Fort Walton Beach: 20-ft 10-Passenger Pontoon Rental

Imagine cruising across shimmering, emerald-green waters in a spacious pontoon boat, with the sun warming your skin and the breeze gently tousling your hair. That’s exactly what you’ll get with the Fort Walton Beach 20-ft 10-Passenger Pontoon Rental offered by Power Up Watersports. It’s a straightforward day out, but one packed with potential for memorable moments—whether you’re with family, friends, or a small group of adventure seekers.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the private trip to Crab Island offers a relaxed, personalized outing. Second, the clear waters provide perfect conditions for swimming and floating, making everyone feel like they’re in a natural swimming pool. Third, the friendly, knowledgeable staff ensure your safety and help you get the most out of your time on the water.

A possible consideration? The boats are described as somewhat worn, with some reviewers noting rips and slower speeds than expected. If you’re chasing a pristine vessel or a high-speed thrill, this might be a smaller factor. But for most who want a laid-back, scenic day, it’s usually not a deal-breaker.

This rental suits travelers looking for a flexible, family-friendly outing that offers the freedom to explore at your own pace on beautiful waters. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion, seeking a fun day with kids, or just want to enjoy the coast from the water, this experience offers good value and authentic fun.

Good To Know

• Private and Flexible: Perfect for small groups or families wanting a personalized experience.
• Scenic and Calm Waters: Ideal for swimming, floating, and relaxing in crystal-clear water.
• Affordable for the Duration: At $241, it’s a reasonable price for up to 10 people and 4-8 hours of fun.
• Includes Essential Equipment: Life jackets, Bluetooth speaker, and detailed instructions come standard.
• Limited by Boat Maintenance: Some boats may be showing signs of age, which could affect speed and comfort.
• Customer Satisfaction: Overall high ratings, with many reviewers praising the staff and scenery.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Experience Overview

When you rent a pontoon from Power Up Watersports in Fort Walton Beach, you’re signing up for a straightforward but enjoyable day on the water. The meeting point at Adventure Marina, right next to the boat ramp, is easy to find and well-organized. The rental includes a 10-passenger pontoon boat with a bimini top for shade, making it suitable for warm days. You’ll also get a Bluetooth speaker to keep your playlist going, along with US Coast Guard-approved life jackets—a vital safety feature.

The duration of the rental varies from 4 to 8 hours, giving you flexibility. Most trips are available in the morning or afternoon, depending on your schedule. After some quick instructions on boat operation and a local map, you’ll be ready to cruise. The staff is known for being friendly and helpful, with many guests mentioning how smooth the rental process was.

The Route and Highlights

Your journey begins with a leisurely cruise out of the marina, gently sailing over the calm, crystal-clear waters. The main highlight is the trip to Crab Island, a famous sandbar where boats gather to enjoy water activities and socializing. Because it’s a private vessel, you can decide how long to stay, whether you want to anchor and swim, or float on a lily pad (available for rent if you want to add that extra fun).

Reviewers mention that the scenic views of the coastline are stunning, with many taking photos of the shoreline’s mix of condos, beaches, and lush greenery. The shallow waters around Crab Island are perfect for kids and non-swimmers to relax, float, and enjoy the sunshine.

Real-World Experiences and Tips

One review from Leah highlights that the crystal waters made her trip special, even though she noted the boat was somewhat worn—”some rips had tape holding it together.” While this points to the boats being a little aged, it’s clear that the overall experience still left her satisfied.

Another guest, Cassie, expressed frustration with the boat’s slow speed—only reaching about 12 mph, which extended the trip to Crab Island from 30 minutes to over an hour. This is something to keep in mind if you’re eager to maximize your time exploring or if you prefer faster travel. Still, the slow pace can be a plus for those who want a relaxed, scenic ride.

On the positive side, many reviews rave about the friendly staff who made check-in and instructions straightforward. Cory mentions the boat’s cleanliness and the helpfulness of the staff, while others appreciate how easy booking was, thanks to the flexible reservation and pay later option.

