Private Crab Island Double Slides Pontoon Charter

If you’re considering a day out on the water in Destin, Florida, a private pontoon trip to Crab Island might just be your perfect escape. This tour promises a laid-back yet lively experience — think floating slides, paddle boards, and the chance to relax with your own group in shallow, calm Gulf waters. From families with kids to groups of friends, it offers a blend of fun and comfort that many travelers find appealing.

What we particularly like about this tour is its flexibility. It’s a private experience, so your day is tailored by your group’s preferences, whether that means spending more time chilling on the lily pad, snorkeling around the island, or enjoying the water slides. Plus, with the boat equipped with water toys and a Bluetooth speaker, it’s clear this isn’t just a ride — it’s a floating playground. On the downside, it’s worth noting that the cost might seem high for some, especially if you’re traveling solo or as a couple, but for up to 10 people, it can be quite the value — especially considering the personalized experience.

This tour is best suited for families, friends, or anyone eager to make the most of a day on the water in Destin with plenty of activities and a private setting. If you’re looking for a relaxing, fun-filled adventure that combines comfort with adventure, this could be your ideal choice.

Key Points

• Private group experience for up to 10 guests, ensuring intimacy and personalized service
• Includes water toys like a floating lily pad, inflatable paddleboard, and a double-sliding pontoon
• Perfect for families or friends seeking flexibility and fun in shallow Gulf waters
• You can bring your own cooler or buy food from vendor boats on Crab Island
• Short boat tour around the coast offers a scenic introduction to the area
• You’ll need to book well in advance, with most trips scheduled about 39 days ahead

The Itinerary Unpacked: What to Expect

The tour starts with a meeting at the dock in Fort Walton Beach, then a cruise into the well-known Crab Island. This part of the trip is where the real magic begins. The boat anchors in shallow water, creating a perfect spot for swimming, relaxing, and enjoying the floating amenities. Crab Island isn’t a traditional island but a sandbar that’s transformed into a lively hub of activity, especially during high season.

What makes Crab Island special? Its reputation as a gathering spot for locals and visitors alike means you’ll find plenty of boats, food vendors, and floating entertainment. Reviewers consistently praise the island’s atmosphere, noting how friendly and lively it feels. Melissa_B’s review highlights how the boat ride was “fun,” and the island “had so much to offer,” emphasizing the variety of water toys and the overall relaxed vibe.

Water toys and amenities are a major lure. With the floating lily pad, inflatable paddleboard, and Bluetooth speaker, your group can set the tone—whether that’s energetic fun or peaceful lounging. You can also bring your own life jackets or use those supplied on board. The boat is equipped with a double slide, adding a splash of excitement for kids and adventurous adults alike.

The boat tour around the coast provides a scenic overview of the area. It’s short but offers a chance to spot dolphins or other wildlife, making the trip more than just beach time. Several reviews mention how knowledgeable and friendly the captains are, enhancing the experience with local insights and safe navigation.

The Water Toys and Floating Fun

The star of the show is arguably the floating lily pad and the inflatable paddleboard. These popular features transform the trip from a simple boat ride into a floating playground. As Jennifer_K happily notes, the kids enjoyed taking the paddleboards around, and the grandparents appreciated relaxing on the lily pad.

The double-sliding pontoon itself is a highlight—both practical and fun. It’s designed to comfortably accommodate your group, and the slides add that extra splash of excitement. From the reviews, it’s clear that these features elevate the experience, making it worthwhile for families looking for diverse activities on the water.

Music and ambiance are supported by a Bluetooth speaker, allowing your group to set the mood with your favorite tunes. It’s a small detail but adds to the relaxed, fun atmosphere that many travelers enjoy.

Food, Drinks, and What’s Not Included

You’ll want to bring your own cooler with drinks and snacks—most reviews suggest this is a smart move. While the tour doesn’t include food, Crab Island has vendor boats that sell snacks and drinks, giving you options for casual refreshments. The tour costs $500 per group, which might seem steep at first glance, but when divided among up to ten people, the price breaks down to a reasonable rate for a private adventure.

Captain fees are paid directly to your captain, which is standard. This allows for flexibility in tipping based on your satisfaction. The tour is designed to be a hassle-free day, so bringing your own cooler with ice ensures you stay refreshed without extra expense.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip appeals most to families, groups of friends, or couples who want a private day on the water. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy water-based activities like paddleboarding and sliding, along with relaxing on floats. If your group appreciates personalized service and flexibility, then this tour fits the bill.

Travelers who like to have control over their day—whether that means staying longer at Crab Island or exploring the coast—will find this itineration ideal. It’s also perfect if you’re looking for a memorable experience without the crowds, since it’s a private charter.

Practical Details and Booking Tips

Advance booking is highly recommended—most trips are booked 39 days ahead. The experience lasts about four hours, a perfect length to enjoy plenty of water fun without fatigue. The start point is at 38 Miracle Strip Pkwy SW, a convenient location near Fort Walton Beach.

The tour offers flexibility on weather, with cancellations possible if the weather turns poor, and full refunds available if canceled 24 hours in advance. Keep in mind that last-minute cancellations less than 24 hours before do not qualify for refunds.

Most travelers can participate, and service animals are allowed, making it accessible for many. The private nature of the tour means no surprises — only your group on the boat, creating a relaxed and personalized atmosphere.

Final Thoughts: Who Is This For?

If you’re after a private, activity-packed day that combines comfort with adventure, this tour is a fantastic choice. It’s especially ideal for families with kids who want a safe, shallow water environment, or groups of friends looking for a fun, customizable outing. The inclusion of water toys and the chance to enjoy Crab Island’s lively scene make it stand out among other water trips.

While it’s priced per group rather than per person, the value increases with the size of your party. It’s a perfect blend of relaxed lounging, active play, and scenic cruising. This experience offers a memorable way to experience Destin’s most famous water spot without the hassle of crowded public tours.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, it’s ideal for families, especially since the boat anchors in shallow, safe water and includes kid-friendly water toys like paddleboards and floats.

How many people can fit on the boat?
Up to 10 passengers, making it a cozy but spacious private experience.

What should I bring?
Bring a cooler with ice and drinks, sunscreen, towels, and any personal floats or gear you prefer. You can also bring your own life jackets if you wish.

Are food and drinks included?
No, you’ll need to bring your own cooler. Food can be purchased from vendor boats on Crab Island.

How far in advance should I book?
Most trips are booked about 39 days ahead, so planning early is recommended.

What is the duration of the tour?
Approximately four hours, including boat transfer, time at Crab Island, and the coast tour.

Is the tour weather-dependent?
Yes, it requires good weather. Cancellations due to poor weather are fully refundable if made 24 hours in advance.

Can I bring my pet or service animal?
Yes, service animals are allowed on the tour.

How do I pay the captain’s fee?
The captain’s fee is paid directly to your captain during the trip.

To sum it up, this private Crab Island pontoon tour combines the best of relaxation and activity for those wanting a tailored day on the water. It’s perfect for small groups seeking fun, flexibility, and memorable moments in Destin. Whether you’re sliding into the water, lounging on floats, or exploring the coast, this experience offers genuine value—and plenty of opportunities for making nice stories to tell back home.