Rent a 12-person pontoon from Okaloosa Island and spend a day on Choctawhatchee Bay and Crab Island. This practical guide covers what to expect—rules, safety requirements, and tips for a smooth, sun-smart outing.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
The morning sun rides low over Choctawhatchee Bay, throwing a path of light that seems to dare you to follow it. A twelve-person pontoon idles at Adventure Marina’s blue building on Okaloosa Island; its Bimini top huddles shade while a bluetooth speaker waits for a soundtrack. You’ll push off into shallow, glassy water that loosens into the sandbars and party flotillas of Crab Island — a living, social sand spit where the water hums with boat traffic and laughter.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
4–8 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; you should be able to step on/off a low dock and move across a stable deck.
Wildlife
History
Choctawhatchee Bay was historically a rich estuary used by Indigenous peoples and later by commercial fishers; the area’s modern recreational boating grew with mid-20th century tourism and military development at nearby bases.
Conservation
Seagrass beds and shallow flats are ecologically sensitive—anchor in sandy areas only, pack out all trash, and use reef-safe sunscreens to reduce chemical impact.
Reserve your spot on the 12 passenger Crab Island pontoon boat rental today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Arrive Early for the Boater Test
Drivers born on or after Jan 1, 1988 must arrive one hour early to take the mandatory boater’s safety test—plan your timing so your rental time isn’t reduced.
Bring a Credit Card & ID
Check-in requires a valid government ID and a credit card for the damage hold or non-refundable deposit option.
Pack Shade and Reef-Safe Sunscreen
The sun is intense on the bay; a Bimini helps, but bring extra sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses for everyone aboard.
No Glass, No Grills
You may bring food and drinks but glass containers and open grills are prohibited—use coolers and disposable or reusable serving ware.
Sunscreen (reef-safe)
Protects your skin during prolonged sun exposure on open water.
summer
Non-marking boat shoes or sandals
Provide grip on wet deck surfaces without damaging flooring.
summer
Dry bag or waterproof phone case
Keeps valuables dry when people are swimming off the boat or waves spray the deck.
Small cooler and non-breakable drinkware
Keeps food and drinks cold—note the company does not supply coolers and glass is prohibited.