SEASIDE TO CRAB ISLAND
Private Charters & Boat Rentals Near Seaside, Florida
Private catamaran charters and pontoon rentals to Crab Island from the closest marina to 30A.
If you’re staying in Seaside, Florida, Crab Island is one of the most popular day trips on the Emerald Coast. The right option depends on your group size, budget, and the kind of experience you want.
For a more elevated day with extra space, photo-worthy lounging areas, and premium upgrade options, choose a private catamaran charter. For a simpler, budget-friendly day on the bay, a pontoon rental may be the better fit.
TWO WAYS TO GET TO CRAB ISLAND
Choose the Experience That Fits Your Group
Catamaran Charters Near Seaside
Private charter with your own captain — see current prices below
Departing from Baytowne Marina at Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort, our catamaran charters are ideal for groups who want a more spacious, polished, and comfortable way to enjoy Crab Island.
Catamarans are especially popular for bachelorette trips, birthdays, family celebrations, and larger private groups looking for a more elevated experience than a standard pontoon rental.
Best for:
- Bachelorette weekends
- Larger private groups
- Celebration trips
- Families wanting more space
- Guests who want premium add-ons
- A more upscale Crab Island experience
Pontoon Rentals Near Seaside
Private charter with your own captain — see current prices below
Departing from Santa Rosa Beach, our pontoon rentals are a relaxed and budget-friendly option for smaller groups who want a casual day cruising Choctawhatchee Bay and visiting Crab Island.
Pontoons are simple, comfortable, and easygoing; a great fit for families, smaller groups, and guests who want a laid-back day on the water.
Best for:
- Families with kids
- Smaller groups
- Budget-conscious travelers
- Relaxed cruising
- Guests staying in Seaside, WaterColor, or Seagrove
Catamaran or pontoon?
Which Option Is Right for Your Group?
Both options give Seaside guests access to Crab Island and the calm waters of Choctawhatchee Bay. The main difference is the style of experience.
Choose the catamaran if you want more space, a smoother ride in bay conditions, a more elevated setting, and the option to add premium experiences like bachelorette upgrades, family packages, floats, or catering.
Choose the pontoon if you want a casual, budget-friendly day on the water with a closer Santa Rosa Beach departure and a simpler rental experience.
Celebrate
Spacious Catamarans
Our most spacious Crab Island experience, with room to spread out, celebrate and spend the day together on the water.
From $1,349 estimated total
Covers boat, captain & fuel. Tax on boat rental and gratuity not included.
Explore
Sea Ray Sport Cruiser
A sportier way to experience Crab Island, combining premium comfort with a faster, more intimate day on the water.
From $1,125 estimated total
Covers boat, captain & fuel. Tax on boat rental and gratuity not included.
Relax
Luxury Pontoons
A relaxed, easygoing way to experience Crab Island with family and friends.
From $999 estimated total
Covers boat, captain & fuel. Tax on boat rental and gratuity not included.
HOW BOOKING WORKS
Simple Booking Options for Seaside Guests
For Catamaran Charters
Choose your charter duration, select your vessel, then add any premium upgrades or à la carte options you want for your day.
Premium options may include bachelorette experiences, family-focused Crab Island upgrades, catering, floats, or other add-ons depending on the charter selected.
For Pontoon Charters
Choose your pontoon rental duration and complete your booking. Pontoon rentals do not include vessel selection or premium package upgrades.
DEPARTURE LOCATIONS
Convenient Departures Near Seaside and 30A
For Catamaran Charters
Baytowne Marina at Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort
Approximately 20–25 minutes from Seaside
For Pontoon Charters
Cessna Landing Park in Sana Rosa Beach, approximately 15–20 minutes from Seaside
YOUR BEST DAY ON THE WATER STARTS HERE.
Relax. Float. Celebrate. We’ll Handle the Rest.
Whether you’re celebrating, relaxing, or simply enjoying time on the water, your private catamaran experience is designed to feel effortless from start to finish.
FAQs
How do you get to Crab Island from 30A?
The easiest way to reach Crab Island from 30A is by boat. Our private charters depart from nearby Miramar Beach, just a short drive from Rosemary Beach, Seaside, Alys Beach, and other 30A communities.
Do your charters include a captain?
Your captain isn’t included in the boat price; you choose your own. After booking, your confirmation email will include three qualified captains familiar with our vessels, along with a short introduction to each. Captain’s fees vary by boat and are reflected in the estimated total on our website, so you know what to expect. Your captain’s fee is paid directly to your captain on the day of your charter, along with fuel for catamaran charters. Gratuity is optional.
Do your boats have a restroom onboard?
Yes. The catamarans have a head/toilet, similar to an airplane restroom.
The pontoons do not have a restroom.
What is the maximum number of passengers?
You may have 13 passengers total (you + 12 guests).
Can we bring food, snacks, or drinks on the boat?
Definitely! Bring all the food, snacks, and drinks you want. We’ve provide large coolers filled with ice, and catering is also available for catamaran charters.
For safety, please use plastic bottles or containers; no glass on the boat.
Can we bring alcohol on the boat?
Yes. Feel free to bring alcoholic beverages for those 21 years of age or older. (Wine & alcohol bottles are acceptable but cannot be removed from the boat per Coast Guard law).
Does Crab Island Luxury Adventures provide snorkeling equipment?
Snorkeling gear is provided when you select the Family Crab Island Escape premium add-on at checkout.
What is your cancellation policy?
Crab Island Luxury Adventures reserves the right to cancel or reschedule any charter due to inclement weather or circumstances that prevent safe operation. In such cases, guests will receive the option to reschedule or a refund.
- Standard Cancellation: Full refunds are available with at least 30 days’ written notice prior to your scheduled charter.
- Trip Protection Option: Guests may purchase our Trip Protection Policy for $75, which allows cancellation for any reason up to 7 days before your charter for a refund.
- Cancellations Within 30 Days: Cancellations made less than 30 days prior to the charter are non-refundable unless Trip Protection has been purchased.
- No-Shows: Guests who do not arrive for their scheduled charter will be charged the full charter amount.
All cancellations must be submitted in writing.
Are there life jackets on the boat?
Yes, there are Coast Guard-required life jackets on our boats. If you have small children, you may want to bring your own life jacket, as all children 8 and under are legally required to wear a life jacket while on the boat. The Coast Guard-approved ones may not be the most comfortable for small children.
How much should I tip the captain and crew?
Your crew works very hard to make sure you have an enjoyable and safe experience on the water. A 20% tip is the minimum amount suggested.