For all ages • Up to 6 Passengers • Captain Included
Glide over Destin’s emerald shallows on a transparent-hull private boat and watch marine life pass beneath you. This six-passenger charter at Crab Island is a family-friendly, captain-led way to experience one of the Gulf Coast’s most iconic sandbars.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
3–4 hours
Fitness Level
Minimal fitness required; boarding and short walks on a sandbar are the main physical tasks. Suitable for children and older adults.
Wildlife
History
Crab Island developed as a shallow recreational sandbar off Destin’s harbor and has grown into a popular public anchorage over recent decades.
Conservation
Use reef-safe sunscreen, avoid stepping on seagrass, and never feed wildlife; small choices help protect this shallow-water ecosystem.
Emerald Island Charters
For all ages • Up to 6 Passengers • Captain Included
Emerald Island Charters operates out of Fort Walton Beach, Florida, offering private pontoon charters to popular Destin destinations such as Crab Island. The company provides a fleet of pontoon options that accommodate small groups and large parties, including single-deck pontoons, twin-slide party pontoons, and luxury 18-passenger pontoons with tiki-style layouts. Licensed captains and professional crew guide every trip, handling navigation, anchoring, and safety so guests can relax. Several vessels include onboard restrooms for added comfort, and many charters come equipped with inflatable lounges, paddleboards, and water toys tailored to the chosen boat. Trips are private charters, making them suitable for family outings, celebrations, and group gatherings. Departure and return occur from Destin Harbor and nearby launching points in Fort Walton Beach, allowing convenient access to the shallow sandbars and clear waters around Crab Island.
Emerald Island Charters emphasizes safety and local knowledge, maintaining boats to industry standards and following local regulations. Booking options cover a range of group sizes—typically from 10 guests on single-deck pontoons up to 18 passengers on larger luxury boats—so parties can select the right vessel for their needs. The company's focus on private, captain-led experiences makes it straightforward to plan a half-day or full-day on the water without worrying about logistics. For travelers seeking a private, customizable day at Crab Island from Fort Walton Beach, Emerald Island Charters offers proven options and experienced crews.
Reservations and trip details are available online or by phone, allowing guests to confirm schedules, amenities, and pricing in advance easily today.
Location
Fort Walton Beach, FL
Departure points near Destin Harbor
Group Size
Up to 18 guests
Options for small and large groups
Tours Offered
5 private charters
Pontoons bound for Crab Island
Onboard Restroom
3 boats with restroom
Added comfort for longer trips
Choose the right boat for your group, confirm captain-led service, and book departures from Fort Walton Beach or Destin Harbor.
Arrive Early
Plan to be at Gilligans Marina 10–15 minutes before departure so the captain can brief you and board efficiently.
Sun & Shade
Bring reef-safe sunscreen and a hat; the boat has shade but Florida sun is strong during midday.
Shoes for Sandbar
Wear water shoes for walking the shallows at Crab Island—the sand can be hot and sea-grass beds are slippery.
Respect Marine Life
Keep noise low near seagrass and never feed fish or turtles to protect local ecology.
Sunscreen (reef-safe)
Protects skin and prevents chemicals that harm seagrass and coral.
summer
Polarized sunglasses
Reduces glare and improves underwater visibility through the clear hull.
Water shoes
Protects feet when walking on sandbars and around shallow seagrass.
summer
Light wind jacket
Useful for cooler morning or late-afternoon breezes on the water.
spring