Frequently Asked Questions

Have questions about our boat charters in Destin or the Emerald Coast? Browse through our FAQs to find everything you need to know—from booking and safety to what to bring—so you can confidently plan your perfect Emerald Coast adventure.

To extend your 3-hour charter or dolphin tour, simply select the 4, 5, 6, 7, or 8-hour option from the “Select Cruise Duration” dropdown menu when booking. Each option reflects the total duration and price of your trip. If you’ve already booked a 3-hour charter and want to add more time, please contact Captain Richard directly to adjust your reservation and confirm availability. Additional hours are billed at $100 per hour.

Yes. We offer a 10% discount for military, veterans, nurses, first responders, and repeat customers on all bookings—whether it’s a dolphin‑watching tour, sunset cruise, or restaurant getaway charter.

For birthdays, anniversaries, or themed celebrations, we personalize playlists, refreshments, and itineraries—such as a restaurant‑by‑boat getaway or extra sandbar hopping—to make your charter uniquely memorable.

If Captain Richard cancels due to weather or safety concerns, you’ll receive a full refund or complimentary reschedule. To cancel on your end, please do so at least 24 hours before your charter.

Yes. Our barrier island eco tours highlight local conservation efforts, marine habitats, and coastal history—perfect for families and nature enthusiasts wanting an eco‑friendly private boat tour.

With 30+ years on these waters, Captain Richard knows the best dolphin hotspots and optimal times for sightings. Our small‑group dolphin‑watching tours focus on getting you close to playful pods without disturbing their natural behavior.

Absolutely. While you can request specific destinations—Destin Harbor scenic routes, Choctawhatchee Bay dolphin‑watching, or sandbar hopping near Crab Island—Captain Richard also uses his 30+ years of local expertise to recommend the best routes and timings for your desired experience.

We accept all major credit cards—Visa, MasterCard, American Express, and Discover—through our secure booking system, ensuring a seamless payment process for your Destin and Emerald Coast charter.

We provide a range of boat charters, including two‑hour sunset cruises, dolphin‑watching tours, barrier island eco tours, sandbar hopping excursions, restaurant getaway charters, and fully customizable private boat tours (3–8 hours).

Our 25 ft Sea Hunt Ultra SE center‑console boat charter accommodates up to six passengers, ensuring an intimate and personalized Emerald Coast experience.

Every charter includes Coast Guard–approved life jackets, a throwable life ring, a first‑aid kit, a marine radio, Garmin tracking, and an EPIRB—so you can focus on dolphin‑watching tours or sandbar hopping with complete peace of mind.

Absolutely. All guests under 13 must wear life jackets during sunset cruises or eco tours. Well‑behaved dogs under 20 lbs are permitted with prior approval—making our private boat tours family‑friendly and pet‑friendly.

Yes. We furnish chilled water, electrolyte drinks, and ice. For sunset cruises, we include a cheese & cracker platter. Guests are also welcome to BYO additional snacks or beverages for sandbar hopping or a restaurant‑by‑boat getaway.

Our Sea Hunt Ultra SE boat charter features a hardtop canopy over the center console and an optional extended shade for the rear seating—perfect for both sun‑seekers and those who need a break during a private custom charter.

Yes—a portable toilet is available on every charter, including dolphin‑watching tours and private boat tours, so you don’t have to return to shore mid‑trip.

We recommend sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, towels, and a camera for dolphin‑watching tours. For cooler evenings during sunset cruises or barrier island eco tours, you may also bring a light jacket or cover‑up.

FEATURED DESTINATION

Norriega Point

Discover one of the Emerald Coast’s hidden gems just off Destin Harbor—Norriego Point. This sandy peninsula offers dual‑faced waters: the harbor side for boat traffic and calm, protected tide pools on the East Pass side perfect for swimming and snorkeling. Keep an eye out for great blue herons, ospreys, and even hermit crabs in the shallow pools.

It’s also one of the best (and less crowded) spots to watch Destin Harbor fireworks each Thursday night and on holidays. Add Norriego Point to any private charter or sandbar‑hopping tour for an exclusive escape—a true taste of Florida’s coastal charm.

PRICING

Exceptional Value, Unmatched Experiences

At Captain Richard Boat Charters, we believe extraordinary adventures shouldn’t come with extraordinary prices. Our transparent, competitive rates deliver world‑class boat tours and personalized charters that offer the best value on the Emerald Coast.

Whether you’re seeking a relaxing sunset cruise through Destin’s sparkling waters or a fully customized private charter tailored to your group, you’ll enjoy unmatched service, local expertise, and complete flexibility—without any surprise fees. All charters accommodate up to 6 passengers.

Choose from thoughtfully designed packages, all running between 3–8 hours, with clear, upfront pricing and no hidden charges. Experience more, spend less, and make memories that last a lifetime.

Boat Charters

Tailor your perfect day on the water—whether it’s sandbar hopping, dolphin watching, or a restaurant getaway. Captain Richard will craft every detail to your wishes.

$300

/ 3 HR

Sunset Cruise

Unwind on a two‑hour cruise (5:30 PM departure) as the Gulf sky ignites in color. Enjoy light bites, chilled drinks, and ambient lighting under the hull.

$250

/ 2 HR

Captain Richard Boat Charters LLC, based in Fort Walton Beach, offers small‑group Destin charters—sunset, dolphin, eco, and custom trips—led by a U.S. Coast Guard‑licensed captain for safe, memorable excursions.

FORT WALTON BEACH, FL

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