Spain Yacht Charters
Spain overflows with exuberance and grandeur that's softened by its invitingly golden stretches of coastline, calas, and inlets, endlessly fascinating yacht charter guests. The shimmering topaz shores of the Balearic Islands have been the epicenter of Spain's yachting activity for decades: flecked with uber-chic superyacht marinas, these isles provide a seamless blend of heavenly calm and unparalleled hedonism. But substantial investment towards yachting infrastructure in Barcelona has renewed interest in mainland yacht charters in Spain.
The opening of Barcelona's state-of-the-art marina OneOcean Port Vell in 2015 saw the city practically transform into a superyacht capital overnight. Combined with the illustrious Puerto Banús marina in Marbella, the thrillingly buzzy port cities of Valencia and Malaga, and the many secluded bays and coves sprinkled across the 3,000-mile-long coastline, it's a yachting playground.
SPAIN YACHT BOOKING GUIDE::
- Spain Yacht Charters: At a Glance
- Popular Destinations for Yacht Rentals in Spain
- Highlights of a Spain Yacht Charter
- Don't Miss:
- Who goes on a Spain Yacht Charter?
- History and Culture
- Types of Yacht Charters in Spain
- How Much Does It Cost to Charter a Yacht in Spain?
- VAT for Yacht Charters in Spain
- When is the Best Time for Spain Yacht Charters?
- Where Should I Begin My Yacht Charter in Spain?
- Where to End a Spain Yacht Charter
- Popular Marinas and Anchorages in Spain
- Local Insight
- Most Popular Superyacht Hotspots in Spain
- Neighboring Regions for Spain Yacht Charters
- How to Book Your Yacht Charter in Spain
Coupled with an enviable climate — Spain is renowned for its long, balmy summertimes — averaging over 300 days of sunshine a year, its superyacht appeal is crystal clear.
- Captivating isles
The Balearic Island's dizzying array of gorgeous calas, bays, and islets makes this the most popular Spanish destination among the superyacht set. - Excellent superyacht marinas
Top tech facilities in Barcelona and the legendary Puerto Banús, coupled with revered marinas scattered across the Balearics. - Superlative beaches
A sunseeker's sanctuary, Spain has the highest number of Blue Flag certified beaches in the world, totaling 578. This means they adhere to the highest possible quality standards. - Strong international airport connections
Guests have a multitude of well-connected airports to choose from when reaching both the mainland and the Balearic Islands. - Dazzling nightlife
Ibiza is a hedonist's haven, while on the mainland yacht charters options to party along the long ribbon of coastline are practically unlimited.
The majority of yacht charters in Spain cruise primarily in the Balearic Islands, but the mainland destinations below (divided up into three regions) can feature as part of a wider yacht charter itinerary.
Balearic Islands (Mallorca, Menorca, Ibiza, Formentera)
Best for: Caribbean-esque beaches, magical coves, world-leading marina facilities, subaquatic adventures, splendid fine-dining options, legendary nightlife, wholesome seafood taverns, epic sunsets, excellent hiking trails
Northern region: Barcelona
Best for: astonishing architecture, an incredible marina, five-star superyacht homeport, Champagne-colored beaches, bountiful museums and art galleries, inventive gastronomy, chic wine bars, eclectic nightlife
Central region: Valencia, Costa Blanca (Dénia, Alicante)
Best for: vibrant nightspots, Art Nouveau buildings, outstanding tapas bars, big beautiful beaches, noteworthy restaurants, charming fishing villages
Southern region: Costa del Sol (Marbella, Sotogrande, Malaga)
Best for: hip beach clubs, famous marinas, designer boutiques, vivacious clubbing scene, sheltered beaches, sun-bleached towns, excellent golfing spots, burgeoning art scene
A Spain yacht charter vacation offers a mesmerizing selection of things to see and do. Here is our small selection of some of the most outstanding:
- Aire de Barcelona: recalibrate in one of Barcelona's ancient baths, where you can spend an afternoon pampering in the hammam or indulge in an aromatherapy soak.
