It was heavily used throughout the Spanish-American War, World War I, and World War II, until it was given turned into an Alabama historical site in 1946. We decided to take the romantic sunset cruise with Cap'n Lori because when vacationing we love to spend time together and not on a boatful of strangers . This is the version of our website addressed to speakers of English in the United States. 10 Things To Do (And Love) About Dauphin Island, Alabama - Southern Living Plan a relaxing weekend getaway from Birmingham, Montgomery, Huntsville, Gadsden, Florence, Mobile and other cities. Much fun!!! Been on others and it wasnt near the excitement we experienced with this one. This was a fun trip for our young family. Once on the island, you'll have little need to leave, as all amenities are within a short walk or bicycle ride away. 259. This website uses cookies. Travel + Leisure magazine may receive compensation for some links to products and services on this website. They accommodated accordingly and even rescheduled us to a feasible time when our scheduled outing didnt work out. Improve this listing All photos (237) Top ways to experience nearby attractions The island also offers two public beaches for day visitors at no cost. We saw a bunch of dolphins! The Fun Boats Dolphin Cruises and Sea Life Experience Boardwalk Realty, Inc. Total waste of time and money. Alabama Aquarium at the Dauphin Island Sea Lab, Dauphin Island Little Red School House Community Complex. Alabama Gulf Coast Dolphin Cruise is hosted by Cruise Orange Beach Dolphin Cruises. It has so much more to offer than any type of sight seeing tour. Keep Reading Visit Website Alabama Dolphin Cruises (Southern Rose) Orange Beach Come aboard the Southern Rose, where you will find fun, exhilarating dolphin and sunset cruises. We chartered the cruise for our family reunion and it was so much fun to have the whole boat to ourselves. Please . Youll also learn that the Risso Dolphins large underbelly and head prevent adults from rising very far from the water while the Spinner Dolphin is known for its acrobatic leaps into the air, spinning multiple times as they show off their agility. We got to stand at the very front of the boat and see the dolphins jump and swim with the boat! In the distance, the sugar white sands of Gulf Shores and Orange Beach stand out in brilliant contrast to the turquoise waters. Orange Beach is one destination in particular that offers some of the best dolphin cruises and experience you will find anywhere! Captain Lori is a true mermaid and her love for the dolphins is obvious and contagious. Even if you are an experienced paddler, taking a guided tour is always the best. My one year and three year olds loved the mermaid Aqua. Get Directions (251) 861-3607. THE BEST Places to Swim with Dolphins in Alabama - Tripadvisor More than just an Orange Beach Dolphin Cruise. Plan your visit to theEstuariumto learn about coastal Alabama habitats, see the sting ray touch pool, and explore the Living Marsh Boardwalk. . Aqua played in the water and on the beach in the sand with my granddaughter. During your visit, see actual cannons used in battle, an original blacksmith shop, a bakery, and Officer's Quarters building. Whether you are in the enclosed waters of a lagoon or Mobile Bay or out on the Gulf itself, high winds and seas, dangerous rip currents, and severe pop-up thunderstorms can turn an otherwise fun day into a tragic one in the blink of an eye. Its best to travel with an experienced guide, especially if you are a novice paddler. Experience Orange Beach nature and wildlife at its finest and swim with Flipper and friends. more, Swim with Dolphins Waterskiing & Jetskiing. Cruise Orange Beach is a local family owned dolphin cruise/tour company. Dolphin Fun Dolphin Cruises - Orange Beach - Alabama.Travel They made sure we saw dolphins we even saw a sea turtle. By vaycay_13. My Fiancee and I went of the tour on a whim, scheduled 24hrs prior, and had a GREAT time. Sand Island Light, Gulf of Mexico, Alabama. Alligators, eagles, and any number of animals and birds will be seen as well as manatees and dolphins. This was the highlight of our Orange Beach trip! Explore Dauphin Island Alabama with Alabama.Travel Early sea voyagers believed these gentle giants were female figures swimming in the ocean. They called them mermaids. We have a 52 ft. boat that carries 75 passengers and is certified to carry passengers into the Gulf of Mexico. She is very personable, fun, and you can tell she really loves what she does and loves her dolphins! For an educational venue the kids will appreciate, head to the Alabama Aquarium at the Sea Lab for one of the daily tours. Is it a catamaran/sailboat? Manatees are uniquely adapted to live in a variety of environments salt, brackish, and fresh water, all of which can be found in Mobile Bay, the Mobile-Tensaw River Delta, and the Gulf around Mobile. 