat without a skipper, you must be at least 21 years old and hold a recognised boating licence (such as the Spanish PER or an equivalent international licence). Our skippered charters let you relax without any driving requirements.
Are there age restrictions for specific boats in your fleet?
No, our boats have no specific age restrictions for passengers. All vessels are skippered and insured for all ages. For example, the Astondoa 40 carries up to 9 passengers, and the Ferretti 94 up to 12, all ages welcome.
What safety measures are in place for children on board?
We provide life jackets for children of all sizes. Children under 12 must wear them on deck at all times. Our skippers are trained in safety procedures, and the boat is equipped with first aid kits, fire extinguishers, and emergency flares.
Can I book a yacht charter for a birthday party with minors?
Absolutely. We host family celebrations, including birthday parties with children. Just let us know the ages of all guests when booking. We can arrange kid-friendly snacks and soft drinks. All our charters include water, soft drinks, and light snacks.
How do I book a charter for a group with teenagers?
Booking is easy via WhatsApp or our website. Teenagers are treated as adults for capacity purposes. For example, the Azimut 58 Flybridge holds 12 guests, ideal for a group of teens and adults. We recommend booking at least 48 hours in advance.
Ready to book your Marbella yacht charter? Contact us on WhatsApp for personalised advice on age requirements, boat selection, and availability. We'll help you plan an unforgettable day on the Mediterranean.