Benalmadena is known for its lively marina, beautiful coastline, and warm Mediterranean waters, making it an ideal spot for cruises and boat tours. Whether you’re eager to see dolphins leap from the sea, enjoy a sunset sail, or rent your own boat for the afternoon, this town offers a variety of options. We’re especially fond of the dolphin-watching tours that let you get close to playful marine life—the sheer joy of spotting dolphins in their natural habitat is hard to beat. The private boat trips are perfect for celebrating special occasions, giving you full control over your day on the water. For a more social vibe, the boat party with a DJ promises lively music and dancing under the sun. No matter your style, Benalmadena’s boat tours promise memorable moments in the open sea.
Quick Overview
Benalmadena offers a broad range of boat experiences. You can embark on dolphin-watching excursions like the Benalmadena: Dolphin Watching Boat Tour, which has over 3,700 reviews and is family-friendly. For those seeking a relaxed, luxurious vibe, the Catamaran Cruise with Drinks and Swim Stop stands out with its high ratings and included drinks. If you prefer a private, customizable experience, check out the Private Boat Trip with Drinks & Snacks, perfect for celebrating or just enjoying a quiet day on the water. For a fun-filled party, the Boat Party with a Drink combines dancing, swimming, and lively music. Lastly, for those who want to captain their own vessel, license-free boat rentals are available, such as the Costa del Sol License-Free Boat Rental.
1. Benalmadena: Dolphin Watching Boat Tour
If you’re eager to see dolphins in the wild, this tour is a top choice. The Benalmadena: Dolphin Watching Boat Tour takes you along the Costa del Sol aboard the Magic Vision, a comfortable boat with a bar, shaded seating, and music. The highlight is the chance to spot dolphins and marine life through underwater windows, which makes it a fun and family-friendly experience. This tour usually lasts about 2 hours, a perfect quick escape from land-based sightseeing. The reviews are glowing, with many praising the crew’s dedication and the thrill of close encounters with dolphins, including whales and sunfish seen during some trips. Kids love being invited up to see the dolphins, and adults enjoy the scenic views and onboard snacks. At just $22 per person, it offers great value for a memorable adventure. The trip runs regularly from Costasol Cruceros and is suitable for families and anyone who loves marine wildlife.
Bottom Line: A lively, affordable, family-friendly tour with fantastic dolphin sightings and a relaxed vibe. Book early to secure a spot for this popular trip.
2. Benalmadena: Catamaran Cruise with Drinks and Swim Stop
For those who prefer luxury and relaxation, this 2-hour catamaran cruise offers the perfect blend. Boarding a sleek 44-foot vessel, you’ll enjoy complimentary drinks while cruising along the Mediterranean. The boat is spacious enough for everyone to relax, sunbathe, or dance to the onboard music. The trip includes opportunities to spot dolphins and whales, with the crew always on alert. The highlight for many is the swim stop, where you can jump into the clear sea to cool off or simply enjoy the sun on deck. Reviews rave about the friendly crew and the stunning coastline views. The trip costs $53 per person, making it a luxury experience at a reasonable price. It’s ideal for couples, groups, or anyone wanting a peaceful yet fun day at sea with the option to cool off in the water.
Bottom Line: A premium cruise with drinks, swimming, and wildlife viewing, perfect for travelers seeking comfort and scenic beauty.
3. Benalmadena: Private Boat Trip with Drinks & Snacks
Looking for a personalized trip? The Private Boat Trip with Drinks & Snacks is a fantastic choice. You can book a trip lasting from 1 to 6 hours, during which you enjoy snorkeling, swimming, and fishing—all with all gear included. Perfect for celebrating birthdays, romantic outings, or family adventures, this experience offers unlimited drinks and snacks to keep everyone refreshed. The boat can be tailored to your preferences—whether you want a quiet day or a lively party on the water. Reviews praise the staff for their friendliness and the flexibility to customize the experience. A highlight is the chance to snorkel over a historic shipwreck or fish in the waters of Costa del Sol. The price is higher at $181 per person, but the exclusivity and tailored experience make it excellent value for special occasions.
Bottom Line: A private, all-inclusive adventure ideal for celebrations, with flexible options and personalized service.
4. Benalmadena: Boat Tour with Snorkeling, Water Slide and Lunch
This full-day trip is a hidden treasure for families and active travelers. It combines snorkeling, a giant water slide, and a delicious onboard lunch. The boat takes you along the scenic coast, where you might spot dolphins, then stops to explore a historic shipwreck underwater. Kids and adults alike love the water slide, which ends with a splash in the sea—an exciting way to cool off. The trip includes paddle boards and kayaks for relaxed exploration, plus the chance to enjoy a leisurely lunch with panoramic sea views. Reviews highlight the friendly crew and the variety of activities, with many saying it was the “best day of the holiday.” The trip lasts around 3.5 hours and is ideal for families with children or anyone wanting a day full of fun and adventure.
Bottom Line: Action-packed day with swimming, snorkeling, and water fun, suited for families and active travelers.
5. Benalmadena: Costa del Sol License-Free Boat Rental
If you enjoy the feeling of being your own captain, this license-free boat rental is perfect. For groups up to five, you can rent a boat for 30 minutes to 4 hours and explore the Costa del Sol at your own pace. You can search for dolphins, stop for a swim, or just relax on deck. Reviews emphasize how easy it is to get started, with friendly staff guiding you through the process. The price at $46 per group makes it a cost-effective way to enjoy the water. The flexibility of this rental makes it suitable for families, couples, or friends who want a low-pressure, fun day on the sea.
