Destin: Private Pontoon Charter to Crab Island & Dolphin Spotting

Summary

Destin pontoon adventure to Crab Island with games, music, and dolphin watching

You’ll float out from Destin with a local captain steering your private pontoon to Crab Island — music playing, dolphins maybe popping up along the way. Spend hours paddle boarding or just drifting on floats under the sun, with snorkeling gear ready if you want it. Bring your own drinks and snacks (ice is covered), and let yourself unwind into that slow Gulf Coast rhythm.

What’s the experience like?

“Don’t worry about the tide — I’ve got it figured out,” Captain Mike grinned as we stepped onto the pontoon in Destin’s harbor. He had that sun-baked look of someone who’s spent more time on water than land, and he handed us the Bluetooth speaker like it was some kind of ritual. The boat felt sturdy under my feet, but there was a salty breeze that made my hair stick up in weird directions. We set off toward Crab Island, and honestly? I still can’t get over how blue the water looked — almost fake, but not quite.

We tried to spot dolphins on the way (Mike slowed down at one point and pointed — “Look for the fins!”), but they were shy that morning. Didn’t matter much; everyone was laughing anyway because my cousin nearly lost her hat to the wind. When we anchored at Crab Island, it was like floating in a giant swimming pool with other boats scattered around. There were paddle boards and floats already waiting for us — I flopped onto one and just let the sun bake my shoulders for a while. Someone cranked up our playlist through the speaker, and suddenly it felt like summer camp for grownups (with kids running around too — you have to bring your own life jackets if they’re little).

I tried snorkeling for maybe five minutes before getting distracted by seashells near my toes. The water was warm, almost silky, and smelled faintly briny — not fishy at all. Mike tossed us a football (“Just don’t throw it at me!”) and then showed us how to play Tipsy Toss, which I’m apparently terrible at. It’s BYOB so we’d packed a cooler (ice is included), but no glass or smoking allowed on board — which makes sense once you see how many bare feet are everywhere.

The hours slipped by faster than I expected. At one point I just lay back on the floating dock staring up at clouds drifting over Destin’s skyline, thinking about nothing in particular except maybe how easy everything felt out there. When we finally headed back, salt dried on my skin and hair tangled from wind, I kind of wished we’d booked the longer option — but hey, now I know for next time.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Private pontoon boat Crab Island adventure

• Board USCG certified pontoon boat
• Cruise to spot dolphins and marine life
• Anchor at Crab Island
• Snorkel and search for seashells
• Use paddle board and floating pad
• Enjoy water toys and floats
• Relax and chill on Crab Island
• Bring snacks and BYOB (no glass)

Top questions

How many people can join this private pontoon charter?

The maximum is 6 passengers per boat due to Coast Guard law.

Is snorkeling equipment provided on this tour?

Yes, snorkeling gear is included in your day trip to Crab Island.

Can children join the Crab Island pontoon trip?

Yes, children and babies are welcome but count toward the 6-person limit; bring lifejackets for kids under 7.

Does this tour include dolphin watching?

Dolphin sightings are possible during your cruise from Destin to Crab Island but not guaranteed.

Are drinks or food included?

No drinks or food are provided; you should bring your own snacks and beverages (BYOB), but ice is included.

Is alcohol allowed on board?

You can bring your own alcohol (BYOB), but no glass containers are permitted on the boat or at Crab Island.

Are pets allowed on this private charter?

No pets are allowed on board during this pontoon tour.

Is hotel pickup included?

No hotel pickup is mentioned; you meet at the departure point in Destin harbor.

What’s included

Your day includes a USCG-certified captain guiding your private pontoon from Destin with all fees covered; use of paddle boards, floats, footballs, Tipsy Toss game, Bluetooth speaker for music, an ice chest (just pack your own snacks and drinks), plus snorkeling gear for exploring around Crab Island before returning relaxed and sun-soaked.