How long is the Christmas Cruise?

The cruise lasts approximately one hour, making it a perfect short outing.

Is the cruise suitable for children?

Yes, the cruise is family-friendly and suitable for all ages.

Are the boats heated?

Yes, the Delta Explorer is heated to ensure passenger comfort during cooler weather.

Can I bring food or drinks on board?

Outside food and drinks are not allowed, but refreshments may be available during the event.

Are pets allowed on the cruise?

Pets are not permitted on the Christmas Cruises for safety and comfort reasons.

Where do I park for the cruise?

Parking is available onsite at Blakeley State Park near the launch area.

Festive Holiday Cruises on the Tensaw River at Blakeley Park | Events | Boat Tour

Experience the magic of the holiday season aboard the Delta Explorer during the Christmas Cruises event in Spanish Fort, Alabama. This unique 1-hour cruise on the Tensaw River offers an inviting blend of festive cheer, natural beauty, and local wildlife sightings that makes it a standout experience for families and outdoor enthusiasts visiting the Gulf Coast. Located in Blakeley State Park, a site rich with history and nature, the cruise showcases the river’s serene waters flanked by lush greenery and diverse bird species, creating a peaceful yet lively backdrop for this seasonal adventure. Blakeley State Park sits roughly 15 miles east of Mobile, along the eastern shore of Mobile Bay. It’s renowned for its significant role during the Civil War, as one of the last battles of the war was fought here, adding depth to the trip with a layer of historical context. The park features unique wetlands and bayous, vital to the local ecosystem and home to a wide variety of flora and fauna. The Christmas Cruises invite you to enjoy this environment from a comfortable, warm boat while a holiday program entertains with stories, music, and seasonal traditions. The Delta Explorer’s festive journey lets visitors soak up Alabama’s mild winter weather while catching glimpses of native wildlife such as herons, egrets, and maybe even an elusive river otter. The boat’s cozy interior is perfect for families of all ages, bringing together the joy of the holidays and the tranquility of nature. The Christmas program itself is designed to engage all passengers, making the event more than just a sightseeing trip—it’s a seasonal celebration on water. This cruise stands apart as a distinctive holiday option in the region, combining outdoor adventure with cultural festivity. Whether you’re a local looking to enjoy a unique Christmas outing or a traveler wanting to experience Southern charm in a natural setting, these cruises offer an accessible and memorable way to connect with the landscape and community spirit. The event schedule typically runs through December, with advanced booking recommended due to its popularity among locals and visitors alike. Blakeley State Park and its Christmas Cruises provide a perfect winter excursion, balancing nature, history, and holiday fun. This blend of a scenic river tour with festive entertainment creates a seasonal adventure that broadens the usual Christmas activities to include the great outdoors and local heritage. Pack warmly, bring a camera, and prepare to make lasting memories on the Tensaw River’s gentle currents this holiday season.

Difficulty

easy.

Duration

1 hour.

Fitness level

Suitable for all fitness levels; mostly seated on the boat with minimal walking

Wildlife

Great Blue Heron
River Otter

History

Blakeley State Park is home to the largest Civil War battlefield in Alabama, preserving a significant piece of the state's heritage.

Conservation

The cruise and park emphasize protecting the river ecosystem by limiting passenger numbers and promoting responsible wildlife watching.

Historic Blakeley State Park, located in Spanish Fort, Alabama, preserves a Civil War-era battlefield and offers a wide range of outdoor experiences centered on the Mobile‑Tensaw Delta. The park provides guided river cruises—including sunset, wildlife, and specialty cruises—educational excursions to nearby historic and archaeological sites, and a calendar of family programs such as children’s survival classes and guided ghost hunts. Visitors can choose from multiple camping options: individual and family tent sites at Harper Tent Campground, improved tent campgrounds at Bartram and Delta, small and standard RV sites at Apalachee RV Campground, horse trailer camping, and a selection of cabins with specific pet policies (Kennedy and Peters cabins allow two pets; Sibley and Hall cabins do not permit pets). Historic Blakeley State Park operates a range of specialty experiences including cruises to the site of the Clotilda wreck, excursions to the Bottle Creek Indian Mound Complex, presentations and cruises featuring historian John S. Sledge, and seasonal reenactments such as the Battle at the Village. On‑site amenities include picnic areas, restrooms and showers near camping loops, and fire rings at many campsites. The park is a destination for wildlife viewing in “America’s Amazon,” offering opportunities to spot birds, alligators, and native flora while learning local history and river ecology through guided tours and educational programming.

Base locationSpanish Fort, Alabama

Tours offered37+

Specialtyboat-charters

StewardshipLeave No Trace