Set sail on Alabama's Gulf Coast
From classic sloops to modern catamarans, the charter crews along Orange Beach and Gulf Shores make it easy to spend a day on the water — by sunrise, sunset or moonlight.
Sail snapshot
More than a sport
It's often said that sailing is less a sport than a lifestyle. Whether you're a seasoned sailor or ready to test the waters for the first time, the charter companies around Gulf Shores and Orange Beach make it easy to get out on the bay and Gulf. Sail out in a small private group or join a lively public cruise near our Gulf Shores rentals and Orange Beach condos.
From old-school sailboats to modern catamarans, you can charter a boat for a wedding party or a proposal, pair a cruise with a stop at a local swimming hole, or simply watch dolphins roll through the bay. However you set your course, a day under sail is one of the finest ways to see the coast.
Trip lengths, prices and schedules vary by season and captain. Confirm current rates and availability directly, and check the morning forecast — wind and water can move a departure.
Four ways to sail the coast
Captains Bo and Randy run tours to fit any mood — a Sunrise Coffee Cruise across Perdido Bay ($285), an all-day Gulf Adventure ($985), plus Moonlight Bay Cruises, a Private Sunset Getaway and a Morning Mimosa Run. The fleet features a Brewer 42 and a sloop-rigged Beneteau Oceanis 351.
5749 Bay La Launch Ave., Orange Beach, AL 36561
(251) 202-7245
The Daedalus is a custom-built, two-mast Ketch/Yawl with a rich history of racing, bay charters and ocean cruising — and a porthole set below the waterline. Choose a Dolphin Cruise, a Sunset Cruise, or shrimping and twilight trips.
5749 Bay La Launch Avenue, Orange Beach, AL 36561
(251) 987-1228
The Wild Heart is a 53-foot catamaran of strip-planked cedar, with a mast rising 72 feet and more than 1,000 square feet of sail. Book a Morning Dolphin Cruise, a Kayak Adventure or a Sunset Cruise — private and corporate outings welcome.
27200 Perdido Beach Blvd (Hwy 182), Orange Beach, AL 36561
(251) 981-6700
Aboard the Windy Ways — a 48-foot ketch with a center cockpit and covered pilot house — USCG Master Licensed Captain Skip leads crabbing, shrimping, oyster-digging and easy cruises, sharing expert knowledge of the coast's land, water and wildlife.
24231 Gulf Bay Rd, Orange Beach, AL 36561
(251) 974-5055
Match the sail to your day
Trip length, pace and scenery vary by boat and time of day. Pick the sail that fits the weather, your group and how much time you have on the water.
Start the day on calm water with a coffee cruise or a Morning Mimosa Run before the coast wakes up.
Wind down with a private sunset getaway or a moonlight bay cruise as the Gulf turns golden.
Watch for dolphins and shorebirds on a morning cruise. Sightings are common but never guaranteed — keep a respectful distance.
Charter a boat for a proposal, wedding party or corporate outing — several captains sail private groups.
Before you sail
Book ahead in peak season, arrive early, and confirm your trip directly with the captain — wind, storms and water conditions can move a schedule. Listen to the crew's safety briefing and stay seated while under sail in open water.
Bring water, sunscreen, a hat, a light layer and any motion-sickness remedy you prefer. Soft-soled shoes work best on deck, and secure hats and sunglasses on windy runs.
Sailing FAQs
No. Licensed captains handle the boat, so you can relax and enjoy the ride — or lend a hand with the sails if you'd like to learn.
Yes. Several boats offer private sunset sails, proposals, wedding parties and corporate outings — ask each captain about availability.
Yes. Captains may reschedule for wind, storms or rough water, so confirm your departure directly before heading to the marina.
Stay near the water
Choose a Gulf Shores or Orange Beach vacation rental for easy access to the marinas, beaches and the best of Alabama's Gulf Coast.
Book your stay with Brett/Robinson Vacation Rentals and experience the best of Gulf Shores and Orange Beach.
Brett/Robinson Vacation Rentals
Book directly with a locally operated team that has served the Alabama Gulf Coast for decades. From Gulf-front condos in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach to resort-style stays for families and groups, we focus on dependable property care, clear communication, and on-the-ground support—so your vacation feels easy from start to finish.
Consistent cleanliness and maintenance standards across our portfolio—so you can arrive with confidence.
A real team on the ground to assist with check-in questions, property needs, and stay support during your trip.
Local recommendations for beaches, dining, family activities, and day trips—so you can plan like a regular.
Browse seasonal offers, select last-minute savings, and longer-stay options when available—designed to help you book smart while staying close to the Gulf.