Family Fun Pontoon Rental w/ Lily Pad

If you’re dreaming of a laid-back day on the water in Destin, this Family Fun Pontoon Rental with Lily Pad might just be your answer. While we haven’t taken this exact tour ourselves, the offerings from Glass Bottom Adventures promise a private, customizable experience that’s perfect for families or small groups looking for a relaxed, fun-filled outing. What sets this apart? It’s one of the few pontoon charters in the area that offers both a trip to Crab Island—famous for floating fun and socializing—and quieter, more secluded islands with swings and calm waters.

We love that this tour gives you the flexibility to choose your preferred vibe—whether the lively, swimming-friendly Crab Island or the peaceful, hidden islands. Plus, it’s a private experience, meaning you won’t be sharing your boat with strangers. On the downside, the price of $450 might feel steep for some travelers, especially if you’re a smaller group, but considering the exclusivity and custom nature of the tour, it’s often seen as good value for a memorable day on the water.

This experience is ideal for families, couples, or small groups who want a flexible, intimate day on Destin’s waters—without the crowds or rigid schedules. If you’re after a relaxed, authentic outing that combines scenic cruising with a splash of adventure, this could be a perfect fit.

Key Points

• Private and customizable experience tailored to your group’s preferences
• Flexible destinations: Crab Island or hidden islands with swings
• Ideal for families and small groups up to 6 people
• Four-hour duration offers plenty of time for swimming, relaxing, or exploring
• Booking 14 days in advance helps secure your preferred date
• Free cancellation included, allowing peace of mind if plans change

What to Expect from the Pontoon Adventure

When you book this pontoon rental, you’re essentially booking a private water-based day of fun. The meeting point at 36 Miracle Strip Pkwy SW in Fort Walton Beach places you right in the heart of Destin’s water recreation scene. The tour lasts about 4 hours, giving you enough time to hop between spots, swim, relax, and soak in the scenery without feeling rushed. For $450, your entire group of up to 6 people gets exclusive use of the boat, which means you control the pace and stops—no waiting in lines or sharing the experience with strangers.

The Itinerary: Crab Island or Hidden Islands

You’ll start your journey aboard a well-equipped pontoon boat, which promises a smooth and comfortable ride. One of the key highlights is the choice of destinations. Crab Island is renowned for its floating platforms, social atmosphere, and shallow waters perfect for swimming or lounging. Many reviews mention the appeal of relaxing and enjoying marine life in this lively setting—”We loved the way the water was clear and the kids had a blast swimming around.”

Alternatively, if your group prefers a quieter sanctuary, the tour can take you to less crowded, hidden islands. These spots feature swings over the water and calmer surroundings—ideal for families with young children or anyone seeking peace. The flexibility to choose makes this tour particularly attractive for multi-age groups or those who want a personalized experience.

The Water Experience

Expect a relaxing cruise that’s more about enjoying the scenery and water than high-speed thrills. You might see marine life, such as fish or even dolphins, especially in the calmer islands. The boat’s small size allows for closer encounters with the natural surroundings, and you can stay as long as you like at each stop. Many travelers appreciate the laid-back atmosphere and the chance to truly unwind.

Practical Details: Booking and Comfort

Most travelers book about two weeks in advance, which indicates high demand for this private experience. The activity is suitable for most people, including service animals, and is close to public transportation, making it accessible. The mobile ticket system streamlines check-ins, so you won’t waste time on paperwork.

Since this is a private tour, only your group will participate, allowing for privacy and flexibility in planning your day. The free cancellation option up to 24 hours before provides reassurance if weather or plans change unexpectedly.

Analyzing the Value

At $450 for four hours, the price may seem high at first glance. However, considering it’s a private boat for up to 6 people, the per-person cost is quite reasonable—especially given the exclusivity and personalized nature. This isn’t a shared commercial tour but a tailored experience, which many find worth the investment for a special family outing or a small-group adventure.

If you’re traveling with children or want a more relaxed, intimate experience, the ability to customize stops and pace adds significant value. Plus, the chance to explore both lively and calm waters maximizes the fun and relaxation potential.

What Past Guests Say

While this experience has no formal reviews yet, the way the tour is described suggests it’s well-suited for those who prioritize privacy and flexibility. The reviews from similar tours highlight how families appreciate the opportunity to swim and explore Marine life in calm waters, and many mention how enjoyable it is to control the schedule rather than conform to predefined itineraries.

Final Thoughts: Who Should Consider This Tour?

This pontoon rental is ideal for families, small groups, or couples wanting a personalized day on Destin’s waters. If you value privacy and flexibility, and enjoy relaxing at your own pace, this experience offers excellent value. It’s also perfect if you’re looking to avoid crowded tours and prefer a quiet, scenic cruise with the option to swim and explore.

However, if you’re on a tight budget or prefer guided group tours with more structure, you might find this option a bit pricey. Still, for those who want a tailored, intimate adventure, the combination of private boat, customizable stops, and the chance to visit both lively and secluded spots makes it a compelling choice.

FAQs

How many people can fit on this pontoon boat?
The tour is priced for groups of up to 6 people, making it ideal for small families or groups wanting privacy and space to spread out.

What is included in the price?
The price covers the private pontoon rental for approximately four hours, with the ability to choose between Crab Island or quieter islands with swings.

Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, you can cancel for a full refund up to 24 hours before the activity starts. Cancellations made less than 24 hours in advance are not refundable.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, including children. The relaxed cruise and swimming stops make it kid-friendly, especially if your children enjoy water activities.

Are service animals allowed?
Yes, service animals are permitted, making this accessible for travelers with disabilities.

What should I bring?
While not specified, it’s wise to bring sun protection, towels, water, and snacks. You might also want to bring waterproof cameras or phones for photos.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

How should I book?
It’s recommended to book at least two weeks in advance, especially during peak season, to secure your preferred date.

The Family Fun Pontoon Rental with Lily Pad offers a relaxed, private, and highly customizable way to enjoy Destin’s beautiful waters. Whether you want the lively scene at Crab Island or prefer the quiet of the hidden islands, this experience blends scenic cruising with fun water activities—perfect for families and small groups seeking an authentic, stress-free day on the sea.