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December 2025 by MR FoodLover
I honestly don’t understand how this company has a 5-star rating.
We rented a pontoon boat from Dockside Watersports in July, and the experience was disappointing, especially regarding the overall condition of the equipment. The boat we received was old and noticeably worn out. None of the gauges worked, , horn was also not working which is crucial for everybody safety.and we found several spots on the boat with broken or sharp edges that could easily cause cuts if someone wasn’t careful. For a rental company in such a popular tourist area, this level of maintenance is far below what customers should expect.
The cleanliness around the facility was also an issue. Even the restroom next to the office was extremely dirty and poorly maintained.
I’m not someone who leaves negative reviews often, but this experience did not match the ratings we saw online. Before renting here, I would recommend checking the actual boat in person rather than relying on photos or reviews. Destin has many good rental options — unfortunately, this one did not meet basic standards.
Please also see pictures attached
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October 2025 by Michael Castro (Castro)
Great pricing! So easy to book online and great customer service. Highly recommend! We had a blast!
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September 2025 by Paul McMillion
We have been renting from Dockside motorsports for years and it never has been a disappointment. The service quality and the pricing are in my opinion the best you will find anywhere in the Destin area. We will continue to go there every year that we visit Destin.
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September 2025 by Dylan Baudoin
Very friendly staff, Very helpful and knowledgeable. Boats could use some TLC. Would definitely use again
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August 2025 by Rita Speas
The staff was great, attentive, and very pleasant. Enjoyed everything about our pontoon boat rental.
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August 2025 by Justin Archer
I had always wanted to rent a boat, but for some reason it always seemed stressful and complicated. Not at dockside watersports! I shopped around all the other pontoon options, there was another cheaper option for $200 for 2 hours, but docksides cheapest option is $250 for 4 hours. That's twice the time for $50 more. There fees also weren't as high as other places. You need a temporary Florida boating license to rent a boat, but they send you to a link that costs $100 and only takes about 15 minutes to compete the boater safety course on the phone. You can get the boaters license cheaper if you do it in advance before you come and take the full course.
Anyways, the people were super friendly, I was running a little late and they were super understanding. They have a ramp where you take you're car down and can unload right into the boats. The dock hands were also super friendly and helpful. The whole process was super easy and we had a great time
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July 2025 by Steve Prior
I usually use another rental company but I decided to try Dockside and was very pleased.
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July 2025 by JOHN SCHROEDER
Booked a half-day trip through Dockside and it was all we could ask for. Located within minutes of Crab Island, Norriego Point and so many other snorkeling spots, we were truly able to make the most of our day.
The staff was incredible, super knowledgeable about the local area and very helpful Captains on hand to guide you safely in and out of the dock.
We’ll be back for sure!!
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July 2025 by Eliud Gutierrez
Everything was perfect there was nice staff and nice boat they make everything goes well for your time in the water. Love it
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July 2025 by Miriam Morales
Had a great experience with Dockside watersports! It was such a fun boat to take out with the family! The one we rented had 2 slides our daughters had a blast!!! 10/10
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June 2025 by Hunter Eager
Great service from start to finish and had a competitive rate as well.
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June 2025 by Tyler Schmitt
This place is great. I'm a local and have rented many pontoons. These guys double decker with slides was the studies and had the largest engines so far. I will 100% rent from them again.
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June 2025 by Rich Kelly
We love the friendly atmosphere, great helpers at the Dock. We have returned several times and have never had any issues and always Great service and Boats!!
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June 2025 by Kellie Rush
Made last minute adjustments for us since our son got sick overnight. Highly recommend, great communication.
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May 2025 by Lisa LaFollette
We took a quick trip to Destin with our girls. Decided to rent a pontoon and hang out for the day at crab island. The rental was seamless, the crew was so helpful and made for a great experience! We will be back in June and plan on using Dockside again! :-)
