FAQ's
What will we do on the charters?
Crab Island Jimmy's Charters offers private USCG licensed Captained charter boat trips and bareboat charters for groups larger than 6 guests.
These include dolphin and local area tours, Crab Island trips, water activity and snorkeling opportunities, sunset and harbor cruises, and custom-itinerary private charters to name a few.
One benefit of booking with Crab Island Jimmy’s Charters over the large charter boats or renting your own pontoon is that your local, knowledgeable Captain can tailor the itinerary and trip activities based on the passengers’ requests and interests (where possible). Is there something you really want to see? Really want to visit? Really want to experience? Let your Captain know and they’ll do their best to make it happen.
What should I bring?
Pack for a typical beach day. If you think you might go in the water, wear swimwear to the boat. There is plenty of space on the boat, so feel free to bring your own cooler, refreshments and food (no glass please).
We also recommend bringing a hat, sunglasses, sunscreen (please apply before boarding the boat), towels, camera, and cash for purchases and gratuities. Though we have all the required life jackets and safety gear mandated by the Coast Guard, if you have your own child life jacket or floaties it is good to bring them as well. For the sunset cruises, especially in the spring and fall, bringing a light jacket is recommended.
What is provided on the boat?
A cooler for your refreshments with complimentary ice and water, Bluetooth speakers to connect your favorite music, water toys, masks and snorkels, life jackets should you need one, and sunscreen.
Should I tip my captain?
As part of the service industry, your Captain works very hard to make sure that your adventure is one that will be memorable. All of our Captains strive to do an amazing job for you. If you feel like you received great service, your generosity is always appreciated by your Captain. A 15% - 20% tip is customary.
Can I have more than 6 people on my charter? YES!!
U.S. Coast Guard regulations do not allow more than 6 passengers per boat when the boat is driven by a USCG licensed captain. This includes babies and small children. If you have a group larger than 6, we can arrange to have more than one boat, and the boats will travel together and anchor side by side. If you would like to lease the boat, we offer a Bareboat Charter option. This package requires a driver from our list of qualified operators that you will choose. We are the only legal Bareboat operator in Destin and Fort Walton Beach that can accommodate larger groups. The Bareboat charter option is offered exclusively out of our Fort Walton Beach location.
Will I see dolphins? Can we swim with them?
We specialize in wildlife and dolphin cruises. One benefit over renting your own boat is our local Captains are the best at knowing the habits of our local dolphins and other wildlife. Our waterways are home to several large pods of Atlantic Bottlenose Dolphin that are constantly on the move in our area. We work very hard to find the dolphin for you, it is very rare not to see them on our trips. Booking a private charter, Crab Island charter or sunset tour? No worries, we always make time for finding wildlife on all of our tours to include dolphins, manatees, fish, birds, rays, and turtles. Unfortunately, Federal regulations do not allow passengers to swim with the dolphins.
Where are you located?
We have two pick up locations! Serving Fort Walton Beach at 12 Miracle Strip Parkway SW, Fort Walton Beach, FL 32548 and Destin at Destin Marina, 7 Calhoun Drive, Destin, FL 32541. On-site parking is available. Carpooling and use of ride apps like Uber and Lyft are encouraged.
What is the Pet policy?
For passenger safety and comfort, we do not allow pets on board.
Can we smoke on board?
For your safety and comfort, and the safety and comfort of other passengers, smoking is not permitted on board. If you smoke while off the boat, we kindly ask that you dispose of your trash properly.
Is there shade on the boat?
Yes, our brand-new boats have a large Bimini sun shade covering 75% of the boat. This allows for all passengers to find some shade, while still leaving some of the lounge seating open to the sun for sunbathing or relaxing.
Do you offer fishing?
No. However, your captain can recommend many great options from land/pier-based fishing to inshore guides to offshore charters.
Is alcohol allowed?
Yes. Bring along your favorite beverages and keep them cold in our complimentary cooler with ice. Personal coolers are also welcome. No glass containers, please.