Crab Island Fun W/ Lily Pad & More

Experience the Best of Destin’s Crab Island with a Fun-Packed Boat Trip

If you’re planning a trip to Destin, Florida, and eager to enjoy a day on the water, the Crab Island Fun with Lily Pad & More offers a lively, family-friendly way to soak up the coast’s best. For $325 per group (up to 12 people), you’ll spend about four hours cruising the Emerald Coast on a spacious pontoon, with options to add a captain, paddleboards, inflatables, and good music to your day.

What we really like about this tour is how flexible and social it feels. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, bachelorette party, or just want a relaxing day with friends, this experience has enough extras and space to make it memorable. And the fact that it’s designed for groups means you can bring your own snacks and drinks (no glass), making it easy to customize your adventure.

One thing to keep in mind is that the boat rental is a bit on the pricier side if you’re not splitting it among friends—though, with up to 12 people, it can be quite a good value. Also, the optional captain costs an additional $180 and should be booked in advance if you prefer not to drive yourself.

This tour best suits travelers who enjoy active, flexible outings and want to explore Crab Island at their own pace, with some added fun elements like inflatables and paddleboards that kids and adults alike will appreciate.

Key Points

• Flexible Group Sizes: Accommodates up to 12 guests, perfect for families or groups of friends.
• All-Day Fun: Four hours on the water offers plenty of time to relax, play, and explore.
• Extras Included: Paddleboard, lily pad, inflatables, Bluetooth speaker, and cooler are provided for added entertainment.
• Captain Option: You can choose to have a captain for added convenience, with payment made at the dock.
• Bring Your Own Snacks/Drinks: No glass allowed, making it easy to keep your drinks fresh and safe.
• Authentic Experience: Multiple reviews highlight friendly guides and memorable moments, making it clear this is a genuine, fun outing.

A Deep Dive into the Crab Island Adventure

Imagine cruising along the coast on a 24-foot Bentley Cruiser, powered by a new Mercury 115hp engine. This boat is spacious enough for your entire group, and if you have a boating license, you can take the wheel yourself, giving you a true sense of freedom on the water. If not, you can opt for a captain, which many reviews praise for making the experience even easier and more enjoyable.

The Itinerary: What to Expect

Your journey begins at 36 Miracle Strip Pkwy SW in Fort Walton Beach, where you’ll meet your group and captain (if booked). The actual route is flexible, but most trips will head toward Crab Island, a floating playground of sorts where boats gather to relax, swim, and party.

Crab Island is known for its shallow, clear waters and lively atmosphere. It’s a favorite for families, friends, and party-goers alike. You’ll love the way the water sparkles under the sun—perfect for lounging on the lily pad or paddling around on the provided paddleboard. Several reviews mention the fun inflatables and lily pad as highlights—allowing kids and adults to jump, bounce, and play.

Highlights of the Experience

One of the standout features is the Bluetooth JBL PartyBox speaker. It turns your boat into a floating dance floor, adding a lively soundtrack to your day. On top of that, the cooler offers space for drinks, and you’re welcome to bring your own, just avoiding glass containers.

Many guests, like Brooke and Madison, rave about their guides and captains, who are described as “kind,” “fun,” and “helpful”. Some even mentioned their captains took pictures for them, making the experience more personal and memorable.

What Makes It Special?

The flexibility of this tour is a big plus. You can bring your own snacks and drinks, making it easier to keep everyone happy without extra costs. The extras like inflatables and paddleboards add a playful element, especially for kids or the young at heart.

Plus, reviews highlight that the ride and weather are generally great, with some travelers even enjoying the trip in light rain—though you might want to bring waterproof gear just in case. Most trips are booked about 20 days in advance, so planning ahead is wise.

Possible Drawbacks or Considerations

The main consideration is the additional captain fee of $180, which might seem steep if you’re not prepared for it. It’s essential to decide whether you want a guided experience or prefer to pilot the boat yourself. Also, while the price covers a good amount of fun, remember that gratuities are expected and should be factored into your budget.

Another point is that the experience is weather-dependent. If storms roll in, your trip might be canceled or postponed, but the company usually offers a full refund or rescheduling.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for groups of friends, families, or celebrations looking for a flexible, fun day on the water. It suits those who appreciate customizable outings, from relaxing floats on inflatables to energetic paddleboarding. If you’re someone who wants to avoid traditional tours and prefers to set your own pace, this boat trip offers plenty of freedom.

Practical Details for Your Trip

• Meeting Point: 36 Miracle Strip Pkwy SW, Fort Walton Beach, FL
• Duration: About four hours
• Maximum Passengers: 12 plus optional captain
• Price: $325 per group, with optional captain for $180
• Includes: Paddleboard, lily pad, speaker, inflatables, cooler
• Not Included: Gratuities and captain fee (paid at dock)
• Booking: Usually booked 20 days in advance, with free cancellation up to 24 hours before

The Sum Up

If you’re after a laid-back, fun-filled day on the water that can be tailored to your group, the Crab Island Fun with Lily Pad & More offers excellent value. You’ll enjoy the freedom of bringing your own snacks and drinks, the chance to paddleboard or lounge on inflatables, and the lively atmosphere created by music and socializing. The optional captain adds peace of mind, especially for those who prefer to sit back and soak in the scenery.

This tour suits travelers who prioritize authentic experiences, flexibility, and a relaxed vibe. Whether celebrating a special occasion or just looking for a memorable day with friends or family, you’ll likely find this adventure a highlight of your Destin trip.

FAQ

Can I drive the boat myself?
Yes, if you have a boating license, you can drive the boat yourself. The boat is suitable for those who prefer to pilot it or have a licensed captain.

How many people can fit on the boat?
Up to 12 guests can join the trip, plus the captain if you opt for one.

What should I bring?
Bring snacks and drinks (no glass). You might also want sunscreen, waterproof gear, and your favorite music for the Bluetooth speaker.

Is the captain included in the price?
No, the captain is optional and costs an additional $180, payable at the dock.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather. If canceled due to bad weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Are there any reviews that highlight specific experiences?
Yes, many guests praised the helpful, friendly guides, and celebrated their fun days filled with floating and relaxing while being taken care of by passionate hosts.

How far in advance should I book?
Most travelers book about 20 days ahead, especially during peak seasons, to secure their preferred date.

This hands-on, relaxed boat experience at Crab Island offers a genuine taste of Destin’s waterside fun, with enough flexibility and extras to satisfy everyone in your group. It’s a great choice for a memorable, customizable day on the coast.