- Sitges: a chic coastal town with a refined Riviera style elegance to its multitude of beaches.
- Tren de Sóller: a memorable train ride amid lemon groves through the mesmerizing Tramuntana Mountains.
- La Boqueria: taste the finest Jamón ibérico or buñuelos at this famed market in Barcelona.
- Tarragona: go for an excursion to this ancient, laid-back city with lesser-frequented beaches for a blissful dip, plus it's only an hour from Barcelona.
- Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias: a mammoth art and science complex that's also home to Europe's largest aquarium.
- Cueva de Nerja: a series of otherworldly caves in Malaga that charms visitors with its transcendent beauty.
- Punta Arabi Hippy Market: a market in Ibiza with a hearty buzz, where you'll have bountiful souvenir options.
- Cadaqués: a sedate, achingly pretty coastal spot on Spain's easternmost point.
- S'Espalmador: be captivated by this unpopulated islet near Formentera and float peacefully in its pristine coves.
Spain boasts an extensive coastline brimming with golden sandy beaches, bright turquoise waters and idyllic coves, and coupled with its world-famous Balearic islands which draw thousands of visitors to their glittering shores every year, it’s small wonder this sun-kissed region is one of the coolest superyacht destinations on the planet.
The region is also renowned for its myriad UNESCO Heritage Sites, rich cultural history, excellent cuisine and glamorous yacht clubs, attracting A-listers and history buffs alike. From world-class golf clubs, stunning vineyards and luxury resorts to secluded lagoons, myth-strewn relics and medieval citadels, there really is something for everyone to enjoy on a Spain yacht charter.
Although primarily based on the culture of ancient Rome - Spain was part of Greco-Roman culture for five centuries – the country also has strong ties to its European and Mediterranean counterparts, as well as Arabic and African cultural influences whose presence is most notable in the south. The confluence of Islamic, Christian and Hebrew religions also played a major part in Spain's architecture, with the predominant styles of gothic, baroque, Romanesque and Renaissance shaping Spain’s towns and cities alike.
Spain’s rich cultural history has given rise to the world’s 3rd highest number of UNESCO Heritage Sites, after Italy and China. The Spanish Golden Age also produced a flourishing of the arts with literary greats such as Cervantes (Don Quixote), as well as notable artists Goya and Velazquez, all enjoying international prominence.
Today, Spain’s laid-back vibe, tapas and wine culture, and medley of glamorous port cities and beach-clad islands has made it one of the most popular yacht charter destinations in the Mediterranean.
With Spain's countless coves, glittering beaches, and wild islets ripe for exploration, opt for a crewed motor yacht charter or sailing yacht charter to explore in style.
Unsure which one to pick when cruising Spain's radiant shores? Here are some main points to consider before making a final decision:
Selecting a crewed luxury motor yacht to cruise Spanish waters is the ultimate indulgence, and well worth it. Combine the services and facilities of a five-star hotel, but with unrivaled choice and privacy. Relish having your own world-class chef and dedicated staff to whip up culinary delights, and the total freedom on the open waters to cruise wherever your heart desires with those dearest to you. Discover glorious locations inaccessible by car or foot, benefit from larger interior volumes and use your onboard toys with wild abandon in spots seldom-explored.
The scintillatingly warm temperatures from May till September (or October for the Balearics) are tempered by gentle northern winds (ranging between 5 and 15 knots) making a sailing yacht charter in Spain simply divine. Ideal for guests looking to embrace a slower, more peaceful charter, one can't deny its dreamily romantic appeal of letting the natural forces of the elements guide your way — and what better location to do so than on the sun-kissed coast of the Mediterranean.
