Crab Island Charter in Destin/Fort Walton Beach Florida

Exploring the Crab Island Charter in Destin, Florida

If you’re eyeing a day on the water in Destin, the Crab Island Charter offered by Beach Weekend Marina looks like a fun, straightforward option. Whether you’re traveling with family, friends, or even a furry companion, this three-hour tour promises plenty of sun, shallow waters, and a lively atmosphere centered around the popular Crab Island sandbar.

We’re particularly drawn to the fact that it’s family-friendly and accessible—meaning it welcomes strollers and wheelchairs—and that it offers complimentary water and a restroom on board. On the flip side, some might find the price point of $60 per person slightly on the higher side, especially if you’re on a tight budget or looking for a longer adventure. This tour seems like it’s best suited for those who want a relaxed, social experience on the water without too many frills.

Key Points

• Ideal for groups: The boat accommodates up to 49 people, making it perfect for large gatherings.
• Family and accessible friendly: Strollers, wheelchairs, and service animals are welcome.
• Includes essentials: Free water, a restroom, and a casual, laid-back atmosphere.
• Short and sweet: Three hours is enough time to enjoy Crab Island without feeling rushed.
• Pricing provides good value: At around $60, it’s a reasonable cost for a fun day on the water.
• Positive reviews highlight friendly staff and stunning views.

What’s the Tour All About?

The Crab Island Charter is designed to be a straightforward, enjoyable way to experience one of Destin’s most iconic spots. Starting from Fort Walton Beach, the tour departs from Beach Weekend Marina and heads out over the water in a vessel that can hold up to 47 passengers. The boat is described as family-friendly, and reviewers mention how accessible it is for various needs, making it a good choice for a wide range of travelers.

The main highlight is of course Crab Island itself—a sandbar that emerges in the shallow Gulf waters, perfect for floating, swimming, and soaking up the Florida sun. You’ll spend about three hours at this stop, which is enough time for most people to relax, enjoy a float, and take in the scenery. The boat ride itself offers views of the Emerald Bay, which many reviews rave about.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Start at Fort Walton Beach: The meeting point is at 12 Miracle Strip Pkwy SW. From there, you’ll hop aboard the vessel with your captain and crew, ready for a fun trip. The ride to Crab Island is smooth and scenic, often accompanied by upbeat music and camaraderie among travelers.

Crab Island Sand Bar: Once you arrive, the shallow waters around the sandbar are ideal for splashing and relaxing. Many travelers find this spot to be the ideal place to float around, chat, and enjoy the lively, laid-back atmosphere. Several reviews mention how great the views are—“soak up the sun and gorgeous Emerald Bay of Destin,” as one guest put it. Kids and dogs are welcomed, and some reviews highlight how dog-friendly the company is, provided your pup is a good swimmer and has a vest.

Return Trip: After a few hours of fun, the boat departs for the return journey to Fort Walton Beach. The ride back is typically just as enjoyable, with more scenic views and a relaxed vibe.

What Travelers Are Saying

Most reviews are glowing, pointing out the friendly crew, good value, and stunning scenery. “Captain Mike and his crew are terrific,” one reviewer states, emphasizing the friendly and attentive service. People appreciate that free bottled water is provided — a thoughtful touch for staying hydrated under the sun.

A common highlight is how well the tour suits larger groups, with one review noting they were a party of 17 and felt well taken care of. The crew’s friendliness and ability to keep everyone engaged also shine through in multiple accounts.

Some reviews mention that the location can be tricky to find at first—“location hard to find, company/store name is Beach Weekend”—so be sure to have your directions handy. This is a minor point but worth noting if you’re arriving for the first time.

Practical Details

• Duration: About 3 hours — enough time to enjoy the sandbar without feeling overwhelmed.
• Price: $60 per person — a fair price considering the inclusions and experience.
• Availability: Bookings are typically made about 13 days in advance, so plan ahead if you want a specific date.
• Group Size: Max 48 travelers, making it intimate enough for good camaraderie but still lively.
• Extras: Beers, wines, and soft drinks are available for purchase, adding to the relaxed party atmosphere.
• Accessibility: The boat is wheelchair and stroller friendly, which broadens its appeal.
• Weather: Remember, the tour relies on good weather. If canceled due to poor conditions, a full refund or reschedule is offered.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour?

This experience is especially suited for groups of friends or families wanting a quick, social outing on the water. Its accessible design makes it a good option for travelers with mobility needs or those bringing kids along. If you’re after a laid-back atmosphere where you can float around, soak up the sun, and enjoy the scenery without a long, complicated trip, this is a solid choice.

However, if you’re looking for a more adventurous or longer day, this might feel a little brief. Also, consider that it’s not a party cruise with a wild nightlife vibe; it’s more about relaxing in shallow waters with good company.

Final Thoughts

The Crab Island Charter in Destin offers a simple, enjoyable way to experience one of the area’s top outdoor spots. It’s well-reviewed for its friendly staff, beautiful views, and family-friendly approach. The short duration and reasonable price point make it a practical option for those wanting a taste of the Gulf’s famous waters without a hefty price tag or long commitment.

If you’re traveling with kids or want an accessible, social outing that captures the spirit of Destin’s beaches, this tour could be just right. Keep in mind, it’s a casual cruise—so if you’re after luxury or a wild party scene, you might want to look elsewhere. But for relaxed fun, good company, and stunning scenery, it hits the mark.

FAQ

Is there a restroom on the boat?
Yes, a restroom is available, which is helpful for longer days or for traveling with kids.

How early should I book?
Most travelers book around 13 days in advance, especially during peak season, to secure their spot.

Can I bring my dog?
Yes, the company is dog-friendly, but make sure your dog is a swimmer with a proper vest.

What’s included in the price?
The ticket covers the three-hour cruise, water, and the scenic transport to Crab Island. Beverages like beer, wine, and soft drinks are sold separately.

Is the tour accessible?
Yes, the vessel is accessible for strollers and wheelchairs, making it suitable for a wide range of travelers.

What happens if the weather is bad?
If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

All in all, the Crab Island Charter offers a straightforward, friendly, and scenic way to enjoy the Florida Gulf Coast. It’s best suited for those who want a casual, social outing with easy access to stunning waters—perfect for making summer memories without overcomplicating things.