Practical Details

The cost of $241 covers the usage of a spacious boat for your group of up to 10 people, with rental times ranging from 4 to 8 hours. For such a price, you’re getting a self-guided adventure—meaning you can explore at your own pace. This is particularly good value if you’re planning a full day of water fun, especially considering the included safety gear and equipment.

You are allowed to bring your own coolers with snacks and drinks, but glass containers are forbidden, which helps keep the environment safe and clean. The lily pad is available for rent if you want to add some floating fun, although it’s not included in the base package.

The meeting point at Adventure Marina is straightforward, and the staff are well-known for being helpful and friendly, which can make the entire process smoother, especially if you’re new to boating.

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Requirements and Safety

If you’re born on or after January 1, 1988, you’ll need a boater safety card, which you can obtain online. This requirement ensures everyone on board is familiar with basic safety procedures, making the trip safer and more enjoyable.

It’s also good to remember that glass objects are not allowed on the boat, so plan your picnic or drinks accordingly. The provided life jackets and safety instructions are designed to give peace of mind, especially if you’re with kids or inexperienced boaters.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This pontoon rental is ideal for families wanting a relaxed day on the water, small groups seeking a flexible and private outing, or anyone eager to explore Crab Island at their own pace. It’s perfect for those who value scenic views, social floating, and the freedom to create their own adventure without a rigid schedule.

However, if you’re looking for high-speed boat rides or pristine, brand-new vessels, you might find the boats a little outdated. But for most travelers, the friendly staff, scenic journey, and the chance to float in clear waters outweigh these minor drawbacks.

The Sum Up

The Fort Walton Beach 20-ft pontoon rental offers a straightforward, enjoyable way to experience the coast’s natural beauty. The flexible hours, inclusive equipment, and the ability to tailor your trip make it a good value for small groups or families. Most reviews highlight friendly staff, beautiful scenery, and a safe environment, making it a reliable choice for a day of water-based fun.

While some boats may be showing their age, the overall experience remains positive, especially if you’re after a laid-back, scenic cruise to Crab Island. It’s a genuine, affordable option that rewards explorers with stunning views and plenty of opportunities for swimming and relaxing.

If you’re dreaming of floating in calm, clear waters and making your own adventures, this pontoon rental could be just what you’re looking for. It’s a great way to enjoy the emerald coast without breaking the bank or dealing with large crowds.

FAQs

How many people can the pontoon boat accommodate?
Up to 10 passengers, making it perfect for small groups or families.

What’s included in the rental?
The rental includes a 10-passenger pontoon boat, Bimini top for shade, Bluetooth speaker, life jackets, local map, and detailed instructions.

Can I bring my own snacks and drinks?
Yes, you can bring coolers with snacks and drinks, but glass containers are not allowed.

How long can I rent the boat?
The rental duration ranges from 4 to 8 hours, depending on your needs and booking.

Is the boat suitable for children?
Yes, the boat is suitable for families, especially with life jackets provided for all ages.

Do I need a boat safety license?
Yes, if you were born on or after January 1, 1988, you’ll need a boater safety card, which can be obtained online.

Where do I meet for the rental?
At Adventure Marina, located in the blue bait shop building next to the boat ramp.

Are the boats new or old?
Some reviewers mention the boats are a little aged, with minor rips and slower speeds, but they are functional.

Can I rent additional floating equipment?
Yes, lily pads are available for rent if you want to add floating fun during your trip.

This straightforward pontoon rental in Fort Walton Beach offers an excellent way to explore the coast’s beautiful waters, with enough flexibility and comfort for a memorable day. Whether you’re floating around Crab Island or just soaking up the scenery, it’s a practical choice for watersports lovers looking to enjoy the Emerald Coast in a relaxed, fun-filled manner.

You can check if your dates are available here: