The #1 boat type for Destin watersports. Perfect for families, groups, and Crab Island adventures. 2026 pricing guide, size comparison, and top operators.
Pontoon boats are Destin's most popular rental choice—and for good reason. They're stable, spacious, easy to operate, and perfect for mixed-ability groups. Whether you're taking your first boating trip or planning a Crab Island party, a pontoon fits the bill.
Unlike faster boats, pontoons let everyone relax. They're slow enough to enjoy the views, stable enough for kids, and roomy enough for 12+ people. Plus, most operators include fuel in the price.
| Boat Size & Type | Hourly | Half Day (4 hrs) | Full Day (8 hrs) | Capacity |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 20ft Pontoon | $75–$99 | $299–$349 | $449–$499 | Up to 10 |
| 22ft Pontoon | $89–$110 | $349–$399 | $499–$549 | Up to 12 |
| 24ft Pontoon | $99–$130 | $349–$449 | $499–$699 | Up to 14 |
| Double Decker Pontoon | $120–$150 | $499–$599 | $699–$799 | Up to 16 |
Group size: 2–10 people | Best for: Small families, couples, first-timers
Pros: Easy to handle, affordable, good fuel efficiency, perfect for learning.
Cons: Cramped for groups of 10+, less space for lounging.
Group size: 8–14 people | Best for: Family groups, friends, moderate parties
Pros: Sweet spot of size and price. Seats everyone comfortably. Great for Crab Island.
Cons: Not ideal for very large groups (15+).
Group size: 12–16 people | Best for: Large parties, bachelorette events, birthday groups
Pros: Two decks for parties. Impressive on the water. Party atmosphere.
Cons: Most expensive. Higher center of gravity (slightly less stable in waves).
| Feature | Self-Driven (You Captain) | Captained (Captain Included) |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | $75–$130/hr (cheaper) | $200–$300+/hr (premium) |
| You Drive | ✅ Yes, full control | ❌ Captain drives |
| License Required | ✅ Florida Boating Safety Card | ❌ None required |
| Best For | Experienced boaters, independent groups | First-timers, tours, fishing |
| Navigation | Maps & GPS provided | Captain knows all spots |
| Flexibility | Go wherever you want | Follow captain's itinerary |
$299–$449 half-day for 20–24ft. Includes boat access and basic safety equipment.
Most operators include fuel. Pontoons use 2–4 gal/hr. Confirm before booking.
$500–$1,000 hold on credit card. Released if boat returned undamaged. Damage charges can be $500+.
$25–$50/day limits your liability. Recommended if you're new to boating.
Tubes, water skis, paddleboards: $25–$75 extra. Not included in standard rental.
Budget: $349 rental + $25 insurance + $30 water toys = $404 total
Depart 10am from Destin Harbor → Cruise to Crab Island (5 min) → Anchor and swim (2.5 hrs) → Eat lunch from floating vendors → Return to harbor (4.5 hrs total). Perfect for families and first-timers.
Depart 5pm → Cruise around Destin Harbor & East Pass → Watch sunset (6:30–7pm depending on season) → Return by dark. Bring BYOB champagne. No boating experience needed. Book a captained tour for this.
Depart 9am or 3pm → Cruise to East Pass & Choctawhatchee Bay → Watch for dolphins (they're usually there!) → Return before lunch/dinner. Early morning is best for dolphin activity.
Depart 8am → Crab Island (11am–1pm) → Gulf Beach exploration (1–3pm) → Return to Destin Harbor (4pm) → Dinner at HarborWalk. Book the biggest pontoon you can for this. Full day rental gets you the best value.
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