Be your own captain for a half- or full-day cruise from Panama City Beach to Shell Island. Less than a 10-minute ride from the dock, this 60HP pontoon rental is ideal for snorkeling, sandbar stops, and dolphin sightings.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
The pontoon eases away from the dock and the Gulf opens like a wide, sunlit ledger—warm water slapping the hull, salt air answering the engine's low hum. Within ten minutes the shoreline slips astern and Shell Island's long, white ribbon of sand appears, its dunes and shallow flats daring you to step off the boat and into the tidal playground.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
4–8 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; basic mobility to step over the pontoon rail and move on deck is required.
Wildlife
History
Shell Island is an undeveloped barrier island within the St. Andrews Bay system, historically used by local fisheries and gradually protected for recreation and wildlife.
Conservation
Stay out of marked nesting areas, avoid anchoring in seagrass, pack out all trash, and use reef-safe sun products to protect fragile marine habitats.
Reserve your spot on the Full Day 60HP Pontoon Rental to Shell Island today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Arrive Early and Prepared
Plan to arrive 45 minutes before departure to check in, sign waivers, and handle optional damage protection or fishing fees.
Bring a Dry Bag and Cooler
Keep electronics and snacks dry; pontoons have deck space but limited protected storage.
Know Boater Safety Rules
If you were born on or after 1/1/1988 you must carry a Florida boater education card to operate the vessel.
Respect Wildlife and Dunes
Anchor in sand, avoid seagrass beds, and maintain distance from dolphins and nesting shorebirds.
Reef-safe sunscreen
Protects skin while minimizing harm to seagrass and marine life.
summer
Dry bag
Keeps phones, keys, and snacks dry during cruises and beach stops.
Snorkel mask and fins
Useful for exploring shallow seagrass beds and sandbar snorkeling spots.
summer
Non-slip deck shoes
Improves footing on wet surfaces and when boarding from beach or ladder.