Pontoon boats are by far the BEST WAY to get to Crab Island. Here are the top 5 things you need to know about renting a pontoon boat to visit Crab Island, we’ve got you covered!
1. Know what day you plan to visit, and how long you plan to stay.
Holidays weekends are high in demand, so book early if your vacation cooincides with a big summer weekend, or any weekend during spring break or summer. How long do you plan to be at Crab Island? How long will it take you to get to and from Crab Island from the dock?
2. Know how many people you’ll have on the boat, how old they are, and what they’ll be bringing
How many people will be on the boat with you? How old are they? Can everyone swim? Can those that want to, get on and off the boat (in the shallow water) without assistance? Does anyone have special needs (does someone use a cane or wheelchair)? Will you be bringing infants, or children? If you’ll be drinking, is everyone on the boat drinking age?
What will you bring? Of course you’ll bring sunscreen, hats, towels, floats and swimming gear! What about food, and drinks, and ice? It gets hot here in the summer, if you’re bringing any kind of food or drinks (and you will want to), you want to be sure you have enough ice to keep it cool and safe to eat/drink. Some pontoon rentals come with an inside area that is shaded and even air conditioned. Some even have a bathroom (known as the head on a boat)!
Plan for the space needed to by all the people, food and drink coolers, and toys. Rent accordingly!
3. Know who will be driving the boat
Driving a boat in the busy waters around Crab Island requires a lot of patience and attention. Local laws require the person driving the boat to participate in a boating safety course, to learn local rules, laws, and safety boating practices. If you have an experienced boater in your party, AWESOME, you can choose a Pontoon Boat Rental. If you don’t have an experienced boater, NO PROBLEM, you’ll want a Pontoon Boat Charter (or Private Charter), where the rental includes a boat captain. If you’re an experienced boater, but want to party with your friends, consider a Pontoon Boat Charter anyway, so you can party and your boat captain stays sober. All watercraft have similar drinking and boating laws as motor vehicles.
So remember:
- if you want to drive the boat yourself, choose a Pontoon Boat Rental
- if you want a captain that will drive the boat for you, choose a Pontoon Boat Charter (or Private Charter).
4. Know your budget, how many people will split the cost, and how much the total rental will be, including fuel.
Rental fees range in pricing, depending on the time of year, weekend or weekday rental, what type of boat (think pontoon boat slides or double-decker pontoon boats!), and how many the boat will hold, among other things. The rental fees will be divided among the riders (or paid by your favorite uncle if you’re lucky). Consider everyone’s budget and choose a rental accordingly. Factor in fuel and ice costs. Split the total rental by the number of boaters and you’ll know how much each person’s share will be.
5. Be clear about when and where you depart and return the boat.
Many companies operate in the area; you’ll be able to find a departure point close to just about anywhere near Crab Island. Check with the company about parking. How many boats do they rent? What are their terms if you run late or have an issue? Do they sell drinks and ice, or do you need to bring those? Does the rental include a cooler?
Getting to Crab Island on a pontoon boat is simple and fun, as long as you stay safe and operate within local laws and boating safety.
It’s important to note that the specific details and offerings at Crab Island may change, so it’s recommended to check with local sources or tour operators for the latest information if you plan to visit. Additionally, be mindful of safety regulations and guidelines while enjoying your time at Crab Island.
Visiting Crab Island is all about having fun and being safe. A Pontoon Boat Rental or Charter is the BEST way to get the most out of your visit to Crab Island!