Dolphin Cruises
in Gulf Shores & Orange Beach
There’s only one thing better than taking a ride around the beautiful coastal waters of Alabama, which is dolphin watching during your vacation! While visiting Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, there are plenty of chances to see these friendly aquatic creatures. You may catch a glimpse of them bobbing out of the water from the beach or your condo balcony, but the best way to see them is out on the water. Fortunately, you can do just that with the variety of dolphin tours in the area.
When is the best time to book a dolphin cruise?
While these excursions are available throughout the day, sunset dolphin cruises are among the best times to go. You can catch the sun setting over the water as you watch for dolphins. During your dolphin boat tour, you’ll probably spot other wildlife in the area, so keep your eyes peeled.
In terms of seasonality, instances of encounters are highest during spring and summer. As temperatures rise, so does the playful spirit of dolphins, making these months prime time to book a cruise.
What types of dolphins can I see on a dolphin boat tour?
Some of the cutest and friendliest residents on the Alabama Gulf Coast, dolphins’ playful nature makes them hard to resist. Dolphin cruises introduce you to a diverse range of species (that’s right, there’s more than one). Witness these intelligent and playful creatures in their natural surroundings.
Bottlenose Dolphins: Bottlenose dolphins are the most frequently sighted dolphins in the area and are known for their friendly demeanor and acrobatic performances.
Pantropical Spotted Dolphins: The distinctive spots of pantropical dolphins make them easy to identify. These social creatures are often seen swimming in large groups.
Common Dolphins: Known for their agility and speed, common dolphins or short-beaked common dolphins are often seen cruising the waves created by boats, providing a thrilling spectacle for dolphin cruise participants.
How do I pick the right dolphin cruise?
Here in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, multiple dolphin boat tours are offered on various vessels, including glass-bottom dolphin tours, sailboats, catamarans, and kayaks. Since we are surrounded by water, you can find dolphins in the Gulf or along the backways and inlets, and cruises are available in all three.
When you embark on one of these fun tours, not only will you see dolphins, but you’ll learn about them from our knowledgeable guides. The boat’s captain or tour leader will inform you about the behaviors and habitat of the dolphins that live along the Gulf Coast and show you where they like to hang out. As you cruise through the waters, be on the lookout and have your cameras ready when they appear.
Planning Your Dolphin-Watching Excursion
During your stay on Alabama's Beaches, book a dolphin tour to get an up-close look at these beautiful creatures in their natural habitat. Before setting sail, remember to bring sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, and a camera to capture each magical moment. Dress in comfortable, lightweight clothing and wear shoes with non-slip soles. You may also want to bring a light jacket or sweater, as it can get cooler out on the water.
