SANTA ROSA BEACH SIGHTSEEING TOUR FIELD GUIDE
All-Deck Luxury on Choctawhatchee Bay: The 12-Passenger AVALON Tritoon
A full‑day, 9‑hour private tritoon rental in Santa Rosa Beach for up to 12 people — this guide explains what the boat offers, where it goes, and the logistics to plan your day.
All-Deck Luxury on Choctawhatchee Bay: The 12-Passenger AVALON Tritoon.
On the AVALON, a 12-passenger, 200‑hp double‑decker tritoon, a day on Choctawhatchee Bay becomes both effortless and social: anchor in shallow, clear water for paddleboarding and floating pads, slip into the shallows at Crab Island, or push off for dolphin sightings and a lunch stop at Baytowne Wharf. The vessel’s extra power and double‑deck layout make it suited to large groups who want a full day on the water — whether that means mellowing on the anchor or zipping west toward Destin’s shallow sandbars.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Luxury Double‑Decker Tritoon — 200 HP, 12 Passengers
The AVALON is a 2021 double‑decker tritoon built for groups: seating for up to 12 and a 200‑horsepower engine that the operator recommends when carrying 10–12 people. Bluetooth radio and contemporary amenities make it a comfortable platform for a long day on the bay.
Crab Island, Baytowne Wharf and Dolphin Country
Stops include the shallow sandbars at Crab Island — roughly a 40‑minute run west — and SanDestin Baytowne Wharf for dining and entertainment; meanwhile, pods of dolphins commonly pass through the bay and are a frequent sighting for renters.
Onboard Toys: Paddle Boards, Floating Pads and Tubes
Add‑ons include YOLO paddle boards, floating pads and towable tubes — ideal for anchoring in the bay, paddling away from the boat, or playing at Crab Island.
What the day feels like
What a Day Feels Like
You’ll meet at a dock, load a dozen friends or family onto a plush double‑decker pontoon, and commit to a full‑day rhythm: motoring to shallow anchorages for swimming and paddleboarding, skimming toward Crab Island for wading and food, and pausing for wildlife as pods of dolphins thread through the bay. The boat’s power shortens transit time, so a 9‑hour booking gives you the freedom to linger without cutting short the key stops.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this rental suits — and who should reconsider.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Standard booking is a 9‑hour full‑day rental — the operator recommends the 9‑hour option, especially if you plan to include Crab Island (about 40 minutes each way).
Bring swimwear, sun protection, food and drink as desired; add‑ons available include YOLO paddle boards, floating pads, and towable tubes to expand on‑water activities.
Meet at Cessna Landing dock on CR 393 in Santa Rosa Beach (1.6 miles north of the Hwy 98/393 intersection). The crew will be on site 15 minutes before your scheduled time.
The Coast Guard prevents the operator from assigning drivers directly; when you request a driver the operator sends a list of available drivers at booking. You pay a $120 reservation fee up front and then pay the driver $50/hour the day of the trip (cash or Venmo).
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the rental?
The offering described is a 9‑hour rental.
Where do we pick up the boat?
Pickup is at Cessna Landing dock on CR 393 in Santa Rosa Beach; staff arrive 15 minutes before the scheduled time.
How old do I have to be to rent a pontoon boat?
Renters must be at least 30 years old and hold a valid United States driver’s license.
Are babies or infants counted as passengers?
Yes — the US Coast Guard counts every person aboard as a passenger, including infants.
Can we go to Crab Island or beyond the bay?
You may navigate within Choctawhatchee Bay up to Crab Island near Destin (roughly a 40‑minute run west); the boat is not allowed on the Gulf of Mexico.
Is alcohol allowed aboard?
Alcohol is allowed, but the driver must not consume alcohol; operating a boat under the influence is against Florida law. You may also hire a driver if you prefer not to designate a sober operator.
What if I’ve never driven a pontoon boat?
The operator provides motoring tips and recommends watching their safety video; if you’re uncomfortable driving, you can arrange a driver for an additional hourly fee.
Are pets allowed?
Yes — pets are permitted but an additional fee and potential cleaning charge may apply.
What are gratuity expectations?
For pontoon rentals, a 15% gratuity for captains/drivers is customary; 5–10% is customary for deckhands. Guests pay gratuities the day of the event.
What happens if we return late?
Contact the crew if you expect to be late; every 15 minutes late may result in an additional $50 charge.