Planning a yacht charter in Marbella with family or friends? One of the first things to check is the Marbella yacht charter minimum age policy. Whether you're celebrating a milestone birthday or taking the kids out for a day on the Costa del Sol, we've got clear rules to keep everyone safe and legal. Here's everything you need to know for 2026.
Minimum Booking Age: 18 Years Old
The lead booker for any private charter must be at least 18 years old on the day of departure. This applies to all boats in our fleet, from the Dubhe (8m, 5 pax) to the Ferretti 94 (29m, 12 pax). We require a valid passport or national ID card at check-in. No exceptions – if you're under 18, a parent or guardian must make the booking and be present throughout the charter.
Children Welcome as Passengers
There is no minimum age for passengers. Children of any age are welcome on board, provided they are accompanied by a responsible adult. We carry life jackets in multiple sizes, including for infants and toddlers. Just let us know the ages and sizes of children in your group when you book, and we'll have the right equipment ready. All charters include a licensed skipper, so you can relax while the kids enjoy the ride.
Passenger Limits by Boat
Each boat has a maximum passenger capacity set by Spanish maritime regulations. This includes children and infants. Here are the limits for our most popular vessels:
- Astondoa 40 (12.5m) – 9 pax
- Azimut 39 (12.5m) – 11 pax
- Mangusta 80 (24m) – 12 pax
- Azimut 58 Flybridge (17.6m) – 12 pax
- Bandido (11.5m) – 8 pax
- Dubhe (8m) – 5 pax
- Fairline Targa 12m – 10 pax
- Ferretti 94 (29m) – 12 pax
- Lagoon 380 (11.6m) – 10 pax
- Pershing 46 (14m) – 10 pax
- Mariah SX21 (6.4m) – 5 pax
- Speedboat (7m) – 6 pax
Check each boat's page on our Marbella yacht charter hub for exact numbers.
Safety Equipment for All Ages
Every charter includes life jackets for all passengers, plus safety briefing from the skipper. For families with young children, we recommend bringing sun protection, hats, and extra snacks. The boat has shaded areas and cabins where little ones can nap or escape the midday heat. Our skippers are experienced with family groups and can suggest calm stops like Cala del Faro or Cala Cortés for safe swimming.
No Upper Age Limit
We welcome guests of all ages – there is no upper age limit. Whether you're celebrating a 70th birthday or enjoying a retirement trip, you're welcome on board. We recommend that elderly passengers or those with medical conditions consult their doctor before sailing, especially if seas are choppy. The skipper can adjust the itinerary to stay close to the coast and avoid rough water.
Booking Process for Families
When you book a Marbella yacht charter with children, simply note the ages of all passengers in the booking form or WhatsApp message. We'll prepare the right safety gear and can even suggest a family-friendly itinerary. All our boats depart from Puerto Banús, with easy parking and access. You can also ask about adding a jet ski or water toys – some boats like the Mangusta 80 include a jet ski free of charge for 4-hour+ charters.
What About Teenagers?
Teenagers aged 13–17 are welcome as passengers, but they cannot be the lead booker. If you're planning a celebration for a 16th or 17th birthday, a parent or guardian must book and accompany the group. We often host teenage groups for swimming, snorkelling, and exploring the coast from Marbella Marina to Estepona. The skipper ensures everyone stays safe and respects the boat rules.
ID Requirements at Check-In
On the day of your charter, the lead booker must present a valid passport or national ID card to confirm their age. We do not accept photocopies or digital photos. If the booker cannot prove they are 18 or older, the charter will be cancelled without refund. For passengers, we do not routinely check ID unless there is a dispute about age – but it's always good to carry identification.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the minimum age to charter a yacht in Marbella?
The minimum age to book a private yacht charter with us is 18 years old. You must provide a valid passport or national ID card at check-in. There is no minimum age for passengers – children of any age are welcome on board, provided they are accompanied by a responsible adult.
Can I charter a boat if I am under 18?
No, the lead booker must be at least 18 years old. If you are under 18, a parent or legal guardian must make the booking and be present on the day of the charter. All bookings are made in the adult's name and they are responsible for the group.
Are children allowed on yacht charters in Marbella?
Yes, children of all ages are welcome on our private charters. We provide life jackets in various sizes, including for toddlers and infants. Parents are responsible for supervising children at all times, especially near the water and on the swim platform.
Do you provide life jackets for children?
Yes, we carry life jackets suitable for children of different ages and weights. Please let us know the ages and sizes of children in your group when booking so we can have appropriate equipment ready. We also have buoyancy aids for younger passengers.
Is there an upper age limit for passengers?
No, there is no upper age limit for passengers on our charters. We welcome guests of all ages. However, we recommend that elderly passengers or those with medical conditions consult their doctor before boarding, as the boat may move in choppy conditions.
What happens if a guest is under 18 and the booking is in their name?
The charter will not proceed if the lead booker is under 18. We check ID at departure. If the booker cannot prove they are 18 or older, the charter will be cancelled without refund. Always ensure the booking is made by an adult.
Do you offer any special activities for children on board?
While we do not have dedicated kids' entertainment, children can enjoy swimming stops, snorkelling (equipment provided), and the thrill of being on a boat. We recommend bringing their favourite snacks or toys. The skipper can adjust the itinerary to include calm, shallow coves.
Can I bring a baby on a yacht charter?
Yes, babies are welcome on board. We have life jackets suitable for infants. Please bring your own baby essentials such as nappies, milk, and sun protection. The boat has shaded areas and a cabin where you can feed or settle the baby away from the sun.