Bottom Line: Self-guided boat rental offering freedom and fun for smaller groups, with straightforward instructions and good value.
6. Malaga: 6-Seater Speedboat License-free Boat Rental
This 6-seater speedboat rental combines thrill and sightseeing. For around $35, you get 30 minutes to 4 hours of sailing, with the chance to admire dolphins and catch the sunset. The boat is easy to operate, and during the trip, you can enjoy scenic views of Malaga’s coast. Reviews mention how the instructor guides you well, and the experience is perfect for couples or small groups seeking adventure. The highlight is the sunset ride, offering magical views over the sea. If you’re comfortable with a bit of a speed rush, this is a fantastic choice.
Bottom Line: An exciting, flexible option for small groups wanting to captain their own boat and enjoy scenic sunsets.
7. Benalmadena: Boat Party with a Drink
For those looking to combine boating and partying, the Boat Party with a Drink is a hit. This 3-hour event takes place on a double-floor catamaran with a DJ spinning urban and pop hits. You can enjoy swimming if the weather permits, dance on the deck, and mingle with other travelers. The bar offers drinks from just 3€, making it accessible for most budgets. Rated 4.4/5, reviews mention how much fun everyone has, praising the lively atmosphere. It’s perfect for young travelers or groups wanting a lively experience on the water.
Bottom Line: A fun, dance-focused boat party with drinks, swimming, and great music—ideal for lively groups.
8. Malaga: Boat rentals without a license
This no-license boat rental offers a simple way to explore Malaga’s waters without the need for a boating license. The boats are easy to operate, and the experience is perfect for families or small groups. Many reviews highlight how straightforward the process is, with friendly staff guiding you. The trip lasts up to 4 hours, giving you enough time to visit beaches, spot dolphins, or just enjoy the sea. Prices are competitive, and the flexible hours make it a popular choice among travelers wanting to beach-hop independently.
Bottom Line: A hassle-free way to enjoy Malaga’s coast on your own terms, suitable for all skill levels.
9. Benalmadena: Boat rentals without a license
Similar to the previous, this rent boat without license option allows you to sail freely along the Costa del Sol. It’s perfect for families and friends who want independence and flexibility. The boats are easy to operate, with safety equipment provided. The trip includes sightseeing, swimming, and the possibility of dolphin sightings. The reviews are positive, praising the simplicity and the fun of controlling your vessel in beautiful surroundings.
Bottom Line: An easy, independent way to explore the coast on a self-driven boat, great for small groups.
10. Benalmadena: License-Free Rent Boat for Dolphin Watching
This license-free boat rental is a favorite for families and groups wanting dolphin encounters. You can rent the largest boat in this category for up to 4 hours and search for dolphins, stop for swims, or simply enjoy the scenic coastline. The reviews note how the boat is spacious and easy to operate, with the crew providing guidance. The price at about $35 per group makes it an accessible way to combine adventure and relaxation.
Bottom Line: Spacious, easy to handle, and family-friendly—perfect if dolphin watching is your main goal.
11. Benalmadena: Boat Rental without License
This small but highly rated boat rental offers a quick, enjoyable experience on the water without needing a license. It’s especially suited for those wanting a shorter trip (around 30 minutes to 3 hours). The reviews praise the friendliness of the staff and the simplicity of the process. It’s great for small groups seeking a casual, fun outing with the option of spotting dolphins or just relaxing.
Bottom Line: Short, simple, and fun—ideal for first-time boaters or those with limited time.
12. Benalmadena: Private Boat Trips
Finally, for those who want a bespoke experience, the Private Boat Trips offer tailored itineraries, including dolphin sightings, fishing, or celebrations. With trips lasting 2-3 hours, you get personalized service, and the reviews highlight the exclusivity and flexibility. Perfect for special occasions like hen parties or birthdays, this option is best suited for travelers seeking a private, high-end experience and willing to invest more.
Bottom Line: Customized, intimate trips ideal for celebrations or those who want a private, luxurious day on the water.
How to Choose the Best Boat Tour in Benalmadena
When selecting your ideal boat experience, consider your budget, time available, and interests. For families or wildlife lovers, the dolphin-watching tours (#1) or license-free rentals are excellent. If you prefer a relaxing cruise with drinks and swimming, the catamaran is a good pick. For celebrating special occasions, the private boat trips provide exclusivity and customization.
Think about the length of the trip—shorter options like the 30-minute rentals suit a quick adventure, while full-day trips with snorkeling and water slides are perfect for families or active groups. Booking early is recommended during peak season, especially for popular tours like dolphin watching.
To sum it up, Benalmadena offers a rich variety of boat experiences tailored to all types of travelers. If your priority is wildlife viewing, the dolphin tours are a must. For a luxurious, relaxing day, the catamaran cruises are hard to beat. Celebrate a special event or enjoy complete privacy with private trips. Whatever your choice, the sea is calling—so grab your sunscreen, pack your sense of adventure, and start planning your perfect day on the water in Benalmadena. Booking ahead is wise to ensure you get your preferred time and experience—these tours fill up fast during the busy months.