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If you do not see this sign, YOU HAVE TURNED TOO SOON. They were able to give us 2 runs to see the dolphins play in the waves. A 2 1/2 hour sunset cruise that was the absolute highlight of our trip. 51 Bienville Blvd., Dauphin Island, AL 36528, 251-861-6992. There are restaurants serving everything from seafood to pizza to hamburgers, plus stores selling fishing supplies, beachwear, groceries, souvenirs, and more. My Granddaughter (age 3) absolutely loved this cruise and playing with Aqua, the Mermaid. Reasonably priced. Other customer favorites from the menu include a pan-seared flounder with white wine sauce and the original Dauphin Island Bushwacker, which consists of ice cream, rum, and chocolate. We had a great time as always. People who are interested in going fishing near Dauphin Island can contact the marina to join in on chartered fishing trips. Fort Gaines, which sits on the eastern tip of Dauphin Island, has protected the entrance of Mobile Bay for more than 150 years. Thanks! Highly recommend. Extreme and extremely fun! (My family has always opted for one of the two-bedroom, Gulf-facing condominiums available for rent there's nothing like opening a balcony door at night to let the ocean sounds flow freely inside.). 3900 Bayou Rd. The 164-acre sanctuary is a bustling spot with a half-mile nature interpretive trail loop. I'd highly recommend this cruise. Orange Beach dolphin cruises come in all shapes, speeds, and sizes! History buffs might enjoy the Dauphin Island Indian Shell Mound Park, too, which features a short walking trail and information about Native Americans and their fishing habits while living on the island. We offer four, six Join us for sandbar trips, sunset cruises, snorkeling boat cruises, dolphin cruises, sightseeing cruises, and restaurant hopping! As a favorite spot for family outings, dolphins often swim in the waters offshore near the pier. Stop by the Arts of Dauphin Island gallery to discover artwork created by local and regional artists. Cruising since 1997 From Fort Morgan, visitors can enjoy shopping at several outlet malls and bookstores. They really knew what they were doing when taking care of people. The waterway stretches from Florida to Texas, tucked neatly behind barrier islands where commercial barges navigate their way from port to port in the protected waters. Never a dull moment, these zippy, agile watercrafts are incredibly popular for good reason. Wolf Bay, which is part of the Orange Beach Canoe Trail, is a wide bay where fresh water from several streams mixes with the salt water of the Gulf to create a fertile ecosystem. Alabama Beach Cams & Surf Reports - The Surfers View Orange Beach Let's cast off the lines and sail whichever way the wind takes us. Tap "Add to Trip" on anything you want to save to create the perfect Alabama adventure. Wouldnt recommend. The sun is preparing to set over the Gulf, its bright orange band backlighting the beach houses and condos that ring the lagoon. They like their privacy, too. They know the best places to visit. Get up close and personal with these incredible marine mammals on one of several action-packed jet ski dolphin adventures. I would think you could ask the Tour Company directly. Sail Wild Hearts | Sailing Orange Beach, Perdido Key and Gulf Shores 110 AL-180, Gulf Shores, Alabama 36542; Phone: 251-540-7127. This was more of a slow moving, relaxing boat ride as opposed to a thrilling boat ride and we were looking for a thrill. The Dauphin Island Heritage and Arts Council (DIHAC) works to promote and preserve various forms of art in the Dauphin Island community. Literally swimming with dolphins. From there, paddle south a half-mile and turn right (to the west) down a narrow channel that in 1 mile arrives at Bon Secour Bay where you can explore the shoreline and, with luck, meet up with some dolphins and possibly a manatee or two. Welcome to the Cold Mil Fleet Dolphin Cruise! I would like to know the price ranges of dolphin cruises, Please see our website under services for current off season prices!remember..if you can dream it we will make it happen! We especially enjoyed the music. The crew is friendly and nice and helpful to anyone with a disability or some kind of challenge getting on the boat. For over twenty years, people have found the entertainment and relaxation they've been searching for Lets cast off the lines and sail whichever way the wind takes us. Located in Orange Beach, AL, each cruise tours the waters of Orange Beach & Gulf Shores, AL. Thanks. Quick Details Duration: 2 Hours Orange Beach, AL: The Wharf Marina Full-Service Cocktail Bar: Drinks served onboard; NO outside alcohol permitted; MUST HAVE VALID ID TO ORDER AND CONSUME ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES Minimum Weight Requirement: Must be a minimum of 18 pounds in order to board. Also, if you dont have access to a boat, you are more likely to see dolphins in the Perdido Bay than in the Gulf of Mexico. It's connected to mainland Alabama by a bridge, and ferry rides take you to and from the island. The warm Gulf breeze and sun on your face remind you that you have entered a whole different state of relaxation. If youre looking for an outdoor water adventure the Dauphin Island Marina has the rentals to meet your needs Come experience true offshore sailing just 10 minutes from our dock. When you book they will give you those details though. Vacation rental homes on beautiful Dauphin Island. We guarantee