Pontoon Boat Tours in Palm Beach County
Make your day on the water easy, scenic, and stress‑free with Coastal Marine Charters’ private and small‑group pontoon boat tours. Our captains guide you through calm, postcard‑worthy stretches of the Intracoastal Waterway and around icons like Peanut Island and the Lake Worth Lagoon—ideal for families, couples, and anyone who wants a relaxed ride with close‑up views of marine life.
Enjoy a smooth pontoon ride across clear, protected waters with flexible routes, easy boarding, shaded seating, and curated stops for snorkeling, sandbar lounging, wildlife viewing, and sunset cruising. Launch points vary by tide and conditions, with popular departures near Riviera Beach and Boynton Beach. To lock in the tide‑smart timing, book now or browse our destinations for ideas.
Safety & Comfort
- USCG‑licensed captains who know local waters, tides, and traffic patterns.
- Coast‑Guard‑approved safety gear sized for kids and adults; first‑aid kit and VHF radio on board.
- Stable, shaded layout with high rails and level deck for easy movement.
- No‑rush routing that adapts in real time to weather, tide, and visibility so you enjoy the day, not fight the conditions.
Have mobility needs? Tell us ahead of time so we can recommend the best dock and boarding plan.
Why Choose a Pontoon Tour with Us
- Comfortable, stable ride: Our wide deck, high rails, and shaded seating keep everyone relaxed. Pontoons are famously steady in protected waters like the Lake Worth Lagoon, which means fewer bumps and more time enjoying the view.
- Flexible routes (tide‑smart): We plan each tour around tide and wind to find clearer water and active wildlife. If visibility is poor, we pivot to a scenic loop with more photo stops rather than forcing a snorkel you won’t enjoy.
- Photography‑ready scenery: Calm lagoon water, mangrove shorelines, and iconic bridges create soft light and reflections—great for phones and DSLRs alike. Captains slow or reposition the boat for better angles when safe to do so.
- Captain‑led insights: Expect short, plain‑English notes on marine life, seagrass, reef projects, and local history. We aim for useful, not preachy—kids included.
- Small groups & private options: Book a shared experience or reserve the whole boat for your crew. Private charters let you pace the day, choose stops, and bring a playlist.
- Add‑ons that make sense: If the tide lines up, we include a swim, sandbar wade, or snorkel pause. Around the inlet, visibility is often best near slack high tide; we time it when possible and only stop if it’s worth it.
- Easier boarding: Flat, stable boarding and plenty of handholds. Tell us about mobility needs so we can recommend the best dock and help on arrival.
Looking for something specific? Many guests pair this tour with our Sightseeing Boat Tour, Sunset Cruise, or a custom Private Boat Tour.
What You’ll See
Lake Worth Lagoon & Peanut Island
Spanning about 20 miles with two ocean inlets, the lagoon mixes ocean and freshwater and stays relatively calm—perfect for an easy cruise with consistent visibility near the inlet. Peanut Island has shallow edges that glow turquoise on sunny days, and when timing aligns we can pause for a quick swim. Learn more about the lagoon’s size, inlets, and ecology on Palm Beach County ERM’s Lake Worth Lagoon overview.
Intracoastal Highlights
Expect mangrove shorelines, seabirds riding the breeze, and quiet residential canals. You may see pelicans drafting our wake, osprey diving for fish, and cormorants drying wings on markers. Routes often include gliding past Phil Foster Park and the Blue Heron Bridge area—see our Phil Foster snorkel reef for what makes this spot special—and scenic channels near West Palm Beach.
Wildlife cameos
Manatees are most common in cooler months; dolphins can appear any time; rays and sea turtles show on clear‑water days. We slow near seagrass and channel edges to improve your chances without crowding wildlife.
Optional Extensions (by request & conditions)
- Loxahatchee River segment: Drift through a tree‑lined, Old‑Florida corridor with tannin‑tinted water and quiet banks. Parts of this river are federally protected for their natural character, which keeps it peaceful.
- Sandbar hangouts: On fair‑weather days, we can anchor at a shallow sandbar so you can stretch your legs and wade in waist‑deep water before resuming the cruise—ask about the Jupiter Sandbar option.
Want guaranteed wildlife? Nature doesn’t do guarantees. For your best odds, try winter for manatees on our Manatee Tour and year‑round Dolphin Watching for playful pods.
Want guaranteed wildlife? Nature doesn’t do guarantees. For your best odds, try winter for manatees on our Manatee Tour and year‑round Dolphin Watching for playful pods.
Tour Options & Durations
We keep pacing relaxed with time for sightings and photos. Pick what fits your day.
- 1‑Hour Express – A tight scenic loop near the inlet and lagoon. Ideal when you’re short on time, traveling with young kids, or warming up for a later sunset run.
- 90‑Minute Classic (most popular) – Adds a wildlife‑focused segment and (if tides align) a short drift or beach pull‑up.
