24ft (12 Passenger) Pontoon Boat Rental in Destin/Crab Island

Experience the Freedom of a 24ft Pontoon Boat Rental in Destin

Imagine cruising through Destin’s calm waters on your own schedule, with plenty of space for family or friends to relax and enjoy the scenery. For around $260, you can rent a 24-foot pontoon boat that comfortably fits 10 to 12 passengers, perfect for a day exploring Choctawhatchee Bay, Santa Rosa Sound, and the inland waterways. With up to 10 hours available, you have plenty of time to soak up the sun, swim at your leisure, and possibly visit the iconic Crab Island, just five minutes away.

Two features we particularly love are the Bluetooth music system for setting your vibe and the easy access ladder that makes swimming and climbing back on board hassle-free. The boat is well-maintained, reliable, and equipped with safety gear, ensuring a smooth, worry-free experience.

A consideration to keep in mind is the requirement for the boat operator to be proficient in English and to have some boating experience, especially if you plan to captain the boat yourself. Also, note that boats cannot go into the Gulf of Mexico or East Pass, limiting your exploration area slightly but keeping you safe in calmer waters. This tour appeals most to families, groups of friends, or anyone wanting a flexible, self-guided day on the water.

Key Points

• Flexible duration: Ranges from 4 to 10 hours, giving you control over your schedule.
• Includes essentials: Fuel, safety gear, and a waterway map are all provided.
• Ideal for groups: Fits 10-12 passengers comfortably, perfect for family or friends.
• Easy to operate: With a pre-departure tutorial, even first-timers can feel confident.
• Great for swimming and relaxing: Access ladder and sunshade enhance comfort.
• Limited to inland waterways: Not suitable for Gulf or East Pass excursions.

Exploring Destin’s Waterways on a Spacious Pontoon

When you rent a 24-foot pontoon boat in Destin, you get more than just a boat—you get a canvas for your perfect day on the water. Starting at the Destin Harbor, Luther’s offers clean, well-maintained pontoons that are straightforward to operate, even for those with limited boating experience. The Yamaha 90 HP engines offer enough power to cruise comfortably, whether you’re drifting along the shoreline or heading toward Crab Island, one of Destin’s most popular spots.

What makes this rental particularly appealing is the self-guided nature—you’re in charge of your adventure. Each boat comes with a waterway map, so if you’re new to the area, you won’t feel lost. The pre-departure tutorial ensures you know how to handle the boat, safety procedures, and basic navigation, giving you peace of mind. It’s a smart setup for those wanting to explore at their own pace without the pressure of a guided tour.

The Waterway Experience

Most renters aim to spend their time exploring Choctawhatchee Bay, a calm and scenic body of water ideal for a relaxed cruise, or visiting Crab Island. This sandbar, just a short five-minute cruise away, is famous for its shallow waters, lively atmosphere, and the chance to anchor down for some swimming or sunbathing. Many guests are drawn by the idea of just relaxing on the boat, jumping into the water, or enjoying a picnic with the Bluetooth music softly playing in the background.

Comfort and Convenience

Luther’s provides a sunshade (Bimini top), so you’re protected from the sun’s strongest rays—especially important when spending hours on the water. The access ladder makes swimming easy, and the USCG-certified life jackets for all ages add a layer of safety. Many reviews highlight how clean and comfortable the boats are, and that the full tank of gas is included in the price, removing the hassle of additional costs.

The Local Flavors and Atmosphere

While the boat itself is a highlight, the surrounding area offers a feeling of laid-back fun. The Destin Harbor is bustling with boats, and the water is calm enough for relaxed cruising. The parking is conveniently located right next to the dock, with some spaces reserved for boaters, making the process of loading and unloading straightforward.

Itinerary Breakdown: What You Can Expect

Your day begins at the 200 Harbor Blvd location, where friendly staff will give you a quick safety briefing, show you how to operate the boat, and provide a waterway map. Once on board, the sky’s the limit—though you’ll want to stick to inland waters, as boats are prohibited from venturing into the Gulf or East Pass.

A typical trip might include:

• A cruise along Choctawhatchee Bay, soaking in the views of the shoreline and spotting local wildlife.
• A short trip to Crab Island, where you can anchor, swim, or just enjoy the lively atmosphere.
• Exploring Santa Rosa Sound and the inland waterways, which provide a quieter setting for relaxing or water activities.

