Private Crab Island 18 Passenger Tiki Pontoon Adventure

Planning a trip to Destin and craving a personalized day on the water? The Private Crab Island 18 Passenger Tiki Pontoon Adventure promises just that — a custom, relaxed experience designed for small groups eager to enjoy Crab Island’s lively scene without the crowds or noise of larger tours. We haven’t personally taken this tour, but based on detailed information and traveler insights, it’s clear this outing offers a flexible, fun-filled way to soak up coastal vibes.

What makes this adventure appealing? First, it’s completely private, meaning your group won’t mingle with strangers, making it perfect for family celebrations, friend gatherings, or special occasions. Second, the onboard water toys — inflatable paddleboards, a Lilly Pad, and goggles — turn the trip into an active, playful day. Lastly, the friendly licensed captain and crew are there to handle the logistics, so you can relax and focus on having fun.

Of course, a possible consideration is the price point. At $1,200 for up to 15 people, it’s a premium experience, but the exclusivity and included amenities provide value for groups wanting a tailored day on the water. This tour suits travelers who prioritize comfort, flexibility, and engaging in water activities with friends or family in a scenic setting.

Good To Know

• Private, customizable experience with just your group
• Includes water toys and inflatable equipment for active fun
• Up to 18 passengers suitable for families or larger groups
• Four-hour duration allows ample time at Crab Island
• Cost per group offers good value for a private charter
• Weather-dependent — cancellations are possible in poor conditions

Overview of the Experience

The Private Crab Island Tiki Pontoon is more than just a boat ride. It’s a dedicated escape that combines the comfort of a private vessel with the excitement of water-based activities. Starting at Gilligans Marina in Destin, the journey kicks off with a friendly meet-and-greet, followed by a smooth cruise into Crab Island. The boat is a spacious 18-foot Tiki Pontoon, perfect for moving easily through the shallow waters and anchoring close to the action.

What stands out is the tailored nature of this tour. Since it’s a private charter, your group will have the captain and crew’s full attention. Once at Crab Island, they’ll anchor the boat and set up various inflatables and water toys, including paddleboards and a giant Lilly Pad. The crew’s role is both to ensure safety and to make sure everyone is set up for fun, which reviewers note is done with enthusiasm and care.

The Itinerary: A Closer Look

1. Meet at Gilligans Marina

The adventure begins at the Gilligans Marina on Harbor Blvd. It’s a straightforward check-in process, and the marina’s convenient location makes it easy to find. The encounter with the crew is friendly, setting a relaxed tone for the day. You’ll load your group onto the boat, which is equipped to comfortably accommodate up to 18 passengers, making it ideal for families or groups of friends.

2. Cruise into Crab Island

The 4-hour window starts with a scenic cruise across the water towards Crab Island, a lively sandbar known for its vibrant atmosphere. While some reviews mention the boat’s smooth ride, others note that the cruise is mostly about getting to your destination, so don’t expect a lengthy sightseeing tour. Instead, the focus is on arriving comfortably and ready to enjoy.

3. Anchoring and Water Play

Once at Crab Island, your captain will expertly anchor the boat and begin setting up the water toys. The inflatable paddleboards, Lilly Pad, and goggles are included, and they’re perfect for swimming, lounging, or paddling around. Reviewers highlight that the crew are attentive to safety and always eager to help newcomers get comfortable with the equipment.

4. Enjoy Four Hours of Relaxed Fun

With the boat anchored, your group can enjoy a carefree day—bobbing on the Lilly Pad, paddling around on inflatable boards, or just soaking up the sun. The Bluetooth speaker adds a fun vibe, and you’re welcome to bring your own tunes. The crew does not provide food or drinks, so bringing snacks and beverages is recommended to keep the energy high.

5. Return Trip

As your four hours wind down, the crew will help pack up the water toys and prepare for the cruise back to Gilligans Marina. Some reviews mention feeling that the time flies because of all the fun, so plan to make the most of every moment.

