251.626.0798 

Hours : 8 a.m. - Dusk
Seven days a week, 365 days a year


Delta Explorer Cruises

Nobody knows the waters of the scenic and historic Mobile-Tensaw Delta better than the licensed captains of Historic Blakeley State Park's Delta Explorer! The park is the lower delta's longest-running boat tour operator and offers regular excursions into what is referred to by many as one of America's natural wonders. We invite you to journey with us by boat through these tranquil waterways and discover this incredibly diverse ecosystem. Here you will find a variety of wetland habitats that are home to the state's largest population of alligators, black bears, the rare red-bellied turtle, ospreys, bald eagles and numerous species of fish. Multiple guided cruises explore this stunning natural habitat along with nationally important historic sites, including locations associated with the Civil War's “Mobile Campaign,” and the modern Port of Mobile, one of the nation's busiest harbors.

Experience it all from the comfort of the Delta Explorer. The U.S. Coast Guard-licensed covered boat features bench seating and a restroom facility and is handicapped accessible.

For a listing of current cruise offerings, please click here

Charter tours leaving from the park dock are available anytime for a minimum of $800 guaranteed tickets at standard rates. Other charter tour options are available at varying rates. For more information, call the park office at 251-626-0798.

 

Our Cruise Offerings Include:

Cruises from the Blakeley Dock:



Delta Adventure Cruise

This two-hour excursion showcases the incredible beauty and natural diversity of the Mobile-Tensaw Delta. Every one of these outings takes a slightly different course and features unique opportunities to view the abundance of the delta wildlife, such as eagles, ospreys and, of course, alligators.

 

For a listing of current cruise offerings, please click here



Port of Mobile Cruise

This cruise winds through the scenic delta and down the historic Mobile River for a relaxing voyage through the Port of Mobile. Along the way on this three-hour excursion, we explore one of the nation's busiest harbors. Guests will enjoy a rare waterfront view of all the activity at the state docks and within the larger port, then return along the head of Mobile Bay.

For a listing of current cruise offerings, please click here




The Civil War on the Eastern Shore Cruise

A unique narrated voyage of discovery exploring the major battles of the Civil War's “Mobile Campaign” from the rivers along which its major actions took place! In addition to discussing the battles of Fort Blakeley and Spanish Fort, guests will learn about the numerous Confederate and Union warships which vied for control of area waterways during the Civil War's last major campaign.

 

For a listing of current cruise offerings, please click here



Battle of Fort Blakeley Cruise

This unique one-hour guided voyage cruises alongside Alabama’s largest Civil War battlefield and explores selected sites on land and water associated with it and the larger Campaign for Mobile.



Lunch Cruise

A special sightseeing cruise through one of the nation's most diverse ecosystems combined with a fabulous seafood lunch at one of the Mobile area's favorite restaurants! Times and itinerary vary; please check schedule for listings.

 

For a listing of current cruise offerings, please click here




Sunset Cruise

Experience the beauty of a glorious sunset on Mobile Bay during a relaxing excursion down the waterways of the lower Mobile-Tensaw Delta. Departing from the Blakeley dock, we’ll take a late afternoon cruise to the head of Mobile Bay and enjoy the stunning views of the setting sun and the cool bay breeze before returning upriver.

 

For a listing of current cruise offerings, please click here



Local History Cruises with John Sledge

Drawing on his many books on area history, especially The Mobile River and These Rugged Days: Alabama in the Civil War, popular local historian and park friend John Sledge guides us on spring and fall cruises exploring the historic waterways of the delta and the venerable port city of Mobile.

 

For a listing of current cruise offerings, please click here




Ghost Fleet Cruise

This two-hour excursion takes guests up the storied Tensaw River to discover the site where the famed “Ghost Fleet”—a naval reserve fleet of hundreds of vessels kept in readiness for service in the decades after WWII—were once moored. Along the way we explore the winding route of scenic and secluded McVay’s Lake, the man-made ship channel connecting the Tensaw with the Mobile River near Gravine Island, and the seldom-traveled Raft River. 



Lower Delta Tour

Lower Delta Tour Explore the forgotten southern reaches of the Mobile-Tensaw Delta on this unique two-hour adventure through a hidden natural habitat just minutes from Mobile and the communities of Eastern Shore. Departing from the Blakeley dock, we travel down the remote reaches of the scenic Raft River, through the ancient channel of Spanish River, and across picturesque Delvan Bay before heading back up the storied Tensaw.




Voyage to Bayou Canot

Remote Bayou Canot, located just off the Mobile River north of the city near Twelve Mile Island, was the scene of two of the most dramatic tragedies in regional history: the end of the cruise of the last known slave ship in American history, the Clotilda, and the derailment of Amtrak’s “Sunset Limited”. Come along with us as we venture deep into the delta to discover more about these events and their enduring significance. This two and a half hour excursion showcases the incredible beauty and natural diversity of the Mobile-Tensaw Delta as we journey to some of its most somber historic sites. 

