FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Below you’ll find helpful information to help you plan your day with Crab Island Luxury Adventures, from booking and arrival details to what to expect on the water. For additional information, please review our Charter Terms & Conditions and cancellation policies. If you have questions or need assistance planning your charter, our team is always happy to help..
BEFORE YOU BOOK
RESERVATIONS & BOOKING
How do I book a charter?
Choose the experience that best fits your group, select your preferred charter length and departure time, and complete your reservation online. After booking, you’ll receive a confirmation email with important information about waivers, your departure location, and selecting your captain.
What is included in the charter price?
Your boat reservation includes the private use of your selected vessel for the reserved charter time and the standard amenities listed for that experience. Optional upgrades, premium experience packages, catering, captain fees, fuel, taxes, and other applicable charges are shown separately when they are not included.
Are the captain and fuel included in the advertised boat price?
No. Our catamaran charters operate as bareboat charters, so the boat reservation, captain, and fuel are separate. Your captain is selected from our list of pre-approved independent captains and is paid directly. Fuel is also paid separately. We provide an estimated charter total during the booking process so you can understand the expected overall cost of your day before completing your reservation.
How do I select my captain?
After booking a catamaran charter, you’ll receive a list of pre-approved independent captains, including their contact information. Simply choose your preferred captain and contact them directly to confirm their availability for your charter. We recommend doing this as soon as you receive your confirmation email.
When and how do I pay my captain?
Captain fees are paid directly to your selected captain on the day of your charter. Because captains are independent of Crab Island Luxury Adventures, their fee is separate from the amount paid when reserving your boat. Your confirmation email will include the captain fee for your charter length along with your captain-selection instructions.
How many guests can I bring?
As the charterer, you may bring up to 12 guests with you, for a total of 13 passengers aboard the vessel, including yourself.
What happens after I book?
You’ll receive a confirmation email with everything you need to prepare for your day, including your departure location, waiver instructions, and other important charter details. Catamaran guests will also receive instructions for selecting and contacting a captain. Please complete your waivers before arriving at the dock, as internet service can be unreliable at the marina.
Where does my charter depart from?
Departure locations vary by the experience you select.
Catamaran Charters depart from Baytowne Marina in Miramar Beach, located within the Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort.
Pontoon and Sea Ray Sport Charters depart from Cessna Landing Park in Santa Rosa Beach.
Your exact departure location and arrival instructions will be included in your confirmation email.
Your captain will have the most updated weather related information. Please reach out to them directly on the day of your charter if you have any questions related to departure or weather.
What time should I arrive?
We recommend arriving 15–20 minutes before your scheduled departure time. This allows enough time to park, meet your captain, get settled aboard, and prepare for departure.
If anyone in your group may need additional time or assistance boarding, we recommend allowing a little extra time.
For afternoon charters, please avoid arriving significantly early. Our crew has a short turnaround between the morning and afternoon charters and may still be returning to the dock and preparing the vessel for your arrival. Your boat will be ready for boarding as close to your scheduled departure as possible.
Your charter time begins at the scheduled departure time, so arriving on time helps ensure you enjoy your full time on the water.
Where should I park?
Parking varies by departure location.
Cessna Landing Park — Santa Rosa Beach
Cessna Landing has an onsite parking lot and public restrooms. During the busy season, parking can be limited, particularly around peak charter times. When possible, we recommend using a rideshare service to make your arrival and departure easier.
Baytowne Marina — Miramar Beach
Baytowne Marina offers ample parking, with restrooms located near the Marina Bar & Grill. Carts are available for transporting coolers, bags, and other belongings, and your captain will be happy to assist you with getting your items from the marina to the boat.
What if I’m late for my charter?
Your boat and captain are reserved exclusively for your group, so your captain will not depart without you. However, because our vessels may have another charter scheduled after yours, a late arrival will reduce the amount of time you have on the water by the amount of time you are late. We are unable to extend the scheduled return time to accommodate a late departure.