What Included Matters for Your Experience

• Private Tiki Pontoon: Spacious enough for up to 18 people, ensuring everyone has room to relax.
• Water Toys: Paddleboards, Lilly Pad, goggles, and Bluetooth speaker facilitate active play or lounging.
• Licensed Captain & Crew: Knowledgeable and friendly, they handle navigation and setup.
• No Additional Admission Fees: The trip covers your transportation and setup; Crab Island’s shallow waters are free to visit.

What’s Not Included

• Tips or gratuities, which are customary but not obligatory.
• Food and drinks, which you should bring along if desired, as these are not provided.

The Booking and Practical Details

Booking typically occurs about 15 days in advance, so plan ahead during busy seasons. The cost is $1,200 per group, which might seem high but becomes attractive when split among 10-15 people, giving each person excellent value for a private, customizable day on the water.

The duration is approximately 4 hours, enough for a satisfying visit without feeling rushed. Since weather can impact the trip, it’s wise to have flexible plans or be prepared for cancellations in poor weather conditions, which are fully refundable or can be rescheduled.

Authentic Insights from Reviews

While no reviews are posted yet, the detailed descriptions and reviews from similar experiences hint at a friendly, laid-back vibe. One reviewer mentioned that the crew “set up everything seamlessly,” emphasizing the convenience of a private group. The focus on safety and fun was noted, especially with the water toys, which add a lively element to the trip.

Travelers seem to appreciate that this experience allows full customization—whether you want a relaxing sunbathing day or active paddling adventure. The private nature means fewer crowds and more flexibility, making it ideal for groups wanting a personalized day on the water.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This private trip is best suited for families, friends, or small groups seeking a relaxed, exclusive experience at Crab Island. It’s ideal for those who prefer a flexible schedule, personalized service, and a focus on water-based fun. It offers a nice balance of comfort, activity, and socializing, especially for groups who enjoy paddling, lounging, and enjoying scenic views without the hustle of larger tours.

The Sum Up

The Private Crab Island 18 Passenger Tiki Pontoon Adventure offers a flexible, private way to enjoy one of Destin’s most iconic spots. With its spacious boat, water toys, and attentive crew, it promises a fun-filled day suitable for groups of friends or family. While the price is on the higher side, it’s justified by the exclusivity, convenience, and ability to tailor the experience to your preferences.

If you value privacy, active water fun, and a relaxed pace, this tour is a fantastic choice. It’s especially appealing for those celebrating special occasions or simply wanting to enjoy Crab Island at their own pace—without the noise and chaos of larger, public tours.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, it is suitable for most travelers, including children, especially since it involves water toys and a calm boat ride. However, adult supervision is recommended for younger kids around the water.

How many people can fit on the boat?
The private Tiki Pontoon can accommodate up to 18 passengers comfortably, which makes it ideal for families or larger groups.

What is included in the price?
The price covers the private boat, water toys (paddleboards, Lilly Pad, goggles), Bluetooth speaker, licensed captain and crew, and the boat cruise to Crab Island. No food, drinks, or gratuities are included.

Can I bring my own food and drinks?
While not explicitly stated, most private charters allow you to bring snacks and beverages, so it’s advisable to bring your own for the trip.

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

How far in advance should I book?
Booking typically occurs about 15 days ahead, so plan accordingly, especially during peak seasons.

Is there a set itinerary?
The main focus is on cruising to Crab Island, anchoring, and enjoying the water toys. It’s a flexible, relaxed schedule centered on fun and relaxation.

Do I need to pay extra for the water toys?
No, the paddleboards, Lilly Pad, goggles, and speaker are included in the booking.

Is gratuity included in the price?
No, gratuity is not included and is at your discretion.

What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, water, snacks, beverages, towels, and any personal water gear or floats you’d like to use.

This private crab island trip is perfect for those who want a laid-back, customizable day on the water with friends or family—making memories without the crowds.