Fort Walton Beach: 20-ft 10-Passenger Pontoon Rental

Exploring Fort Walton Beach on a Pontoon: A Practical Look at Power Up Watersports

If you’re considering a day out on the water in Fort Walton Beach, a 20-ft, 10-passenger pontoon rental from Power Up Watersports might just be what you’re after. It’s a popular choice for those wanting to experience the beauty of the area without the fuss of full-blown boat ownership. Based on reviews and details from travelers, let’s break down what you can expect—and what to keep in mind—so you can decide if this is the right fit for your trip.

What immediately stands out is the affordable price of $241 per group—which covers up to 10 people—and the flexible duration options, anywhere from 4 to 8 hours. Plus, the private boat trip to Crab Island is a highlight that appeals to families, friends, or anyone looking for a relaxed, scenic day on the water. Honestly, the chance to float around in crystal-clear waters and enjoy the sun feels like a solid way to enjoy the Emerald Coast.

However, it’s worth mentioning that some reviews point out a few issues, like the boat’s age and speed. While most reports are positive, with friendly staff and beautiful scenery, others note that the boats can seem a little worn and slower than expected. If you’re hoping for a speedy getaway or pristine condition, this might be a point to consider. But if you’re more interested in a laid-back, scenic experience, this could still be the right choice.

This tour fits best for small groups or families wanting a straightforward, customizable day on the water. If you’re comfortable with some minor wear and tear and want the flexibility to explore at your pace, it’s worth considering.

Key Points

• Affordable price point for a private, group-oriented experience.
• Flexible duration options suit different plans and weather conditions.
• Includes essentials like life jackets, navigation maps, and detailed instructions.
• Boat condition may be somewhat worn, with some reviews mentioning rips and slower speeds.
• Great for relaxed water days at Crab Island with plenty of shade and scenic views.
• Customer service praised for friendliness and helpfulness.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from Your Pontoon Rental Experience

Picture yourself stepping into a spacious pontoon boat, feeling the breeze as you glide over the green waters of Fort Walton Beach. You’ll be heading toward the famous Crab Island, a lively sandbar that turns into a hub of activity when the weather’s good. It’s an ideal spot to anchor, swim, snorkel, or just float around on a lily pad, soaking up the sunshine.

The boat itself is designed to keep things simple and comfortable. With ample seating and a bimini top for shade, it’s a comfortable way to spend hours on the water. Plus, a Bluetooth speaker is included, so you can keep your playlist going—perfect for setting a relaxing vibe or pumping up the energy.

Starting Your Trip: Meeting at Adventure Marina

The meeting point is straightforward—at Adventure Marina, in the blue bait shop building next to the boat ramp. Once there, you’ll receive detailed instructions on how to operate the boat, along with a local map of the waterways. If you’re born on or after January 1, 1988, remember to have a boaters safety card ready, or take advantage of the online course to get one.

The Journey to Crab Island

The trip to Crab Island typically takes between 30 minutes and an hour, depending on the boat’s speed. Some reviews have noted that the boats aren’t particularly fast, with one customer mentioning it took over an hour to reach Crab Island because of the limited speed. If speedy travel is a priority, this could be a consideration, but most people still enjoy the leisurely cruise and scenery along the way.

At Crab Island

Once at Crab Island, you can choose to anchor and relax or explore the surrounding waters. This sandbar is known for its lively atmosphere, especially during peak times, with plenty of stores and vendors offering snacks and souvenirs. You can bring your own drinks and snacks (no glass, please), or rent a lily pad for added fun. The shallow, clear waters are perfect for swimming, snorkel gear, or just floating around.

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Return Trip and Flexibility

With the option to rent the boat for 4, 6, or 8 hours, you can tailor your day to your energy levels and plans. If you’re looking for a quick trip, four hours might suffice, but for those wanting a more relaxed pace, an 8-hour day allows plenty of time for lounging and exploration.

What Travelers Are Saying

Reviews paint a mostly positive picture. Many highlight the friendly staff who are helpful and explain everything thoroughly. “The service was very easy & they explained everything to us very well,” one traveler noted, which can make a big difference if you’re new to boating.