If you are running behind or having trouble finding the departure location, please contact your captain as soon as possible so they know you are on your way.
Guests who have not arrived or contacted their captain within 30 minutes of the scheduled departure time will be considered a no-show. No-shows are responsible for the full cost of the charter.
How long does it take to get to Crab Island?
For guests staying along 30A, including Rosemary Beach, Alys Beach, Seacrest, Seaside, WaterColor, and surrounding communities—our departure locations provide convenient access to Crab Island without requiring you to drive all the way into Destin.
And remember, your day on the water begins the moment you step aboard. The cruise across Choctawhatchee Bay is part of the experience, with plenty of time to settle in, enjoy a drink, turn on the music, and take in the views.
Our catamarans typically reach Crab Island in approximately 45 minutes, while our pontoons typically take about 55 minutes.
By comparison, driving from 30A to the Crab Island area can take an hour or more depending on traffic, and considerably longer during peak season, followed by the challenge of finding parking.
We designed our departure locations to make the entire day easier, not just the time you spend at Crab Island.
YOUR CHARTER
What should I bring?
We recommend bringing sunscreen, sunglasses, hats, towels, and any food or beverages you’d like to enjoy during your charter. Comfortable swimwear and a light cover-up are perfect for a day on the water.
You’re welcome to bring your own food and drinks, including alcoholic beverages for guests of legal drinking age. Please avoid glass whenever possible.
Most importantly, pack light and come ready to enjoy the day. Our boats are prepared with many of the essentials you’ll need, and your confirmation email will include details specific to your selected vessel and experience.
Can we bring our own food and drinks?
Absolutely. You’re welcome to bring your own food, snacks, and beverages, including alcoholic beverages for guests of legal drinking age.
Our catamarans include large coolers stocked with ice, so there’s no need to bring your own cooler. We recommend avoiding glass containers whenever possible and choosing items that are easy to enjoy while on the water.
If you’d rather have everything waiting for you when you arrive, catering and charcuterie options are also available and can be added to your charter.
Can we bring alcohol aboard?
Yes. You’re welcome to bring your own beer, wine, cocktails, and other alcoholic beverages for guests of legal drinking age.
We recommend choosing cans or other non-glass containers whenever possible. Our catamarans include large coolers filled with ice, making it easy to keep your drinks cold throughout the day.
Please enjoy responsibly while on the water and follow your captain’s instructions regarding safe boating and alcohol consumption.
What is provided on the boat?
Each of our vessels is equipped with amenities to make your day on the water comfortable and easy. Amenities vary by boat, but may include Bluetooth audio, shaded seating, coolers with ice, floats, and onboard restroom facilities.
Our catamarans include large ice-filled coolers, plenty of room to relax, Bluetooth audio, and water-day essentials. Additional amenities and equipment are available with select premium experience packages.
Because each vessel is a little different, we recommend reviewing the amenities listed for your specific boat or charter experience before your day on the water.
Can we choose where we go during our charter?
Yes. One of the advantages of a private charter is that the day can be tailored to the experience your group is looking for.
Want a quieter, more relaxed setting where you can swim, float, and enjoy time together? Let your captain know. Looking for a higher-energy atmosphere where you can be closer to the action at Crab Island? They can help with that, too.
As the charterer, we encourage you to talk with your captain about the kind of day you have in mind. They’ll do their best to accommodate.
Do we have to go to Crab Island?
Not at all. Crab Island is our most popular destination, but your private charter doesn’t have to revolve around it.
If your group would rather cruise Choctawhatchee Bay, find a quieter place to swim and relax, enjoy the scenery, or simply spend more time cruising, let your captain know what kind of day you have in mind.
Your captain can recommend options based on your interests, charter length, weather, and water conditions. It’s your charter; the goal is to create the day on the water that best fits your group.
Can we play our own music?
Absolutely. Our boats are equipped with Bluetooth audio systems, so you can connect your phone and enjoy your own playlists throughout the charter.
Whether you’re looking for laid-back background music or something more upbeat for a celebration, the soundtrack for the day is up to you. We simply ask that music be kept at a respectful volume when appropriate and that you follow your captain’s guidance while on the water.
Are there restrooms onboard?
Restroom availability depends on the vessel you select.
Our catamarans have onboard restroom facilities for guest use during the charter. Our pontoons and Sea Ray Sport Cruiser do not have onboard restrooms.
For charters departing from either Baytowne Marina or Cessna Landing Park, restrooms are available near the departure area before you board.
Can we bring children?
Absolutely. Families with children are welcome, and a private charter can be a wonderful way to experience Crab Island and Choctawhatchee Bay together.
Please let us know the ages of any children in your group so the appropriate U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jackets can be available. Children should be supervised by a parent or responsible adult at all times, particularly while swimming or moving around the vessel.
If you’re traveling with younger children, let your captain know what kind of day you’re looking for. They can help you find a quieter, family-friendly area to swim, float, and enjoy the water away from the busier parts of Crab Island.
WEATHER & CANCELLATIONS
What happens if there is bad weather?
Florida weather can change quickly, and a forecast showing rain or thunderstorms does not necessarily mean your charter will be canceled.
Your captain will monitor the weather and water conditions leading up to your departure. If conditions are determined to be unsafe for your charter, we will work with you to reschedule your experience or provide a refund in accordance with our weather policy.
We ask that guests do not cancel based solely on the weather forecast. Unless you are contacted and advised otherwise, please plan to arrive for your charter as scheduled.
Who decides if it is safe to go out?
Your captain makes the final decision regarding whether conditions are safe for your charter.
Our captains monitor local weather, radar, wind, and water conditions and use their professional judgment to determine whether it is safe to depart or remain on the water.
Florida weather can change quickly, and rain in the forecast does not necessarily mean conditions are unsafe. If your captain determines that conditions are not safe, they will not take the vessel out.
Safety always comes first, and we ask guests to rely on their captain’s judgment rather than making a decision based solely on a weather app or forecast.
What if it rains during our charter?
A little rain doesn’t necessarily mean the day is over. Florida showers can develop quickly and often pass just as quickly. Your captain will monitor conditions throughout the charter and adjust the day when necessary.
If a passing shower develops, your captain may recommend moving to another area, waiting for it to pass, or adjusting your itinerary. Our catamarans also offer covered areas where guests can get out of the rain.
If conditions become unsafe due to thunderstorms, lightning, wind, or other weather, your captain will make the appropriate decision for the safety of everyone aboard.
What is your cancellation policy?
We understand that plans can change. If you need to cancel your charter, please contact us as soon as possible.
Cancellations made 30 days or more before your scheduled departure are eligible for a full refund. Cancellations made within 30 days of departure are non-refundable unless Trip Protection was purchased at the time of booking.
If weather or water conditions are determined to be unsafe for your charter, you may reschedule or receive a full refund.
Guests who do not arrive for their charter and are considered a no-show are responsible for the full cost of the reservation.
For guests who would like additional flexibility, Trip Protection is available at the time of booking and provides additional cancellation protection beyond our standard policy.
Can I reschedule my charter?
Yes. If your plans change, please contact us as soon as possible.
Charters may be rescheduled up to 30 days before your scheduled departure, subject to availability. Within 30 days, reservations cannot be rescheduled unless Trip Protection was purchased at the time of booking.
If your captain determines that weather or water conditions are unsafe, we will work with you to reschedule your charter at no additional charge or provide a full refund.
What is Trip Protection?
Trip Protection gives you added flexibility if your plans change after our standard cancellation period has passed.
When Trip Protection is purchased at the time of booking, you may cancel or reschedule your charter up to 7 days before your scheduled departure without losing the amount paid for your boat reservation.
Trip Protection is optional and must be purchased when you book. It does not apply to cancellations made within 7 days of departure or to no-shows.
