Everything you need to know about pontoon, double-decker boat, and jet ski rentals on Okaloosa Island.

Whether you’re heading to Crab Island, cruising around Destin, or exploring Fort Walton Beach, we’re here to make your day on the water smooth, safe, and unforgettable.

Below you’ll find answers to the most common questions about our rentals, safety requirements, policies, and helpful on-the-water tips—so you can relax, ride, and enjoy the Emerald Coast with confidence.
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Reservations, Payments & Cancellations

  • No deposit is required; payment is made in full at the time of booking.
  • You may:
    • Cancel for a full refund (less service charge) up to 24 hours before your rental
    • Reschedule (subject to availability) up to 24 hours before your rental
    • Receive a refund due to unsafe weather up to 30 minutes before your rental
  • Guests may add Trip Protection for additional flexibility (see below).
  • Trip Protection (10% of your ticket price) allows you to:
    • Cancel for any reason
    • Cancel up to 30 minutes before departure
    • Receive a refund (minus Trip Protection fee)
  • Perfect for:
    • Cloudy days
    • Light rain
    • Windy or chilly days
    • Travel delays
    • Change of plans
  • Without Trip Protection:
    • Cancel 24+ hours before your rental for a full refund (minus service charge).
    • No-shows are not refundable.
  • With Trip Protection:
    • Cancel for any reason up to 30 minutes before departure.
  • If weather is unsafe, we will:
    • Reschedule your rental
    • OR
    • Refund you (minus service charge)

Your rental time begins at your scheduled reservation time, not when you arrive.

If you’re running late, please call us — if the boat/jet ski is not booked after your time slot, we will make every effort to accommodate you.

Boating Requirements & Safety

  • Yes. If you were born on or after January 1, 1988, you must have one of the following:
    • A Florida Temporary Boating Certificate
    • NASBLA-approved Boater Safety Card
  • We provide the required link after booking.
  • Cost:
    • Online test: $9.99
    • Paper test at our hut: $6.00
  • Bring your results with you (a screenshot works).
  • All renters must bring:
    • A valid government-issued photo ID
    • Boater Safety Card
  • Age Requirements:
    • Must be 18 or older to rent any pontoon or jet ski
    • Must be 18 or older to drive a jet ski
    • Must be 8 or older to ride a jet ski

What to Bring

  • We recommend bringing:
    • Cooler with snacks, drinks, and ice
    • Towels
    • Sunscreen
    • Waterproof phone case
    • Floaties (for relaxing only — no towing allowed)
    • Sunglasses
    • Hat or sun shirt
    • Cash for tipping dockhands
  • Bring:
    • Water
    • Sunscreen
    • Sunglasses
    • Waterproof phone pouch
    • Cash for dockhands

Pets, Parking & Policies

Yes! Pets are welcome on our rentals for a non-refundable $50 fee

We ask that you ensure your pet is well-behaved and safe on board.

Yes we offer free, on-site parking is available directly at Brooks Bridge Marina. No paid parking. No long walks. No hassle.

  • Operating Hours:
    • 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM (Early & Late Season)
    • 8:00 AM – 7:00 PM (May 15 – Early September)

Discounts vary seasonally — please contact us for current offers.

Equipment Questions

  • Typical Speeds:
    • Pontoons: ~25 mph
    • Jet Skis: ~50 mph
    • Speeds may vary depending on passenger weight and water conditions
  • Up to 2 people
  • Maximum combined weight: 400 lbs
  • You may bring:
    • Food, snacks, and drinks
    • Alcohol (cans only — no glass)
    • Coolers
    • Water toys
  • You may not bring:
    • Grills
    • Hookahs
    • Towing equipment (tubes, skis, wakeboards)
  • No, but captains are available for hire.
  • Rate: $50/hour + $20 captain’s fee (gratuity not included)
  • Captains are in high demand, call us to reserve early.
  • Important: The captain counts toward your boat’s passenger limit.
  • Yes, renters are responsible for damages caused to pontoons or jet skis.
  • We provide:
    • A Pontoon Boat Damage Schedule
    • A Jet Ski Damage Schedule
  • Damage Protection is available for peace of mind.
  • Not currently — but we recommend:
    • Emerald Coast Bait & Tackle (Fort Walton Beach)
    • Half Hitch Tackle (Destin)

Safety & Emergencies

  • Medical emergency:
    • Call 911 immediately
    • Then call us so we can meet emergency personnel
  • Non-medical emergency (mechanical issue):
    • Call us and we will respond promptly

Weather & Protection Plans

  • Florida weather can be unpredictable, so we offer:
    • Cancel or reschedule up to 30 minutes before departure
    • If your rental ends early due to unsafe weather, we prorate your refund
    • Your experience is always protected

Location & Directions

  • We are located at:
    • Brooks Bridge Marina
    • 1198 Miracle Strip Parkway SE
    • Fort Walton Beach, FL 32548
    • Right next to Alvin’s Island on Okaloosa Island

Still Have Questions?

  • We’re here to help!
    • Call: 850-243-2722
    • Email:funday@crabislandwatersports.com
    • Visit: Brooks Bridge Marina, Okaloosa Island