For guests looking to charter a yacht in Spain, there is an abundance of motor yacht charters and sailing yacht charters to suit every type of budget, so rest assured there will be an option that works perfectly for you. The average prices for these types of charters are as follows:
- For motor yacht rentals in Spain, prices can range from $36,792 to $2.3m per week, plus expenses
- For luxury sailing yacht rentals in Spain, prices can go from $35,840 to $214,388 weekly, plus expenses
On top of the charter amount, you may need to pay VAT and additional fees. But how much does VAT cost for Spain yacht charters? Below are the main points you need to consider before chartering:
- VAT is charged at 21% for all yachts that have a Spanish charter licence for all charters commencing in Spain.
- 24% Non-Resident Income Tax is applied if the owning company has fiscal residency in a country that does not have a dual taxation treaty with Spain.
EU-flagged yachts are able to charter anywhere in Spain, however, non-EU flagged vessels can only charter in Barcelona and the Balearic Islands.
For additional information on VAT and possible fees (such as matriculation tax) concerning your yacht charter in Spain, please consult your chosen yacht charter broker.
Related: VAT Changes for Yacht Charters in the Mediterranean
Related: Spain Simplifies Process for Yacht Charters in Spanish Waters
To truly soak up its natural splendor, the preferred time for a luxury yacht charter in mainland Spain is from May until September. This extends till the end of October if incorporating the Balearics into your trip, which tends to experience balmier climes for longer. But both areas are characterized by their soothingly hot weather and scarce amount of rainfall.
In Barcelona, Valencia, and the Costa del Sol, expect an average of 22 degrees in May, reaching up to 30 degrees in August. Meanwhile, anticipate long, sun-drenched days that can reach 23 degrees in May, peaking at 31.5 degrees in August in Mallorca.
As for sea temperatures, the mainland's twinkling waters are a little more pleasant for swimming than the Balearics: reaching 30 degrees in August compared to the latter's average of 26 degrees.
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A quintessential Spain yacht charter typically begins in the Balearics, a collective of jewels that shimmer in an azure sea. Comprising of four main islands (Mallorca, Menorca, Ibiza, and Formentera) bedecked with islets, each has their own distinctive traits which lure guests: from thriving nightlife to blissful wilderness. But these idyllic isles do have some shared characteristics: the labyrinthine nature of their pine-blanketed coves, pleasingly warm waters that merge into an iridescent palette of blues, and sweeping stretches of sand cradled by toothy ochre cliffs.
On the mainland, thanks to the world-class superyacht marina facilities in the ebullient Barcelona, it has now become a favorite spot to begin a Spain yacht charter. Further south, cosmopolitan Valencia or the port cities of Dénia and Alicante are also popular gateways to cala hopping on the almost luminescent shores of the Balearics.
Sample Itineraries
If cruising the Balearic Islands, most yacht charters tend to finish in Ibiza or Mallorca, which both boast an array of beautiful beaches, vibrant towns and plenty of dining options, making these the perfect spots to end your memorable Spain luxury yacht vacation.
Alternatively, for longer charters you can finish up on the mainland, such as the port cities of Valencia or Barcelona, to round off your yacht vacation with an unforgettable cultural experience for you and your charter guests. Speak with your yacht broker who can advise you further.
With superb marinas replete with well-provisioned facilities as well as glamorous bars, chic eateries, and more, it's no wonder Spain has become a premier superyacht destination. Below you'll find the leading choices for mooring in Spain:
- OneOcean Port Vell Marina (Barcelona): a superyacht's paradise and an architectural masterpiece, with an incredible array of amenities and facilities on offer. Has 241 berths in total, 151 of those are specifically for yachts up to 190m.
- Puerto Banús Marina (Marbella): huge marina in high-demand and excellent port facilities. Has 950 berths in sheltered waters for vessels up to 50m in length, with anchorage possible for superyachts.
- Club Nàutic Sant Feliu de Guíxols (Costa Brava): ideally situated marina in a sheltered bay, a great choice when going to or from the Balearic Islands. Has a 413 berth capacity for yachts up to 80m.
- Club de Mar Marina (Mallorca): exclusive private marina situated in the vibrant capital, Palma. Has 667 berths up to a maximum length of 110m.