For a listing of current cruise offerings, please click here



Cruise to the Site of the Clotilda Wreck

The last known ship to bring enslaved Africans into America, the Clotilda rests in the waters of the Mobile River north of the city. Come along with us as we explore this somber but pivotal saga in local history with national significance. This special tour to the wreck is guided by Africatown Experience Tours. It will provide information on the voyage of the Clotilda, its passengers and their lives, and the enduring legacy of that fateful voyage by telling their stories. (Offered from the Blakeley Dock and the Cooper Riverside Park Dock in Downtown Mobile)

 



Manatee Habitat Cruise (summer months only)

A partnership with the Dauphin Island Sea Lab and the Manatee Sighting Network, this cruise explores the habitat within reaches of the middle and lower Delta where rare sightings of manatees have been documented. We will learn about these gentle giants and what draws them to these waters. 

 



Historic Blakeley State Park Cruises from Five Rivers Delta Resource Center

The park also offers monthly cruises departing from the Bartram Landing Dock at Five Rivers Delta Resource Center on the Causeway (30945 Five Rivers Boulevard, Spanish Fort, Alabama 36527). Offerings vary by season. Please check our events page for a listing of scheduled cruises.
 

Summer and Winter Sunset Cruises
Mobile Bay is famous for its beautiful sunsets. Come along on a brief (one hour) relaxing voyage as we experience nature's splendor! You'll have plenty of time to grab a seafood dinner on the Causeway before or after the cruise!

 For a listing of current cruise offerings, please click here

 

Mobile Bay and the Eastern Shore Cruise​Experience a unique look at beautiful Mobile Bay and the scenic Eastern Shore on this relaxing three-hour voyage past the charming waterside towns of Spanish Fort, Daphne, Montrose, and Fairhope and on to the historic Middle Bay Lighthouse.

 

For a listing of current cruise offerings, please click here

 
 

Delta Discovery Tour
This 90-minute excursion into the wild and scenic lower reaches of the Mobile-Tensaw Delta—known as the "American Amazon”—introduces visitors and residents alike to a truly astounding natural habitat.

 

For a listing of current cruise offerings, please click here

 

Sunset Dinner Cruise (Three Hour)
Take in a beautiful Mobile Bay sunset before cruising to a Causeway restaurant for a delicious seafood dinner. Meal included in ticket price.

 

For a listing of current cruise offerings, please click here

 

Animal Ambassadors (90 minutes)
Join us for this special cruise into the wild and scenic Delta including a special presentation featuring live educational animals.

 

For a listing of current cruise offerings, please click here

 

Birding Cruise (90 minutes)
Come along with birding enthusiasts from throughout the Gulf Coast region as we explore one of the richest bird habitats in the nation! A knowledgeable guide will help guide us in identification of the numerous species found in the lower Mobile-Tensaw Delta.

 

For a listing of current cruise offerings, please click here

 

Introduction to Outdoor Photography Cruise (90 Minutes)
Come along with an accomplished veteran photographer on this 90-minute cruise as we explore one of nature’s most picturesque backdrops. Bring a camera and learn techniques and tips for producing stunning photos, or just relax and enjoy the scenery as we explore the scenic Delta.

 

For a listing of current cruise offerings, please click here

 

Secret Delta Tour (Two and a Half Hours)
This tour explores some of the forgotten southern reaches of the Mobile-Tensaw Delta that lie hidden just minutes from Mobile and the communities of Eastern Shore. We travel up the Tensaw, down the remote reaches of the scenic Raft River, through the ancient channel of Spanish River before venturing across picturesque Delvan Bay. Enjoy scenic views of Mobile Bay as we make our way back to the Five Rivers dock.

 

For a listing of current cruise offerings, please click here

 

The Revolutionary War on Mobile Bay (Three Hours)
Relatively few people are aware that the Mobile Bay area’s rich history includes a direct connection to our nation’s founding era. On this one-of-a-kind historical journey through the currents of local history, we explore this region’s heritage as part of a British colony in the 1700s. The adventures take us past the sites of pivotal battles on both sides of the bay waged between Spanish and British forces during the Revolutionary War.

 

For a listing of current cruise offerings, please click here

 

Tensaw Journey (Three Hours)
This three-hour excursion takes guests up the storied Tensaw River to discover its incredible history and natural habitat. A highlight of the cruise is a stop at the site where the famed “Ghost Fleet”—a naval reserve fleet of hundreds of vessels kept in readiness for service in the decades after WWII—were once moored.

 

For a listing of current cruise offerings, please click here

 

Voyage to Twelve Mile Island (Three Hour)
Come along as we journey up to remote Twelve Mile Island, a scenic area that is locally remembered as the site of two of the most dramatic and somber tragedies in regional history: the derailment of Amtrak’s “Sunset Limited” in 1993 and the last documented importation of African slaves into the United States in 1860 aboard the Clotilda.

