Blue Dolphin Cruises

Orange Beach, AL 251-981-2774 "Come join the fun!"
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Frequently Asked Questions
 
1. What is the best time for a cruise?
Any time is the best time for a cruise! We see a number of dolphins at each cruise, so it is really a personal preference.
 
2. Do you guarantee that I will see dolphins?
Yes we do guarantee that you will see dolphins. The dolphins are wild animals who are free to move about in the bays. But, we know where they feed and play. They are out there in the bays, its just a matter of finding them and sometimes, one trip may take a little longer than others.
 
3. Can you feed the dolphins?
Absolutely not! The dolphins are wild animals and it is illegal to feed them because it takes them out of their natural habitat. The Marine Mammal Protection Act prohibits any action that causes the dolphins to alter their normal behavior. Penalties of up to $25000/day and 1 year in jail can be imposed under Federal Law for those people found guilty of feeding or harrassing dolphins.
 
4. Can  I swim with the dolphins?
Absolutely not! The Marine Mammal Protection Act prohibits any action that causes the dolphins to alter their normal behavior.
 
5. How long are your cruises?
Our cruises last for one and one-half to two hours; maybe a little more or a little less. It usually depends on how far we have to go to locate some dolphins. Sometimes we see so many dolphins we will stay out a little longer if no one on the boat has a problem with being late returning to the dock.
 
6. How much do your cruises cost?
Due to current economic conditions, our cash prices depend on what other tour operators are charging. Please call for our current price.  We add $1 per ticket for credit card purchases to cover the fees charged by the card companies.
 
7. Are reservations required?
Yes, a reservation holds your spot on the boat. We don't want to tell you on the phone that spaces are available then have you show up and the boat is full. Likewise, we dont want to book more spots than our capacity. And, if everyone arrives early we can depart without leaving anyone behind. 
 
We simply need your name, the number in your party and a phone number where we can reach you in case something changes (like the weather!). That way if we need to delay a cruise due to a short rain storm, we can call you in advance to let you know of any schedule changes. For large groups a credit card is required to hold your reservation. You can still pay with cash at the ticket office.
 
8. What should I bring with me?
Your camera and a smile! We have a snack bar with a wide variety of soft drinks, beer, wine, and snacks so there is no need to bring anything.
 
9. Where does the cruise go?
We cruise out of Ole River and head into Bayou St. John, Perdido Bay, Arnica Bay, Bay La Launch, and Wolf Bay. We do not go into the Gulf.
 
10. Where can I find more information about protecting Dolphins?
Check out this link to the Dolphin SMART initiative:
www.sanctuaries.noaa.gov/dolphinsmart/
 
We are working to organize and implement this program in the Orange Beach area to minimize the adverse impact on dolphin. We want to promote safe viewing of dolphin. Unfortunately, every year many dolphin are seriously injured by people who run their boats directly over the dolphin while chasing them or trying to get the dolphin to jump in their wake.
 
11. Where can I find more information about things to do, where to eat, etc.?  
While on board, just ask your Captain or crew. They will be happy to help you chose restaurants or other activities based on personal experience and knowledge of the area.