There are few pleasures that rival eating authentic Spanish paella while anchored in a quiet cove off the Marbella coast. On a paella onboard Marbella yacht charter, you combine the finest Mediterranean ingredients with the relaxed luxury of a private boat. Whether you choose a traditional Valencian recipe or a seafood variation, the experience is unforgettable. All our charters depart from Puerto Banús and include a licensed skipper, fuel, drinks, and snacks—so you can focus on the food and the views.
Why choose a paella lunch on a yacht charter?
A yacht charter gives you the freedom to anchor in secluded spots like Cala del Faro or Cala Cortés, where the water is calm and the scenery is stunning. Paella is a social dish—best shared among friends or family—and a yacht provides an intimate setting away from crowded beach clubs. With our fleet, you can host up to 12 guests on larger models like the Mangusta 80 (24m) or Azimut 58 Flybridge (17.6m). For smaller groups, the Fairline Targa 12m (12m, 10 pax) or Astondoa 40 (12.5m, 9 pax) are excellent choices.
Our fleet and dining spaces
Not every boat is suited for a full sit-down meal. Our larger vessels feature dedicated dining areas either in the cockpit, on the flybridge, or in the saloon. Here is a quick overview of the best boats for a paella lunch:
| Boat | Length | Max pax | Dining area |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mangusta 80 (White/Grey) | 24m | 12 | Aft deck + saloon |
| Azimut 58 Flybridge | 17.6m | 12 | Flybridge + cockpit |
| Ferretti 94 | 29m | 12 | Spacious saloon + aft deck |
| Astondoa 40 | 12.5m | 9 | Cockpit table |
| Fairline Targa 12m | 12m | 10 | Cockpit seating |
All boats depart from Puerto Banús, the heart of Marbella's luxury marina. If you are unsure which boat suits your group, browse our full fleet and contact us via WhatsApp for personalised advice.
How to arrange paella onboard
Paella is not included in the standard charter price, but we can arrange it with a professional chef. Simply let us know at least 48 hours before your charter. The chef will bring fresh ingredients—saffron, bomba rice, seafood, chicken, or vegetables—and cook the paella in a traditional pan onboard. The cost varies based on the menu and number of guests; expect roughly €150–€300 for a group of 10. We recommend a half-day (4 hours) or full-day (8 hours) charter to enjoy the meal without rushing.
What is included in every charter?
Every booking includes a licensed skipper, fuel, water, soft drinks, beer, white wine, cava, light snacks, insurance, and 21% IVA. That means your drinks are covered, and you only pay extra for the paella catering. The skipper will anchor in a sheltered bay, serve the paella, and ensure everything runs smoothly. For more details, read our charter guide.
Best anchorages for a paella lunch
Your skipper knows the best spots along the Costa del Sol. Popular choices include:
- Cala del Faro – a quiet cove near Marbella with crystal-clear water.
- Cala Cortés – sheltered and scenic, ideal for a long lunch.
- Cabopino – a sandy beach with calm waters, close to Puerto Banús.
- Estepona coast – less crowded, with beautiful views of La Concha mountain.
Each location offers a different vibe, but all provide calm conditions for eating and swimming afterwards.
Dietary options and customisation
Paella is versatile. We can arrange traditional Valencian (chicken and rabbit), seafood (prawns, mussels, squid), or vegetarian (artichokes, peppers, beans). The chef can also accommodate gluten-free or dairy-free diets. Just specify any allergies or preferences when you book. Children generally enjoy a simple chicken paella or a side of patatas bravas.
Tips for the perfect paella day
To make the most of your paella onboard Marbella yacht charter, consider these tips:
- Book a half-day (4 hours) or full-day (8 hours) charter to allow time for cruising, anchoring, and eating.
- Order paella at least 48 hours in advance to guarantee availability.
- Bring sunscreen, hats, and swimwear—you will want to swim after lunch.
- Ask your skipper for the best anchorage based on wind and sea conditions.
- If you prefer a lighter meal, our standard snacks include olives, crisps, and nuts.
For more inspiration, check out our blog on yacht catering.
Frequently asked questions
Can I have paella cooked onboard my Marbella yacht charter?
Yes, we can arrange for a chef to prepare authentic Spanish paella onboard. This is typically done on boats with a well-equipped galley or outdoor cooking area. We recommend booking at least 48 hours in advance to ensure fresh ingredients and a skilled chef. The cost depends on the menu and number of guests; ask us on WhatsApp for a quote.
Which boats in your fleet are best for a paella lunch?
Boats with a spacious cockpit or flybridge dining area are ideal. The Mangusta 80 (24m, 12 pax) has a large aft deck and outdoor seating. The Azimut 58 Flybridge (17.6m, 12 pax) offers a shaded flybridge for dining. For smaller groups, the Fairline Targa 12m (12m, 10 pax) has a comfortable cockpit. All depart from Puerto Banús.
What is included in the charter price if I order paella?
Our standard charter includes a licensed skipper, fuel, water, soft drinks, beer, white wine, cava, light snacks, insurance, and 21% IVA. Paella catering is an additional service arranged on request. You can choose from traditional Valencian, seafood, or vegetarian paella. Drinks are already covered, so you only pay for the food.
How much does paella catering cost for a yacht charter?
Paella catering costs vary depending on the number of guests and the menu. As a guide, a seafood paella for 10 people might range from €150 to €300, including side dishes and dessert. We do not set fixed prices because menus are customised. Contact us on WhatsApp for a precise quote based on your boat and group size.
Can I bring my own paella or food onboard?
Yes, you are welcome to bring your own food and drinks. However, note that our charter already includes soft drinks, beer, white wine, cava, and snacks. If you prefer a hassle-free experience, we recommend ordering paella through us to ensure quality and proper storage onboard. The skipper can advise on the best time to eat.
Where can we anchor to eat paella during the charter?
Popular anchorages for a paella lunch include Cala del Faro, Cala Cortés, and the calm waters near Cabopino. These spots offer shelter and clear water, perfect for swimming after your meal. Your skipper will choose the best location based on wind and sea conditions. All departures are from Puerto Banús, so you can explore the coast.
Is paella suitable for children or dietary restrictions?
Absolutely. Paella can be made with chicken, seafood, or vegetables, and we can accommodate gluten-free, dairy-free, or other dietary needs. Just let us know when you book. The chef will use fresh, local ingredients. Children usually enjoy a simple chicken paella or a side of patatas bravas.
How long does a typical paella lunch take on a yacht charter?
Cooking paella from scratch takes about 30–40 minutes, plus 15–20 minutes for serving and eating. We recommend a half-day charter (4 hours) or full-day (8 hours) to allow time for cruising, anchoring, swimming, and a relaxed meal. A 2-hour charter is too short for a sit-down paella; opt for our tapas-style snacks instead.