Full Day 60HP Pontoon Rental to Shell Island

Thinking about renting a pontoon boat in Panama City Beach? This full-day 60HP pontoon rental offers a flexible and scenic way to discover the area’s most beautiful spots, including the famed Shell Island. While we haven’t personally taken this exact trip, reviews and details paint a pretty clear picture of what to expect—and it looks like a solid choice for those craving a laid-back, fun day on the water.

What really catches our eye are three things about this experience: its generous 8-hour duration, the spacious, brand-new Trifecta pontoon boat, and how close it is to Shell Island—less than 10 minutes away. Plus, dolphin sightings seem almost guaranteed, making this outing more than just a boat ride. The only caveat? You’ll need to book well in advance—most folks plan about two weeks ahead. This tour suits those who want a customizable, family-friendly day of exploration with plenty of space and comfort.

Good To Know

• Flexible rental options: Half-day or full-day cruises let you choose your adventure length.
• Spacious, comfortable boats: Plush seating for up to 12 guests on a brand-new vessel.
• Close proximity to Shell Island: Less than a 10-minute cruise, perfect for snorkeling, relaxing, or exploring.
• Wildlife viewing: Dolphins are often seen swimming and playing in St. Andrews Bay.
• Self-guided adventure: Be your own captain, with safety instructions provided.
• Additional costs: Bring your own snorkeling gear, and there’s a small fee for fishing poles and optional damage protection.

A Closer Look at the Experience

Starting Point and Accessibility
The meeting point at 4114 Jan Cooley Dr, Panama City Beach, makes for a straightforward start. Whether you’re coming from nearby hotels or public transport, it’s a convenient spot. The staff here are described as “awesome” and attentive, which sets the tone before even hitting the water.

What the Boat Offers
The brand-new Trifecta pontoon is designed for comfort and convenience. With plush, ample seating for up to 12 guests, it’s ideal for families, friends, or even a small group of water-loving colleagues. The deck space is generous—perfect for coolers, water toys, or sunbathing while cruising. One reviewer highlighted that the 60hp engine had more than enough power, which means no worries about sluggishness or bad weather conditions slowing you down.

Duration and Flexibility
Opting for the full-day (8 hours) gives you plenty of freedom to explore at your own pace. From snorkeling to dolphin spotting, you can pack your itinerary without feeling rushed. The half-day option is available for those with tighter schedules or wanting a shorter experience.

Dolphins and Wildlife
According to reviews, dolphin sightings are common, thanks to the boat’s proximity to St. Andrews Bay. Watching these playful mammals swim alongside your boat is often a highlight. One review emphasizes how the powerful 60hp engine allowed easy navigation to prime dolphin-spotting areas, making the experience more engaging.

Visiting Shell Island
The main draw is Shell Island, just a quick 10-minute cruise away. Here, you can snorkel, relax on the sands, or explore the island’s natural beauty. Bringing your own snorkeling gear is recommended, as it’s not included, but the shallow waters and clear views make for an enjoyable experience.

Safety and Regulations
Anyone born on or after January 1, 1988, must pass a boater safety course and carry the appropriate safety card. The online course takes about 45 minutes, and the fee is just under $10—worthwhile considering the importance of safe boating. The rental company also offers optional damage protection, giving peace of mind during your trip.

What You Get and What You Need to Bring

Included in the rental

• Private pontoon boat for up to 12 guests
• The freedom to cruise as your own captain
• Close proximity to Shell Island for easy access

Not included, but recommended

• Snacks and alcoholic drinks for a perfect beach day
• Bottled water and soda to stay hydrated
• Snorkeling gear—bring your own for the best experience
• Fishing poles, if you want to try your luck (there’s a small fee at check-in)

This setup encourages you to customize your day—whether you want a relaxing sunbathing session or an active snorkel adventure.

The Itinerary: What to Expect

Since this is a self-guided rental, there’s no fixed schedule beyond the initial briefing. The main plan involves cruising to Shell Island, which takes around 10 minutes. Once there, you’re free to snorkel, explore, or simply lounge on the beach. Many reviewers point out that the boat’s power and size make it easy to reach other attractions in St. Andrews Bay if you feel adventurous.

Dolphins often appear along the route, and their playful swimming is a common highlight. The boat’s spacious deck allows everyone to have a clear view—ideal for wildlife watching without feeling cramped.

The turnaround point is back at the dock—so you can plan your day flexibly. The entire experience is about enjoying your own pace, soaking in the views, and making the most of Panama City Beach’s beautiful waters.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

The $219 price covers a full day of private boat rental—meaning you get a large, comfortable vessel and the freedom to craft your adventure. Compared to guided tours with set itineraries, this is a flexible, cost-effective way to experience Panama City Beach from the water. The boat’s recent launch and positive reviews about its power and comfort confirm that you’re getting quality gear for your money.

Dolphin sightings, quick access to Shell Island, and the ability to bring your own water toys or snorkeling gear all add to the value. Plus, the option to cancel free of charge up to 24 hours in advance offers peace of mind if weather or plans change.

Ideal for:

• Families wanting a flexible day on the water
• Groups of friends seeking a social, fun experience
• Visitors who prefer a self-guided, relaxed pace
• Anyone eager to see dolphins and enjoy Shell Island at their leisure

Final Thoughts

This full-day pontoon rental is a wonderful way to enjoy Panama City Beach’s stunning coastal scenery at your own pace. The spacious, new boat provides comfort and ample space for a memorable day with loved ones. Its proximity to Shell Island makes it especially appealing for snorkelers, beach lovers, or those simply wanting to relax and watch dolphins play.

While you’ll need to plan ahead and bring some essentials like snorkeling gear and snacks, the overall experience offers great value, flexibility, and a chance to create personalized memories on the water. If you’re after a casual, fun-filled day in Panama City Beach with the freedom to explore, this pontoon rental fits the bill beautifully.

FAQ

Do I need to pass any safety courses to rent the boat?
Yes, if you were born on or after January 1, 1988, you need to pass an approved boater safety course and carry a safety ID card.

Can I bring my own snorkeling gear?
Yes, bringing your own snorkeling equipment is recommended, as it’s not included in the rental.

Is the boat suitable for a large group?
Absolutely. The pontoon can comfortably seat up to 12 guests, making it ideal for families or groups of friends.

How long does it take to reach Shell Island?
Less than 10 minutes by boat, so you’ll have plenty of time to enjoy your activities on the island.

What if the weather turns bad?
The rental is weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll get a full refund or be offered a different date.

Can I cancel the booking?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance. Cancellations within 24 hours are not refundable.

Is there a limit on bringing alcohol?
The details don’t specify restrictions, but bringing your own alcohol is typical for such rentals—just be responsible.

Are fishing poles allowed?
Yes, but there’s a small fee at check-in for bringing fishing gear.

How early should I book?
Most bookings are made about 15 days in advance, so plan ahead to secure your preferred date.

Is this experience suitable for children?
Yes, it’s family-friendly, provided kids are supervised, and all safety regulations are followed.

In summary, this pontoon rental offers a relaxed, flexible, and scenic way to enjoy Panama City Beach. Whether you’re seeking dolphin encounters, a quick trip to Shell Island, or just a day of floating in beautiful waters, this experience delivers on comfort and convenience. Perfect for those who want a personalized adventure on the water, it’s a fantastic choice for your beach holiday.