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When is the Best Time to Rent a Boat in Marbella?

a large body of water with a mountain in the background
Marbella, a premier yachting destination on Spain’s Costa del Sol, offers a remarkable blend of luxury, natural beauty, delicious cuisine and adventure.

Costa del Sol is where abundant sunshine and warm temperatures grace us year-round, blessed with sunshine more than 300 days, which makes the winter ambiance more pleasant.

Whether you seek relaxation, exploration, or a unique event venue, chartering a yacht in Marbella is an unparalleled experience. However, timing plays a crucial role in ensuring you get the most out of your boat rental. While summer is the peak season for yacht charters, renting a boat before the high season offers numerous advantages, from better rates to more comfortable sailing conditions.

Let’s explore the boating seasons in Marbella.

When is the Best Time to Rent a Boat in Marbella?

The typical boating season in Marbella is divided into Low Season (October-March), Mid Season (April-May) and High Season (June-September), with July and August being the most popular months for boat rentals and charters.

However, off-peak seasons, such as late spring and early autumn, offer the advantage of fewer crowds while still enjoying pleasant weather, pleasant sea temperatures and making this an ideal time for a more peaceful yacht charter experience.

While Marbella enjoys a year-round yachting season, the best times to rent a boat are categorized below:

  • November to March: Great time to experience sailing and observe marine wildlife. Can you swim? Sure, if you’re up for a cold dip!
  • April to May: The perfect time to enjoy mild weather, lower prices, fewer crowds and observe marine wildlife. Good time to take a dolphin watching experience.
  • June to August: The best time to rent a boat in Marbella and do water activities is in summer. With great variety of water activities (jetskis, watersports, cocktail bars in the middle of the sea etc.) and high concentration of yachts at sea. Additionally, popular beach clubs and fine dining establishments are open, allowing you to fully indulge in the luxurious Marbella lifestyle.
  • September to October: Ideal for those who prefer a late summer escape with warm temperatures and pleasant warm calm seas, while still benefiting of the lower price season and the variety of water activities. Fishing this time of the year is also a demanded activity.

Marbella Weather Conditions Throughout the Year

The Mediterranean climate of Marbella ensures pleasant temperatures throughout the year. Peak winter months bring the mild temperatures ranging from 10°C (50°F) to 20°C (68°F) and the sunny sky makes Marbella a warm and pleasant place to escape the cold. Peak summer months July and August can bring intense heat, often exceeding 30°C (86°F). Mid season tempreratures April-May and September-October bring pleasant temperatures around 20º-25º.

Renting a boat before the height of summer allows you to enjoy warm yet comfortable temperatures. The sea remains inviting for swimming, snorkeling, and other water activities without the discomfort of extreme heat. The warmest sea temperature registered in Marbella are in August, in August 2024 being 26.3ºC (79ºF).

Here’s a breakdown of the usual temperatures in Marbella:

  • January: 15-18°C (sea: 16°C)
  • February: 16-20°C (sea: 15°C)
  • March: 18-22°C (sea: 16°C)
  • April: 22-26°C (sea: 17°C)
  • May: 24-28°C (sea: 17°C)
  • June: 26-30°C (sea: 18-20°C)
  • July: 30-35°C (sea: 19-22°C)
  • August: 32-38°C (sea: 22-26°C)
  • September: 30°C (sea: 23-26°C)
  • October: 24-28°C (sea: 20°C)
  • November: 20-25°C (sea: 18-19°C)
  • December: 17-23°C (sea: 16-18°C)

Advantages of Renting a Boat Off-Season

1. Favorable Rental Rates

One of the most significant benefits of booking a yacht rental before the peak summer season is the cost advantage. During the high season, particularly in July and August, demand for yachts surges, leading to premium pricing. By opting for a rental in late spring (April to June) or early autumn (September to October), you can secure a better yacht at a better cost.
Lower rental rates mean you can:
  • upgrade to a larger or more luxurious vessel
  • extend your rental period
  • add extras to your charter, such as watersports, catering, DJ etc.

2. Comfortable Weather Conditions

Marbella boasts a mild Mediterranean climate with hot summers and mild winters. Sailing conditions are ideally calm, with steady winds, which contribute to the overall pleasant yachting experience. Despite occasional rain in winter, the rest of the year remains predominantly dry, making Marbella a year-round yacht charter destination. The sea remains inviting for swimming, snorkeling, and other water activities without the discomfort of extreme heat.

Whether you enjoy jet skiing, paddleboarding, fishing, or diving, the calmer seas before the high season provide the perfect setting for watersports. Winds are generally moderate, ensuring smooth sailing, while water visibility remains optimal for underwater adventures.

3. Greater Yacht Availability

Another compelling reason to book a yacht before peak summer is the availability of a wider selection of vessels. By booking in advance, especially in May or early June, you gain access to the best selection of luxury boats, catamarans, and motor yachts, ensuring your ideal vessel is ready for your adventure.

4. Less Crowded Waters and Marinas

During high season, Marbella’s most famous marina Puerto Banús can get fully booked. Renting a boat in the pre-summer period allows for a more serene experience, with fewer boats in the water and more space securing a good anchorage spot.

Exploring Marbella’s coastline before the peak season means you can visit top destinations like Estepona or Sotogrande with fewer tourists. Whether you’re looking for a quiet snorkeling spot, a secluded beach for sunbathing, or a peaceful seaside restaurant, the pre-summer period offers a more exclusive experience.

Plan Your Ideal Yacht Rental with Royal Catamaran

Now you should get a sense of the boating season in Marbella and its advantages.

If you’re looking to experience the beauty of Marbella from the sea, consider booking your yacht charter before the peak summer season. At Royal Catamaran, we offer a wide selection of boats, from small boats, sailboats, catamarans to luxury yachts, tailored services, and flexible rental periods to match your needs.


Contact us today to find the perfect boat for your Marbella adventure and take advantage of the best rates and conditions for your yacht rental!
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