Packing for a Marbella boat rental in 2040 is simpler than you think — as long as you follow a few rules. Sun, sea, and a relaxed vibe are guaranteed, but forgetting the right gear can cut your day short. This checklist covers what to bring, what to leave at home, and what’s already on board. Whether you’re boarding an Astondoa 40 at Puerto Banús or a Mangusta 80, these tips apply to every charter.
Our fleet departs from Puerto Banús, Marbella Marina, and Cabopino. Every rental includes a licensed skipper, fuel, water, soft drinks, beer, white wine, cava, light snacks, insurance, safety equipment, and 21% IVA. You don’t need to bring any of those. But here’s what you do need.
Sun Protection: The Non-Negotiables
Marbella averages 320 sunny days a year. UV levels are high from April to October. Even on cloudy days, you can burn. Pack:
- Sunscreen SPF 50+ — water-resistant, at least 200 ml per person for a full day.
- Lip balm with SPF — wind and salt dry out lips fast.
- Sunglasses with polarised lenses — reduce glare off the water.
- Wide-brimmed hat or cap — a baseball cap won’t protect your ears or neck.
- UV-protective long-sleeve shirt or rash guard — especially if you burn easily.
Reapply sunscreen every two hours and after swimming. The reflection off the sea increases exposure by up to 50%.
Clothing and Footwear
Dress for 22–26 °C sea temperatures and 28–35 °C air temperatures in summer. Evenings on the water can drop 10 °C, so bring a light jacket or windbreaker. Footwear is critical:
- Non-slip boat shoes — white or light soles only. Black soles mark the deck.
- No high heels — they damage the deck and are dangerous on a moving boat.
- Flip-flops — fine for swimming stops, but not for walking on deck while underway.
- Swimwear — bring a towel (not provided) and a dry change of clothes.
If you’re on a Mangusta 80 charter, the deck is larger and more stable, but the same shoe rules apply.
Health and Comfort Essentials
- Seasickness medication — take 30–60 minutes before departure. Even calm days can have a light swell.
- Personal medication — antihistamines, painkillers, or any prescription drugs you need.
- Hydration — water is provided, but bring your own reusable bottle if you prefer.
- Small dry bag — for phone, keys, wallet, and any electronics.
- Motion sickness bands — non-medicated alternative for mild sensitivity.
Our skippers carry a basic first-aid kit, but it’s not stocked with personal medications.
What NOT to Bring
- Glass bottles or containers — strictly prohibited on all boats. Broken glass on deck is dangerous and hard to clean.
- Drones — only allowed with prior written permission from the skipper. Puerto Banús and nearby beaches have strict no-fly zones.
- Large coolers — we provide drinks and snacks. If you bring extra food, use a soft-sided cooler bag.
- Speakers with external subwoofers — the boat’s sound system is sufficient. Loud external speakers disturb other charters and marine life.
- Black-soled shoes — they leave permanent marks on fibreglass decks.
- Illegal substances — zero tolerance. The skipper will terminate the charter and alert authorities.
Documents and Practical Items
You must bring a valid passport or EU national ID. The skipper needs a passenger list for insurance and legal compliance. A photo on your phone is not accepted. Also useful:
- Credit card or cash — for tips (optional, but appreciated) or any extras not included.
- Phone with offline maps — signal can be weak in some coves.
- Waterproof phone case — salt spray and splashes are common.
- Small backpack or tote — to keep your belongings together.
What’s Already on Board
Every Marbella boat rental with our fleet includes:
- Licensed skipper and fuel
- Water, soft drinks, beer, white wine, cava
- Light snacks (chips, olives, nuts)
- Insurance and safety equipment (life jackets, fire extinguisher, flares)
- 21% Spanish IVA
On bigger boats like the Azimut 58 Flybridge or Ferretti 94, you also get a full sound system, onboard toilet, and shaded flybridge. Jet skis are included free on the Mangusta 80 (minimum 4-hour charter).
Packing by Boat Type
| Boat | Capacity | Extra Tip |
|---|---|---|
| Astondoa 40 / Azimut 39 | 9–11 pax | Limited shade; bring extra sun protection |
| Mangusta 80 (white/grey) | 12 pax | Jet ski included; bring swimwear and towel |
| Bandido / Red Tide | 6–8 pax | Smaller deck; pack light |
| Ferretti 94 / Canados 86 | 12 pax | Luxury interior; dress smart-casual |
| Speedboat (7m) | 6 pax | No cabin; keep valuables in dry bag |
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to bring my own drinks on a Marbella boat rental?
No. Every charter includes water, soft drinks, beer, white wine, and cava. If you want spirits or a specific brand, you can bring your own — but no glass bottles. Use plastic or metal containers instead.
Is sunscreen provided on the boat?
No, you must bring your own. We recommend SPF 50+ water-resistant sunscreen. Marbella gets strong UV levels even in April and October. Reapply every two hours, especially after swimming.
Can I bring my drone to take aerial photos?
Only with prior written permission from the skipper. Drones are restricted in Puerto Banús and near crowded beaches. Unauthorised use may result in confiscation or fines.
What shoes should I wear on a boat in Marbella?
Non-slip boat shoes or deck shoes. Avoid black-soled shoes as they mark the deck. High heels, flip-flops, and bare feet are not safe when the boat is moving.
Will I get seasick on a Marbella boat charter?
It depends on your sensitivity and sea conditions. The Costa del Sol is generally calm, especially in summer. If you’re prone to motion sickness, take medication 30–60 minutes before departure. Our skippers can also suggest less rocky routes.
Do I need a passport or ID for a boat rental in Marbella?
Yes. The skipper must have a passenger list with ID details for all guests. Bring your passport or EU national ID card. A photo on your phone is not accepted.
What happens if the weather is bad on the day of my charter?
Our skippers monitor forecasts closely. If conditions are unsafe (e.g., strong winds or thunderstorms), we’ll reschedule or offer a full refund. You won’t be charged for weather cancellations.
Can I bring my own food on board?
Yes, you’re welcome to bring your own food. We provide light snacks (chips, olives, nuts), but if you want a full meal, bring it in plastic or paper containers. No glass containers or bottles.