Crab Island Fun W/ Lily Pad & More

If you’re planning a trip to Destin and looking for a day on the water that combines socializing, water play, and stunning scenery, the Crab Island Fun W/ Lily Pad & More tour might catch your eye. This experience offers a chance to enjoy Crab Island, a popular shallow-water spot known for its lively atmosphere and scenic views, with the added bonus of paddleboarding, inflatables, and a sound system — all designed to make your day memorable.

What immediately draws us in about this tour is the flexibility it offers. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, bachelorette party, or just want a fun-filled day with friends and family, the private boat rental with a captain (or without, if you prefer to captain yourself) provides a customizable experience. Plus, the price point of $325 per group (up to 12 people) presents a good value for what’s included, especially considering the extras like paddleboards, lily pads, and inflatables.

However, one aspect worth considering is the additional gratuities and captain fee—$180 paid directly at the dock. Travelers should factor this into their budget, as it’s a common practice for boat tours but can be a surprise for some. Still, for the chance to spend four hours on the water with such engaging amenities, many will find this an attractive option for their Destin adventure.

This tour is best suited for groups of friends, families, or celebrations looking for a relaxed yet lively day on the water. If you’re after a more structured or educational tour, this might not be the best fit. But for those wanting to enjoy the scenery, water-based activities, and a fun party atmosphere, it hits the right notes.

Key Points

• Flexible group size: Up to 12 passengers, perfect for family or friends.
• Water fun included: Paddleboard, lily pad, inflatables, and Bluetooth speaker.
• Captain option: Available for an extra fee, with easy payment at the dock.
• Value for money: Includes equipment and a private boat, with a reasonable starting price.
• Highly rated: Most reviews praise the friendly staff and beautiful experience.
• Booking notice: Book about 20 days in advance, as it’s popular.

When we look at what this tour offers, it’s clear that flexibility and fun are at the core. The 24-foot Bentley Cruiser equipped with a 115hp Mercury engine ensures smooth sailing whether you’re exploring the coastline or heading directly to Crab Island. If you’ve got a boating license, you could even captain the boat yourself—though many opt for the captain option, which adds ease and safety, especially if you’re unfamiliar with local waters.

Starting Point and Duration

The meeting point at 36 Miracle Strip Pkwy SW, Fort Walton Beach is straightforward. From there, your four-hour adventure begins — enough time to soak up the scenery at Crab Island, enjoy water activities, and relax without feeling rushed. The tour ends back at the starting point, giving you the convenience of nearby accommodations or other activities.

The Itinerary: A Mix of Relaxation and Play

Once underway, the captain will likely cruise along the Emerald Coast’s famous beaches before arriving at Crab Island. The highlight? The shallow, lively waters of Crab Island, a hub for water-based fun, sunbathing, and socializing. Many reviews mention how much fun it is to hang out here, especially with the included inflatables and lily pad—perfect for bouncing around or lounging with friends.

The paddleboard adds a gentle option for paddling around, and the Bluetooth JBL speaker keeps the vibe lively. Bring your drinks and snacks (no glass, please), and enjoy your time with a cooler provided (though you’ll need to bring your own ice). The inflatables are a hit with kids and adults alike, providing more ways to splash and play.

The Captain’s Role and Additional Costs

If you opt for a captain, expect the $180 gratuity, payable at the dock via cash or app. Reviews highlight how helpful and friendly the captains are, often taking photos and assisting with water activities. Several reviewers, like Madison, praised their captain for being kind and helpful, making the trip extra enjoyable.

Some reviews mention a negative experience where a guest didn’t want a captain but was told they couldn’t drive the boat without a Florida boaters license. This underscores the importance of clarifying your preferences when booking, especially if you plan to captain the boat yourself.

Equipment and Extras

The tour provides a Bluetooth JBL PartyBox speaker, lily pad, cooler, inflatable toys, and even a beer pong mat—all designed to enhance your day of fun. The cooler is empty, so remember to bring your own drinks and snacks, but leave the glass at home for safety.

Booking and Flexibility

Most travelers book about 20 days in advance, which speaks to its popularity. The free cancellation policy allows changing plans if needed, provided you cancel at least 24 hours before, an important consideration if weather turns sour or your plans change.

The Value of This Experience

At $325 for a group of 12, this tour offers great value, especially when you factor in the equipment, the private boat, and the ability to personalize your experience. The additional captain fee is an optional extra, which adds to the safety and ease, especially for those unfamiliar with boating.

The reviews suggest that many guests feel they received a well-organized, fun, and memorable day. Several have booked multiple hours or expressed their intention to return, indicating high satisfaction.

This experience is ideal for families, friends, and groups celebrating special occasions. It suits those who enjoy water activities, socializing, and scenic views. If you want a relaxed yet lively day with plenty of opportunities for fun and photos, this tour fits the bill. It’s less about structured sightseeing and more about enjoying the water, the company, and the natural beauty of Destin’s coast.

The Sum Up

The Crab Island Fun W/ Lily Pad & More tour offers a friendly, flexible, and lively way to experience Destin’s famous waters. The inclusion of paddleboards, inflatables, and a Bluetooth speaker ensures a lively atmosphere, perfect for group celebrations or family outings. The option to captain your own boat or have a captain onboard adds to its appeal, making it a versatile choice for different comfort levels.

While the additional gratuity and the need for a booking in advance are worth noting, the overall value for what’s included makes it a compelling option. With most reviews highlighting fun, friendly staff, and beautiful scenery, this tour delivers a relaxed, enjoyable day on the water — a perfect way to soak up the best of Destin’s beaches.

If you’re after a fun, customizable, and social experience that combines water activities with stunning views, this trip could be just what you need.

Can I bring my own drinks and snacks? Yes, you can bring your drinks and snacks, but no glass containers are allowed for safety reasons.

Is a captain required or optional? The tour offers both options. You can captain the boat yourself if you have the necessary license, or opt for a captain for an extra fee paid at the dock.

How many people can fit on the boat? The boat accommodates up to 12 passengers plus the captain if you choose to have one, making it suitable for groups of friends or family.

What equipment is included? The tour includes a paddleboard, lily pad, speaker, inflatables, and a cooler (without ice).

How far in advance should I book? Most travelers book about 20 days ahead, as the tour is popular and tends to fill up.

What is the cancellation policy? Cancel at least 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Cancellations within 24 hours are not refundable.

Are service animals allowed? Yes, service animals are permitted on this tour.

Where do we meet for the tour? The meeting point is at 36 Miracle Strip Pkwy SW, Fort Walton Beach, FL.

What happens if the weather is bad? The tour requires good weather; if canceled due to poor weather, you will be offered a different date or a full refund.

How much should I expect to pay in tips? Gratuities and the captain fee are paid directly at the dock, with the tip typically around $180 for the captain.

This tour offers a fun, social, and scenic day on the water, perfect for groups ready to enjoy Destin’s famous Crab Island in style.