5.0(1 Reviews)Full Day Guided Pontoon Trip, Fort Walton Beach
5.0(1 reviews)
Private Trip
Cruise
Sevenhour guided pontoon cruise exploring Destin waterways and Crab Island30foot tritoon accommodates up to 10 guests with onboard bathroomSwimming, sandbar relaxation, and private island visits included
Captain Ron's full day guided pontoon trip out of Fort Walton Beach is hands down one of the most relaxing ways to explore the stunning Emerald Coast waters. This seven-hour adventure takes you and up to nine friends or family members through the beautiful waterways around Destin and the famous Crab Island. You're not just getting a boat ride – you're getting a local captain who knows every sandbar, every secret spot, and exactly where to find the coolest marine life. The best part? You don't need any boating experience. Just show up ready to have a great time on the water.
This top-rated pontoon tour runs on Captain Ron's 30-foot PlayCraft tritoon, which is basically the Cadillac of pontoon boats. With a 115hp Mercury engine, you'll cruise comfortably between destinations without feeling like you're crawling along. The onboard bathroom is a game-changer for families with kids or anyone who wants to stay hydrated without worry. Your group gets the entire boat to yourselves – no sharing with strangers or feeling rushed to accommodate other passengers. The tour covers the scenic waterways between Fort Walton Beach and Destin, including stops at Crab Island where you can swim in the crystal-clear emerald waters. Captain Ron handles all the navigation and logistics while you focus on soaking up the Florida sun and spotting dolphins. The boat comes equipped with all required safety gear, so you just need to bring sunscreen, snacks, and your sense of adventure.
Captain Ron's approach is all about going with the flow and letting the day unfold naturally. He'll pick the best spots based on weather, tides, and what's happening on the water that day. You might start by cruising out to the sandbars where you can wade in waist-deep water and feel like you're walking on a hidden beach in the middle of the Gulf. From there, it's common to head over to some of the private islands where you can explore, collect shells, or just stretch your legs on dry land. Crab Island is usually a highlight – this famous underwater sandbar near Destin transforms into a floating party scene on weekends, but Captain Ron knows the quieter spots where families can enjoy the shallow, clear water without the crowds. The tritoon's stable platform makes it easy to get in and out of the water, and there's plenty of shade when you need a break from the sun. Throughout the day, Captain Ron shares local knowledge about the area's history, points out wildlife, and makes sure everyone feels comfortable and engaged.
"Our family had an amazing time with Captain Ron. My kids loved our trips with him. From finding dolphins, crab, shells and a puffer fish to island hoping, filling the mermaid mailboxes to swinging above the water it was a wonderful family adventure. We are so excited to go back again soon!!!!" - Chance
The waters around Fort Walton Beach and Destin are teeming with marine life that makes every pontoon tour feel like a nature documentary. Bottlenose dolphins are the stars of the show and you'll likely spot them throughout the day. These playful mammals are curious about boats and often swim alongside or even surf the wake. They're most active in the morning and late afternoon, and Captain Ron has a knack for finding pods that are in a social mood. The dolphins here are year-round residents, so you've got great chances no matter when you visit.
Blue crabs are everywhere in these waters, especially around the grass flats and near the sandbars. Kids love trying to catch them in the shallow water – they're quick but not too hard to spot scuttling along the sandy bottom. Summer and fall are peak times for crab activity when the water temperature is just right. You'll also encounter various species of rays, including stingrays that glide gracefully through the shallow areas. They're completely harmless if you do the stingray shuffle when walking in the water.
Pufferfish are another crowd favorite, especially with younger guests. These quirky little fish inflate into spiky balls when they feel threatened, creating a memorable photo opportunity. They're most common in the warmer months and tend to hang around the grass beds and rocky areas. Captain Ron always emphasizes observing them gently and letting them return to the water quickly if you do manage to scoop one up for a closer look.
This world-class pontoon tour with Captain Ron fills up fast, especially during peak season from March through October. The seven-hour timeframe gives you incredible value – you're getting a full day of guided exploration for less than most half-day charters charge elsewhere. The fact that it's available year-round means you can experience the Emerald Coast's beauty even during the quieter winter months when you might have the sandbars almost to yourselves. Whether you're planning a family reunion, celebrating a special occasion, or just want to see why everyone raves about the waters around Fort Walton Beach, this customer favorite delivers every time. Captain Ron's local expertise and laid-back approach make this the kind of tour that creates lasting memories and has groups coming back season after season.
5.0 out of 5.0Our family had an amazing time with Captain Ron. My kids loved our trips with him. From finding dolphins, crab, shells and a puffe...
Fort Walton Beach