Choosing between Puerto Banús and Marbella Marina for your yacht charter in Marbella comes down to location, atmosphere, and what you want from your day on the water. Both marinas offer excellent facilities, but they differ in berth costs, dining options, and proximity to the city. This guide breaks down the key differences so you can pick the best departure point for your trip. All our boats are available from either marina — just check the fleet details below.
Location and Accessibility
Puerto Banús is 5 km west of Marbella town centre, closer to San Pedro Alcántara and the western Costa del Sol. Marbella Marina (Puerto Deportivo) sits just 1 km east of the old town and the Golden Mile. If you're staying in central Marbella, the Marina is a short walk; Puerto Banús is a 10-minute taxi ride (approx. €12–€15). Both are well-served by taxis, buses (line 27), and have ample parking. From either marina, it's 20–25 NM to Gibraltar and 30 NM to Málaga.
Berth Costs and Availability
Puerto Banús berths for a 12–14m boat cost roughly €150–€300 per night, reflecting its premium status. Marbella Marina is generally cheaper, with berths around €80–€150 per night for similar lengths. Both marinas have waiting lists for annual contracts, but day charters and short-term berths are usually available via our team. For a 2-hour charter, we recommend departing from the marina where your chosen boat is based to avoid extra transfer costs.
Atmosphere and Vibe
Puerto Banús is glamorous: designer shops, high-end restaurants, and a lively nightlife scene. Marbella Marina is more relaxed, with a family-friendly promenade, playground, and casual chiringuitos. If you want glitz and glamour, choose Banús. If you prefer a quieter start to your day, the Marina suits better. Both have excellent views of La Concha mountain.
Our Fleet by Departure Point
| Departure Point | Boats Available | Example Size |
|---|---|---|
| Puerto Banús | Astondoa 40, Azimut 39, Mangusta 80, Azimut 58 Flybridge, Bandido, Canados 86, Fairline Targa, Ferretti 94, K80, Lagoon 380, Mangusta 80 Grey, Pershing 46, Red Tide, Speedboat, Maiora 26m | 12.5m–29m |
| Marbella Marina | Dubhe (8m, 5 pax), Mariah SX21 (6.4m, 5 pax) | 6.4m–8m |
All charters include a licensed skipper, fuel, drinks, snacks, insurance, and 21% VAT. For larger groups, Puerto Banús offers more options. Small groups or budget-friendly trips can depart from Marbella Marina.
Distance to Popular Destinations
- From Puerto Banús: 15 NM to Estepona, 18 NM to Sotogrande, 25 NM to Gibraltar.
- From Marbella Marina: 18 NM to Sotogrande, 20 NM to Estepona, 25 NM to Gibraltar.
- Both are 30 NM to Málaga and 5 NM between each other (20–25 min cruise).
If you want to explore the western coast (Cala del Faro, Cala Cortés), Puerto Banús saves 5 NM. For eastern trips (Cabopino, Calahonda), Marbella Marina is slightly closer.
Dining and Amenities
Puerto Banús boasts Michelin-starred restaurants like Skina and Bibo, plus luxury boutiques (Louis Vuitton, Gucci). Marbella Marina offers seafood spots like El Balcón de la Marina and a more affordable dining scene. Both have fuel docks, chandleries, and 24-hour security. For a pre-charter breakfast or post-charter dinner, Banús is upscale; the Marina is casual.
Which Marina Should You Choose?
Pick Puerto Banús if you want a glamorous start, larger yachts, and proximity to western hotspots. Pick Marbella Marina if you're staying in central Marbella, have a smaller group, or prefer a relaxed vibe. Both are excellent bases for a yacht charter in Marbella. Browse our full fleet and book your ideal boat today.
Frequently asked questions
Which marina is closer to Marbella city centre?
Marbella Marina (Puerto Deportivo) is about 1 km east of Marbella's old town and the Golden Mile. Puerto Banús is roughly 5 km west, closer to San Pedro Alcántara. If you're staying in central Marbella, Marbella Marina is a short walk; Puerto Banús is a 10-minute taxi ride.
Does Puerto Banús have better restaurants than Marbella Marina?
Puerto Banús is known for its upscale dining, with Michelin-starred options like Skina and Bibo. Marbella Marina has a wider range of casual beachfront chiringuitos and seafood spots, such as El Balcón de la Marina. Both offer excellent choices, but Banús leans towards luxury, while the Marina is more laid-back.
Can I charter a boat from Marbella Marina?
Yes, but our fleet is based primarily in Puerto Banús. The Dubhe (8m, 5 pax) and Mariah SX21 (6.4m, 5 pax) depart from Marbella Marina. For larger yachts like the Mangusta 80 or Azimut 58 Flybridge, you'll need to depart from Puerto Banús.
Is parking easier at Puerto Banús or Marbella Marina?
Marbella Marina has a large outdoor car park (approx. €2/hour) and is generally less crowded. Puerto Banús has underground parking (approx. €3–€4/hour) but fills up quickly during summer weekends. Both are manageable, but the Marina is more relaxed.
Which marina has better nightlife?
Puerto Banús is famous for its glamorous nightlife, with clubs like Pangea and Aqwa Mist. Marbella Marina is quieter, with a few bars and a more subdued evening scene. If you want to party after your charter, Banús is the choice.
How far is it from Puerto Banús to Marbella Marina by boat?
The distance along the coast is about 5 nautical miles (9 km). A 20–25 minute cruise at 15 knots will take you from one marina to the other. This is a short hop, so you can easily visit both during a full-day charter.
Are there any differences in safety or services between the two marinas?
Both marinas are modern, well-maintained, and offer fuel docks, chandleries, and 24-hour security. Puerto Banús has more luxury services (e.g., yacht brokers, concierge), while Marbella Marina is more functional. Safety equipment and emergency response are equally good at both.
Which marina is better for families with children?
Marbella Marina is generally more family-friendly, with a playground, ice cream shops, and a less crowded promenade. Puerto Banús is busier and more adult-oriented, though it does have a small beach. For a relaxed family day, Marbella Marina wins.