Along Alabama’s Gulf Coast, Orange Beach delivers some of the best water excursions in the South. Several standout boat tours make the most of these pristine waters. The Alabama Gulf Coast Dolphin Cruise ranks as our favorite, offering reliable wildlife spotting and expert naturalist guides. We’re also impressed by the Sunset Nature Cruise, which combines peaceful evening views with chances to see dolphins, eagles, and even alligators in their natural habitat.
For families traveling with kids, consider the 90-minute Bay Cruise – it’s the perfect length and keeps everyone engaged with wildlife spotting and coastal history. The catamaran sailing trips provide a more refined experience, especially at sunset when the waters are calmest.
Let’s examine the top-rated boat tours in Orange Beach…
Key Points
-
The Alabama Gulf Coast Dolphin Cruise and the Orange Beach Dolphin Eco Boat Tour offer 1-hour tours with high ratings, wildlife sightings, and included amenities.
-
The Dolphin and Nature Sunset Cruise, Orange Beach 90-Minute Sunset Cruise, and Orange Beach Sunset Sailing Cruise provide relaxing sunset experiences with potential dolphin sightings.
-
The 1.5-Hour Bay Cruise and Private Island Hopping Cruise are family-friendly options with stroller-friendly features, coolers, Bluetooth stereo, and exploration opportunities.
-
Catamaran Cruises in Orange Beach, such as the Orange Beach Sun and Sailing Cruise, offer a unique perspective on the serene waters with a full-service bar.
-
Most cruises in Orange Beach boast high ratings, recommendation rates, and knowledgeable crews, catering to various budgets and accessibility needs.
Alabama Gulf Coast Dolphin Cruise
The Alabama Gulf Coast Dolphin Cruise offers visitors an opportunity to search for and observe Atlantic bottlenose dolphins in their natural habitat along the Gulf of Mexico.
Rated 4.8 out of 5 stars from over 1,200 reviews, this family-friendly tour is recommended by 95% of travelers.
The cruise departs from the Barometer Tiki & Raw Bar in Orange Beach, and lasts approximately 1 hour.
Travelers can expect to see dolphins and other wildlife, as well as participate in water battles with other vessels on earlier tours.
Life jackets, food, and drinks are included, though the tour isn’t fully wheelchair accessible.
Read our full review: Alabama Gulf Coast Dolphin Cruise Review
Book now: Check availability
Dolphin and Nature Sunset Cruise From Orange Beach
A catamaran cruise along the Alabama Gulf Coast offers visitors a unique opportunity to witness the natural wonders of the region.
The Dolphin and Nature Sunset Cruise from Orange Beach is a highly-rated excursion that combines a nature cruise with stunning sunset views. Passengers can enjoy sightings of bald eagles, herons, fish, alligators, and, of course, dolphins, while navigating through creeks and swamps.
The cruise also includes the chance to savor cocktails and learn about the local ecosystem from the knowledgeable crew. With panoramic views of the landscapes and a maximum of 36 travelers, this cruise provides an intimate and unforgettable experience for nature lovers and families alike.
Read our full review: Dolphin and Nature Sunset Cruise From Orange Beach Review
Book now: Check availability
Orange Beach 90-Minute Sunset Cruise on a Tiki Bar
Offering a unique twist on traditional sunset cruises, the Orange Beach 90-Minute Sunset Cruise on a Tiki Bar invites travelers to experience the Gulf Coast’s natural beauty in a laidback, entertaining fashion.
Rated 4.9 out of 5 stars with 97% traveler recommendation, this 90-minute excursion aboard a tiki boat accommodates up to 6 guests, who can enjoy stunning sunset views, wildlife sightings, and engaging commentary from the knowledgeable captain.
With inclusions like a cooler, cups, and bottled water, this cruise offers a worry-free experience.
While not wheelchair accessible, the tour welcomes infants and service animals, making it an attractive option for families and small groups seeking a memorable sunset adventure in Orange Beach.
Read our full review: Orange Beach 90-Minute Sunset Cruise on a Tiki Bar Review
Book now: Check availability
Orange Beach Dolphin Eco Boat Tour
Departing from the Wharf in Orange Beach, the Orange Beach Dolphin Eco Boat Tour takes guests on a captivating journey through the region’s waterways in search of the Gulf Coast’s iconic marine wildlife.