- 2‑Hour Explorer – Unhurried cruising with time for a short swim, snorkel, or sandbar pause when conditions allow.
- Sunset Pontoon – Softer light, cooler air, calmer traffic. If you like golden‑hour photos, this is your tour. You can also pair it with our dedicated Sunset Cruise.
- Private Charter – Build a custom itinerary for birthdays, proposals, or family days. Choose your pace, music, and stops; we’ll recommend a tide window for the clearest water. Start here: Private Boat Tour or book now. For longer days, consider a weekend charter.
For a full‑day feel, anchor this tour to a half‑day of mixed experiences via Charter Experiences.
Sample Itinerary (Adjusted Daily)
- Depart from a convenient dock chosen for that day’s tide and visibility.
- Lagoon cruise: Drift past mangroves and bridges while your captain shares short stories about the lagoon’s restoration, seagrass, and local landmarks.
- Peanut Island pass‑by: Snap photos of the turquoise shallows at Peanut Island; conditions permitting, hop in for a quick swim.
- Wildlife segment: Slow roll near seagrass beds and channel edges—watch for rays, manatees (seasonal), sea turtles, and wading birds.
- Optional stop: A short snorkel near the Phil Foster snorkel reef or a sandbar wade if the tide lines up.
- Return along a different shoreline for new views and angles. Planning a bigger day? Browse our destinations.
Snorkeling note: Around Phil Foster Park/Blue Heron Bridge, the clearest water is typically near high tide. We adjust timing when possible.
Micro‑Itineraries
- Family with young kids (60–90 min): Calm lagoon loop + short wildlife segment; optional 10‑minute sandbar wade.
- Photo‑first couple (90–120 min): Peanut Island colors + inlet edges + sunset loop if available.
- Nature buffs (120 min): Longer wildlife drift + snorkel or wade stop when tides align.
What to Bring
- Light clothing & sun hat – The lagoon reflects light; a hat keeps you comfortable.
- Reef‑safe sunscreen – Protect your skin and local reefs; apply before boarding so decks stay dry.
- Towel & light cover‑up – Breezes can feel cool after a swim.
- Polarized sunglasses – Cuts glare so you can spot rays, turtles, and the bottom in shallow water.
- Snacks & water (small cooler okay) – Keep energy up without leaving the water.
- Mask/snorkel/fins – If you want to hop in when the tide is right. See our snorkeling trip for tips.
- Dry bag for phone/camera – Peace of mind when a splash hits.
Tide & Visibility Chart — What It Means for Your Tour
Our chart shows expected water clarity on a simple 0–10 scale against the hours around local high tide. Clarity usually peaks near slack high tide. In most conditions, the best window for clear water falls about 90 minutes before to shortly after high tide. When that window lines up with your tour, we place swim or snorkel time there. If wind, swell, or recent rain lowers visibility, we pivot to sheltered segments, wildlife viewing, or a sandbar wade so you still enjoy the day.
How to use this: If clear‑water photos or snorkeling are your priority, ask us to align your start with the day’s high tide. We’ll handle the timing and route so you don’t have to track tide tables. Book now or review charter FAQs.
Planning guide only; the captain adjusts route and stops to day‑of conditions for safety and comfort.
Memories Made on the Water
What Our Guests Say
Join the growing family of guests who have discovered the joy of coastal cruising. Let our testimonials inspire your next adventure.
Destin and Dixie were the best! We had so much fun. Destin was a great captain he knew exactly how to make our boat day a great day. Would definitely book with Destin and Dixie again and will recommend him to any and everyone! Destin’s boat was so comfortable and clean. We had plenty of space for me and 3 other people. Water floats were perfect!
Perri
Reviews
The captain is very professional, polite, and super kid friendly, and will always make sure you have an amazing time on the water. His commitment to ensuring every moment is enjoyable is clear throughout the charter. I would recommend Coastal Marine Charters to everyone I know without hesitation.
Kris Winters
Facebook Reviews
I had a wonderful time with Destin—he made every moment of our charter truly memorable with his friendly and professional approach. Destin ensured that our experience on the water was filled with fun, relaxation, and a genuine sense of adventure. I highly recommend Coastal Marine Charters to anyone looking for an exceptional water adventure.
Mike Ardizzone
Facebook Reviews
Local Insights & Helpful Facts
- Lake Worth Lagoon basics: About 20 miles long with two ocean inlets, and freshwater from three major canals mixing into brackish habitat. The protected water and tidal exchange explain why the lagoon is great for smooth pontoon cruising and clearer water near the inlet. (Source: Palm Beach County ERM – Lake Worth Lagoon.)
- Snorkeling timing: Around Phil Foster Park’s snorkel area, the best visibility is near high/slack tide—typically within ~2 hours before and up to slack. (Source: Phil Foster Snorkel Trail Guide (PDF) and Phil Foster Park page.)
