Private Dolphin Sightseeing Excursion: Orange Beach Boat Charter

Search for dolphins, sea turtles and rays from a private charter boat in Orange Beach

A private boating excursion in Orange Beach, Alabama where you search for dolphins, sea turtles, sharks, rays and wetland birds aboard a 24-foot Cobia center console with a USCG captain. The boat holds up to six passengers and includes life jackets and safety equipment. You choose a sunrise, afternoon or sunset departure. Dolphin sightings are highly likely but not guaranteed, and there is no restroom on board.

The experience

Orange Beach sits on the Gulf Coast where the bay and open water hold dolphins, sea turtles, pelicans and rays. You board a 24-foot Cobia center console with state-of-the-art navigation and electronics, captained by someone who knows where the marine life congregates. The boat fits up to six passengers comfortably, so you're not crammed with strangers, and a USCG-certified captain handles the helm while you watch the water. Life jackets and all safety gear come with the booking.

The excursion runs about an hour, and you pick the time that fits your day: sunrise to catch the water at first light, afternoon for a sun-soaked escape, or sunset when the sky turns vivid. You'll pass the Sand Island Lighthouse and cruise both the bay and the Gulf, scanning for wildlife as you go. The captain knows the routes where dolphins and sea turtles show up most often, though sightings are not guaranteed, but they're highly likely. Bring sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses and a towel. Wear weather-appropriate clothes and bring a cooler if you want food or drinks aboard. There's no restroom on the boat, so plan accordingly.

This is a customizable charter, so if you're marking a special occasion or want to adjust the route or timing, you can discuss that when you book. Children under eight must wear a life jacket at all times, and all children need supervision. Glass containers are prohibited except wine bottles, and smoking is allowed at the back of the boat.

What’s included

• USCG-certified captain.
• life jackets and safety equipment for all passengers.
• state-of-the-art navigation and electronics on the 24-foot Cobia.
• customizable charter timing and route.

Before you book

Days and timesEvery dayDepartures at 09:00, 11:30 and 14:00

Book up to12h before

GroupPrivate

Live guideEnglish

Meeting point and pickupNo hotel pickup: you go to the meeting point. Ends back at the starting point.

Cancellation and refundsFree cancellation up to 24 h before the start. After that, no refund.It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund.

Prices and times updated today

Good to know

Low physical effortPets welcomePublic transport nearby

Operated by Back Bay Charters

Is this one for you?Book this charter if you're staying in Orange Beach without a car or want to skip the hassle of driving to a dock. The captain handles everything on the water, and the small group of up to six means you're not competing for sightlines with a crowd.

Traveler reviews

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Top questions

What happens if it rains?

It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund. Free cancellation up to 24 h before the start.

What wildlife might I see on the Orange Beach dolphin tour?

Dolphins, sea turtles, sharks, rays and wetland birds are all present in the waters around Orange Beach. Dolphin sightings are highly likely but not guaranteed. The captain navigates to the areas where they congregate most often.

How many people can fit on the 24-foot Cobia boat?

The boat holds a maximum of six passengers, so the group stays small and you have room to move and sight-see without crowding.

Can I choose what time of day the excursion runs?

Yes. You can book a sunrise departure, an afternoon slot or a sunset cruise, depending on what fits your schedule and what light you want to see the water in.

What's included with the private charter booking?

The USCG captain, life jackets, and all safety equipment are included. You bring your own sunscreen, towel, hat and sunglasses, and a cooler if you want to bring food or drinks.

Is there a restroom on the boat?

No restroom is available on board, so use facilities before you depart and plan your trip accordingly.