Aboard the shallow-water boat, up to 36 travelers can spot dolphins, bald eagles, and even alligators while learning about the local ecosystem.
With a full-service cocktail bar and friendly, knowledgeable crew, the tour offers an enjoyable and informative experience for the whole family.
At just $25 per person, it’s an affordable way to get up close with nature and witness the natural beauty of Orange Beach.
With a 96% recommendation rate and a Badge of Excellence, this eco-tour is a must-do activity for visitors.
Read our full review: Orange Beach Dolphin Eco Boat Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Orange Beach Sunset Sailing Cruise
After exploring the waters of Orange Beach aboard the eco-friendly dolphin tour, visitors can embark on a captivating sunset sailing cruise.
The Orange Beach Sunset Sailing Cruise offers a 4.9-star experience, with 97% of travelers recommending the activity. Priced from €57.73 per person, the cruise features a relaxing atmosphere, potential dolphin sightings, stunning sunsets, and a full-service cocktail bar.
Guests praise the friendly and attentive crew, who provide a professional and fun-filled experience. With a moderate fitness level required, the cruise isn’t suitable for those with certain health conditions.
Booking options allow for flexible reservations, and the activity departs from a convenient meeting point in Orange Beach.
Read our full review: Orange Beach Sunset Sailing Cruise Review
Book now: Check availability
Orange Beach 1.5-Hour Bay Cruise
The Orange Beach 1.5-Hour Bay Cruise provides visitors with a chance to explore the serene waters of the local bay.
This 98% recommended activity allows guests to take in the scenic coastline aboard a licensed guided tour.
With positive reviews highlighting the friendly and knowledgeable captains, the cruise is a popular choice for families and groups seeking a fun and relaxing experience.
The tour includes amenities like a cooler, Bluetooth stereo, and bottled water, though guests are welcome to bring their own drinks.
While not wheelchair accessible, the cruise is stroller-friendly and allows service animals.
Those with certain medical conditions or limited mobility may want to consider the health restrictions before booking.
Read our full review: Orange Beach 1.5-Hour Bay Cruise Review
Book now: Check availability
Orange Beach Sun and Sailing Cruise Aboard Catamaran
The Orange Beach Sun and Sailing Cruise aboard Catamaran offers visitors a chance to experience the serene waters of the area in a unique and relaxing way.
This 1.5-hour cruise departs from the Wharf in Orange Beach, accommodating up to 40 travelers. Guests can enjoy the beautiful scenery, engage with the attentive crew, and even spot dolphins.
While some have wished for a more sailing-focused experience, the cruise provides a pleasant and memorable outing for families and couples.
With a full-service bar on board and moderate physical fitness required, this cruise is an excellent choice for those seeking a leisurely afternoon on the water.
Read our full review: Orange Beach Sun and Sailing Cruise Aboard Catamaran Review
Book now: Check availability
4 or 6-Hour Private Island Hopping Cruise From Orange Beach
For those seeking a more private and customizable boat excursion, the 6-Hour Private Island Hopping Cruise from Orange Beach offers an unparalleled opportunity to explore the area’s scenic waterways.
This tour provides a personalized itinerary, allowing guests to visit destinations like Pirates Cove, Robinson Island, and Flora-Bama. Guests can enjoy a scenic cruise with chances to swim, while the U.S.C.G. licensed captain navigates the waters.
The cruise includes beverages, a cooler for personal snacks/drinks, and Bluetooth radio for music. Complimentary digital photos capture the memories.
With a maximum of 6 people, this private tour provides an intimate and tailored experience along the Alabama coast.
Read our full review: 4 or 6-Hour Private Island Hopping Cruise From Orange Beach Review
Book now: Check availability
Recap
Orange Beach offers a variety of captivating cruises and boat tours, from dolphin-watching excursions to sunset sails. Whether you’re seeking an eco-friendly adventure or a relaxing voyage, there’s something to suit every traveler’s preference. With these diverse options, you’re sure to find the perfect on-the-water experience to make your Orange Beach vacation truly unforgettable.