Ever wondered what it’s like to be up close with the ocean’s most playful residents?
My love for our waters deepened when I saw dolphins dancing around our boat on several fishing trips.
And my son, fueled by fascination, swam with dolphins in Mexico using his saved-up money.
They’re a hit in my family, and I’m sure you will love them, too!
Now, let’s dive into the exciting world of dolphin cruises in Dauphin Island and beyond.
Note: your best bet will possibly be taking the ferry across to Gulf Shores which has more tourists and taking a dolphin cruise there.
Dolphin Tours on Dauphin Island
Let’s talk dolphin tour services.
Sure, you can parasail…
You might even catch Mardi Gras…
… but nothing beats kicking back and gliding along the water with some dolphins.
Here are your options for tour services operating out of the island.
Dauphin Island Marina
Dauphin Island Marina kicks off their dolphin tours with a super scenic route.
You’ll cruise by landmarks like Indian Shell Mounds, Goat Trees, and Fort Gaines.
Next up, a peek at the oil rigs in Mobile Bay before heading to Sand Island Lighthouse.
What’s cool is that they use a shrimp net during the cruise, which means the dolphins will follow along.
Plus, they have a touch tank on board for an up-close look at sea life.
It’s a 3-hour adventure perfect for all ages, with room for up to 40 guests.
Don’t forget your camera and gratuity for the crew!
Where: 650 Lemoyne Dr, Dauphin Island, AL 36528
Call: (251) 861-2201
FinAtics Fishing Charters
FinAtics will take your Dauphin Island experience up a notch with their boat tours.
These perfectly blend the thrill of dolphin sightings with the serene beauty of Gulf Coast sunsets.
They have a varied fleet, so whether you’re planning a couple’s escape or a family adventure, they’ve got you covered.
You get to choose from several types of tours, each offering a unique way to experience the island’s beauty.
Oh, and they know all the best fishing spots, too!
If that’s more your speed, here’s our rundown of the best Dauphin Island fishing charters.
Where: 610 Lemoyne Dr. Unit E, Dauphin Island, AL 36528
Call: (251) 265-3474
D.I. Reef Monster
D.I. Reef Monster will make your dolphin tour dreams come true.
Their captains know exactly where to find these playful creatures!
These tours are all about what YOU want to see — dolphins included, of course.
Whether you’re into breathtaking views, marine life, or historical spots, they customize the trip to your preferences.
You’ll feel like a VIP on their top-tier boats, ready to whisk you away on an adventure around Dauphin Island.
Choose from lighthouse visits, sunset trips, or beach outings — each with a high likelihood of spotting dolphins along the way.
It’s your tour, your way, with dolphins always in the mix!
Where: 133 Annadale St, Dauphin Island, AL 36528
Call: (662) 571-5785
Dolphin Tours Near Dauphin Island
While there are tons of things to do on Dauphin Island, you have many more options for dolphin tours in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach.
Getting there is part of the adventure, with the Mobile Bay Ferry providing a scenic route.
You’re even likely to spot dolphins on this ferry ride!
I’ll list down the top services from both areas below…
But you’ll want to check out our complete list of dolphin tours here.
Pure Aloha Adventures
Pure Aloha Adventures invites you on 1.5-hour dolphin cruises, perfect for all ages.
Experience wild dolphin sightings, view celebrity homes, and enjoy endless photo ops.
This is going to be a narrated, relaxing boat ride through the back bay’s calm waters.
It’s an adventure filled with learning and fun, making it a unique way to spend time on the water.
Where: 22922 Alabama’s Coastal Connection, Gulf Shores, AL 36542
Call: (251) 391-4832
Cold Mil Fleet
Cold Mil Fleet offers a range of dolphin cruises on spacious 50-foot Navy vessels.
You’ll get to enjoy sunny day cruises, magical sunset views, and even private tours for your crew.
They also have a cool Double Surf Cruise that makes waves dolphins love to play in.
Plus, they offer educational field trips that are perfect for curious kiddos.
With their expert knowledge of the sea, seeing those playful dolphins is pretty much guaranteed.
It’s the perfect mix of fun, learning, and bonding!
Where: 5749 Bay La Launch Avenue, Orange Beach, AL 36561
Call: (251) 943-3510
Cetacean Cruises
Jump on board with Cetacean Cruises on The Explorer for an up-close dolphin encounter.
Their 1.5-hour Eco Tour is all about observing these amazing creatures in their natural habitat.
More options?
The 2-hour Dolphin and Nature Cruise adds local wildlife to the mix.
If it’s privacy you’re after, their 1.5-hour private tours are just the ticket.
And don’t miss the Nature Sunset Cruise for stunning evening views!
Every trip is packed with fun facts and sights, making it ideal for families or anyone keen to see dolphins up close.
Where: 4673 Wharf Pkwy W, Orange Beach, AL 36561
Call: (251) 550-8000
Dolphins Down Under
Jump on a Dolphins Down Under cruise for an awesome glass-bottom boat adventure!
You’ll spend 1.5 hours spotting dolphins and other marine life in a super cool way.
You won’t miss a thing underwater with their clear glass panels.
Their captains keep it lively and full of interesting tidbits, too.
And for something extra special, go for their sunset cruises.
Imagine the sea life mixed with those epic coastal sunsets…
It’s a fantastic mix of fun and discovery, making it a must-try for sea lovers.
Where: 28101 Perdido Beach Blvd, Orange Beach, AL 36561
Call: (251) 968-4386
Sunny Lady Dolphin Tours
Hop aboard the “Sunny Lady” with Sunny Lady Dolphin Tours for an unforgettable journey across the Gulf Coast!
This family-run adventure ensures up-close encounters with dolphins and other sea creatures.
With room for 133 guests, safety is a top priority, and they offer competitive rates.
In fact, they conduct over 3,000 successful tours every year!
The Sunny Lady is your gateway to marine wonders, perfect for any group looking to explore the ocean’s beauty.
Where: 4673 Wharf Pkwy, Orange Beach, AL 36561
Call: (251) 589-7117
FAQs
Can you see dolphins at Dauphin Island?
Of course!
Dauphin Island is a dolphin-watching paradise.
Jump on a boat tour or cruise, and you’re pretty much guaranteed to see these playful creatures darting through the waves!
And we know you’re going to work up an appetite with all that exploring, so…
Check out our list of the best restaurants in the area.
What time of day is best for dolphin tours?
Dawn and dusk are prime times for dolphin watching, as these animals love the cooler parts of the day.
The soft light also makes it easier to spit them gliding through the water.
We suggest getting your own rental in the area, so it’s more convenient to book a tour at an ideal time.
Do you get wet on dolphin tours?
Not if you don’t want to!
You could get a few splashes, especially if you sit near the edges of the boat, but that’s all part of the fun.
It all depends on the size of the vessel.
Dolphins often swim close, leaping and playing in the wake, so those magical moments might come with a little spraying.
If you decide to stick to land activities, this list of the best RV parks near Dauphin Island might interest you.
Related Reading: Things to do in Dauphin Island – Click Here To Learn More
Final Thoughts
Checking out a dolphin tour is a fantastic idea if you’re around Dauphin Island.
We’ve talked about some great services that’ll let you get up close with dolphins.
Each one’s got something special, so you’re sure to find a tour or cruise that’s just right.
Why not give it a go?
It’s a fun way to spend a day, and trust me, hanging out with dolphins is something you’ll always remember.
