Orange Beach: Dolphin Sunset Cruise & Back Bay Nature Tour

Summary

Orange beach dolphins sunset cruise through quiet back bays

You’ll feel salt air on your skin as dolphins surface nearby and ospreys circle above during this relaxed Orange Beach sunset cruise. Glide into hidden creeks where herons stalk and wildflowers bloom along muddy banks. With local guides sharing stories and wildlife facts—and signature cocktails in hand—you’ll end up watching the sky turn gold with strangers who suddenly feel familiar.

What’s the experience like?

“Did you see that splash?” someone shouted, and I nearly dropped my drink — the Explorer boat rocked just enough to make me laugh at myself. We were drifting through the back bays of Orange Beach, Alabama, and our guide (I think her name was Carla?) pointed out a pod of dolphins weaving between the reeds. The air smelled a little briny, with a hint of sunscreen from the family next to us. I hadn’t expected to get so close to the banks — I could actually see tiny crabs scrambling over roots in the mud, which was kind of mesmerizing if you looked long enough.

The captain steered us into these narrow creeks where it felt like we shouldn’t fit, but apparently this boat only needs about a foot and a half of water. We glided past osprey nests perched high in the pines — one bird stared right back at me as if it owned the place (which honestly, it probably does). Carla kept pointing out things I’d never have noticed: a flash of red from a hawk’s tail, some wildflowers tangled in driftwood. There was this moment when everyone went quiet at once — just watching a heron step through the shallows while the sun started to dip orange behind us. I still think about that view sometimes.

The dolphin sightings were almost casual after that — they popped up again near the mouth of another creek, close enough that you could hear them exhale. Someone tried to snap a photo but missed it; we all laughed because nobody really minded. The whole thing felt easygoing and unhurried, like there wasn’t anywhere else we needed to be for those two hours. So yeah, if you’re looking for a dolphin sunset cruise in Orange Beach with actual nature (not just open water), this is pretty much it.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Dolphin and nature sunset cruise

• Board The Explorer pontoon vessel
• Navigate scenic back bays
• Spot dolphins and local wildlife
• Observe osprey, herons, eagles, hawks
• Sneak into hidden creeks
• Enjoy signature cocktails at sunset

Top questions

Are dolphin sightings guaranteed on this Orange Beach cruise?

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

How long does the dolphin & nature sunset cruise last?

The cruise lasts approximately two hours.

What kind of boat is used for this tour?

The tour uses The Explorer, a 40-foot pontoon-style vessel designed for shallow waters.

Is there a guide on board during the cruise?

Yes, there is a knowledgeable tour guide and captain pointing out wildlife and local sights.

What wildlife might I see besides dolphins?

You may see osprey and their nests, herons, bald eagles, red-tailed hawks, and more local fauna.

Does this dolphin sunset cruise include drinks?

You can enjoy signature cocktails during the cruise (drinks available for purchase).

Are infants allowed on board?

Infants must weigh at least 18 pounds and sit on an adult’s lap; strollers are not permitted.

Is hotel pickup included for this tour?

No hotel pickup is included; public transportation options are nearby.

What’s included

Your evening includes all fees and taxes covered as you join a guided two-hour dolphin sunset cruise through Orange Beach’s scenic back bays—signature cocktails available onboard—plus close-up views of local wildlife before returning to shore as dusk settles in.