Available languages
1 hour 30 minutes
Mobile ticket
On our one-and-a-half-hour dolphin cruise, you’ll get an up-close view of our resident dolphin pod. Between 50 and 70 dolphins reside together in our bay, and by paying close attention to them over the years, we have named many of them. We know them by their unique dorsal fins and will introduce you to our water-loving friends when you cruise with us aboard The Explorer, our 40' Pontoon Style Vessel. Dolphin sightings are guaranteed, or you next trip is free!
Perfect for families or those just wanting a Dolphin-specific cruise in Orange Beach. Our expert guides can identify many of the resident dolphins and share fun facts about their behaviors, their habitat, and their relationships within the pod.
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Public transportation options are available nearby
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
We have been able to accommodate most requests. Please call us at 251-550-8000 to discuss your needs with our staff.
Minimum of 18 pounds in order to board. Infants weighing less than 18 pounds will not be permitted to board.
Strollers are not permitted.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
All Fees and Taxes
Full-service cocktail bar available for purchase. Bring valid ID
Orange Beach
Our knowledgeable tour guide and captain point out the local flora and fauna. You may see osprey and their nests, herons, bald eagles, red-tailed hawks, and more! The Explorer allows us to get as close as safely possible to the banks and the local marine and wildlife.
2:30PM
410 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
sandykip,
Oct 26, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
I was disappointed as I was expecting information on the area to include the dolphins. With the exception of the brochure's written information, very little was mentioned. On the plus side, toward the end, the other passengers to include my family enjoyed and danced to some lively music.
Quest55868176939,
Oct 23, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
Captain Len is knowledgeable and personable. His crew Bella & Elena were so pleasant! This is only our 2nd time in Gulf Shores and we are looking forward to next year and taking another cruise on the Explorer.


Jane K,
Oct 19, 2025
- Review from Viator
Boat holds less people than other offerings, making it much less crowded and maximizing viewing opportunities. It seems like we saw the same 2 dolphins over and over again!! Our 2 year old grandson enjoyed it and we felt was very safe in the boat !
jamesnelsonh,
Oct 16, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
Awesome experience! Highly enjoyed it! Everyone was great and made the experience that much better. I highly recommend it!
L1173ZOrobertg,
Oct 10, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
The crew was excellent: Jonny, Bella, and Aileen (not sure I spelled it correctly). The ride was comfortable, saw lots of dolphins, the other passengers were pleasant. I’ve done other dolphin trips in Clearwater, FL which were enjoyable but this 2 hr trip was pleasingly relaxing.
LISAR713,
Oct 7, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
We did the dolphin cruise and were not disappointed. Saw multiple dolphins. A couple right near the docks. The crew was awesome!
Charles O,
Sep 22, 2025
- Review from Viator
Entertaining crew and very friendly. The captain knew right where to go to get the dolphins to surf the wake. Great time!
susanrP2020XQ,
Sep 21, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
This dolphin boat tour was the best The captain and the crew were amazing. We saw lots of dolphins and it was very interesting this one is highly recommended from the couple from Nebraska.
Jennifer H,
Sep 8, 2025
- Review from Viator
Not too crowded on the boat, so plenty of room to look around for dolphins. Admission price was reasonable. Staff were friendly and engaging, making everyone feel welcome. The captain of the ship was able to collaborate with a nearby boat by agreeing to help make waves that some dolphins rode behind us, which made the ride all the more worth it. It was a real treat.
Natalie D,
Sep 8, 2025
- Review from Viator
Great captain and crew! We saw dolphins right out the gate and the kids had a great time! Would totally go again
Operated by Cetacean Dolphin & Sailing Cruises