Boat & Jet Ski Safety Guidelines
Safe adventures start with smart preparation.
At Crab Island Watersports, your safety is our top priority. We want you, your family, and your friends to enjoy a fun, memorable, and stress-free day on the water. Whether you’re renting a pontoon boat, double-decker pontoon, or jet ski, following the proper boating safety guidelines ensures a smooth and enjoyable experience on the Emerald Coast.
Below you’ll find everything you need to know before your rental, including boating license requirements, safety videos, local emergency contacts, and important rules for navigating the waterways around the Emerald Coast.
Florida Boater Safety Requirements
Who Needs a Temporary Boater’s License?
Florida Boating Safety Law Requirements
Florida law requires that anyone born on or after January 1, 1988 who will be operating a boat or jet ski must have a valid Boater Safety Education Certificate.
This can be either:
- A Florida Boater Safety Certificate, or
- A NASBLA-approved Boater Safety Card from another state
If you don’t already have a permanent card, you can take the Temporary Florida Boating Safety Test online before your rental. The process is quick and easy.
How to Take the Florida Boating Safety Test
Test Details
- Cost (online): $9.99
- Cost (paper test at our hut): $6.00
- Time: Usually 20–30 minutes
- Delivery: Sent to your email immediately
After your booking, we’ll send you a direct link to the online test so you can complete it before arriving. Check your confirmation email for the link.
Required Safety Briefing Before Departure
Every rental includes an in-person safety orientation covering:
- Basic Navigation
- Local Boating Rules & Speed Zones
- Crab Island Anchoring Tips
- Jet Ski Safety & Maneuvering
- Avoiding Sea Grass and Shallow Areas
- Emergency Procedures
- Weather Considerations
- How To Reboard from the Water
Our staff will answer any questions before you leave the dock.
Boat & Jet Ski Safety Videos
Before your rental, we highly recommend watching the videos below:
Boat Safety Video
Jet Ski Safety Video
These short videos explain the basics of safe operation and will help you feel confident on the water.
Local Emergency Contacts
Emergency Contacts
- U.S. Coast Guard – Station Destin
Click to call – Same Number as Before - Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Office – Marine Unit
Click to call – Same Number as Before
For non-emergency questions during your rental, you may contact our team at 850-243-2722.
Tips for a Safe & Fun Day on the Water
Safety Tips for a Smooth Rental
- Bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and sunglasses
- Keep a safe distance from other boats and swimmers
- Always idle near the docks and no-wake zones
- Avoid alcohol while operating a vessel
- Stay aware of tides, shallows, and channel markers
- Keep personal belongings secure on board
- Make sure everyone has a properly fitted life jacket
These simple steps help ensure a smooth and worry-free rental experience.
Eco-Friendly Boating Practices
Protect the Marine Environment
We love our local waters — and we want to keep them beautiful. Please help us protect the marine environment by:
- Avoiding Grass Beds
- Keeping Trash Secure and Disposing Properly
- Staying Away from Wildlife
- Not Feeding Dolphins or Birds
- Anchoring Only in Sandy Areas
Thank you for helping preserve the Emerald Coast!
Keeping Safe is Key to A Great Adventure
- Essential for driving our vehicles
- Cost: $9.99
- 25 Multiple-choice test online
- Email your certificate to funday@crabislandwatersports.com
If you need to contact the Coast Guard or the Okaloosa Sheriff Department, please call them through the links below:
