Full Day 60HP Pontoon Rental to Shell Island

Thinking about a day out on the water in Panama City Beach? This full-day 60HP pontoon rental offers a flexible and fun way to discover one of Florida’s most stunning coastlines. Whether you’re traveling with family, friends, or a small group, this experience promises a mix of relaxation, sightseeing, and adventure—all at your own pace.

What makes this tour appealing? First, the brand-new Trifecta pontoon boat provides plenty of plush, comfortable seating for up to 12 people, making it ideal for a family or friends’ outing. Second, the close proximity to Shell Island—just a 10-minute cruise—means you spend less time getting there and more time enjoying the island’s natural beauty. That said, a potential drawback is the additional fee for bringing fishing poles onboard, so anglers should budget accordingly.

This experience suits travelers who love outdoor water activities, want the freedom to explore without a strict itinerary, and enjoy spotting dolphins. It’s perfect for those seeking a laid-back day with opportunities for snorkeling, dolphin watching, or simply soaking up the sun. If you’re looking for a straightforward, flexible way to experience Panama City Beach’s waters, this rental checks many boxes.

Key Points

• Flexible full-day rental with 8 hours of freedom to explore at your own pace
• Includes plush, modern pontoon for up to 12 guests, perfect for groups or families
• Close proximity to Shell Island—less than 10 minutes by boat—saving time for fun
• Opportunities for dolphin sightings and water activities in St. Andrews Bay
• Optional damage protection and fees for fishing gear—plan your budget accordingly
• Requires a boater safety course for certain operators—easy online options available
• Pricing at $219 offers good value for a full day on the water, especially with a group
• Cancellation policy allows free cancellations up to 24 hours in advance

This pontoon rental experience presents an excellent way to see Panama City Beach from a different perspective. The boat itself is described as brand-new, offering a luxurious, comfortable ride. Its capacity for up to 12 guests means you can bring friends or family along, sharing the joy of cruising across St. Andrews Bay.

What to expect on the day? You start from a meeting point at 4114 Jan Cooley Drive, where you’ll check in and get familiar with your vessel. The journey to Shell Island is remarkably short—less than 10 minutes—making it easy to plan a day that balances exploration with relaxation. The boat’s powerful 60HP engine ensures no trouble reaching your favorite spots, whether that’s snorkeling, dolphin watching, or simply cruising along the coast.

Highlights of the Experience

One of the standout features is the ability to self-navigate the waters, which appeals to travelers who prefer a DIY approach rather than a guided tour. You get to decide whether to spend the day lounging on the deck, snorkeling in shallow waters, or searching for dolphins that are known to swim and play in St. Andrews Bay.

Snorkeling gear isn’t included but can be brought along, allowing you to explore the waters around Shell Island, which is renowned for its natural beauty. Since the rental is close to Shell Island, you won’t spend much time in transit—more time exploring and less time on the move.

The Real Value: Flexibility and Freedom

The 8-hour duration offers ample time for a leisurely and customized trip. This allows ample opportunity to venture further along the coast if desired, or to anchor temporarily for a picnic or water-based fun.

Travelers who have used this service praise the boat’s power and smooth operation. An example review states, “Very nice boat and awesome dock hands. 60hp boat had more than enough power to get anywhere. No issues.” Having a powerful enough engine is crucial for comfort, especially if you’re heading to Shell Island or cruising for dolphin sightings.

Pricing and Cost-Effectiveness

At $219 per group, this rental provides excellent value, especially considering the size of the boat and the full-day time frame. For groups, the per-person cost becomes very reasonable, making it a cost-effective way to spend a day on the water.

Considerations and Extra Costs

Keep in mind, there is a $9.99 fee at check-in if you need to take the boater safety course—a requirement for operators born on or after January 1, 1988, operating vessels with 10 horsepower or more. This is a straightforward process you can complete online, taking roughly 45 minutes.

Additional fees may apply if you bring fishing poles onboard, so anglers should factor that in when planning their day. Also, snacks, drinks, and snorkeling equipment aren’t included, so bring your own to keep everyone happy and well-hydrated.

