Private Pontoon Boat w/ Captain, Private up to 12ppl

If you’re looking to spend a day on the water in Fort Lauderdale, a private pontoon boat with a captain might just be what you need. This experience promises a laid-back yet fun day of cruising around the “Venice of America,” lounging at the sandbar, and soaking up sunshine — all tailored to your group. While I haven’t been on this exact tour myself, the reviews and details paint a pretty appealing picture for anyone wanting a personalized boating adventure.

What really catches the eye are the flexibility and comfort of this experience. You get to bring your own food, drinks, and playlist, making it feel like your own floating party or chill-out zone. Plus, the boat is designed to be Instagram-ready, with a shade canopy and floaties for extra fun. However, a point to keep in mind is the additional cost for the captain, which isn’t included in the upfront price, so you’ll need to budget for that. This tour suits those who value privacy, a relaxed vibe, and the chance to customize their day on the water, especially groups up to 12 people wanting a memorable, personalized outing.

Key Points

• Private, customizable experience for up to 12 guests, perfect for friends or family.
• Bring your own food and drinks to make it feel like your own party on the water.
• Enjoy Bluetooth connectivity to play your favorite tunes while cruising.
• Flexible duration from 4 to 8 hours, catering to your schedule.
• All-in pricing includes fuel, taxes, and floaties, with optional stops for bathroom and bar visits.
• Highly rated with a 5/5 score from two reviews, emphasizing friendly, knowledgeable captains and smooth communication.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Setting Sail in Fort Lauderdale: What You Can Expect

The journey begins at the dock, where your friendly captain will greet you and help you get settled on a boat that comfortably fits 12. From the start, you’ll notice that the vessel is not only functional but also geared towards capturing those perfect Instagram moments. With a shade canopy overhead and ample space, it’s ideal for relaxing or snapping photos without getting blasted by the sun.

Cruising the Waterways — As you set off, you’ll quickly see why Fort Lauderdale is called the “Venice of America.” The captain will guide you through the scenic channels lined with luxurious yachts and grand mansions, sharing stories and tidbits along the way. Connecting your phone to the Bluetooth system makes it easy to set your playlist, creating a soundtrack to match your mood.

Stop at the Fort Lauderdale Sandbar — The highlight for many is anchoring at the local hangout spot, the sandbar, where boats gather to relax and mingle. Here, you’ll find plenty of other boats and people having fun. The water’s waist-deep, making it safe and easy for swimming, and if you bring floaties or a lilypad mat, you’ll have a blast floating around with friends or family.

Swimming and Sunbathing — Whether you’re jumping in for a quick swim or just lounging on the boat, this experience offers plenty of opportunities to unwind. When it gets too hot, the boat’s shade and optional floaties mean everyone can stay comfortable and cool.

Stops and Flexibility — The experience also provides options for multiple bathroom and bar stops, so you can mix relaxation with a bit of sightseeing or socializing at local spots. Since the tour duration ranges from 4 to 8 hours, you can tailor your day depending on your group’s energy.

The Practical Side: Cost, Booking, and What’s Included

The base price of $590 covers the boat for your group of up to 12, including fuel, taxes, a cooler with bottled water, floaties, and access to Bluetooth sound. It’s a straightforward setup, designed to give you a comfortable, chill experience. You’ll want to bring your own food and drinks, and the boat’s cooler can keep them cold during your trip.

One important detail is the additional cost for the captain — $40 per hour, payable on the day of your trip via Zelle, Venmo, or cash. This might seem a bit unusual if you’re unfamiliar with US Coast Guard regulations, but it’s a legal requirement and part of the booking process.

The booking process is flexible, with options to reserve now and pay later, and cancellation is free if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance — handy if your plans are still a bit up in the air.

What Makes This Experience Stand Out

The reviews highlight the quality of the guides and the overall friendly vibe. One reviewer mentioned that their captain, Hunter, was “entertaining, informative, and overly accommodating,” making the day even more memorable. The communication from the staff beforehand is also praised, which takes some pressure off when planning a day on the water.

The Instagrammable aspect is worth noting — the boat, the scenic views, and the fun floaties all lend themselves to sharing those moments easily. The boat’s design and stops at scenic spots ensure you’ll have plenty of photo opportunities.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This private boat experience is best suited for small groups looking for a laid-back, customizable day on the water. It’s perfect for friends celebrating a special occasion, families wanting a safe and fun outing, or groups of colleagues seeking relaxation. Since the experience isn’t specifically marketed as family-friendly but does include floaties and shallow water swimming, it could work well for older kids and teens, provided the group is comfortable with boating.

If you’re after a guided tour with lots of flexibility, privacy, and the freedom to bring your own snacks and playlist, this option hits the right notes. On the flip side, if you’re seeking a structured sightseeing tour or want to avoid additional costs on the day, you might want to consider other options.

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The Sum Up

All in all, this private pontoon boat tour in Fort Lauderdale offers a straightforward, enjoyable way to see the city from the water with a personal touch. Its friendly captain, flexible schedule, and relaxed vibe make it a good fit for groups who want to create their own fun — whether that’s swimming, sunbathing, or just cruising and chatting.

The experience’s strength lies in its simplicity and customization — bring your own food, tunes, and floaties, and you’ll have a day that feels both private and lively. The highly positive reviews point to attentive guides and smooth communication, adding to the comfort level.

While the extra fee for the captain on the day might catch some off guard, it’s a small price for the convenience and peace of mind of having an experienced guide by your side. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just looking to enjoy a relaxing day on the water, this tour can deliver a memorable experience in one of Florida’s most picturesque settings.

FAQ

Is this a private tour?
Yes, the boat is private for your group of up to 12 people, giving you full control over your day on the water.

What is included in the price?
The $590 price covers the boat, fuel, taxes, bottled water, floaties, and a Bluetooth sound system. You’ll need to bring your own food and drinks.

Can I bring my own food and drinks?
Absolutely. You’re welcome to bring any food and drinks you’d like, and the boat has a cooler to store them.

How much is the captain?
The captain costs $40 per hour and is paid directly on the day of your trip via Zelle, Venmo, or cash.

What is the duration of the tour?
The experience lasts between 4 and 8 hours, depending on your preference and schedule.

Are there any stops during the tour?
Yes, you can enjoy multiple bathroom or bar stops if you like, and the captain can help plan these based on your interests.

Is it suitable for children?
While not explicitly marketed as family-specific, the shallow water stops and floaties make it potentially suitable for older kids comfortable on boats. Just check if your children are okay with boating and swimming in the water.

If you’re after a flexible, private way to enjoy Fort Lauderdale’s waterways, this pontoon boat trip offers a laid-back, personalized experience that many travelers find memorable.

You can check availability for your dates here: