Pelican Boat Rentals: Private Pontoon Adventures in Gulf Shores - Mobile, Alabama

Pelican Boat Rentals: Private Pontoon Adventures in Gulf Shores

Mobile, Alabamaeasy

Difficulty

easy

Duration

3–6 hours

Fitness Level

Suitable for all fitness levels; minimal physical exertion required while boating

Overview

Discover the ease and fun of private pontoon boat rentals with Pelican Boat Rentals in Gulf Shores, Alabama. Perfect for families and first-timers, this experience combines local expertise with fully equipped boats for an unforgettable day on the water.

Details

Gulf Shores, Alabama is a premier destination for water-based recreation, offering stunning views of the Gulf of Mexico’s expansive coastline, gentle waves, and abundant marine life. Pelican Boat Rentals stands out in this landscape by providing private pontoon boat experiences tailored to families, groups, and first-time captains hoping to explore the water in comfort and style. Located in the heart of Gulf Shores, this local business offers seamless boat rentals complete with hassle-free pick-up and drop-off, making it a favorite for both locals and visitors.

What sets Pelican Boat Rentals apart is the owner, Daryl, whose attentiveness and professionalism ensure every guest feels confident behind the wheel of a spacious, clean pontoon boat. These boats come fully equipped with coolers, snacks, bottled waters, towels, and unique added touches like floating pads, creating a relaxing day where you can cruise, swim, and soak up the sun on Alabama’s beautiful waters. Whether you're seeking serene spots to anchor and unwind or scenic routes to explore the nearby beaches and waterways, Daryl shares invaluable local knowledge and recommendations.

Gulf Shores itself provides a rich backdrop of natural beauty, from white sandy beaches and coastal dunes to nearby wetlands teeming with egrets, pelicans, and dolphins. The area's shallow bays and calm channels create an ideal boating environment, especially for novice sailors and families. Beyond the water, the town has charming eateries and beachfront pubs, some personally recommended by Daryl, adding to the complete experience. With an emphasis on friendliness, safety, and comfort, Pelican Boat Rentals transforms an ordinary day into a memorable Gulf Coast adventure, making it an unmatched outdoor recreation destination in this region.

Trail Tips

Reserve Early

Pontoon boats are popular during peak seasons, so book your rental in advance to secure your preferred date.

Bring Sun Protection

Wear sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses to protect yourself from strong Gulf Coast sun while on the water.

Follow Safety Instructions

Pay close attention to Daryl’s safety briefing to ensure comfortable and secure navigation of the boat.

Pack Light

Bring only essentials as storage space is limited on pontoon boats, but snacks and drinks are provided.

Local Insights

Hidden Gems

  • Little Lagoon Pass – a quiet spot for nature viewing and kayaking nearby
  • Waterville USA – a local water park perfect for families when taking a break from boating

Wildlife

  • Bottlenose dolphins often spotted near shore
  • Brown pelicans gliding above the water or perching on docks

History

Gulf Shores has a long history as a fishing and boating community, with tourism growing originally in the mid-20th century alongside the development of coastal highways.

Conservation

Local efforts focus on preserving wetland habitats and water quality to maintain the health of marine species and support sustainable recreational fishing and boating.

Photography Tips

Best Times

Golden hour
sunrise
late afternoon

Best Viewpoints

  • Along the shoreline near Gulf Shores Public Beach
  • Boating through nearby quiet bays
  • Dockside with sunset reflections over the water

What to Photograph

Coastal landscapes
Dolphins and seabirds
Pontoon boat lifestyle moments

Recommended Gear

Sunscreen

Essential

Protects your skin from strong sun exposure while on open water.

summer specific

Water Bottle

Essential

Staying hydrated is critical during hot days on the boat.

summer specific

Hat and Sunglasses

Essential

Provides shade and reduces glare to enhance visual comfort while cruising.

summer specific

Light Jacket

Ideal for cooler mornings or breezy conditions on the water.

spring specific

Frequently Asked Questions

Reviews