- Port Adriano Marina (Mallorca): uber-chic superyacht marina masterminded by the esteemed architect Phillipe Starck. Complete with fine-dining options, designer shopping, and much more. Accommodates up to 488 yachts for vessels between 6 and 80m, 87 of these are for superyachts up to 110m.
- Ibiza Magna Marina (Ibiza): situated in a prime, picturesque position, this marina has over 85 berths for yachts up to 60m.
- Sovren Marina (Ibiza): located in the beating heart of Ibiza, this ultra-exclusive marina has 16 berths for superyachts between 60m to 185m.
The Balearics Islands are unquestionably Spain's anchorage paradise: crowned with pine-fragranced coves, bountiful bays begging to be explored, and uninhabited islets strewn among its indented isles. But guests have substantially beautiful spots studded along the mainland's glimmering coast to drop anchor and take toys for a spin on too.
Here is our pick of some of the must-see anchorages in Spain:
- Sa Conca (Costa Brava): a bay divided into two sections with waters an eye-popping teal and perfect for diving
- Cala Ferriol (Costa Brava): come for otherwordly subaquatic experiences amid shoals of fish in this barely visited cove.
- Cape Salou (Costa Dorada): a tranquil haven, abound with sleepy coves silhouetted by dunes and backed by pines.
- Es Cubells (Ibiza): a village with beaches hidden away from the hustle and bustle, admire limestone cliffs stippled with pastel-colored houses and a tangle of lemon and olive groves.
- Cala Bassa (Ibiza): a golden bay that's a pool a vivid turquoise, and great for thrill-seekers.
- Cala Pi (Mallorca): translucent waters fringed by powdery sands on this sheltered inlet, best to visit during the weekdays.
- Cala Canutells (Menorca): well-protected bay framed by lush woodland, with shallows perfect for young children.
- Ses Illhetes (Formentera): admire the beach tinged a coral hue in this mellow spot far removed from the crowds.
- Consider chartering a yacht on either side of the shoulder season in Spain if you are keen to elude the crowds. This is either April to May or September to October, and you can still benefit from clement temperatures.
- Remember that if you are chartering in the Balearics it is forbidden to anchor above preservation areas of Posidonia (a type of seagrass). Protected zones include: Cabrera, Cala d’Or, Cala Blava Sa Dragonera, Portopetro, and Punta de L’Avançada.
- In the Balearics, you'll find many bays have color-coded buoys according to your yacht length which must be obeyed in order to protect underwater flora.
- Whilst a popular destination in Spain in its own right, the Canary Islands is not common for yacht charters due to its location and water temperatures.
- When visiting smaller towns and villages many do not accept cards, so make the most of using one of the cashpoints dotted conveniently around most marinas.
A perennial charter favorite, the Balearics entices the yachting elite every year — it isn't hard to see why. Days unfurl bronzing on blindingly white sand in the bluest of summers; sunset cocktails endlessly segue into dinners at diminutive eateries perched onto twinkly honeycombed cliffs; and nights pass in a heady blur experiencing the crème de la crème of clubbing.
Opt for Mallorca if you are looking for a charter that artfully balances an exclusive superyacht scene with unspoiled serenity: the isle has over 262 beaches and many of which are still vastly undiscovered. You'll find even more on its quieter, untamed sister island Menorca. Unsurprisingly, Ibiza wears the Balearics party crown, but don't be fooled into thinking that's all it offers: the island dons a distinctly barefoot bohemian vibe in its lesser-explored corners.
Meanwhile, on the smallest and sleepiest of the main islands, the wishbone-shaped Formentera, appears painted in bold turquoise brushstrokes: slip on some scuba gear here and take in the best of the island's coral-blossoming reefs.
Read more: The 10 Best Beach Clubs in Ibiza for 2021
Brimming with charisma and color, Barcelona is a jewelry box of playful Gothic architectural feats, coastal thrills, and cuisine nonpareil. And thanks to its location, the city also sits in prime position for yacht charters continuing north to the Costa Brava, or south to the Costa Dorada.
