PASCAGOULA—In 2012, Little Big Town brought popularity to a barge-type vessel that provides fun on the water for a crowd, and its popularity continues creating real-time waterway melodies.
Pontoons have become a regular observance on the rivers and bayous, and some even venture out to the barrier islands in the Mississippi Sound. Capitalizing on the popularity of the pontoon, a coastal entrepreneur has started a pontoon-rental business in Pascagoula.
Robbie Steiner, who is best known as Rescue Robbie, saw a business opportunity that also allows access to the waterways that make coastal Mississippi so popular.
“The main reason we started this business is to allow more people access to the beautiful waterways in our area,” Steiner said referring to the business started by him and his wife, Amanda. “We truly believe that if everyone can experience the beauty that the Pascagoula River and surrounding areas offer, then everyone will appreciate this unique area so much more.”
The service is for guests visiting the area and locals alike. Steiner said boating and enjoying the beauty of the waterways can improve the quality of life for everyone. His love of boating and the waterways began on his first birthday when he spent time behind the wheel of a boat as is documented in photographs.
“Since that day up to the present day (44 years), I have been behind the wheel of different boats,” Steiner said. “On top of that, I’ve navigated boats from 12 foot to 65 foot and owned countless boats throughout that time.”
Rescue Robbie offers two rental options: half day rental for $299 and full day rentals for $399. These are the current prices and are good throughout the beginning of spring. Reservations can be made via email [email protected] or through the Rescuerobbie Facebook page.
The current fleet includes two 24-foot pontoons that will comfortably accommodate up to 8 passengers. An additional four boats will be available in the spring.
“We anticipate great growth in the near and long term,” Steiner said. “We have received nothing but positive feedback from everyone in the area, and we have already initiated the building of a large, tiki-style boat for sunset cruises and private groups.”
Rescue Robbie is planning to add dolphin tours and kayak and paddle boat rentals in the future and plans to offer captains for hire as well.
“Part of our winter expansion plan is to have chartered cruises available for customers starting in the springtime departing from the River Road Boat Club,” he added.
All vessel rentals come with eight universal adult life vests and are equipped with all Coast Guard required equipment and safety gear. An assortment of youth life vests is also available, but guests are encouraged to bring personal youth vests.
All reservations require 24-hour notice and a credit card. The renter captaining the vessel must have a boater operator card unless born before June 30, 1980. Rented vessels will be provided with a map of the waterway that includes the boundaries of travel.
Steiner said the area for adventure is no further south than the train bridge in the Pascagoula River and northward to Little River Marina and Pine Island. The eastern border is the Highway 63 bridge, and West Pascagoula River is the boundary on the west.
“Exceptions can be made to the restricted areas based on the experience of the renter,” Steiner said. “We have mapped out suggested areas to explore that provide sand bars and the beauty of the Pascagoula River.”
