Orange Beach Dolphin Cruise & Back Bay Nature Tour

Summary

Orange beach dolphins osprey and hidden creeks by boat

You’ll glide through Orange Beach’s back bays on a small-group dolphin cruise, spotting wild dolphins and birds with your local guide. Get closer to nature in hidden creeks only shallow boats can reach, soaking up salty air and quiet moments along the way. It’s two hours that’ll stick with you long after you’re back on dry land.

What’s the experience like?

There’s this moment right after the captain cut the engine — just a hush and the soft slap of water against the side of The Explorer. I was leaning on the rail, squinting at the sun flickering on the back bays near Orange Beach, when someone pointed: “There!” And sure enough, a fin arched up, then another. Dolphins, moving like they owned the place. I didn’t expect to feel so giddy about it but honestly, you kind of do.

Our guide (I think her name was Jamie?) kept up this easy patter about the birds overhead — ospreys circling with fish clutched tight, herons standing so still you’d think they were fake. She had this way of pointing out things I’d never notice: a bald eagle’s nest tucked into a pine or how the air smelled different as we slipped deeper into one of those narrow creeks. Brackish and sweet at once, almost like wet grass after rain. The boat barely needed any water under it, so we got right up close to tangled roots and little sandy banks where crabs skittered away if you looked too long.

I tried to snap a photo but mostly just ended up watching — sometimes you forget about your phone when there’s so much going on around you. There were kids giggling every time a dolphin popped up (one even waved at us, or maybe that’s just what I wanted to see). The whole thing felt unhurried; two hours went by before I realized it. Not sure if it was the light changing or just that feeling you get when you’re somewhere new and nothing else matters for a bit.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Dolphin and nature cruise in Orange Beach

• Board The Explorer pontoon vessel
• Navigate scenic back bays
• Spot dolphins with guarantee
• Observe osprey, herons, and eagles
• Explore hidden creeks safely
• Learn about local flora and fauna

Top questions

Are dolphin sightings guaranteed on this tour?

Yes, dolphin sightings are guaranteed or your next trip is free.

How long does the Orange Beach dolphin cruise last?

The cruise lasts approximately two hours.

What kind of wildlife might I see besides dolphins?

You may see osprey, herons, bald eagles, red-tailed hawks, and other local wildlife.

Is there hotel pickup included?

No hotel pickup is mentioned; travelers need to make their own way to the departure point.

Can infants join the tour?

Infants are allowed if they weigh at least 18 pounds and must sit on an adult's lap.

Are strollers permitted on board?

No, strollers are not permitted on this tour.

Is this tour suitable for travelers with limited mobility?

The tour is not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries or poor cardiovascular health.

Does the tour include all fees and taxes?

Yes, all fees and taxes are included in your booking price.

What’s included

Your day includes a two-hour guided cruise through Orange Beach’s scenic back bays aboard The Explorer pontoon boat, with all fees and taxes covered—just show up ready to spot dolphins and local wildlife alongside your guide before returning to shore.