The Visitar Marbella journal

Stories & guides from
the Marbella coast.

Local knowledge on boating, diving and the wildlife off our stretch of the Costa del Sol — from someone who is out there most days.

Four friends raising their glasses on deck on a birthday charter

Birthday boat trip in Marbella: how to plan it

Which charter, cake and decorations, what it costs per head, and the winter sunset option — for the one organising it.

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A group on the boat at sunset off the Marbella coast

A boat trip in Marbella in winter: what it’s actually like

Mild afternoons, calm seas, sunset before dinner — what the winter weather’s really like, month-by-month sunset times, and what to wear.

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The Golden Mile from the water

The Golden Mile from the water

The Marbella Club, Puente Romano, Banús and the beach clubs seen from the boat — and where we anchor.

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A common dolphin riding the bow wave off Marbella

Dolphins off Marbella: what you actually see — and what no skipper can promise

The species that live on this coast, how to tell them apart, when they turn up — and why we never guarantee them.

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The Visitar Marbella boat at sunset with guests aboard, La Concha silhouetted behind

Sunset Cruise in Marbella: What Golden Hour on the Water Is Really Like

Our favourite hour of the day — how the two-hour sunset slot works, who it suits, and why the last ten minutes go quiet on their own.

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Hen party on board private boat charter in Marbella with Bride to Be banner and balloons

Planning a Hen Party Boat Trip in Marbella? Read This First

Private boat or party boat, what's included, decorating rules and prices — everything the organiser needs before booking the bride's big day out.

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The Visitar Marbella dive boat beside the crane structure of The Tower dive site off Marbella

The Best Dive Sites in Marbella: A Local Skipper's Guide

The Tower, El Pimpollo and Las Bóvedas — the sites we actually dive, with depths, marine life and how to dive them.

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The hull timbers of the Fernando at the El Galeón dive site, San Pedro, Marbella

The Galleon Finally Has a Name

After 260 years, the wreck off Las Bóvedas has been identified: the Fernando, a Spanish warship lost in 1760 — and you can dive her at six metres.

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Sail vs. powerboat in Marbella: which is right for your day?

Sail vs. powerboat in Marbella: which is right for your day?

Two very different days on the water. Here's how to choose — honestly — from someone who is out on this coast most days.

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The best time of year to charter a boat in Marbella

The best time of year to charter a boat in Marbella

Warm water, quiet coves or golden sunsets? A month-by-month guide to the Marbella season.

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Things to do in Puerto Banús by boat

Things to do in Puerto Banús by boat

The superyachts, the beach clubs and the best swim stops — the Golden Mile from the water.

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Planning a proposal on the water in Marbella

Planning a proposal on the water in Marbella

The best light, a quiet anchorage, and the details that make the moment perfect.

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Diving in Marbella for beginners: Discover Scuba explained

Diving in Marbella for beginners: Discover Scuba explained

No certification, no experience needed. How complete beginners try their first dive.

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What to bring on a private boat charter

What to bring on a private boat charter

A short packing list — and everything that's already waiting for you on board.

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