Craigcat Rental in Merritt Island

If you’re considering renting a CraigCat in Merritt Island, you’re in for a fun and different way to experience the Indian River Lagoon. These little power cats are a one-of-a-kind watercraft—compact, easy to control, and surprisingly versatile. Whether you’re an avid boater or a first-timer, this rental offers a relaxed, wildlife-rich adventure that’s hard to beat.

We love how approachable the CraigCat is—its ergonomic, side-by-side seating makes it feel cozy and stable, even for those new to boating. Plus, the chance to see dolphins and manatees in their natural habitat makes this trip truly memorable. But, a word of caution: finding the rental location can be a bit tricky, and some might find maneuvering a little challenging without prior boating experience. Still, if you’re looking for a laid-back yet engaging outing, this is a solid pick.

This experience is particularly suited for travelers who enjoy independent exploration, wildlife viewing, and a touch of adventure, all while skipping the rigid structure of guided tours. It’s great for couples, friends, and solo explorers who want to captain their own boat without the fuss of larger vessel rentals. If your idea of fun includes a breezy ride and spotting playful dolphins, you’ll likely find this rental a highlight of your trip.

Key Points

• Unique Watercraft: The CraigCat is a one-of-a-kind, compact power catamaran designed for easy handling and close wildlife encounters.
• Wildlife Viewing: Expect to see dolphins, manatees, and birdlife, especially during calm, sunny days.
• Self-Guided Freedom: You control where to go, exploring river islands, sandbars, and tributaries at your own pace.
• Affordable and Flexible: Costing $68 per group (up to 2 people) for about an hour, it offers great value for a personalized experience.
• Booking in Advance: Most travelers book around 9 days ahead, so plan early.
• Customer Praise: Consistently high ratings (5.0/5 from 20 reviews) highlight friendly staff, easy check-in, and a relaxing vibe.

What to Expect from Your CraigCat Rental Experience

Meeting Point and Booking Process

Your adventure begins at 306 Lagoon Way, Merritt Island. The rental process is straightforward—most travelers receive confirmation immediately upon booking, and the experience is available for mobile tickets, making it convenient to manage. Since most visitors book about 9 days in advance, planning ahead ensures you secure your spot, especially during peak times.

The Watercraft: What Makes the CraigCat Special

The CraigCat is unlike any other boat you might have used. Its ergonomic, side-by-side seating is designed for comfort and stability, making it easy for first-timers to hop on without much fuss. The dual-action controls are intuitive—think of them as a simplified steering setup that offers a surprising level of control.

The rental is for up to two people, with an approximate duration of 1 hour, but many reviews suggest you could easily extend your time if desired. The boat is gas-powered, so you’ll enjoy a quiet, smooth ride without the noise of larger engines.

The Experience: Exploring the Indian River Lagoon

Once you’re on the water, the real magic begins. You’ll cruise through calm waters, gliding past lush river islands and sandbars. Many reviewers emphasize how peaceful and refreshing the ride feels—“Greeted by a very friendly staff” and quickly onto the water, they say, which allows for instant relaxation.

A big highlight is wildlife sightings. Dolphins are a common sight, often playful and curious—“We saw lots of dolphins in the canal” and “Fun with the Dolphins” are common sentiments. Manatees may also make an appearance, along with an array of birdlife. The friendly dolphins are often near the channels and Banana River, providing fantastic opportunities for photos and just enjoying their playful antics.

Wildlife Spotting and Scenery

The reviews frequently mention how easy it is to spot dolphins, with one user noting, “Watching them all around us for quite a while”. The experience is enhanced by the fact that you’re in control. You can drift close to wildlife or pick up speed for a more exhilarating ride—whatever suits your mood.

Beyond animals, the scenery is peaceful and picturesque. The quiet river environment, combined with warm sunshine, makes for a calming yet invigorating outing. The splash of water and feeling the wind in your face are often cited as favorite parts of the trip—“Feeling the wind in my face and water in my feet was lovely.”

Ease of Use and Practical Considerations

Most reviews highlight how manageable the CraigCat is, especially after a quick orientation. One reviewer, Shelby, shared, “Once I got on and was given a quick crash course, I was gone! So much fun.” However, a few notes of caution emerged as well. Navigating can be tricky if you’re unfamiliar with boats; the drop into the boat is about four feet, which might be a challenge for some, especially seniors or those with mobility issues.

“Having boating experience was a must,” commented one reviewer, indicating that beginners might want to practice a little or ask for extra guidance. Also, finding the rental location with GPS can be a bit tricky, so use detailed directions or arrive a little early.

Duration and Cost: Is It Worth It?

At $68 for a group of two for roughly an hour, many find the price reasonable, especially considering the personalized experience and wildlife encounters. If you’re tight on time or budget, this is a pretty good deal for a memorable outdoor activity. If you want to extend your adventure, check if longer rentals are available or plan your day so you can return for more.

Customer Service and Overall Experience

The reviews consistently praise the friendly, helpful staff. One reviewer gave a “100-star rating” for customer service, mentioning how smooth the process was from start to finish. The team appears to prioritize positive vibes and making sure everyone feels comfortable—even newbies.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This rental is perfect for those who are comfortable with small boats or willing to try something new. It’s ideal if you’re seeking a relaxed, wildlife-focused outing that doesn’t require a guided tour or formal boating experience. Couples, friends, or solo travelers who want to feel the wind in their hair and see dolphins in their natural environment will find this a highlight.

If you’re particularly interested in wildlife photography or casual exploration at your own pace, the CraigCat offers a unique platform. But if you’re nervous about handling a boat or prefer guided tours with more structure, you might want to consider other options.

The Sum Up

Renting a CraigCat in Merritt Island offers a relaxed yet engaging way to experience the Indian River Lagoon. Its friendly staff, manageable size, and wildlife encounters make it a fantastic choice for those wanting a taste of outdoor adventure without the hassle of large boat rentals or guided tours. The opportunity to see dolphins and manatees up close, combined with the freedom to explore at your own pace, makes this experience genuinely memorable.

While finding the rental location might require some careful navigation, most reviews agree that once you’re on the water, the fun begins. Whether you’re looking for a romantic outing, a solo escape, or a lighthearted adventure with friends, the CraigCat delivers a breezy, wildlife-filled ride that’s worth considering.

In short, if you enjoy quiet waters, wildlife sightings, and the thrill of controlling your own boat, this rental could be just what you need for a memorable Merritt Island outing.

FAQ

Is the CraigCat rental suitable for beginners?
Yes, most travelers find it manageable after a quick briefing. However, some reviews mention that boating experience helps, so beginners should be prepared for a brief orientation.

How long is the rental?
The typical rental lasts about 1 hour, which many say is just enough time to enjoy the scenery and wildlife without feeling rushed.

Can I see dolphins during the ride?
Absolutely. Multiple reviews mention dolphin sightings, often close enough for photos. They are quite playful and frequent near the canal and Banana River.

Is the location easy to find?
Some users report difficulty finding the rental spot even with GPS, so it’s best to follow detailed directions or arrive early.

What’s included in the price?
The rental covers the CraigCat for up to 2 people, with a quick safety and operation briefing included. Fuel is typically included in the rental price.

Can I extend my rental time?
The standard booking is for about an hour. For longer periods, check with the rental company if extensions are possible or plan ahead for a return visit.

Is this activity family-friendly?
This experience is best suited for those comfortable handling small boats. It’s not explicitly marketed as family-friendly, especially for very young children or those with mobility issues.

What should I wear or bring?
Dress for the weather, and consider wearing a hat and sunscreen. Bring a waterproof camera or phone if you want photos, and don’t forget a towel if you get splashed.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel for free up to 24 hours before your rental. If you cancel within 24 hours, the fee is non-refundable. The activity is weather-dependent, and poor weather may lead to a reschedule or full refund.

If you’re craving an outdoor adventure that combines wildlife, independence, and a dash of fun, renting a CraigCat in Merritt Island could be just the ticket. It’s a straightforward, affordable way to enjoy the waterways and create some memorable moments.