From the celebrated OneOcean Port Vell marina, meander through a warren of flint-cobbled lanes in the Gothic Quarter. Potter towards Plaça de Catalunya, taking a seat under the shade of one of La Rambla's sprawling tree-lined boulevard terraces. Nearby, marvel at ethereal Gaudí masterpieces and be spellbound by his surrealist vision: from the undulating shard forms of Casa Batlló that glisten in the light to the gargantuan mosaic lizard that populates Park Güell. It's a journey in vivid color.
For the finest in fashion, take time to peruse the city's boulevard of luxury, Passeig de Gràcia, and stop for a spot of authentically Catalonian lunch at one of its Haute gastronomy offerings. Afterward, soothe tired toes and gain repose on one of its long arcs of velvety sand. Take your pick – from the lively Barceloneta to the more serene Nova Icària or Bogatell.
The hip port city of Valencia is a flourishing metropolis that's growing in popularity with superyacht guests, who venture to the vivacious city for a dash of culture before island-hopping to the Balearics. Lesser-frequented than its big sister Barcelona, it's no less enchanting. Valencia is lined with streets unmistakably Art Nouveau in style and awash in ornamental pastel-hues, with flashes of Art Deco, Gothic, and even ultra-modern all bathed in a dreamy Valencian golden glow at dusk.
Wandering through the city's lavishly adorned galleries and museums (featuring everything Goya to Velázquez) is a must whilst you are here, as is meandering through the 9km long Turia Gardens, a former riverbed that ripples through the city. Before taking an afternoon siesta, quench your thirst under a shaded palm and order a cool horchata: a traditional milky beverage made from crushed tiger nuts.
Bask in the sun on one of its myriad of beaches (such as La Malvarrosa) or on your sundeck and after working up an appetite, sample the excellence of the city's cuisine. Budding gourmands must feast on Valencian oysters, but as the birthplace of paella, no meal would be complete here without at least once devouring a steaming hot bowl of it under a garland of lights. Finish the evening twirling on one of the city's many rooftop terraces, as the sky is gradually covered in an inky blanket.
A Costa del Sol yacht charter promises discerning clientele glamor every turn. Marbella beckons with its universally regarded superyacht marina Puerto Banús and its fabulous Golden Mile: the epitome of luxury and extravagance. Framed by towering palms, this is where the jet-set convene and comprises of a four-mile-long boulevard bristling with boutiques, Michelin-star restaurants, renowned bars, and nightclubs. But don't forget Marbella's exquisitely preserved ancient heart, the Old Town: a swirl of white-washed houses and orange-laden trees whose citrusy fragrance permeates its sun-dappled squares.
Nearby, Picasso's birthplace Málaga dazzles with a swish of flamenco and as the culinary hub of Andalucía: so be sure to consume the catch of the day on one of its chiringuitos (beach shacks). Gaze at the glowing embers as your seafood cooked in front of you on hot coals, after whiling away a sun-baked afternoon on Playa de la Malagueta or Pedragalejo, before returning to your yacht.
And for the avid golfers, the Costa del Sol is home to some of the most prestigious golf courses in the world. Sophisticated Sotogrande should be your first port of call: a resort with an internationally renowned estate with more than 12 miles of undisturbed coastline on its doorstep.
Typically, most yacht charters in Spain will comprise only the Balearic Islands, and possibly the mainland too. However, as part of an extended yacht charter itinerary, yacht charters in Spain may also decide to venture further afield to the Belle Époque-infused glamor of the French Riviera.
To receive personalized advice concerning possible Spain luxury yacht charter combinations, please consult your yacht charter broker.
If you want to go on a Spain yacht charter, we strongly advise booking with your yacht charter broker at least three to six months in advance. By doing so, you will increase the likelihood of securing your preferred dates and you will have a greater selection of yachts on offer to choose from. This also ensures your broker has enough time to craft a personalized itinerary and secure a berth at a popular marina.
It's also worth keeping in mind that when booking a yacht charter in Spain, there may be fewer options at your disposal outside of the Balearics, pushing for the need to book ahead as far as possible.