On the scenic side, several reviews rave about the beautiful views and the fun of being out on the water. “I loved being out in the water. It was beautiful,” shared Leah, emphasizing how relaxing and picturesque the experience was.

However, not all feedback is glowing. A few reviews mention the boats are a bit aged or torn, with one customer saying, “The pontoon was a little old and ripped,” and some expressed concern about the boat’s speed, saying it only went about 12 mph. One reviewer even noted it took longer to reach Crab Island than expected, which might impact your planning.

Despite these points, most reviewers felt the overall experience was worth it, especially given the cost and flexibility. The ability to rent a private boat without the hassle of full ownership is a big plus, and the included equipment—life jackets, maps, and instructions—adds value.

The Practical Side: Cost, Conditions, and Tips

The $241 fee covers a group of up to 10 people, which makes it a reasonably priced option for families or groups of friends. Considering that you get a whole boat for your private use, it’s a cost-effective way to enjoy the area without paying for multiple boat rentals or guided tours.

The duration flexibility from 4 to 8 hours allows you to plan your day around your interests. If you’re on a tighter schedule, a shorter trip still gives you a taste of Crab Island and the water. Longer trips, however, provide more time to explore at your own pace and enjoy relaxing on the lily pad or swimming.

What to Bring and Keep in Mind

You’ll need to bring a passport or ID card and a credit card for the reservation. Remember to avoid glass objects on the boat for safety reasons, and consider bringing your own cooler with snacks and drinks. Since alcohol isn’t explicitly mentioned, you might find it helpful to clarify if permitted, but most travelers bring their own refreshments for the day.

The Boating Safety Aspect

If you were born on or after January 1, 1988, you’ll need a boaters safety card. You can easily obtain one online, which is a small step for peace of mind during your trip.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This pontoon rental is well-suited for small groups or families wanting a relaxed day on the water. If you’re comfortable with some signs of age in the boats and don’t mind a slower pace, it offers a good balance of value and scenery. It’s especially appealing for those who prefer the freedom to set their own schedule, explore at leisure, and enjoy the fun of floating around Crab Island.

If you’re looking for a fast-paced adventure with high-speed boating or brand-new equipment, you might find this option a little underwhelming, but if you prioritize ease, affordability, and scenic views, it’s a solid choice.

FAQs

Is this a private boat rental?
Yes, it’s a private rental for your group up to 10 people, so you won’t be sharing the boat with strangers.

How long can I rent the boat?
You can choose between 4, 6, or 8 hours, giving you flexibility depending on your plans.

What’s included in the rental?
Your rental includes a 10-passenger pontoon boat, a Bimini top for shade, Bluetooth speaker, life jackets, a local map, and detailed instructions.

Are there any additional costs?
Lily pads are available for rent if you want to add floating fun, but are not included. You’ll need to bring your own snacks and drinks, but glass containers are not allowed.

What if I need a boaters safety card?
If you’re born on or after January 1, 1988, you’ll need to obtain a safety card, which can be done online beforehand.

Can I cancel my reservation?
Yes, you can cancel for free up to 24 hours in advance and receive a full refund.

Is this experience family-friendly?
While not explicitly marketed as family-focused, the quiet, scenic nature and shallow waters at Crab Island make it suitable for children, provided safety guidelines are followed.

Wrapping Up

Choosing this pontoon rental in Fort Walton Beach means opting for an uncomplicated, scenic day on the water. It’s a good fit for small groups or families wanting to explore Crab Island at their own pace without breaking the bank. While the boats show some signs of age and the speed might be limited, most travelers find the overall experience enjoyable and relaxing. If you value flexibility, scenic views, and friendly service, this could add a memorable chapter to your Florida trip.

Whether you’re floating on lily pads, snorkeling in clear waters, or just soaking up the sun, this experience offers a straightforward, enjoyable way to make the most of your time on the Emerald Coast.

You can check availability for your dates here: