Orange Beach, Alabama offers three standout dolphin-watching experiences that deliver real value for travelers. The top pick is the 2-hour Sunset Catamaran Cruise, which combines wildlife viewing with a peaceful evening atmosphere – perfect for spotting dolphins, eagles, and coastal birds.
For nature enthusiasts, the Dolphin and Nature Eco Tour excels at finding dolphins in the quieter back bays and hidden waterways, with a solid track record of successful sightings.
Budget-conscious travelers will appreciate the efficient 1.5-hour Eco-Boat Tour, which packs plenty of wildlife education and dolphin encounters into a shorter timeframe.
Good To Know
- The Dolphin-Watching Sunset Catamaran Cruise offers a 2-hour excursion to observe playful dolphins and other local wildlife, with informative commentary and drinks/snacks available.
- The Dolphin and Nature Eco Tour guarantees dolphin sightings on a pontoon-style catamaran, while also allowing observation of various native birds and offering a full-service bar.
- The Dolphin-Watching Eco-Boat Tour is a 1.5-hour tour that guarantees dolphin sightings and provides an educational experience with scenic views of the area.
- All three tours depart from the Springhill Suites Marriott hotel in Orange Beach, Alabama.
- The tours offer different durations, amenities, and experiences, catering to various preferences for dolphin watching and nature exploration in the area.
Orange Beach: Dolphin-Watching Sunset Catamaran Cruise
The Orange Beach: Dolphin-Watching Sunset Catamaran Cruise offers a 2-hour excursion to observe playful dolphins leaping out of the water. Departing from the Springhill Suites Marriott hotel, the cruise takes passengers on a journey to spot not only dolphins but also bald eagles, herons, and ospreys. Throughout the tour, the captain provides informative commentary on the local flora and fauna.
Passengers can enjoy purchasing drinks and snacks on the boat while taking in the spectacular sunset. The cruise includes free parking in the large lot beside the hotel, and children under 8, including infants, must wear life jackets. However, the tour isn’t suitable for children under 2 or wheelchair users, and a minimum weight requirement of 18 pounds applies for infants.
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2-Hour Dolphin and Nature Eco Tour From Orange Beach
Departing from the Springhill Suites Marriott hotel in Orange Beach, Alabama, the 2-hour Dolphin and Nature Eco Tour takes passengers on a pontoon-style catamaran called “The Explorer” to explore the area’s hidden creeks and back bays. The tour guarantees dolphin sightings, and if none are seen, the next trip is free.
Passengers can observe native wildlife such as osprey, herons, bald eagles, and red-tailed hawks along the way. The boat’s shallow-water capabilities allow it to navigate areas inaccessible to larger vessels, providing a unique opportunity to witness the dolphins’ natural hunting and playing behaviors.
The tour includes a full-service cocktail bar and restroom on the boat, and adult beverages are available for purchase. While infants must weigh at least 18 pounds, life jackets are required for children under 8 years old. Strollers, wheelchairs, and pets aren’t allowed on the tour.
Read our full review: 2-Hour Dolphin and Nature Eco Tour From Orange Beach Review
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Orange Beach: Dolphin-Watching Eco-Boat Tour
Visitors to Orange Beach can embark on a thrilling 1.5-hour dolphin-watching eco-boat tour that showcases the area’s natural beauty and abundant wildlife. The tour promises guaranteed dolphin sightings, allowing guests to observe the playful marine mammals in their natural habitat.
The educational and family-friendly experience is led by an onboard guide, who’ll share insights about the local dolphin pod. Passengers will also enjoy the scenic views of Orange Beach and Gulf Shores while aboard the eco-boat, which features a restroom. While food and drinks are available for purchase, the tour includes only the boat ride and guide.
Certain restrictions apply, including a minimum weight requirement of 18 pounds and life jackets for children under 8. The tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, unaccompanied minors, or those with prohibited items. Guests can check in at the Cetacean Cruise ticket booth in front of the Springhill Suites hotel, with free parking available in the adjacent lot.
Read our full review: Orange Beach: Dolphin-Watching Eco-Boat Tour Review
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The Sum Up
Orange Beach offers various dolphin-watching tour options, providing visitors with the opportunity to spot these captivating marine creatures up close. Whether you prefer a sunset catamaran cruise, a 2-hour eco-tour, or an eco-boat excursion, there’s a dolphin-watching experience to suit your preferences. These tours not only offer wildlife sightings but also allow you to learn about the natural beauty of the area.