If you’re dreaming of a quick escape to the sun, sand, and sea, the Destin: Tiki Pub Crab Island Sandbar Cruise with Waterslide promises just that—a lively, relaxed day on a floating tiki bar with plenty of chances to cool down and soak up the Florida vibes. With a 5-star rating based on three reviews, this tour seems to hit the right notes for fun, scenery, and socializing.
What immediately catches the eye is the waterslide, which adds a splash of excitement to your day, and the overall island-party atmosphere that makes it perfect for groups looking to unwind and have a good laugh. We love the combination of stunning harbor views, dolphin sightings, and the laid-back tiki bar setting.
One thing to keep in mind is that alcoholic beverages aren’t included, so you’ll want to BYOB if you’re keen on drinks. Also, it’s a shorter three-hour trip, so if you’re after a full-day adventure, you might want to consider other options.
This tour is ideal for solo travelers, friends, couples, or small groups who enjoy lively atmospheres and want to experience Crab Island without the hassle of planning a whole day. Whether you’re celebrating, relaxing, or just craving some fun in the sun, this cruise hits a sweet spot.
Good To Know
- Fun waterslide adds excitement and a quick way to cool off
- Small group experience (limited to 6 participants) ensures a more personal vibe
- Great views and dolphin sightings enrich the trip’s appeal
- Inclusive amenities like onboard bathroom, cooler, Bluetooth sound system, and swim ladder
- Flexible booking with free cancellation and pay later options
- Brings your own drinks for a fully personalized experience
What Makes This Tour Stand Out
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A Unique Floating Tiki Bar Experience
Imagine cruising on a boat that feels like a tropical bar in itself, decked out with island-inspired decorations and a lively vibe. The Tiki Pub is designed to make you feel like you’ve escaped to a beach party, with a high-top tiki bar and Bluetooth sound system blasting your favorite tunes. The atmosphere is fun and social, perfect for making new friends or just relaxing with your crew.
The Waterslide—A Surprise Highlight
You won’t find many tours like this that feature a waterslide directly off the boat. As one reviewer mentioned, “Sliding into the clear waters from the boat’s waterslide was the perfect way to cool down after soaking up the sun.” The slide is a simple but effective way to add some quick adrenaline and fun, especially if you’re traveling with kids or young-at-heart adults.
Views, Dolphins, and the Crab Island Sandbar
The crystal-clear waters surrounding Crab Island make for a picture-perfect setting. While the trip mainly focuses on the social aspect, many guests also spot dolphins during their ride—another bonus that adds to the thrill. The harbor views are stunning, offering plenty of opportunities for photos and just enjoying the scenery.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyPractical Comforts and Amenities
For a trip of this length, onboard amenities matter. The included bathroom and swim ladder make it easy to stay comfortable and get in and out of the water. The cooler with ice means you can keep your drinks cold, and the Bluetooth sound system lets you set the mood with your playlist of choice.
What to Expect During the Cruise
The Itinerary
The cruise begins at Gilligan’s Marina, which offers parking and overflow options, making logistics straightforward. Once onboard, the vessel—decked out with island-themed decor—sets sail for Crab Island, one of Destin’s most popular sandbars.
The 3-hour trip is a mix of cruising, relaxing, and playing. As you cruise through the harbor, you’ll enjoy stunning views of the coastline, with the chance to see dolphins swimming alongside. The boat stops at Crab Island, a shallow sandbar teeming with boats, people, and fun.
The Waterslide and Swimming Stops
The highlight for many reviewers is the waterslide, which lets everyone take a quick thrill ride into the water. After sliding, you can swim or float around in the clear, inviting waters. The swim ladder makes getting back on the boat easy, especially if you’re swimming with kids or seniors.
Social Vibe and Onboard Entertainment
The fun, social atmosphere is a top feature. Guests are encouraged to bring their own drinks and enjoy the laid-back environment. The onboard Bluetooth sound system lets you play your favorite tunes, creating a party mood. With a small group size limited to six participants, the experience feels more intimate than a large tour.
Observations from Past Guests
Reviews reveal that guides are knowledgeable and friendly, making the trip more enjoyable. One guest mentioned, “The crew was great at pointing out dolphin sightings and giving fun facts about Crab Island.” Others appreciated the clean onboard bathroom and the cooler with ice, which helped keep drinks cold all trip.
Potential Drawbacks
While the trip offers a lot, some might find the 3-hour duration too short if they’re looking for a full-day in the water. Also, since alcoholic beverages are not provided, you’ll need to BYOB, which adds a little planning on your part. The tour also doesn’t include food, so consider packing snacks if you get hungry.
Analyzing the Value
At $104 per person, this cruise offers a competitive price for the experience. You’re paying for a well-decorated boat, a waterslide, and the opportunity to relax in a lively setting with great views and dolphin sightings. The small group size enhances the experience, making it feel exclusive and personal—definitely a plus compared to larger, more crowded tours.
The included amenities—bathroom, cooler, Bluetooth system, swim ladder—add to the value by making the trip comfortable and customizable. The flexible booking options, including free cancellation and pay later, also add peace of mind, especially if your plans change unexpectedly.
Perfect for the Right Travelers
This cruise is best suited for groups of friends, couples, or solo travelers who enjoy social environments and outdoor fun. It’s perfect if you’re after a short, lively escape with plenty of opportunities to cool off and take photos. Families with kids might also enjoy the waterslide and shallow waters, but keep in mind the trip duration.
If you’re someone who values stunning scenery, dolphin sightings, and a lively party atmosphere, this tour checks all those boxes. Conversely, if you prefer a longer, more relaxed day or want to include meals and drinks in the price, you might want to explore other options.
The Sum Up
The Destin: Tiki Pub Crab Island Sandbar Cruise with Waterslide offers a compact, fun-filled taste of Florida’s most popular waterway. Its standout features—the waterslide, social vibe, and beautiful harbor views—make it a great choice for those looking for a lively adventure without a full-day commitment. The small group size ensures a personal touch, and the amenities provided keep the experience comfortable.
This trip balances excitement and relaxation, making it particularly appealing for younger travelers, groups celebrating special occasions, or anyone eager to enjoy Crab Island in a casual, party-like setting. The inclusion of dolphin sightings and stunning scenery adds to its charm, while the flexible booking options make it accessible and risk-free.
Overall, if your idea of a perfect day involves sun, water, drinks, and a dash of adventure, this cruise delivers plenty of value and memorable moments. It’s an easy, enjoyable way to experience Destin’s lively waters and create stories to tell long after you’ve left the sandbar.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, but keep in mind that babies under 1 year are not recommended. The waterslide is suitable for most, but parents should supervise young children at all times.
Are drinks included in the price?
No, alcoholic beverages are not provided. You are encouraged to bring your own drinks to enjoy during the cruise.
How long is the cruise?
The cruise lasts 3 hours, typically available in the morning and afternoon.
What amenities are onboard?
The boat features a bathroom, a cooler with ice, Bluetooth sound system, tiki bar, and a swim ladder for easy water access.
How many people are on each tour?
The experience is limited to 6 participants, ensuring a more intimate and personal atmosphere.
Where do I meet for the tour?
The meeting point is at Gilligan’s Marina, which offers parking and overflow options across the street.
Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and there’s an option to reserve now and pay later for flexibility.
This lively, fun, and visually stunning cruise provides a fantastic way to experience Crab Island with a touch of island party flair. Whether you’re celebrating, relaxing, or simply wanting to enjoy Destin’s waters in a social setting, it’s worth considering for your Florida trip.
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