Weather-related cancellations are handled separately. If your captain determines that conditions are unsafe for your charter, you may reschedule or receive a full refund whether or not you purchased Trip Protection.
UPGRADES & ADD-ONS
Can I add an experience package to my charter?
Yes. Select charters can be personalized with premium add-ons designed to make your day on the water even more memorable.
Our Bachelorette Experience adds celebration-focused extras for the bride and her group, while our Family Fun Pack adds activities and equipment designed for families spending the day together on the water. Additional upgrades, including our Premium Float and catering options, may also be available.
Available add-ons will be shown during the booking process based on the vessel and charter you select.
Do you offer anything special for families?
Yes. Our Family Fun Pack is designed for families who want a little more to do once they’re on the water. It adds upgraded water activities and equipment to your charter, making it especially popular with families traveling with children and teenagers.
Availability depends on the vessel and charter selected.
Can we add a larger float?
Yes. Our Premium Float can be added to eligible charters for groups that want additional space to relax together on the water.
Premium floats are subject to availability, so we recommend reserving yours when you book rather than waiting until your charter day.
Do you offer catering or charcuterie?
Yes. We work with Charcuterie by Shelli to offer catering and charcuterie options that can be prepared for your group and delivered for your charter.
You’re also completely welcome to bring your own food and drinks. Catering is simply an option for guests who would rather arrive with everything already taken care of.
When should I add upgrades to my reservation?
We recommend selecting your upgrades when you make your reservation. Some packages require preparation before your charter and certain equipment is limited, so availability cannot always be guaranteed when added at the last minute.
If you’ve already booked and would like to add something, contact us and we’ll let you know what’s available.
POLICIES & SAFETY
Are life jackets provided?
Yes. U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jackets are provided aboard every vessel. If you are traveling with young children, please let us know their ages and approximate sizes before your charter so appropriate life jackets can be available.
Special note for children under two: We strongly recommend bringing a properly fitted, U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket from home that your child has already worn and is comfortable in. Very young children can be particularly sensitive to an unfamiliar life jacket, and bringing one they already know can make for a much happier and more comfortable day on the water.
Your captain will review any necessary safety information before departure and can answer questions about life jacket use while aboard.
Do I need to know how to swim?
No. You do not need to know how to swim to enjoy a private charter, and you are never required to enter the water.
If you are not a confident swimmer, please let your captain know. Life jackets are available for use while swimming, and your captain can help you choose an area and activities that are appropriate for your comfort level.
Can we bring pets?
Pets are generally not permitted aboard our vessels. If you are traveling with a trained service animal, please contact us before your charter so we can discuss your needs and make the appropriate arrangements.
Service animals are handled in accordance with applicable requirements and are not treated as pets. Emotional support, comfort, and companion animals are not considered service animals solely because they provide comfort or emotional support.
Is smoking or vaping allowed?
Smoking and vaping are not permitted inside enclosed or confined areas of the vessel, including restroom areas.
When outdoors, please be considerate of other guests and the vessel. Always follow your captain’s instructions regarding where smoking or vaping may be permitted, and never dispose of cigarettes, cigars, or other materials in the water.
What happens if something is damaged during our charter?
As the charterer, you are responsible for the vessel and your guests during the charter. Accidental damage beyond normal wear and tear may be charged to the charterer in accordance with your charter agreement.
For additional peace of mind, we offer Charter Protection, which provides coverage for up to $2,000 in accidental damage to the vessel during your charter, subject to the applicable terms and exclusions.
What is Charter Protection?
Charter Protection is an optional add-on designed to provide additional peace of mind during your day on the water.
When purchased, Charter Protection provides up to $2,000 of protection against eligible accidental damage to the vessel during your charter, subject to the terms and exclusions of the protection plan.
It is separate from Trip Protection: Trip Protection protects your reservation when plans change, while Charter Protection helps protect you from certain accidental damage during the charter.