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    5. Captain Your Own Pontoon in Indian River Lagoon
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    Captain Your Own Pontoon in Indian River Lagoon

    Captain a spacious pontoon to spot wildlife and relax on sandbars in Florida’s Indian River Lagoon

    From$319

    Duration

    4–8 hrs

    Ideal For

    Up to 10 people

    Includes

    Full tank of gas, life jackets

    Highlights

    Enjoy a self-guided day on a roomy 22-foot pontoon, cruising the Indian River Lagoon, Banana River, and Sykes Creek at your own pace. Watch for playful dolphins, grazing manatees, and maybe even a rocket launch while you captain the boat.

    1. Spot dolphins, manatees, and tropical birds
    2. Anchor at sandbars or river islands for a swim
    3. Bring snacks, drinks, coolers, and pets on board
    4. Relax knowing gas and safety gear are included
    5. Choose half-day or full-day rental times

    What's Included

    1. Full tank of gas
    2. Life jackets and safety equipment
    3. Anchor, bumpers, and emergency whistle

    Things to know

    The operator must be at least 21 years old. Anyone born after January 1, 1988 must hold a valid Florida boating safety certificate. Maximum capacity is 10 passengers; the designated captain must remain alcohol-free.

    Cancellation policy

    Full refund with 24 hours notice or if the operator cancels due to weather or unforeseen circumstances. No-shows are charged in full.

    Meeting location

    Cape Crossing Marina 306 Lagoon Way Merritt Island FL 32953

    Experience provided by Cape Crossing Boat Rentals
    Experience provided by Cape Crossing Boat Rentals

    How can we help?

    We are here to assist with special requests, large groups, last minute needs, and any questions you may have.

    Call or text (650) 414-7338

    Reference #WEJYSK

    Half Day Rental

    $319

    Must be 21 to Rent Boat

    0

    Why book through Greetwell?

    • Greetwell Approved

      This experience meets our quality and safety standards

    • Includes Concierge Support

      Our team is here to help with questions, timing, or special requests

    • Flexible Cancellation

      Plans change? Most experiences offer flexible cancellation

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    4.9 stars• 496 reviews

    Review summary

    4.9
    Excellent
    496 reviews•Google Maps

    Cape Crossing delivers consistently great experiences on the water, with friendly staff like Tom, Mark, and Bob earning particular praise for their helpfulness. The check-in process is straightforward, especially if you complete the driver waiver online beforehand, and customers appreciate the fair pricing and good value. Repeat visitors keep coming back, which speaks volumes about the overall operation. The wildlife viewing is a major highlight here. Dolphins show up regularly, and many renters spot manatees and various birds during their trips. The CraigCats are popular choices, and there are also guided bioluminescence tours that get rave reviews for the magical experience of watching the water glow. Most boats operate reliably, though some equipment shows its age with worn seats or occasionally non-functional radios. A few customers noted the CraigCats sometimes need maintenance attention. The staff handles any issues professionally, including offering hassle-free refunds when weather becomes a concern. Half-day rentals seem perfect for first-timers, though many people wish they'd booked longer once they're out on the water.

    What people are saying

    Review 1 of 5
    5/5

    Hands down, the best money we spent on our trip! We were a group of 5 visiting from NY for the boat races 🚤 and renting from Cape Cross Boating Rental was the highlight. When we arrived, the pontoon was ready and waiting ⏱️—check-in was seamless! Our 4 hour boat rental for 5 people was $383 total and we tipped the dock hand $50 The employee who helped us was amazing—super friendly, patient, and informative. He gave us a quick safety tutorial and a map marked with the best places to explore. His suggestions made all the difference! We first headed toward the intracoastal—nice and peaceful, with a few birds and dolphins along the way 🐦🐬. BUT THEN… we turned back and went down another channel and were completely blown away. It was packed with wildlife—hundreds of manatees, dolphins, and birds 🐋🦜 It felt like a hidden nature sanctuary! Driving the boat in that area was easy and relaxing. We anchored, hopped off for a swim, snapped some great pics, and just enjoyed every moment. If you’re in the area, don’t miss this! 10/10 recommend Cape Cross Boating Rental for a peaceful, nature-filled, unforgettable experience on the water. We’ll definitely be back!

    Photo of Alexandra On earth

    Alexandra On earth

    6 months ago

    Review 1 of 1
    5/5

    Hands down, the best money we spent on our trip! We were a group of 5 visiting from NY for the boat races 🚤 and renting from Cape Cross Boating Rental was the highlight. When we arrived, the pontoon was ready and waiting ⏱️—check-in was seamless! Our 4 hour boat rental for 5 people was $383 total and we tipped the dock hand $50 The employee who helped us was amazing—super friendly, patient, and informative. He gave us a quick safety tutorial and a map marked with the best places to explore. His suggestions made all the difference! We first headed toward the intracoastal—nice and peaceful, with a few birds and dolphins along the way 🐦🐬. BUT THEN… we turned back and went down another channel and were completely blown away. It was packed with wildlife—hundreds of manatees, dolphins, and birds 🐋🦜 It felt like a hidden nature sanctuary! Driving the boat in that area was easy and relaxing. We anchored, hopped off for a swim, snapped some great pics, and just enjoyed every moment. If you’re in the area, don’t miss this! 10/10 recommend Cape Cross Boating Rental for a peaceful, nature-filled, unforgettable experience on the water. We’ll definitely be back!

    Photo of Alexandra On earth

    Alexandra On earth

    6 months ago

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