Just thought I'd give an update on the pontoon rental for those who may be considering.
First, thought... Should have done the full day, it was great!
We went with Shell Island Boat Rentals and Tours. They are in the Treasure Island Marina off of Thomas drive in Panama City. They were very helpfull, the boats were clean and very comfortable.
We had four in our party, myself, my wife, mother-in-law, and our three year old son. We went out for four hours in the morning 8 to 12. On the way out we had a dolphin swim right up to the side of the boat. It spent a few moments swimming around the boat and then away. It was enough time for eveyone to get a good look. Awesome! Was hoping for that but not expecting it.
We went right to where they had insructed us, a cut in shell Island where you could walk to the Gulf side. I counted a dozen boats, I'm guessing that may be on the light side. Most people stayed on the bay side. Go ahead and shlep your stuff (note to self - bring less next time) to the Gulf side, find a spot and soak it in. The water rivaled other places I have been in Mexico, and Belize. As I walked over to the gulf side, the contrast between the sugar white sand and the deep blue sky really caught my attention. I found myself stopping and just staring at it.
We had a great time and it was definately worth the money. Probably the best fun for the price and somthing the whole family can enjoy. It makes me wonder what other special places are out there. Hopefully those who know where those places are will keep them a secret and hopefully I will stumble accross them one of these days. We've been comming to SOWAL for five years, and I see us coming back year after year.
P.S. If any body is intimidated about the boat drive, don't be. It was simple, just listen to what the guys/gals at the dock have to say and you'll be fine. If you've driven you share of water skiers/wakeboarders you'll have no problem.
Have fun!!
First, thought... Should have done the full day, it was great!
We went with Shell Island Boat Rentals and Tours. They are in the Treasure Island Marina off of Thomas drive in Panama City. They were very helpfull, the boats were clean and very comfortable.
We had four in our party, myself, my wife, mother-in-law, and our three year old son. We went out for four hours in the morning 8 to 12. On the way out we had a dolphin swim right up to the side of the boat. It spent a few moments swimming around the boat and then away. It was enough time for eveyone to get a good look. Awesome! Was hoping for that but not expecting it.
We went right to where they had insructed us, a cut in shell Island where you could walk to the Gulf side. I counted a dozen boats, I'm guessing that may be on the light side. Most people stayed on the bay side. Go ahead and shlep your stuff (note to self - bring less next time) to the Gulf side, find a spot and soak it in. The water rivaled other places I have been in Mexico, and Belize. As I walked over to the gulf side, the contrast between the sugar white sand and the deep blue sky really caught my attention. I found myself stopping and just staring at it.
We had a great time and it was definately worth the money. Probably the best fun for the price and somthing the whole family can enjoy. It makes me wonder what other special places are out there. Hopefully those who know where those places are will keep them a secret and hopefully I will stumble accross them one of these days. We've been comming to SOWAL for five years, and I see us coming back year after year.
P.S. If any body is intimidated about the boat drive, don't be. It was simple, just listen to what the guys/gals at the dock have to say and you'll be fine. If you've driven you share of water skiers/wakeboarders you'll have no problem.
Have fun!!