24ft (12 Passenger) Pontoon Boat Rental in Destin/Crab Island

A Practical Take on the 24ft Pontoon Boat Rental in Destin/Crab Island

If you’re considering a day out on the water in Destin, renting a 24ft pontoon boat is a flexible and relaxed way to enjoy the bay and the famous Crab Island. This experience is especially appealing if you love the idea of charting your own course, swimming in calm waters, and soaking up the sun without the fuss of a guided tour. We’ve looked into what makes this rental stand out—and also what you should watch out for—so you can decide if it’s right for your trip.

Two things we particularly appreciate about this experience are its ease of use—the boats are straightforward to operate with a quick tutorial—and the freedom it offers. You can spend your day exploring at your own pace, stopping whenever you want to swim or just enjoy the scenery. On the flip side, a possible consideration is that the rental is limited to inland waterways and doesn’t include the Gulf of Mexico or East Pass, so if you’re dreaming of ocean waves, this might not be the right fit.

This rental suits travelers who value laid-back, customizable days on the water. Whether you’re traveling with friends, family, or a small group of fun-seekers, it’s perfect for those who want to avoid big tour groups and prefer to create their own adventure in Destin’s calm bays.

Key Points

• Flexible rental duration: From 4 to 10 hours, so you can choose how long to enjoy your day.
• All-included price: Fuel, safety gear, and basic equipment are covered, giving you peace of mind.
• Easy operation: The boat is simple to handle with a quick safety tutorial, making it accessible even if you’re not a seasoned boater.
• Great for exploring: You’ll cruise Choctawhatchee Bay, Santa Rosa Sound, and inland waterways, with the option to stop for swimming.
• Crab Island proximity: The well-known sandbar is only about 5 minutes away, perfect for anchoring and relaxing.
• Family-friendly safety: Life jackets for all ages are provided, including for children.

What You Can Expect on Your Day

When you rent a 24ft pontoon boat in Destin, you’re choosing a vessel that’s roomy, stable, and built for comfort. With space for up to 12 people (though we recommend no more than 10 adults for comfort), it’s ideal for a small group of friends or family. The boat’s spacey deck and Bimini sunshade provide plenty of room for lounging, sunbathing, or just hanging out while cruising the water.

The Yamaha 90 HP engine gives enough power to leisurely cruise around Choctawhatchee Bay and nearby inland waterways without feeling like you’re fighting the water. The Bluetooth music system is a nice touch—you can set your own playlist and relax to your favorite tunes. And when you want to take a dip, the easy access ladder makes swimming in the bay straightforward and safe.

Before departure, you’ll receive a brief safety tutorial—important for those unfamiliar with boating—and a waterway map to help you navigate the area confidently. This is particularly useful if you’re new to the region or want to explore without worry. The staff at Luther’s are friendly, professional, and committed to making sure you’re well-prepared.

The Itinerary: What a Typical Day Looks Like

Once you’re all set, your adventure begins at the Destin Harbor location. From here, the main highlight is the short cruise to Crab Island, just about 5 minutes away. Crab Island is a lively sandbar that attracts boaters with its shallow, turquoise waters and laid-back vibe. It’s a great spot to anchor up, relax, and enjoy the scene—though keep in mind that the boat cannot go into the Gulf of Mexico or East Pass.

Most renters use their time at Crab Island to swim, sunbathe, and socialize. You might also explore the surrounding inland waterways, which include Santa Rosa Sound and other bayous. These quieter areas are perfect for a more peaceful cruise or fishing if you’re inclined.

Throughout the day, you’re free to customize your stops—whether that’s swimming, exploring, or just soaking up the scenery. The boat’s anchor helps you stay put, and the map ensures you don’t lose your way. Many reviews praise the ease of maneuvering the boat, which is especially helpful for first-timers or those with limited boating experience.

The Experience of Renting with Luther’s

Customers consistently mention how smooth the rental process is. One reviewer, Theresa_D, described it as “a seamless encounter from start to finish”. She appreciated the friendly staff, the clean boat, and how easy it was to get everything set up for a successful day. The safety gear, including USCG-approved life jackets for everyone and children, is a major plus, adding reassurance for families.

