Wide-River Escape: A Full-Day Drift Through Hontoon and Blue Spring Aboard a 24' Pontoon

DELAND BOAT RENTAL FIELD GUIDE

Wide-River Escape: A Full-Day Drift Through Hontoon and Blue Spring Aboard a 24' Pontoon

Full-day 24' pontoon rentals from Holly Bluff Marina let groups of up to 12 explore Hontoon Island State Park, Blue Spring State Park and nearby riverside stops.

Wide-River Escape: A Full-Day Drift Through Hontoon and Blue Spring Aboard a 24' Pontoon.

Duration
Full Day
Location
DeLand
Operator
Holly Bluff Marina
Category
Boat Rental
Robert Eric Crews
Founder & Editor, The Adventure Collective
Published Verified

Experience the beauty of Hontoon Island State Park and Blue Spring State Park aboard a spacious 24’ pontoon boat. Enjoy the freedom to explore local rivers, dine at riverside restaurants, or picnic amidst nature’s tranquility. With ample seating and safety gear provided, this full-day outing is designed for family groups and friends seeking a relaxed, on-water way to see DeLand’s riverine landscape.

Highlights

Outing Highlights

THE LANDSCAPE

River Quiet and Wildlife

Float past quiet shorelines and shaded tannin-stained water where abundant wildlife and the slow rhythm of the river define the day—ideal for spotting birds and finding a peaceful picnic anchorage.

THE BOAT

Room for a Dozen

The 24' pontoon seats up to 12 guests and comes equipped with essential safety gear and basic anchoring equipment, letting groups spread out comfortably for a full day on the water.

THE OPTIONS

Customize the Day—Dine or Picnic

Choose to tie up at a local riverside restaurant or drop the small anchor and picnic on a quiet bank—both are standard choices on this flexible, full-day route through nearby state parks and popular river stops.

What the day feels like

What the Day Feels Like

After a brief boat orientation and receipt of a cruising map on arrival, you slip the lines at Holly Bluff Marina and ease into a full day of slow cruising. The 50 horsepower outboard pushes the pontoon smoothly along the river as you move between Hontoon Island, Blue Spring and other nearby destinations, stopping as you wish to dine, swim, anchor for a picnic, or watch the shoreline life go by.

Suitability

Who it's for

Who this boat suits best—and who should look elsewhere.

1
Active FamiliesFamilies comfortable with a full day on the water will appreciate the space, seating for up to 12, and the chance to swim, picnic, or stop at riverside restaurants.
2
Groups of FriendsGroups up to a dozen can socialize easily aboard the roomy pontoon and divide the day between cruising, dining, and anchoring in scenic spots.
3
Wildlife & Nature WatchersThe slow, low-slung platform is well suited to birding and shoreline observation during a relaxed, full-day cruise of nearby parks.
4
Seniors & Low-Impact TravelersThe pontoon’s stable deck and PFDs for each guest make it a comfortable option for travelers who want a low-impact day on the water, provided they are comfortable with a full-day outing.

Practical planner

Details to review before reserving

What to Bring

Pack sun protection, a picnic or plans for riverside dining, swimwear and dry bags for valuables; trips are full-day outings so plan accordingly.

On-Boat Provisions

The marina supplies a small anchor, dock lines and personal flotation devices for each guest; a cruising map and boat orientation are provided upon arrival.

Logistics & Orientation

Expect a brief orientation and receipt of a cruising map at check-in so you can plan stops at state parks and riverside restaurants during your full-day rental.

Booking Notice

Review cancellation policies before reserving.

Frequently asked questions

Planning Your Outing

How long is the rental?

The rental is a full-day outing.

How many people does the pontoon hold?

The 24' pontoon seats up to 12 guests.

Where do we meet to start the trip?

Meet at 2280 Hontoon Road, DeLand, FL 32720.

What safety and boating equipment is provided?

The marina provides personal flotation devices for each guest, a small anchor and dock lines; you also receive a cruising map and a boat orientation upon arrival.

What destinations can we visit on a typical day?

Typical visits include Hontoon Island State Park, Blue Spring State Park and other nearby popular river destinations; you can also stop at riverside restaurants or anchor to picnic.