Cruise in style with On the Salt for a private day trip to Crab Island, Florida’s beloved shallow reef playground. Swim, grill, and soak in the sun aboard a spacious boat equipped for a flawless on-water escape.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
10 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels; primarily a relaxed boating experience with optional swimming and light activity.
Wildlife
History
Crab Island has been a popular recreational spot since the late 20th century, offering a unique natural shallow water playground shaped by coastal currents and sandbar formations.
Conservation
Local operators including On the Salt encourage reef-safe products and waste-free boating practices to protect Crab Island’s delicate marine ecosystem.
On the Salt
Cruise in style with On the Salt for a private day trip to Crab Island, Florida’s beloved shallow reef playground. Swim, grill, and soak in the sun aboard a spacious boat equipped for a flawless on-water escape.
On the Salt is a Pensacola-based charter operator offering fishing trips, private cruises, and sightseeing tours on Pensacola Bay and the northern Gulf. The company provides a range of trips from short inshore outings to full-day offshore charters, including specialized experiences such as Blue Angels practice viewing and private Crab Island cruises. Trips are staged with clear departure times when provided — for example, 8 Hour Offshore trips depart at 6:30 AM and the 12 Hour Offshore runs from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM — and some experiences offer flexible departure and return times, like the On The Salt Bundle.
On the Salt focuses on small-group experiences, with certain charters accommodating up to six passengers and the bundle comfortably carrying up to five guests. Fishing trips include bottom fishing opportunities for species such as red snapper and grey trigger, and trips are equipped with appropriate gear for offshore and inshore angling. Private cruises prioritize comfort and convenience with amenities that may include restroom access and space for onboard grilling during visits to destinations like Crab Island.
The business serves anglers, families, and groups celebrating special occasions, offering curated days on the water for birthdays, anniversaries, team outings, and leisure cruises. Emphasis on professional scheduling, clear trip descriptions, and dedicated vessel use helps deliver reliable, memorable excursions. On the Salt operates in well-known local waters, providing guests direct access to fishing grounds, sandbars, and waterfront sights. Bookings are typically private charters tailored to each group's preferences and scheduled year-round for flexibility.
Service Area
Pensacola Bay & Gulf
Local waters and offshore grounds
Flexible Times
Morning & Flexible
Specific and custom departures
Max Group Size
Up to 6
Small private groups
Tours Offered
8 Tours
Fishing, cruises, and events
Reserve an offshore, inshore, or private cruise with clear departure times and small-group capacity for a memorable day on the water.
Book Early for Privacy
Reservations fill quickly, especially on weekends; secure your private charter ahead of time to guarantee exclusive access.
Pack Sun Protection
The Florida sun is intense—bring reef-safe sunscreen and a wide-brimmed hat to stay safe while on deck or in the water.
Bring Your Own Grill Supplies
To make use of the onboard grill, bring meats, veggies, or other grillables plus seasonings and utensils for a personalized cookout.
Plan for Seasickness
If you’re prone to seasickness, consider anti-nausea remedies; while the Gulf is usually calm, conditions can change rapidly.
Reef-Safe Sunscreen
Protects your skin and the marine environment during long sun exposure.
summer
Swimsuit and Quick-Dry Towel
Necessary for swimming and comfortable drying after water activities.
summer|spring|fall
Hat and Sunglasses
Essential gear for sun protection on the open boat.
summer|spring|fall
Light Jacket or Windbreaker
Useful for cooler breezes in the early morning or late afternoon on the water.
fall|spring|winter