Start at the meeting point on Jan Cooley Drive, where you’ll check in and receive a brief orientation. Once onboard your brand-new pontoon, the adventure begins with a short cruise to Shell Island—less than 10 minutes away—giving you plenty of time for exploration.

Shell Island is your main destination. Known for its pristine beaches and clear waters, this is where many travelers enjoy snorkeling or simply relaxing on the sand. The island’s natural setting means it’s perfect for a picnic, swimming, or just soaking up the sun.

Dolphin watching is a highlight of this trip. The waters around Panama City Beach are known to host playful dolphins, which often swim alongside boats or surface nearby—adding that extra thrill to your day. One reviewer mentioned how they saw dolphins swimming and playing in the bay, making it an unforgettable sight.

Water toys and water activities such as snorkeling are optional but enhance the experience. You’ll want to bring your own gear, as it’s not provided, but it’s a worthwhile addition for those wanting to explore beneath the surface.

Midday, you can anchor the boat for a break—whether that means floating lazily in the water, enjoying snacks, or taking turns snorkeling around Shell Island’s shallow reefs.

Return trip is a relaxed cruise back, with ample time to enjoy the scenery, spot more dolphins, or just unwind on the plush deck.

Reviewers consistently praise the power and reliability of the boat, with one stating, “No issues,” and highlighting the boat’s more-than-enough power for covering the area comfortably. The dock staff also earn mentions for their friendliness and professionalism, ensuring a smooth check-in process.

While the overall rating is perfect, it’s worth noting that this is a self-drive experience. Travelers who enjoy being in control of their day will find it rewarding, but those expecting guided commentary or structured tours should keep in mind it’s mainly a rental platform.

This rental is best suited for groups who enjoy independence and want a flexible schedule. It’s perfect for families with kids, friends looking for a fun day on the water, or couples who want a romantic cruise. Nature lovers will appreciate the dolphin sightings and snorkeling opportunities, while those seeking a cost-effective way to explore Panama City Beach from the water will find great value here.

This experience is also ideal for travelers comfortable with basic boat operation, thanks to the safety course requirement. It offers a blend of adventure and relaxation, with enough flexibility to tailor the day to your preferences.

This full-day pontoon rental provides a practical, enjoyable, and flexible way to enjoy Panama City Beach’s waters. The brand-new boat, combined with a close proximity to Shell Island, means you’re well-positioned for a fun-filled day exploring the natural beauty of the coastline.

It’s best for groups or families who prefer to set their own pace, enjoy dolphin watching, and snorkel in tranquil waters. The cost-per-guest value makes it attractive, especially for those traveling with a group, looking for a memorable day without overspending.

If you enjoy having control over your adventure—without the constraints of guided tours—this rental is an excellent choice. Just plan for supplementary costs like fishing gear fees or snacks, and ensure you’re comfortable with the safety requirements. With good weather, this experience promises a day full of sunshine, sea breezes, and unforgettable sights.

Do I need a boating license to rent the pontoon?
No, but if you’re born on or after January 1, 1988, you’ll need to pass a boater safety course, which can be completed online for about $9.99.

How long is the cruise to Shell Island?
It’s less than 10 minutes from the dock, making it quick to reach and maximizing your time on the island.

Can I bring my own snorkeling gear?
Yes, snorkeling gear is not provided, so bring your own if you want to explore underwater.

Is there a limit to the number of guests?
The boat can hold up to 12 guests comfortably.

What if I want to fish?
Bringing fishing poles incurs an additional fee at check-in, so plan accordingly if fishing is on your agenda.

Can I cancel if the weather turns bad?
Yes, the policy allows for free cancellation up to 24 hours before the booked time. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Is this experience suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, and children will enjoy the water activities and dolphin sightings. Always supervise young kids around the water.

Are there restroom facilities on the boat?
The provided information doesn’t specify; it’s best to bring personal necessities just in case.

What’s included in the price?
The price covers a private pontoon rental for up to 8 hours but excludes snacks, drinks, snorkeling equipment, and fishing gear (which may require additional fees).

This pontoon rental provides a well-rounded opportunity to enjoy Panama City Beach’s waters at your own speed. With its combination of comfort, flexibility, and proximity to Shell Island, it’s a practical choice for those looking to craft their own seaside adventure.