Frequently Asked Questions

You must be at least 21 years old. If you were born on or after January 1, 1988, Florida law also requires proof of a boating safety course plus a photo ID. There's a free lifetime course (4–8 hours) or a $10 temporary course you can finish quickly online before your trip.

No. Pontoons are the easiest boats on the water and we give every group a hands-on orientation — controls, channel markers, tides and the best spots marked on your map. Most of our captains are first-timers.

Yes — every rate includes fuel and sales tax. The price you see when you book is the price you pay.

A maximum of 8 adults, with 12 total passengers including children and infants. This limit is strictly enforced with no exceptions — it's a Coast Guard safety rating, not a suggestion. Dogs are welcome and don't count toward capacity.

Absolutely — dogs love our boats, ride free, and Dog Beach is a 20-minute cruise from our dock.

Anywhere in Estero Bay: the beaches at New Pass (~15 min) and Lovers Key (~20 min), north to the end of Fort Myers Beach, south to Delnor-Wiggins Pass, or a slow trip up the Imperial River. Venturing into the open Gulf of Mexico is prohibited.

Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for any reason, or same-day for inclement weather — no charge either way.

Dolphins: very likely, especially around the passes. Manatees: possible but harder to spot. Both are protected — no feeding, touching or chasing. Enjoy them at a respectful distance.

Yes — our pontoons make great fishing platforms. We rent rods with tackle for $15 and sell frozen shrimp bait for $5. Kids under 16 and Florida residents 65+ fish free; everyone else needs a Florida saltwater license (a 3-day non-resident license is $17).

In moderation, yes — but never for the person driving. Boating under the influence is illegal and these waters are patrolled by FWC and the Lee County Sheriff. A $1,000 alcohol consumption deposit applies and is forfeited for damage, late returns or disorderly conduct. Plan a sober driver for the boat and the car.

No. Towables of any kind (tubes, skis, wakeboards) are not permitted, and we have a strict zero-tolerance policy on PWCs/jet skis accompanying rentals — mentioning one cancels the reservation with a refund. Our pontoons are for cruising and relaxing.

Please do — parking is limited to 1–2 vehicles per boat depending on party size. Extra vehicles may be turned away or charged $50. Our parking attendant will direct you.

It's possible on an outgoing tide. If you're beached as the tide drops, push the boat into deeper water as it falls. A retrieval costs $200, so keep one eye on the tide chart.

Yes! Purchase a gift certificate online — a day on the bay is a hard gift to beat.

We don't, but our friend Captain Steve at Hawgwild Fishing Charters is docked nearby and runs nearshore, offshore, backwater and night trips. Call him at (239) 691-4373.

Yes, and holidays get very busy — book online or call ahead at (239) 992-2137 to lock in your boat.