Guests often mention how easy it is to control the boat, even for less experienced boaters. One reviewer noted that Christian, the deckhand, was wonderful and set us up for a successful day, reinforcing that customer service is a priority.

Swimming and Water Fun

The access ladder is a key feature, making swimming accessible and safe. Many guests take advantage of the included safety gear and the shallow waters at Crab Island to cool off and enjoy family-friendly water play. Just remember, glass bottles, BBQ grills, towables, and silly string are prohibited, to keep the area safe and enjoyable for everyone.

Tips for a Smooth Day

• Bring your own food, drinks, and towels—though ice is available for purchase.
• Plan your trip to avoid the busiest times if possible; booking 36 days in advance is common, reflecting high demand.
• If you’ve born after January 1, 1988, you’ll need to complete a Florida Boater’s Test either online or on-site, which costs $3 or $14, respectively.

Authentic Feedback from Renters

Many reviews echo the simplicity and joy of the experience. Theresa_D praised the seamless process and the well-maintained, easy-to-maneuver boat, noting, “We would highly recommend to anyone looking for a pontoon rental.” The friendly staff and clean boats consistently garner praise, making what could seem like a straightforward rental into a highlight of their Destin vacation.

Other travelers appreciated the flexibility—being able to choose their own schedule—and highlighted how swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing made their day extraordinary. The safe, calm waters and accessible amenities make this a perfect choice for families with kids or groups looking for a laid-back day.

Who Is This Experience Best For?

This pontoon boat rental is ideal for families, groups of friends, or couples wanting a relaxed, flexible day on the water. If you’re comfortable with operating a boat or willing to learn, you’ll find the pre-departure tutorial helpful and reassuring. It’s perfect for those who want to set their own pace—whether that’s leisurely sightseeing, swimming at Crab Island, or just soaking up the sun.

Travelers seeking an affordable, all-inclusive experience with safety gear, good customer service, and a prime location will find this rental ticks all the boxes. However, if you’re looking for an adventure into the Gulf or into more remote areas, this rental’s inland focus might be limiting. Still, for many, the ease, comfort, and scenic beauty of Destin’s waterways compensate perfectly.

The Sum Up: Is It Worth It?

For those seeking a fun, flexible day in Destin, renting a 24ft pontoon boat offers excellent value. It allows you to carve out your own adventure, whether that’s relaxing at Crab Island, cruising scenic waterways, or swimming in calm waters. The included safety gear, fuel, and waterway map give peace of mind, while the easy-to-drive design means even novice boaters can feel confident.

This experience is particularly well-suited for families with kids, groups of friends, or couples looking to enjoy a day outdoors without the hassle of guided tours. The professional staff and clean, reliable boats enhance the overall experience, making it straightforward and stress-free.

If you value freedom, comfort, and a laid-back atmosphere on your vacation, this pontoon rental in Destin will serve as a memorable centerpiece of your trip. Just remember to book well in advance, arrive on time, and come prepared for a day of relaxing fun on the water.

FAQ

Do I need a boating license to rent the pontoon?
If you were born before January 1, 1988, no license is required. If you’re born on or after that date, you’ll need to take a Florida Boaters Test, which can be done online or on-site for a small fee.

Can I drive the boat myself?
Yes, if you’re proficient in English and have the necessary experience. The rental includes a tutorial, and the person operating the boat must be at least 21 years old with a valid driver’s license and credit card.

Are there any restrictions on where I can go?
Yes, boats cannot be taken into the Gulf of Mexico or East Pass. They are limited to Choctawhatchee Bay, Santa Rosa Sound, and inland waterways of Okaloosa County.

What should I bring for the day?
Bring towels, food, drinks, suntan lotion, water toys, and sunglasses. Ice is available for purchase, and all safety gear is provided.

Is parking easy?
Yes, free parking is located right next to the dock at 200 Harbor Blvd and behind Dewey Destin’s Harborside restaurant. However, spaces can be limited on busy days, so carpooling is recommended.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The trip can be rescheduled or canceled for a full refund if weather conditions are unfavorable. If you need to return early due to weather or unsafe conditions, the price can be prorated.

This pontoon rental in Destin combines the freedom of self-guided exploration with the comfort of safe, well-maintained equipment. Whether you’re swimming at Crab Island, enjoying scenic views, or relaxing with friends, it’s a terrific way to make the most of your time on the water.