Orange Beach, Alabama, is a fantastic place for boat tours and cruises thanks to its calm waters, abundant wildlife, and stunning sunsets. The Gulf Coast’s warm climate and scenic shoreline make it perfect for relaxing on the water, especially when you can combine it with wildlife sightings or spectacular views. Whether you’re interested in a laid-back sunset cruise or a lively dolphin safari, Orange Beach offers options that deliver both memorable moments and good value. Setting sail here means you’ll likely spot dolphins, bald eagles, and maybe even catch the Alabama sunset slipping behind the waves—no binoculars required. For those craving a more social experience, full bars on board and lively music are common, making your time on the water just as fun as the sights.
If you want to choose the right trip, knowing what’s on offer is key. We’ve gathered two of the best cruises in Orange Beach to help you decide. Each offers something unique, from romantic sunsets to family-friendly wildlife encounters. Read on for our detailed reviews.
1. Orange Beach: Sunset Sailing Cruise Aboard The Cetacean
At number one, this Sunset Sailing Cruise aboard The Cetacean promises a relaxing two-hour sail across Orange Beach and Perdido Key’s waters. The cruise is renowned for its tranquil atmosphere, with guests enjoying the gentle sway of the boat as the Alabama sky shifts colors. What makes this tour stand out is the fully stocked onboard bar, where you can order a cocktail and sip it while watching the sun dip behind the horizon.
The crew is attentive and helpful, creating a friendly environment that feels more like an evening with friends than a formal tour. You’ll also have chances to see local wildlife such as dolphins and bald eagles—adding an element of adventure to the calm experience. The reviews reflect this appeal, with one guest praising the seat assignments that kept a group of ten together and complimenting the helpful crew. With a rating of 4.7/5 based on 15 reviews, it’s clear this cruise hits the right notes for many travelers.
This tour is best suited for those wanting a peaceful, scenic experience with drinks and wildlife sightings. Its value is high given the quality of the crew, the views, and the included amenities. Keep in mind, check the availability as starting times vary.
Bottom line: This cruise is ideal if you’re after a romantic, laid-back evening with good drinks, stunning sunset views, and the chance to spot dolphins.
2. Orange Beach: Dolphin & Sailing Cruise Aboard 52′ Catamaran
At number two, this Dolphin & Sailing Cruise aboard the 52′ Catamaran offers a lively daytime adventure on Wolf Bay. This tour stands out for its focus on wildlife, with dolphin sightings being highly probable. The vessel, a stable two-hull catamaran, provides a smooth ride, ideal for those prone to seasickness or simply seeking a relaxing sail without the worry of rough waters.
The cruise lasts around 1.5 hours, making it a quick but memorable outing. Adults can enjoy a selection of adult beverages while watching for playful dolphins and other local wildlife. The small number of reviews (only three) all give a perfect 5/5 rating, emphasizing the vessel’s comfort and the likelihood of seeing dolphins. Guests also appreciate the intimate nature of the tour, making it suitable for families or small groups looking for a fun, active wildlife encounter.
While the tour doesn’t include a sunset, it offers a different kind of thrill—dolphins swimming close and the chance to see the bay from a relaxing, stable platform. It’s a fantastic choice for travelers who prioritize wildlife and a relaxed atmosphere for about half the price of the sunset cruise.
Bottom line: Perfect for dolphin lovers and those seeking an energetic afternoon on the water, this tour offers excellent value and a chance to connect with nature.
How to Choose
When deciding between these two cruises in Orange Beach, consider what kind of experience you seek. If a relaxed, romantic evening with sunset views and cocktails appeals, the Sunset Sailing Cruise is the way to go. Its longer duration and scenic setting make it ideal for couples or anyone wanting a peaceful outing. On the other hand, if wildlife and active daytime fun are more your style, the Dolphin & Sailing Cruise offers a lively, wildlife-focused trip that’s especially good for families or wildlife enthusiasts.
For best results, check availability early, especially for sunset cruises that might be popular in peak season. Both tours are reasonably priced, offering good value for the experiences included. Think about your budget, preferred time of day, and whether you want to focus more on wildlife or scenery when making your choice.
Final Thoughts
Orange Beach offers diverse options for boat lovers, from serene sunset sails to energetic dolphin adventures. The Sunset Sailing Cruise is perfect if you’re looking for a romantic, scenic evening, while the Dolphin & Sailing Cruise appeals to those eager to spot dolphins during a lively daytime sail. Both tours provide memorable moments and good value, especially if booked in advance.
If you’re planning your trip, consider your interests and schedule. For a peaceful sunset experience, book early for the sunset cruise. For wildlife sightings and a shorter, more casual outing, the dolphin cruise fits well. Either way, Orange Beach’s waters promise fun, relaxation, and plenty of stories to tell.
Happy sailing!