you'll see dolphin! You'll find many maintenance and repair shops as well as marinas stocked with the essentials for boating. We got up close to the dolphins. This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC. You're on an island, so scope out the beach. The crew is friendly and great with the kids. Built more than 200 years ago by the United States Army, Fort Morgan State Historic Site is rich in history as well as beautiful sights. Knowledgeable captains and boat crews will take you to where the dolphins are, sharing with you their extensive understanding of dolphin life and habitat. Is there a time that has less people but still can see dolphins? We are trying to book the week of 08JUN. It's a barrier island in the Gulf of Mexico with all the Southern style, coastal charm, and picturesque sunsets you dream ofon vacation. He is the president of 5 Arrow Media, a company that covers community news in Arkansas, Texas, Oklahoma, and Louisiana. If you are a resident of another country or region, please select the appropriate version of Tripadvisor for your country or region in the drop-down menu. Pleasure Island Pontoon Rentals. Dolphin Tales is an affordable and family-friendly way to see dolphins and other wildlife while aboard our eco-friendly cruises. Orange Beach dolphin cruises come in all shapes, speeds, and sizes! Can't-miss spots to dine, drink, and feast. For a business trip perk, we rented the entire boat for the afternoon dolphin cruise. This was the most enjoyable and fun cruise we have been on. ContactDauphin Island Marinato schedule a chartered fishing trip with your family and friends. It was definitely worth the money. 251-981-6700. Which company provides Alabama Gulf Coast Dolphin Cruise? The council also manages a gallery that features works from local artists. If you are familiar with Gulf Shores, then you will know that Dauphin Island is at the very tip of the peninsula. We learned a lot about the dolphins and other wildlife in the area. Purchasing tickets and checking in were very easy. They also offer kayaks, paddleboard rentals, and pontoon boat charters. There's plenty of public beach on Dauphin Island, so you'll need tobring sunscreenand umbrellas. I highly recommend this cruise for all little ones. We took our 6 year old and Grandma. But, with a little info and a little luck, you can catch a glimpse from your beachside hotel or from the docks. from . We want to inspire you to explore new destinations, discover new experiences and savor the journey. THE 10 BEST Dolphin & Whale Watching in Orange Beach, AL - Tripadvisor The Dauphin Island Marina sits at the base of Dauphin Island Bridge between the Intracoastal Waterway and Mobile Bay. Birdwatchers should take advantage of Dauphin Island's Audubon Bird Sanctuary, an ideal place to watch migrating birds, especially in the spring. The Dolphin Queen was knowledgeable and was able to take us where the Dolphins were. more, Dauphin Island Tourism: Best of Dauphin Island, Official Rules at https://tripadv.sr/kiehlssweeps. Alabama Gulf Coast Dolphin Cruise cancellation policy: For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience. The map shows that Alabama has become a hot spot for manatee sightings, with the loveable mermaid traveling deep into Mobile Bay and the Mobile-Tensaw Delta. Finally they showed up in shallow water as we headed back. Dolphin tours are a great way to relax and spend time sightseeing with your family while you enjoy the breathtaking marine life that Alabama has to offer. I would definitely recommend this experience for anyone at any age! Great crew, we got to see dolphins do some cool tricks. a Tripadvisor company. The dolphins put on a show just off the back of the boat. Each aquarium focuses on a unique aspect of the Mobile Bay Estuary, an area that is considered to be the fourth largest estuary system in the United States. In the summer guests leave from Dauphin Island, and as the weather cools down the trips are moved farther inland toward Mobile Bay. Watch the 360-degree video for Cetacean Dolphin and Sailing Cruises. How difficult is it to get on and off the boat and what is the seating like? The captain is a nice lady who owns her own boat and she would be happy to answer any questions that you might have. About. If you are traveling with a large group or with small children, we recommend booking the standard charter. This is the version of our website addressed to speakers of English in the United States. Free Cancellation; English; 1 hour 30 minutes; from $25.00. Officially, they are called West Indian manatees and are actually closely related to elephants. Whale Watching in Orange Beach: Check out 1132 reviews and photos of Viator's Alabama Gulf Coast Dolphin Cruise. The Estuarium (Dauphin Island Sea Lab), 8. FinAtics Fishing Charters organizes fishing trips in the Dauphin Island area for individuals, families, and groups. Very laid back atmosphere. Dolphin Bonanza - Surf's Up Dolphin Cruises - Tripadvisor Bring your young pirates aboard the American Star for a swashbuckling Pirate Adventure on Terry Cove in Orange Beach, Alabama. 