Fuel is included in the price, meaning no surprises when you return the boat. The rental fee covers up to one full tank of gas, which is typically enough for a full day’s cruising, especially if you’re sticking close to the island and inland waterways.

Parking is convenient, with free spots available right next to the dock. On busy days, it’s worth carpooling or arriving early because parking can fill up during peak times.

Is This Rental Price Worth It?

At around $260 for your entire group, this pontoon rental offers good value. When you consider that it includes fuel, safety gear, and a full day of exploring in a spacious and reliable boat, it can be an economical way to enjoy the water compared to guided tours or larger boat charters. Plus, the flexibility to go whenever you want and explore at your own pace means you’re not tied down to a schedule.

If you’re traveling with a larger group, the per-person cost is quite reasonable, and the experience of crafting your own day is often more memorable than following a preset tour.

Who Should Consider This Experience?

This rental is ideal for groups wanting independent exploration and flexibility. If you have some boating experience or are comfortable learning on the fly, you’ll find the simple operation very manageable. It’s also great for those who want a relaxed day, swimming, and soaking up the sun without the stress of a guided tour.

While families with children over six will find the safety equipment accommodating, those with very young kids might want to consider how comfortably they can swim or handle the boat. Pets are also welcome, making it a flexible choice for travelers with furry friends.

The Sum Up

Renting a 24ft pontoon boat in Destin offers a laid-back, customizable way to enjoy the bay and Crab Island. It’s perfect if you value independence, comfort, and the freedom to set your own pace. The well-maintained boats, professional staff, and all-inclusive pricing make it a straightforward choice for travelers wanting to make the most of their time on the water.

This experience suits those looking for a balance of adventure and relaxation—ideal for small groups, families, or friends who enjoy the idea of steering their own ship and discovering hidden corners of Destin’s waterways. While it’s not suited for ocean cruising, the inland waters are peaceful, scenic, and fun enough to keep everyone happy.

If you’re after a flexible, hassle-free day on the water that emphasizes comfort and freedom, this pontoon rental could be just what you need for a memorable day in Destin.

FAQ

Can I operate the pontoon boat myself?
Yes, if you were born before Jan. 1, 1988, you don’t need a license. If you were born on or after that date, you’ll need to take a Florida Boater’s Test, which is available on-site for $3 or online. The person driving must be at least 21, have a valid driver’s license, and be proficient in English.

How long can I rent the boat?
Rental durations range from around 4 to 10 hours, so you can choose how long you want to be on the water. The longer rental gives you more flexibility for sightseeing and swimming.

Is fuel included?
Yes, fuel for up to one full tank is included in the price, which is generally enough for a full day of inland waterway cruising.

What safety equipment is provided?
All boats come with USCG-approved life jackets for everyone, including children and infants. Safety is a priority, and safety briefings are provided before departure.

Can I bring food and drinks on the boat?
Yes, you’re encouraged to bring coolers with food and drinks. Ice is available for purchase at $5 per bag. Just avoid glass bottles and items prohibited like BBQ grills or towables.

Are pets allowed?
Absolutely—pets are permitted on the vessels, making it convenient to bring your furry friends along.

What are the parking arrangements?
Free onsite parking is available right next to the dock at 200 Harbor Blvd and behind Dewey Destin’s Harborside restaurant. During high volume days, arriving early or carpooling is recommended.

Can I swim from the boat?
Yes, the boat has an easy-to-access ladder, and you’re welcome to stop and swim in the calm inland waters. Just remember to anchor the boat securely.

What if the weather is bad?
If weather conditions are unfavorable, the trip will be rescheduled or refunded. Returning early due to weather or safety concerns is also accommodated with prorated pricing.

How many passengers can the boat hold?
The boat can carry up to 12 passengers, but for maximum comfort, especially with adults, we recommend no more than 10 onboard.

If you’re after a straightforward, relaxing day on the water with plenty of freedom to explore and swim, this pontoon rental in Destin hits the mark. It offers good value, safety, and the chance to craft your own adventure in one of Florida’s most beloved bays.