Staff Answer
Jun 20, 2026 - 08:15 PM
If snorkeling is your main goal, I'd actually lean toward a center console. They're a little faster, easier to maneuver, and can get you to the snorkeling spots around the East Pass or along the jetties a little quicker. They also tend to handle chop better if the water isn't perfectly calm. That said, for most families visiting Destin, I'd still recommend a pontoon. You can absolutely snorkel from one, and they're a lot more comfortable if you're planning to make a full day of it. You've got plenty of room for coolers, towels, kids, and all your gear, plus it's much easier to climb back on board after you've been in the water. A lot of people think snorkeling in Destin means heading way offshore, but that's really not the case. Some of the best spots are around the jetties near the East Pass or in the clear water on the Gulf side when conditions are calm. Your rental company can point you toward the best areas based on the weather that day. If your trip is mostly about snorkeling with maybe a little cruising afterward, go with a center console. If you want to spend the day at Crab Island, swim, snorkel for a bit, have lunch, and just relax on the water, I'd pick the pontoon every time. It gives you a lot more flexibility, especially if you're traveling with family or a group.
