Set sail with Riptide Cruises and enjoy a front-row seat to the Blue Angels air show at Fort McRee. Experience scenic boat rides, historic sights, and high-speed aerial displays—all in one unforgettable day.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
Hang tight — photos are loading
This usually takes just a second.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
2–3 hours
Fitness Level
No special fitness required—suitable for all ages
Wildlife
History
Fort McRee was part of the coastal defense system established in the early 1800s, playing a strategic role in maritime history.
Conservation
Riptide Cruises follows eco-friendly practices, including waste reduction and respectful wildlife viewing to preserve the natural beauty of the Gulf.
Riptide Cruises
Set sail with Riptide Cruises and enjoy a front-row seat to the Blue Angels air show at Fort McRee. Experience scenic boat rides, historic sights, and high-speed aerial displays—all in one unforgettable day.
Riptide Cruises operates out of Orange Beach, Alabama, offering a selection of private and customizable boat experiences on the Gulf Coast. The company provides seven distinct trips designed for groups, families, and event guests: Blue Angels November Homecoming Air Show, Blue Angels Practice, Custom Cruise, Sunset Cruise, Beach Bar Hop, Island Party, and Dolphin Cruise. Each trip departs from Orange Beach and visits local highlights such as Fort McRee, Perdido Key, nearby islands, sandbars, and coastal bars like Flora Bama Yacht Club and Pirates Cove.
Riptide Cruises emphasizes tailored itineraries. The Custom Cruise and private Dolphin Cruise allow guests to choose activities like island exploring, sandbar lounging, bar hopping, and wildlife viewing. The Dolphin Cruise focuses on wildlife encounters, with opportunities to see dolphins, pelicans, and bald eagles, and includes conservation and education elements described in the trip summary. Blue Angels experiences anchor at Fort McRee for practice sessions and for the November homecoming air show, providing close waterfront viewing of aerial maneuvers.
For social celebrations and local culture, the Beach Bar Hop and Island Party trips spotlight signature drinks, waterfront restaurants, and community gatherings while cruising between popular spots. The Sunset Cruise offers a relaxed option for scenic evening views.
All descriptions are based on published trip summaries. Prospective guests should review specific trip details, availability, and booking policies before reserving. Prospective guests should contact Riptide Cruises for booking policies, safety details, group size limits, and pricing information, and to confirm trip-specific itinerary and customization options before departure today.
Home Port
Orange Beach, AL
Departure point for all cruises
Tours Offered
7 Tours
Blue Angels, dolphin, sunset and more
Private Charters
Available
Custom cruises and private bookings
Event Cruises
Blue Angels Events
Practice and homecoming show cruises
Book a private cruise from Orange Beach, AL for Blue Angels viewing, dolphin tours, sunset cruises, or a fully customized day on the water. Check availability and reserve today.
Arrive early for prime viewing
Get to the dock at least 30 minutes before departure to secure the best spot on the boat.
Wear sun protection
Apply sunscreen, wear hats, and bring sunglasses—water and sun exposure can be intense.
Bring binoculars for details
Enhance your view of the jets and watercraft with a good pair of binoculars.
Check weather conditions
Be aware of weather updates to ensure a safe and comfortable trip.
Sunscreen
Protect your skin from strong sun exposure during the cruise.
summer
Hat and sunglasses
Shield yourself from the sun and glare on the water.
summer
Waterproof camera
Capture breathtaking moments of the air show and scenic views.
Light jacket or cover-up
Prepare for potential breeze or cooler temperatures after dark.