FAQs about Panama City Beach Pontoon Boat Rentals
What if I am not sure which day we want to rent a boat in Panama City Florida?
This is probably the most asked question about our Panama City rentals. The best answer we can give is that it is easier to change a reservation, then to make a new one because our pontoon boats are one of the most popular Panama City Beach Rentals. If you must cancel, you can - for any reason, but we do ask that you notify a couple days in advance.
If we book a boat rental in Panama City, is Shell Island the only attraction to see?
Although you don’t want to miss Shell Island if you haven’t been before, there are plenty of other Panama City Beach attractions to cruise to. There are miles of shoreline on St. Andrew Bay to be explored. Or you may want to have lunch at one of the many local dockside restaurants. You can tie up to one of the many Panama City marinas and explore downtown. Bring your fishing gear along and do some trolling while the rest of your party watches to see dolphins. You can go to St. Andrew State Park and let the kids swim in the shallow pool. Or, you may want to go snorkeling and fishing in Panama City Beach, near the Jetties. Before your departure, we will provide you with a map and some helpful hints of all these things to do.
I’ve never driven a boat before, do I need to have previous experience to operate and rent a boat in Panama City?
No! No experience is needed. That’s why pontoon boats are so popular among Panama City Beach attractions. Our dock attendants will give you a brief lesson while the rest of your crew loads the boat. If you can tell forward from reverse, you’ll pretty much have the hang of it. The boats are easy to operate and maneuver, so you can spend your Shell Island trip enjoying your vacation.
What's the easiest way that I can get a fishing license?
Click here to buy a fishing license online.
Is it necessary to make a reservation for a pontoon boat rental?
A reservation is not necessary, but is strongly recommended. Without a pontoon boat reservation we cannot guarantee availability, especially during Summer Holidays. Most of our Panama City rentals, tours and attractions stay booked throughout the summer, so it always a great idea to book attractions in Panama City Beach prior to your arrival.
How do I make a reservation for Panama City pontoon boats?
You can easily make your reservation online. Or depending on which adventure you are planning, you can pay upon arrival at our Panama City marina or behind your hotel on the beach. Rentals in Panama City Beach, like parasailing and jet skis, are located along the coast line behind most hotels and condos. You can check our attraction location pages to be sure your hotel offers these amenities. For discounts, consider making your online reservations in advance, and check our Panama City Beach Coupons page. Still have questions? Then call our main office at, (850) 235 -0009 , and ask us anything you like.
Do your Panama City boat rentals have tops for shade?
All of our pontoon boats have retractable Bimini tops that cover about half of the boat. It would be a good idea to bring an umbrella for shade at Shell Island in Panama City Beach, because there are no manmade structures there to shade you. Just keep in mind; you will be on water and white sand (both are reflective) so you won't have any problems getting a sun tan or worse. Just be sure to bring sun block and an umbrella if you plan to spend time at Shell Island.
What's the maximum capacity of people on your pontoon boat rentals in Panama City?
All of our pontoon boats are USCG approved and will accommodate up to 12 people, including kids. But not including pets! So you can bring 12 people and a pet, but not 12 people and a child, sorry. If you are in this situation, consider renting 2 boats. For an entire day's adventure that's filled with activities for more than 12 people, that's still very affordable per person.
Do you have small life jackets available for kids?
We have life jackets in a variety of sizes to fit toddlers up to the largest adults. And we provide one for every passenger aboard every pontoon boat.
What if the weather is bad on the day of our pontoon boat reservation?
We recommend scheduling all of your Panama City Beach rentals and attractions at the beginning of your vacation, to allow for cancellations in case of bad weather. If we cancel pontoon boat rentals due to bad weather, those persons with prepaid boat reservations will be given first priority to reschedule.
Do we have to pay for gas?
No, a full tank of gas is included with the rental price. A tank of gas is sufficient for a full day to cruise Panama City Beach, Shell Island, St. Andrew's State park, and the Bay Area.
Are Panama City boat rentals safe for small children?
Yes. This is one of the reasons for the popularity of Panama City Beach Boat Rentals. It provides entertainment and family fun for vacationers of all ages. We do not however, recommend you take infants out in the sun and heat. Shell Island boats are perfectly safe for toddlers, children, kids, teenagers, etc. Our pontoon boats in Panama City are equipped with USCG approved Personal Flotation Devices (PFD), and Florida law requires every child under 6 years of age must wear a PFD on a vessel less than 26' while the vessel is underway.
What is the minimum age required to reserve boat rentals Panama City Beach?
Florida Law prohibits the rental of Personal Watercraft to anyone under the age of 18, including pontoon boats.
Food. Do we bring our own?
Feel free to bring your own snacks and drinks, though keep in mind that Sandcastle Sandwiches is located on site to pack lunch for your bunch.
