12 Passenger Pontoon Rental

Looking for a way to enjoy Florida’s beautiful waterways without the hassle of boat ownership? This 12-passenger pontoon rental from Cape Crossing Boat Rentals offers a relaxed, family-friendly way to explore Merritt Island and the Indian River Lagoon. With stunning scenery, friendly wildlife encounters, and a straightforward booking process, it’s a solid choice for anyone craving a taste of the water.

Two things we love about this experience are its simplicity—fuel is included, so you can focus on the fun—and its versatility: whether you want to relax by the sandbars, cruise along lush waterways, or look for dolphins and manatees, this boat can handle it all. One possible consideration is the limited duration of around four hours, which might leave some wanting more if they fall in love with the area.

This tour is best suited for small groups, families, friends, or couples who want a straightforward way to enjoy Merritt Island’s natural beauty at their own pace. If you’re after a relaxing, scenic day on the water without the need for a boat license or complicated planning, this rental is an excellent choice.

Key Points

• Includes fuel and safety gear, making it hassle-free and budget-friendly
• Seats up to 12 people, perfect for groups or families
• Four-hour duration provides enough time for a relaxing cruise and wildlife spotting
• Easy access from a convenient marina in Merritt Island
• Pets are welcome, so your furry friends can join in the fun
• Highly rated with a perfect 5-star score based on 22 reviews

Why choose this pontoon rental?

This experience strikes a balance between comfort, simplicity, and adventure. The full-day availability of safety gear and fuel means you won’t need to worry about extra costs or last-minute preparations. Plus, the size of the boat makes it manageable for most people to board easily—as one reviewer, Nancy, pointed out, “It was easy for me to get on with very little help,” which makes it especially appealing for older travelers or those with mobility concerns.

The scenic waterways of Merritt Island and the Indian River Lagoon are a big part of what makes this tour special. As you cruise, you’ll pass by spoil islands, which are small natural or man-made islands often surrounded by shallow waters — perfect spots for relaxing and taking in the views. Many reviewers highlight the stunning scenery, with Nancy describing the place as “Beautiful,” and William sharing how his friends from Germany experienced something they couldn’t in their home country—a Florida-style day on the water with a sandbar hangout.

What does the itinerary look like?

While there’s no strict schedule, the rough outline involves arriving at the marina, boarding your pontoon, and heading out to explore the waterways. Your cruise can be tailored to your interests — whether you prefer a slow glide along the river’s edge, stopping at a sandbar for swimming or picnicking, or simply enjoying the lush views.

Wildlife encounters are a highlight, with opportunities to spot dolphins and manatees in their natural habitat. The calm, shallow waters of the Indian River Lagoon provide an ideal environment for these gentle creatures, and many guests report being thrilled by their sightings.

Wildlife and scenery

Expect gentle dolphin sightings that often follow boats, and if you’re lucky, you might spot manatees lazily swimming near the water’s surface. Folks enjoy the calm waters, which make for a relaxing ride, especially for those who prefer a gentle cruise rather than high-speed thrills.

The sandbar experience

One of the most praised aspects is the opportunity to visit local sandbars, where groups can anchor and enjoy a casual hangout. William shared that his friends from Germany “could not have experienced this in Germany,” emphasizing how unique and fun a Florida-style sandbar day is—a fantastic, informal spot to socialize, swim, or just soak up the sun.

Practical details: What you need to know

Booking is straightforward—most customers book about 25 days in advance, so plan ahead if you want to secure your preferred date. The cost of $392 is for the entire group of up to 12 people, which makes the per-person cost quite reasonable considering the included fuel, safety gear, and the boat itself.

The meeting point is conveniently located at 306 Lagoon Way, Merritt Island, giving easy access to the water. The duration of approximately four hours is enough to enjoy a leisurely cruise without feeling rushed, but if you’re craving more time on the water, you might consider renting again or combining it with other local activities.

What’s included?

• Fuel and gas, saving you from extra expenses
• Safety gear, including life jackets, flares, whistles, and bumpers
• The 16-24 ft pontoon boat, spacious and stable
• Full gas tank at departure

What’s not included?

• Fishing gear — if you want to fish, you’ll need to bring your own
• Coolers — bring one along if you plan to pack snacks or drinks

Weather and cancellation

This activity is weather-dependent. If poor weather cancels your trip, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund. You can cancel for free up to 24 hours in advance, giving some flexibility if your plans change unexpectedly.

Authentic reviews from past travelers

Nancy’s review sums up the ease of access and comfort: “Very easy to access marina and the pontoon boat. I am older now and can no longer board the boat we own but this one was easy for me to get on with very little help. Loved it!!!” Her words highlight how this rental can make boating accessible for a wider range of travelers.

William shared a fun experience: “Had friends visiting from Germany…great fun on the sandbar,” emphasizing how this tour offers more than just scenery — it’s a memorable social outing.

Another guest rated it a perfect 5 stars, citing the beautiful scenery as a key highlight. The reviews reinforce that this experience offers relaxation, wildlife viewing, and authentic Florida moments.

Who is this tour best suited for?

This pontoon rental is ideal for families, couples, or small groups who want a low-stress way to enjoy Florida’s waterways. It suits those who value simple, all-inclusive arrangements and looking to spot wildlife while cruising at a gentle pace. Pets are welcomed, making it a family-friendly option for animal lovers.

If you’re seeking a more active or fast-paced adventure, this might not be your best choice. But if you want to relax, enjoy scenic views, and perhaps spend time at a sandbar, this rental checks all those boxes.

Final thoughts: Is it worth it?

All in all, this 12-passenger pontoon rental offers a great balance of comfort and affordability. The all-inclusive pricing means no hidden costs, and the high praise from previous guests highlights reliable quality and memorable experiences. It’s a wonderful way to see Merritt Island’s natural beauty without the fuss of boat ownership or complicated rentals.

The emphasis on wildlife sightings and scenic cruising makes it especially appealing for nature lovers and those who want to relax in a peaceful environment. Plus, the easy access and friendly reviews suggest this is a dependable option for both first-timers and seasoned boaters.

If you’re planning a day on the water in Cocoa Beach, this rental could be the highlight of your trip — a peaceful, scenic, and fun way to connect with Florida’s aquatic charm.

FAQ

Is fuel included in the rental price?
Yes, fuel and gas are included, so you won’t have to worry about extra costs once you’re out on the water.

How many people can the boat accommodate?
The pontoon boat seats up to 12 people, making it suitable for small groups, families, or friends.

What safety items are provided?
Safety gear such as lifejackets, flares, whistles, anchors, and bumpers are included, ensuring everyone’s safety during the cruise.

Can I bring pets?
Yes, pets are welcomed, so your furry friends can join the fun.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours in advance. If you cancel less than that, the fee is non-refundable.

How far in advance should I book?
Most travelers book about 25 days ahead, especially during peak seasons, to secure their preferred date.

Are there options to explore other waterways?
Yes, the boat is suitable for exploring rivers, canals, and tributaries of Merritt Island, giving you plenty of flexibility.

What should I bring on the trip?
While coolers and fishing gear aren’t included, bringing snacks, drinks, and sunscreen will enhance your experience.

To sum it up, this 12-passenger pontoon rental in Merritt Island offers a practical, scenic, and relaxed way to enjoy Florida’s waters. It’s perfect for those seeking a stress-free outing packed with wildlife viewing, beautiful scenery, and easy access. Whether celebrating a family day, a small gathering, or simply craving some peace on the water, this tour provides excellent value and memorable moments in a natural setting.