Dauphin Island is known for boating. From sailing, to boat tours, to fishing charters, there are plenty of ways to spend a day on the water. But perhaps one of the best and most underrated ways to explore the area is by taking a trip on the Mobile Bay Ferry, part of what’s considered the “Gulf Coast’s most scenic drive.”
The Mobile Bay Ferry is one of the best things to do with kids on Dauphin Island. Below is a quick guide on getting the most out of an afternoon trip on the ferry.
About the Mobile Bay Ferry
The ferry crosses stunning Mobile Bay, AL, connecting Dauphin Island’s Fort Gaines and Fort Morgan on the mainland.
The ferry joins the SR 193 on Dauphin Island with the SR 180 at the mouth of Mobile Bay. Enjoy an about 45-minute ferry ride across the stunning Gulf waters of the bay, while taking a shortcut to the Fort Morgan peninsula.
A very scenic route, this ferry saves drivers hours of precious family vacation time and provides a fun day trip across the pond from Dauphin Island vacation rentals. Children and leashed pets are welcome on the ferry.
The ferry accepts both foot passengers, bikes, and vehicles. Standard pedestrian fees are $5. Kids under 6 are free, and bicycles are no extra charge. The pedestrian fee covers all same-day trips on the ferry. Vehicle costs start at $16, and vary depending on the size.
The ferry runs from 8 a.m. to about 7 p.m., with ferries departing every 1.5 hours. Please note that schedules can change due to daylight savings and inclement weather.
On the Dauphin Island side, the ferry address is 111 Bienville Blvd., Dauphin Island, AL. For more information and schedules, contact (251) 861-3000.
Things to Do and See via the Mobile Bay Ferry
The ferry ride across Mobile Bay alone is worth the trip. This Gulf of Mexico inlet is home to remarkable historic sites, fishing, and both fresh and salt water. Boating, kayaking, swimming, and sailing are all popular activities. A number of tours from both Dauphin Island and the mainland take visitors out to Mobile Bay sights – many of which you can see from the ferry.
Dolphins are often seen frolicking in the waters, weaving in and out of the boat wakes. Sit back and enjoy the ride, while taking in some of Southern Alabama’s most beautiful scenery and wildlife.
If you’re heading to the mainland on the ferry, chances are you’re planning to stop at Fort Morgan, an 1800s fort that protected the mouth of Mobile Bay during the Civil War. The fort is still home to some of the original cannons. The museum is open from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. daily and offers 45-minuted guided tours at 10 a.m. on Tuesdays and Thursdays.
Dauphin Island offers tons of activities, tours, and things to do with kids – enough to ensure you’ll have a family vacation full of excitement.
To take a ride on the Mobile Bay Ferry, watch dolphins play, visit Fort Morgan, and more, call us today at (251) 861-3311. We can help you choose the perfect home away from home from our Dauphin Island vacation rentals.
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