Pontoon Rentals FAQ
Q: Do I need boating experience to operate a pontoon?
A: Not at all! Our pontoons are easy to operate and safe. We’ll guide you on how to operate it and all safety equipment. If you can drive a car, you can drive a pontoon. However, if you were born after Jan 1st 1988, you must have a Florida Boater Education I.D. Card to operate any motorized watercraft of 10 HP or more, but any age passenger can go along for the ride. You can take an official online boating course and you can print out your certificate immediately upon successful completion.
Q: Do I need a fishing license? Where do I get it?
A: If you want to fish from the pontoon boat, you’ll need a Florida fishing license. You may obtain this license online through the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission or the local Walmart.
Q: How do I reserve a pontoon boat?
A: Please call us at (850) 898-1204, show up in person at the East Pass Marina 214 Harbor Blvd, Destin, FL 32541 or book online.
Q: Do you require a rental deposit?
A: Rental deposit IS required. $500 deposit or we offer a non refundable damage protection ( $75/ boat & $25/ Ski).
Q: How many people can your pontoon boat rentals hold?
A: Our 2020 & 2021 Crest & Avalon Pontoons can accommodate up to 12 passengers.
Q: What’s the minimum age for renting a pontoon boat?
A: It is a minimum of age of 16 years old to drive. If you were born on or after January 1, 1988, you must have a VALID BOATERS LICENSE to operate any motorized watercraft of 10HP or more.
If this applies to you but you do not have a boaters license, we will administer a test for a Temporary Boaters Certificate upon check in. Please check out www.boatus.org/onlinecourse/Florida.asp.
Q: What’s included in your pontoon boat rentals?
A: Our pontoon boats are supplied with all the gas you need. This is included in the rental price, so there are no hidden fees or extra charges. All of our boats are fully equipped with USCG safety equipment and retractable Bimini tops to help keep you in the shade.
Q: What should we bring?
A: Depending on your preferred activity, some suggestions include:
• Towels
• Change of clothes
• Coolers / ice chests loaded with your favorite beverages
• Fishing gear
• Snorkel gear
• Bluetooth speakers
• Camera
• Sunscreen
• Beach chairs
• Hats or umbrella
• Tip for the crew
Destin Watersports – WaveRunner / Jet Ski FAQ
Q: Can anyone rent jet ski?
A: You must be 18 or older to rent a waverunner / jet ski. If you are born after January 1, 1988 you are required to have a Florida Boaters Permit. We also offer this test on site for $3.00. You must carry a photo identification along with you boaters safety education certificate. Please allow 20-30 minutes to study and complete this test. Life jackets (PFD’s) and fuel are included with the jet ski rental.
Q: Are there any requirements for renting a jet ski?
A: Yes! If you are born on or after January 1st, 1988 the State of Florida requires you to have a Boater’s Safety Education Certificate, this includes using jet ski rentals in Destin! You can go to here and get your permanent certificate.
Charter Fishing FAQ
Q: What does captain provide?
Our captains provide the following:
• Rod and reel
• Tackle
• Bait/chum
You are always welcome to bring your own rod and reel. We only ask that it be in good condition so that “the big one doesn’t get away”. We promote light tackle, fly-fishing, and catch and release. Our crew is available for assistance and we are happy to teach fishing and give helpful instruction upon request.
Q: Do we need to get fishing license?
No, you are covered under our charter license. All you have to do is show up and let the fun begin!
Q: What should we bring and wear?
- Small iced down cooler for food & drinks
- Individuals should bring nothing larger than a one handed cooler
- Groups are suggested to consolidating about 4 persons’ supplies to one 48 quart size cooler
- Remember to dress for the weather & to your comfort level (jeans, shorts, swimsuit, tank tops)
- In cooler months, it’s recommended to dress in layers
- Wear soft sole shoes, like deck shoes
- Bring protection from sun (hats, visors, sunscreen, polarized sunglasses)
- Cameras to capture the big catch!
- Waterproof cases for your phones & important electronics
- Ziploc bags to bag your fish
- Fish cooler with ice (leave in car until end of charter)
- If prone to seasickness, it is usually recommended to take your medication the night before the trip, then again in the morning of the trip.