Houseboat Cruises on Florida’s Coast with Crab Island Cruises - Destin

Houseboat Cruises on Florida’s Coast with Crab Island Cruises

Destineasy

Difficulty

easy

Duration

4 hours

Fitness Level

Suitable for all fitness levels; minimal physical exertion required

Overview

Discover the thrill and calm of a private houseboat cruise on Florida’s Emerald Coast with Crab Island Cruises. Spend an afternoon swimming, snorkeling, and spotting dolphins on a personalized trip to Crab Island.

Details

Fort Walton Beach, located along Florida’s stunning Emerald Coast, offers a unique blend of crystal-clear waters, white sandy shores, and vibrant marine life, making it a standout destination for water-based adventures. Crab Island Cruises invites travelers to experience this coastal playground onboard private houseboat cruises that redefine a day on the water. Their signature afternoon 4-hour private cruise takes guests beyond a typical boat ride—delivering a personalized dive into Fort Walton’s lively aquatic scene.

The small, sturdy houseboats offer a relaxed, spacious platform perfect for families, friends, or couples wanting to soak in the Gulf’s blue expanse. Captains like Robbie, Shelly, and Zach bring local expertise and friendly ease, skillfully navigating currents and coves to anchor at perfect spots around Crab Island. This shallow sandbar, a local favorite, buzzes with swimmers, paddleboarders, and colorful inflatables, providing an ideal setting for snorkeling or simply basking in the sun-dappled water.

What sets Crab Island Cruises apart is their captain-led approach, ensuring safety, comfort, and access to hidden gems. Guests commonly spot playful dolphins surfacing near the boat, with captains ready to share insider knowledge on the best snorkeling reefs and quiet shell-hunting beaches. The attentive crew often arranges treats like fresh coconut drinks or snacks, creating a seamless blend of adventure and comfort.

This experience is particularly unique in the Fort Walton area because it blends laid-back cruising with interactive wildlife viewing and customized stops tailored to group preferences. Whether it’s your first time visiting Crab Island or you’re returning for another round, Crab Island Cruises offers a dependable, welcoming gateway to Florida’s coastal wonders. It’s a must for visitors seeking a hands-on water adventure that is as approachable as it is memorable.

Adventure Tips

Book with an experienced captain

Captains from Crab Island Cruises use local knowledge to find calm anchor spots and help you spot dolphins and the best snorkeling areas safely.

Bring reef-safe sunscreen

Protect your skin and the local marine life by applying reef-safe sunscreen before jumping into the Gulf waters.

Wear water shoes for shore excursions

Crab Island’s sandy shoals and nearby beaches often have shells and rocks; water shoes keep feet comfortable and protected.

Pack light snacks and water

Captains often offer refreshments, but having your own snacks and hydration ensures you stay fueled during your 4-hour cruise.

Local Insights

Hidden Gems

  • Quiet sandbars adjacent to Crab Island with fewer crowds
  • Secluded shell beaches accessible by short boat rides

Wildlife

  • Atlantic bottlenose dolphins
  • Brown pelicans

History

Crab Island was originally a natural sandbar formed by the Choctawhatchee Bay inlet and has become a popular social hub since the late 20th century.

Conservation

Local operators emphasize reef-safe products and responsible boating to protect Fort Walton’s marine habitats and water quality.

Frequently Asked Questions

Photography Tips

Best Times

Golden hour
Mid-morning
Late afternoon

Best Viewpoints

  • Aboard the houseboat deck
  • Crab Island shoreline
  • Nearby snorkeling spots

What to Photograph

Dolphins surfacing
Sunlight on Gulf waters
Friends and family on deck

Recommended Gear

Reef-safe sunscreen

Essential

Protects you and the marine environment from harmful UV rays.

summer specific

Swimsuit and towel

Essential

Necessary for taking advantage of swimming and snorkeling opportunities.

summer specific

Water shoes

Provides foot protection on rocky or shell-strewn shorelines.

summer specific

Light jacket or windbreaker

Keeps you comfortable against coastal breezes during cooler seasons.

spring|fall|winter specific