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Explore Spain
Spain Yacht Charter Itineraries
Carefully crafted by yachting experts, our yacht charter itineraries ensure you experience Spain's coastal highlights. From the shimmering azul shores of the Balearic Islands, through to the exuberant mainland cities of Barcelona and Valencia, our itineraries are perfect for zen-seekers and party-goers alike.
With well-provisioned superyacht marinas and strong international airport connections in the Balearics and mainland Spain, yacht charter guests can cruise between destinations with ease.
Discover Spain
BEST FOR:
Iconic architectural feats, superlative golden beaches, legendary superyacht marinas, Serene anchorages, designer boutiques, Michelin-starred restaurants, heavenly island-hopping.
When to Go:
May - September
Airports:
- Barcelona Airport
- Palma de Mallorca Airport
- Ibiza Airport
- Malaga Airport
Book with Ease - Speak with a Charter Expert
Our charter experts will:
- Discuss your vacation plans
- Check availability & shortlist suitable yachts
- Negotiate booking & prepare your itinerary
Top 'Things To Do' in Spain
Spain Yacht Charter Q&A
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Q.How do I secure my booking for a yacht charter in Spain?A.
To secure your Spain yacht charter, you will usually need to provide a completed charter agreement and 50% of the charter fee as a deposit. This is payable once the contract has been signed.
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Q.What do I need to know before booking a yacht charter in Spain?A.
You will have a greater variety of yachts to pick from if you decide to charter in the Balearic Islands compared to mainland destinations. Whilst Barcelona certainly has a considerable array of yachts to choose from, it is not as extensive as the islands.
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Q.Where is the most popular yacht charter destination in Spain?A.
The perennial favorite yacht charter destination in Spain is the Balearic Islands, home to four main islands each distinctive in nature (Mallorca, Menorca, Ibiza, and Formentera). From tranquil island-hopping to hedonistic night scene, the Balearics has it all.
Exuberant Barcelona makes for a popular mainland charter choice, thanks to its excellent superyacht marina, thrilling cultural scene, and its convenient position between the Costa Dorada and the Costa Blanca.
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Q.Which yachts are allowed to charter in Spain?A.
Charter yachts will need to obtain a Spanish charter licence in order to cruise its waters, this is applicable if you are beginning or ending your charter in Spain.
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Q.How do I select the right yacht for a Spain yacht charter?A.
Find the perfect Spain yacht charter by browsing on our website the wide-ranging selection of luxury motor yachts and sailing yachts available in this exceptional destination. All you need to do is select your chosen dates, number of guests, yacht type, features, and desired onboard toys and we'll show you what's on offer.
If you make a booking enquiry, a yacht charter broker will then contact you and craft a bespoke charter proposal for you to look over.
Alternatively, you can contact your yacht charter broker directly to conduct research on your behalf as to the best available yacht charter in Spain.
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Q.What are the costs involved with a Spain yacht charter?A.
Yacht charter guests will find there are plenty of yachts at their disposal in Spain, but you will certainly need to book at least three months in advance of your vacation to ensure your snap up the best yacht for you.
When booking your Spain yacht charter, keep in mind the additional costs that aren't included in the base rate. This includes things like VAT and the APA (Advance Provisioning Allowance). Typically set at 30% of the charter fee, the APA is paid in advance and covers expenses such as fuel, berthing, food and drinks, as well as any special requests.
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Q.When is the best time to visit Spain by yacht?A.
May until September are the optimal times to explore the spellbinding Spanish coastline. Yacht charter guests can expect an average temperature of 22 degrees in May, peaking at 30 degrees in August.
And rest assured that Spain's twinkling sea is positively balmy to swim in, as it also reaches a peak of 30 degrees in August.
If you are incorporating the Balearics into your Spain yacht charter, the weather is better for longer, with temperatures in the high twenties until the end of October. Sea temperatures are a little lower for the Balearics but still delightful to float in at an average of 26 degrees during the summer months.