 

For a listing of current cruise offerings, please click here

 

Mid-Day Mobile Bay Cruise
Experience a unique look at beautiful Mobile Bay and the scenic Eastern Shore on this relaxing three-hour voyage past the charming waterside towns of Spanish Fort, Daphne, Montrose, and Fairhope and on to the historic Middle Bay Lighthouse. Optional boxed lunch for an additional fee; soft drinks and water provided

 

For a listing of current cruise offerings, please click here

 

Mid-Day Delta Cruise (summer months only)
This two-hour excursion showcases the incredible beauty and natural diversity of the waterways of the Mobile-Tensaw Delta. Traversing local rivers, creeks, and bays, these outings feature unique opportunities to view the abundance of delta wildlife, such as eagles, ospreys and, of course, alligators. Optional boxed lunch for an additional fee; soft drinks and water provided.

 

For a listing of current cruise offerings, please click here

 

One Hour Delta Cruises
These one-hour excursions into the lower Delta are offered during several special events at the Five Rivers Delta Resource Center

 

For a listing of current cruise offerings, please click here

 

Gator Cruise (summer months only)
Join us for an evening adventure into some of the secluded reaches of the lower Delta as we look for alligators and other nocturnal Delta wildlife.

 

For a listing of current cruise offerings, please click here

 

Mobile Bay Dolphin Cruise (summer months only)
This relaxing excursion into Mobile Bay provides an opportunity for guests to explore this scenic area as we keep an eye out for some of its most famous and playful aquatic residents.

 

For a listing of current cruise offerings, please click here

 

Gaillard Island Birding Cruise (summer months only)
This artificial island in Mobile Bay was created from dredge spoils. Today it is a bird sanctuary, and is the only known nesting site in Alabama for brown pelicans.

 

For a listing of current cruise offerings, please click here

 


Cruises from Cooper Riverside Park Dock in Downtown Mobile

Cruise to the Site of the Clotilda Wreck
The last known ship to bring enslaved Africans into America, the Clotilda rests in the waters of the Mobile River north of the city. Come along with us as we explore this somber but pivotal saga in local history with national significance. This special tour to the wreck site will be guided Africatown Experience Tours. It will provide information on the voyage of the Clotilda, its passengers and their lives, and the enduring legacy of that fateful voyage by telling their stories.

For a listing of current cruise offerings, please click here

 

Mobile Harbor Sunset Cruise
This cruise provides guests a unique opportunity to explore one of the nation's busiest harbors. Guests will enjoy a rare waterfront view of all the activity at the state docks and within the larger port as they learn about both Mobile's state of the art facilities and its rich maritime heritage.

For a listing of current cruise offerings, please click here

 


Cruises from Live Oak Landing

Upper Delta Cruise
This special cruise explores the secluded regions of the vast Delta in its most natural setting. Departing from Live Oak Landing on the Tensaw River, we venture up this storied waterway, around the infamous “Devil’s Bend,” and into famed Bottle Creek before journeying down the wild Middle River and returning to the Tensaw.

For a listing of current cruise offerings, please click here

 

Excursion to the Bottle Creek Mound Complex (fall and winter only)
The stunning Bottle Creek site, accessible only by boat, features 18 earthen mounds built centuries ago by Native Americans and was once of the largest communities in the Southeast. Guests may climb the tallest of the mounds, which rises some 45 feet above the delta marsh! This cruise offered in fall and winter.

For a listing of current cruise offerings, please click here

 

Cruise to the Site of Old Mobile (fall and winter only)
This cruise winds through the scenic delta and down the historic Mobile River for a relaxing voyage through the Port of Mobile. Along the way on this three-hour excursion, we explore one of the nation's busiest harbors. Guests will enjoy a rare waterfront view of all the activity at the state docks and within the larger port, then return along the head of Mobile Bay.

For a listing of current cruise offerings, please click here

 



Cruises Offered As Part of the Annual Reenactment of the Battle of Fort Mims in Tensaw, AL in August

Voyage Into the Tensaw Country
This special excursion showcases several sites associated with the story of Fort Mims and the early American settlement of the river region, including homesteads, ferry crossings, and the Old Federal Road.

 

For a listing of current cruise offerings, please click here

 

Three Rivers Journey
Departing from the historic site of the early-1800s Mims Ferry, we explore portions of the Alabama, Tombigbee, and Mobile Rivers on a one-of-a-kind journey into this area’s past.

 

For a listing of current cruise offerings, please click here

 

Alabama River Sunset Cruise
This relaxing early evening voyage explores the scenic Alabama River. Departs from Holley Creek Landing near Fort Mims.

 

For a listing of current cruise offerings, please click here

 


 

Other special trips are offered on occasion.

Please check our events page for our current schedule!

 

 

 

 

 

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