The Alabama Gulf Coast's beautiful shoreline is one of its best features, so it's no surprise that dozens of cruises and boat tours sail through its waters every day.

Spending time on the water is a great way to get better acquainted with the area's natural landscape and support local small businesses. If you'd like to give it a try, here are a few boat tours and cruises that our expert real estate advisors recommend checking out around Mobile and Baldwin County.

• Beach and Bar Cruises - 22830 Brown Lane, Orange Beach, AL 36561    
  Want to have a meal or some drinks while enjoying the gentle rocking of the waves? Beach and Bar Cruises takes patrons to some of Orange Beach's best waterfront restaurants and bars, allowing them to grab a bite to eat or a round of drinks before heading out onto the open water. After this, you'll cruise around some of the most scenic locations in the area and visit some points of interest around Bird Island and Robinson Island.
  
  These cruises accommodate up to six passengers and must be booked in advance. Depending on your needs, you can choose from midday, sunset, or full-day cruises. 
  
  
• Hammock Time Tiki Tours - 28101 Perdido Beach Blvd., Orange Beach, Alabama 36561
  Sometimes, there's nothing like some time on the ocean to help you disconnect from daily life and recharge. Hammock Time Tiki Tours offers relaxing cruises on a small pontoon boat that docks near our Orange Beach homes for sale. During each trip, the boat stops at some local islands, including Bird Island, Gilchrist Island, Robinson Island, and Walker Island.
  
  Just as you'd expect, the boat features two large hammocks on deck that you can use to kick back and catch some rays. It also has a bathroom, a tiki bar, a charging station, and a set of Bluetooth speakers for your tunes. Trips last two or four hours, including cruising time and free time on the islands.  
  
  
• Sunny Lady Dolphin & Sunset Cruises - 4673 Wharf Parkway W, Orange Beach, AL 36561
  Sunny Lady Dolphin & Sunset Cruises has been operating in Orange Beach since the 1990s, and it shows. This family-friendly company knows how to ensure guests have a good time onboard. Each voyage lasts an hour and a half, taking you on a relaxed tour of the back bays around Orange Beach.  
  
  The boat can hold up to 133 passengers per trip, but it can also be booked for private events if you want to head out to sea with a larger group. Choose an evening time slot to get an unforgettable view of the Gulf Coast sunset while you're on the water!
  
  
• Orange Beach Pirate Ship Cruise – 4575 S. Wilson Blvd., Orange Beach, AL 36561
  Ahoy, mateys! The Orange Beach Pirate Ship Cruise is a must-see attraction for families with young kids. Operating out of the Hudson Marina, this cruise offers a two-hour swashbuckling adventure on the high seas in a fully wooden, recreated pirate ship. 
  
  Each trip also includes a treasure hunt to find the lost gold of Pirate's Cove. During this excursion, kids may get to participate in a mock battle with another ship and chase down a stowaway on board. It all makes for a thrilling afternoon that your kids will never forget. 
  
  
• Hudson Marina Party Boat Deep Sea Fishing - 4575 S. Wilson Blvd., Orange Beach, AL 36561
  Hudson Marina Party Boat Deep Sea Fishing offers guests the chance to get up close and personal with some of the area's most common fish species, including red snapper and greater amberjack. Each expedition lasts four to six hours and usually includes dozens of participants. 
  
  You don't have to be an expert fisherman to join these expeditions. Families are welcome, and kids can even visit the helm and take a turn steering the boat with the captain's help. The boat's crewmates will help you prepare the hook, cast your line, and reel in the fish. They can even connect you to local restaurants near our Mobile and Baldwin County homes for sale, who will cook your catch into a delicious dinner for you.

Whether on a boat or dry land, the sight of the open ocean never gets old. Why not move closer so you can enjoy it whenever you want? Contact us today to start looking for a premier property along the Alabama Gulf Coast.