Key West: 22ft Premier Pontoon Rental 115 HorsePower 10 passengers

Exploring Key West by Boat: Is the 22ft Premier Pontoon Rental Worth It?

If you’re dreaming of cruising around the stunning waters of Key West, renting a pontoon might seem like the perfect way to do it. This particular tour offers a half-day rental of a 22ft Premier Pontoon with 115 HorsePower, accommodating up to 10 passengers. It’s designed for those who want the flexibility of charting their own course or relaxing at a sandbar with friends and family.

What caught our attention about this experience? First, the private boat experience means you’re not tied to a group tour—so you can set your own pace and destinations. Second, the opportunity to bring your own snacks and drinks makes it easy to enjoy a laid-back day on the water. However, one thing to keep in mind is the cost—at $850 for up to 10 people, it’s not exactly cheap, and you’ll need to factor in fuel and optional captain fees.

This tour is best suited to groups looking for flexibility and privacy—families, friends, or couples who want to explore at their own pace. If you’re comfortable with basic boating, or willing to hire a captain, it could be a memorable experience. But if you’re hoping for a fully guided tour or a hassle-free day with no responsibilities, you might want to explore other options.

Key Points

• Private experience gives you control over where to go and what to do.
• Bring your own snacks and drinks for a more personalized day out.
• Easy to drive if you have boating experience; optional captain available.
• Cost is $850 per group, with additional charges for a captain and refueling.
• Age and legal requirements include passing a Florida Boaters Safety Test and being at least 25 to rent.
• Limited reviews suggest mixed experiences, with some noting issues with company reliability.

A Closer Look at the Pontoon Rental in Key West

When considering a boat rental like this, it’s helpful to understand what the experience involves and what you can expect. The 22ft Premier Pontoon with 115 HorsePower is a mid-sized boat that balances ease of handling with enough power to explore open waters comfortably. Its Bimini Top offers some shade, and the radio lets you blast your favorite tunes as you cruise.

The Experience Setup

You’ll meet at 5001 5th Ave, Key West, a straightforward location with parking available. Once there, you’ll need to pass a brief Florida Boaters Safety Test if you’re the one driving—and you must be at least 25 years old with previous boating experience to rent. If you’re not comfortable piloting the boat, hiring a captain for $250 is an option, giving you the freedom to relax while someone else handles the wheel.

What the Rental Includes

The rental lasts about 4 hours, which is usually enough time to explore the surrounding waters, find a sandy sandbar, or cruise along the shoreline. You can bring snacks, drinks, and even swimming gear—the boat is equipped with comfortable seats for a leisurely day. Fuel isn’t included, so you’ll want to refill the tank before returning the boat. The process is pretty straightforward, but you should be prepared to handle refueling and returning the boat on time.

The Navigation and Destinations

One of the appealing aspects is the freedom to choose your own adventure—whether that’s cruising into the ocean, hanging out at a sandbar, or relaxing along the shoreline. The boat’s size and horsepower make it suitable for exploring both bays and open waters. As long as you follow the safety guidelines and laws, you can enjoy a day at your own pace.

Practical Considerations

Boating experience is a must—you need to have prior sailing knowledge or experience to rent. If you’re a novice, hiring a captain is recommended, but there’s an extra cost. Also, keep in mind that gas costs are not included—you’ll need to refuel the boat before returning it, which could add to your overall expense.

What Do the Reviews Say?

The overall rating of 3.0/5 from two reviews indicates a mixed bag. One reviewer, Fredrik_O, had a poor experience, describing the company as “unserious,” citing a booking issue where the boat was unavailable despite confirmation and a failure to receive a refund. This highlights the importance of booking directly or choosing trusted providers, especially given the risks of company reliability.

On the other hand, despite the limited reviews, the positives of this rental are clear: it offers an independent, private experience with the flexibility to enjoy the water exactly how you want. The ability to bring your own food and customize your route appeals to those wanting a more relaxed and personal outing.

The Downsides

The main drawback, as one review pointed out, is the risk of booking through a less reliable operator. Because the experience is non-refundable and can’t be changed once booked, it’s crucial to ensure your provider is reputable. Also, the cost might seem high, especially considering extra expenses like fuel or hiring a captain.

What to Expect During Your Rental

Once on board, you’ll find the comfortable seats and Bimini Top helpful for shielding from the sun. The radio can be used for entertainment, or you can just enjoy the tranquility of the water. If you decide to bring snacks, a small cooler will do the trick to keep drinks cold.

If you choose to drive yourself, don’t worry—pontoon boats are generally simple to operate, especially if you have experience with boats or driving a car. The high vantage point makes navigation easier, and slow cruising is smooth. However, beginners might prefer to hire a captain to avoid worries about the rules and safety.

Destinations and Activities

The beauty of a private boat rental like this is that you’re in control. Whether you want to sail out into the open sea, find a sunny sandbar to picnic or swim, or just relax along the shoreline, all are on the table. Keep an eye on the weather and plan accordingly—Key West can be quite breezy, and wind conditions could influence your plans.

Is This Tour Right for You?

This rental suits those who value flexibility, don’t mind handling the boat themselves, or are comfortable with basic boating. It’s ideal if you’re traveling with a group that wants a private, customizable experience without the constraints of a guided tour.

If your goal is a carefree day with no responsibilities, you might want to look elsewhere or consider hiring a captain. But if you’re seeking a more personal adventure, this could be a memorable way to see Key West from the water.

Final Thoughts

Renting a pontoon in Key West offers a unique way to explore the area’s beautiful waters at your own pace. The private nature of the experience makes it appealing for groups wanting to escape crowded tours and create their own memories. The boat’s features, such as comfortable seating and the ability to bring food and drinks, add to the appeal.

However, it’s important to be aware of potential downsides—mainly the cost and the importance of booking with a reputable provider. The reviews suggest that some companies may have reliability issues, so doing your homework beforehand can save you headaches later.

This experience is best suited for confident boaters or those willing to hire a captain, especially if you want to truly relax without worrying about driving. It’s a good choice for groups ready to take control of their adventure and enjoy the freedom of the open water around Key West.

FAQ

Do I need a boating license to rent this pontoon?
Yes, you must pass a Florida Boaters Safety Test if you’re the one driving and meet the age requirement of 25 or older with previous boating experience.

Can I drive the boat if I’ve never boated before?
Pontoon boats are generally easy to learn, especially if you’re comfortable with driving a car. Still, if you’re unsure or a beginner, hiring a captain is a good idea.

Is there parking available at the meeting point?
Yes, parking is available on-site at 5001 5th Ave, Key West, making it convenient to start your adventure.

What should I bring on the boat?
Bring along snacks, drinks, and swimsuits if you want to swim. Don’t forget sunscreen, hats, and a cooler to keep your drinks cold.

Are life jackets provided?
Yes, lifejackets are onboard for emergencies, though you should bring your own if you prefer a specific fit.

What happens if I need to cancel?
This experience is non-refundable and cannot be changed once booked, so double-check your plans before confirming.

Navigating Key West’s waters in your own boat can be a rewarding experience—just make sure to plan carefully, choose a reliable company, and enjoy the freedom of the open sea.