15412 Front Beach Road; Panama City Beach, Florida 32413; Phone Number: 850-234-5271; Get up close to Atlantic bottlenose dolphins on a cruise from Orange Beach. Island Golf is a course suitable for beginners and just as fun for adults. Luckily for them, Gulf Shores and Orange Beach are boat-friendly areas. One day you will be surrounded by them, the next, not one. Your best bet is to take to the water between June and late August if you want to see one. Recently retired, Joe plans to continue his love of traveling while sharing his adventures and exploration of the U.S. and the world with TravelAwaits readers. 1.5 - 2 Hours Experience Orange Beach with us! While Gulf State Park Pier is a great place for fishing, its also an excellent place to observe sea life. It was amazing! Was exciting riding the boat & getting wet Lol where we were standing on bow. Here, cannon placements, weapons, documents, and historical artifacts from the fort's long history are all on display. Dolphins didnt cooperate with any acrobatics, but we spotted several that swam with the boat. Call Today - 850.234.5271. Dauphin Island Beach Rentals It had been thundering and lightening just prior to the cruise. My father age 78 has some mobility issues due to neuropathy. Get an authentic taste of real southern cuisine at Pirates Bar and Grill. 12 Best Things to Do on Dauphin Island, Alabama - VacationIdea.com My 14 and 9 year old complained of being bored after the first twenty minutes. Here at The Fun Boats Dolphin Cruises family of boats, we focus on fun for the whole family! Put on your sunscreen and bring a hat! (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); Courtesy of Arkady Chubykin - Fotolia.com, 2. Choose one, or even better, why not all three? Nearby cities include Delchamps, Fort Morgan, Heron Bay, Alabama Port. Size appropriate life jacket was available. This is the version of our website addressed to speakers of English in the United States. Scuba Diving. DIHAC has built of a network of art supporters through its membership program. It was so awesone to see them up close in their own habitat. As you make your way back to shore, you find yourself being escorted by several graceful bottlenose dolphins breaking the surface of the water next to your boat, so close that you can almost reach out and touch them. Alligators, eagles, and any number of animals and birds will be seen as well as manatees and dolphins. Captain tried every trick to find them. 1501 Bienville Blvd., Dauphin Island, Alabama 36528. Pirate Ship Adventure - Hudson Marina I've found the peaceful atmosphere, friendly people, and homey feel not to mention the beach and many attractions of Dauphin Island to be enough. The bodys shape tapers down into a powerful, flat tail flipper. Your mini-mates will have the opportunity to act like pirates, get their face painted, and learn some pirate lingo. Thank you for making our business trip one to remember! Like a trawler more or less. Dauphin Island Public Beach See all things to do Dauphin Island Public Beach 4 423 reviews #6 of 12 things to do in Dauphin Island Beaches Visit website Call Write a review About Suggested duration More than 3 hours Suggest edits to improve what we show. Archaeologists believe that the shell mounds are oyster shells. Cruise in luxury aboard one of several ocean vessels including classic charter rigs, super fast jet boats, or small and intimate sail boats! The Isle Dauphine Beach and Pool feature live music on the poolside stage on certain days. For this paddle, put in at the beautiful oak-lined Orange Beach Waterfront Park, then choose your path. That coupled with the sounds of the tide washing in along the coastline is guaranteed to leave anyone feeling relaxed. "My kids, my parents and I went out on a dolphin cruise and had a wonderful time! Nothing. I loved this cruise! There is a small dock for fishing but check with Alabama's Fish and Wildlife department to ensure it is open to the public during your visit. If you are a resident of another country or region, please select the appropriate version of Tripadvisor for your country or region in the drop-down menu. If you are looking for some time with only your family and a great Tour Guide, then THIS is the PLACE! Dauphin Island Public Beach - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has established guidelines for safe viewing of marine life. Tash, the mermaid, was exceptional. 100 Orleans Drive, Dauphin Island, Alabama 36528; Phone: 251-861-2969. Just be patient and keep trying. Also the crew was very friendly. With 11 boat launches and plenty of parking, bringing your sailboat is easy. It was truly the highlight of our entire vacation. Water and drinks are sold on board for a very reasonable price $1-2.00. The volunteers and scientists at the non-profit Save-the-Manatee organization tell us that if you spot a manatee, view it by practicing passive observation. Always keep a safe distance, around 100 feet. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Alabama Gulf Coast Dolphin Cruise provided by Cruise Orange Beach Dolphin Cruises, InterContinental (IHG) Hotels in Orange Beach, Hotels with Private Beach in Orange Beach, Hotels with Complimentary Breakfast in Orange Beach, Hotels near Hugh S. 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