Adventure brief
Jubilee at The Grand - Private Cruise
Set sail on Mobile Bay aboard the Jubilee, a cozy 22-foot Duffy boat perfect for families and small groups. Relax with picnics and cocktails as you take in panoramic coastal views.
Fairhope, Alabama, sits along the shores of Mobile Bay, where salt-kissed breezes and shimmering waters create a perfect setting for a relaxed waterborne adventure. Eastern Shore Charter offers a signature way to experience this maritime landscape with their private cruise aboard the Jubilee, a 22-foot Bay Island Duffy boat designed for intimate groups of up to six people. This quiet, electric-powered vessel allows a leisurely glide across the bay, offering unobstructed 360-degree views of one of Alabama’s most scenic coastal waterways.
Mobile Bay is well known for its vibrant ecology, where blue herons stalk wetlands and dolphins often breach near shorelines. The cruise routes take you close to these glimpses of wildlife, along with stunning views of the bay’s open water and the lush greenery that edges the horizon. As the boat moves gently through the water, guests enjoy ample seating and tables perfectly suited for picnics, cocktails, or charcuterie spreads—making it an ideal outing for families, couples, or small groups looking for a calm, scenic escape.
Eastern Shore Charter stands out in the region for its focus on comfort and safety, especially for families with children. The company provides child-sized life jackets and engaging activity booklets to keep younger guests entertained and secure throughout the 1.5-hour journey. Captained by a licensed USCG operator, the cruise balances relaxation with expert local knowledge, highlighting both natural beauty and coastal culture.
This private experience invites travelers to unwind while soaking in panoramic views of Mobile Bay’s gentle tides, coastal birds, and maritime charm. For those seeking a water-based adventure without the rush of larger boats or crowds, Eastern Shore Charter’s Jubilee cruise offers a memorable way to savor Alabama’s Gulf Coast with ease and style.
Adventure tips
Plan your experience.
Curated tips for an optimal adventure.
- 01Bring a windbreaker or light jacketinfo
Even on warm days, breezes over Mobile Bay can be cool when the boat is moving.
- 02Notify if traveling with kidsessential
Eastern Shore Charter provides child life jackets and activity booklets for safety and entertainment.
- 03Arrive early for boardinginfo
Allow extra time to get settled and enjoy the pre-cruise views along Scenic Hwy 98.
- 04Limit alcohol consumptionwarning
Moderate drinking helps maintain safety aboard this smaller, intimate boat setup.
Recommended gear
What to bring.
Sunscreen
Protect your skin from sun exposure during open-water cruising.
summer|nullEssentialHat and sunglasses
Keep glare at bay and shade your face while cruising across reflective water.
spring|summer|fall|nullEssentialLight windbreaker
Layers help guard against cooling breezes on the bay, especially toward evening.
spring|fall|winter|nullEssentialReusable water bottle
Stay hydrated during the cruise, especially on warm days.
EssentialLocal insights
Context for the journey.
Nearby secrets
Dauphin Island Bird Sanctuary, a short drive for vibrant birdwatching, Silverhill Rail Trail, offering scenic biking nearby Fairhope
Local fauna
Bottlenose dolphins often seen nearshore, Great blue herons and egrets common in marsh areas
Historic heritage
Mobile Bay was a strategic battleground during the Civil War and remains a vital corridor for commerce and recreation.
Mindful exploration
Efforts to protect Mobile Bay’s water quality and wetlands support the diverse wildlife visitors enjoy on these cruises.
Photography tips
Capture the moments
- Viewpoints
- Aboard the boat for panoramic bay shots, Nearby piers along Scenic Hwy 98, Mobile Bay shoreline vistas
- Subjects
- Water reflections, Local bird species, Sunset silhouettes
- Best times
- Golden hour, Sunset, Early morning
Frequently asked questions
Before you go.
Are children allowed on the Jubilee cruises?
Yes, children are welcome with required life jackets and fun activity booklets provided for under 12.
Can I bring my own food and drinks on board?
Guests are encouraged to bring picnics and cocktails to enjoy on the boat’s picnic tables.
Is there a restroom on the boat?
The Jubilee does not have onboard restrooms; facilities are available at the departure point.
What safety measures are in place during the cruise?
The boat is operated by a USCG-licensed captain, with life jackets provided and safety briefings before departure.
What happens in case of bad weather?
Tours may be rescheduled or canceled due to unsafe weather; guests will be notified in advance.
Where exactly does the cruise depart from?
Departures are from 17855 Scenic Hwy 98, Fairhope, AL 36532, near The Grand hotel.