Welcome to the Island Watersports Company FAQ page! Here you’ll find quick answers to our most common questions about Crab Island rentals, pontoon boat rentals, double decker pontoons, jet ski rentals, and the Crab Island Express cruise near Destin, Fort Walton Beach, and Okaloosa Island. We look forward to helping you make amazing memories on the water!
Here you’ll find answers to our most commonly asked questions. We look forward to helping you make amazing memories during your next Fort Walton Beach vacation!
GENERAL / LOCATION
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Yes — we have an on-site Island General Store (seasonal) with popular day-on-the-water essentials like drinks, ice, snacks, and beach basics. Store availability and hours vary by season, so please contact our team for current details.
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We’re located at 1318 Miracle Strip Parkway SE, Fort Walton Beach, FL 32548, launching from Okaloosa Island near Destin with quick access to Crab Island.
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Yes, we offer free on-site marina parking for all guests.
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We are open 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM in the early and late season, and 8:00 AM to 7:00 PM from May 15th through the first week in September.
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Yes, restrooms are available at our marina, and our Crab Island Boat Cruise boat also has onboard restrooms.
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Yes, please arrive 30 to 45 minutes early to allow time for check-in, waivers, and any required boater safety certificate steps. Completing forms in advance (from your booking email) can save time.
BOATER SAFETY / REGULATIONS
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Yes — drivers/operators born after January 1, 1988 are required to have a Boater’s Education Certificate to operate a boat or jet ski in Florida.
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Florida law requires that anyone born on or after January 1, 1988 operating a boat or jet ski must have a valid photo ID and a boater safety certificate issued by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission. If you need a temporary boater’s certificate, you may be able to take the test online.
BOOKING & CANCELLATIONS
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Customers may cancel and receive a full refund (less the service charge) or reschedule (subject to availability) if done at least 24 hours before the scheduled reservation.
- If weather or waves are unsafe, we will reschedule your rental or provide a refund (less the service charge).
- Trip Protection may be available at checkout, allowing cancellation closer to departure (terms apply).
- No-shows are not refundable.
- Reservation changes can be made without additional fees if done outside the 24-hour cancellation period.
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Yes, guests may have the option to pay a deposit rather than the full amount.
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If a storm seems to be approaching, our crew and office staff monitor the radar and discuss options. If you’re concerned about inclement weather, please contact our team. It’s often best to allow Island Watersports Company management to help make the safest decision.
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We cannot guarantee dolphin sightings because they are wild animals. However, it’s very common to see dolphins in this area.
WEATHER PROTECTION PROMISE
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We understand Florida weather can be unpredictable, that’s why we offer our Weather Protection Promise for peace of mind.
- You may cancel or reschedule up to 30 minutes before departure for any weather-related reason.
- If inclement weather causes your trip to end early, we’ll prorate your rental and refund the unused time you weren’t able to enjoy.
Whether the skies are sunny or stormy, your experience is protected!
OKALOOSA ISLAND BOAT RENTALS (PONTOONS)
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Renting a pontoon boat is one of the best ways to explore the Emerald Coast. Popular activities include:
- Visit Crab Island
- Cruise along the Gulf Islands National Seashore
- Snorkel shallow grass flats and rock jetties
- Encounter friendly dolphins
- Enjoy fishing
- Find your own private beach
- Hunt for sand dollars, starfish, crabs, and other sea creatures
- Relax and cruise the bay
Want maximum fun? Check out our Double Decker Pontoon with THREE waterslides!
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No — pontoons are easy and safe to operate even for beginners. We provide a thorough orientation, a map to guide you through local waters, and awareness of laws and regulations.
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We offer 12-passenger single-deck pontoons, and our double-decker pontoon holds up to 14 passengers. This includes people of all ages, including children and infants.
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No, we supply life vests for everyone, including children and infants.
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You must be 18 to legally rent any watercraft in Florida. Any age can ride as a passenger.
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All boats are equipped with required USCG safety equipment, retractable Bimini tops for shade, anchors, customized swim ladders, and ample storage under the seats. We also provide an area map and helpful tips. Fuel is included in your rental.
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We recommend sunscreen, towels, water shoes, and anything you’d like for a fun day on the water. Our on-site Island General Store (seasonal) may also have essentials like snacks, drinks, ice, and beach basics available (hours vary by season).
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No, for safety, we do not allow anything to be pulled behind pontoon boats or jet skis.
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We recommend booking early due to high demand. If inclement weather occurs, you will be given priority for rescheduling so you don’t miss out.
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We offer half-day rentals (4 hours) and full-day rentals (8 hours).
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Our standard pontoon rentals do not include a captain, but one can be hired based on availability. Please contact our team for details: 850-424-7625
Captain Details:
- Rate: $50/hour + $20 captain’s fee (gratuity not included)
- Captains are in high demand — reserve early
- Captains count toward the passenger limit (ex: on a 12-passenger pontoon, hiring a captain may reduce guest capacity)
OKALOOSA ISLAND JET SKI RENTALS
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Yes, we allow two people per jet ski with a combined maximum weight of 400 pounds.
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Yes, we allow two people per jet ski with a combined maximum weight of 400 pounds.