- Manatees & safe boating: Florida’s manatee protection rules set slow‑speed and seasonal zones in key habitats. Captains follow posted zones and adjust routes to avoid stressing wildlife. (Source: FWC – Manatee Protection Zones & Maps.)
- Sea turtle season: March 1–October 31 is nesting season on much of Palm Beach County’s coastline, including Juno Beach. (Source: Loggerhead Marinelife Center – Nesting Season.)
- Climate at a glance: Expect warm winters and a May–October rainy season. See current climate normals and reports for West Palm Beach via NOAA/NWS Miami.
Want a deeper dive into local nature? The Loxahatchee River includes stretches designated under the National Wild & Scenic Rivers System. Ask about adding a quiet river segment when conditions allow.
How We Compare to Other Tours
We designed this experience around comfort, flexibility, and local knowledge.
- Relaxed, smooth ride: Pontoons shine in protected waters—steady, quiet, and social. Great for families and multi‑generational groups.
- Tide‑smart planning: We time swim/snorkel windows to clarity rather than a fixed clock. If conditions won’t deliver, we swap to a better scenic or wildlife segment.
- Mix‑and‑match experiences: Combine this tour with Dolphin Watching, Fishing Charter, or a tailored Couples Cruise for a fuller day on the water.
- Accessible options: Flat boarding and a stable deck. Share any mobility needs so we can choose the easiest dock.
- Topical expertise: Captains share short, current notes on restoration, reef work, and wildlife etiquette so guests leave with more than photos.\
Best Times to Go
- Morning: Cooler temps, softer light, and lively bird activity. Good for families and photo‑first guests.
- Midday: Brightest water color in the lagoon and often the best inlet visibility on clear days.
- Sunset: Golden light, lighter boat traffic, and cooler air. Ideal for proposals and milestone trips.
Traveling on a short timeline? Consider the 1‑Hour Express or 90‑Minute Classic—you’ll still catch the highlights without rushing.
Policies at a Glance
- Capacity: Set by boat and tour selection; private charters available for groups.
- Weather: Safety first. If conditions don’t cooperate, we reschedule or adjust the route.
- Kids: Welcome with parent/guardian; life jackets available in many sizes.
- Alcohol: Small quantities permitted on private charters; please drink responsibly and follow captain instructions.
- Cancellations: See booking confirmation for time windows and fees.
Frequently Asked Questions About Private Boat Tour
How many people can the pontoon hold?
Capacity depends on the boat assigned to your tour. We’ll confirm group size when you book.
Is the tour suitable for small children and seniors?
Yes. The stable deck, shaded seating, and easy pace make this a family‑friendly ride. Please share any mobility needs ahead of time so we can plan the easiest boarding.
Can we snorkel on a pontoon tour?
Yes, when tides and visibility cooperate. The captain will time a stop near slack high tide for the clearest water. Bring your own mask and snorkel or ask about rentals.
Will we see manatees or dolphins?
Wildlife is never guaranteed. Winter improves manatee chances and dolphins can appear year‑round. For the best odds, consider our dedicated Manatee Tour or Dolphin Watching.
Where do tours depart?
Departure docks vary by date, tide, and conditions—often near Riviera Beach or Boynton Beach. Your confirmation includes exact check‑in details and parking info.
Is the pontoon wheelchair‑friendly?
The deck is wide and stable. Some docks and gangways are easier than others. Tell us your needs and we’ll recommend the best location and assist with boarding where possible.
Can we bring food and drinks?
Yes. Snacks and non‑glass beverages are welcome. Small coolers fit well on deck.
What’s the difference between the Classic and Explorer tours?
The Explorer adds time for a stop—swim, sandbar, or snorkel—if conditions line up. The Classic focuses on relaxed cruising and wildlife viewing.
Do you run tours in light rain?
Light showers pass quickly here. We monitor radar and adjust routes to stay comfortable. If conditions aren’t safe, we’ll reschedule.
Can we combine this with fishing?
Fishing requires separate licensing and setup. If that’s your goal, book a Fishing Charter and ask us to include a short scenic cruise segment.
Ready to Book?
Choose your date, pick your tour length, and tell us about your group. We’ll match you to the best route and tide window for the clearest water and best wildlife chances. If you want a custom plan—proposal, birthday, or family reunion—start with our Private Boat Tour and we’ll tailor the details. For availability and policies, book now and skim our charter FAQs. Curious what other guests think? Read guest reviews. Prefer to browse the brand first? Visit Coastal Marine Charters.
Contact Coastal Marine Charters Today
Coastal Marine Charters
Address: 809 Hummingbird Way, North Palm Beach, FL 33408, United States
Phone Number: (561) 401-8856
Google Maps: Find Us Here
Business Hours
Monday: Open 24 hours
Tuesday: Open 24 hours
Wednesday: Open 24 hours
Thursday: Open 24 hours
Friday: Open 24 hours
Saturday: Open 24 hours
Sunday: Open 24 hours