We have some exciting news to share: Sail Wild Hearts has been recognized in the 2026 USA Today 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards for Best Boat Tour. It’s one of the most recognized travel accolades in the country, determined entirely by real readers (and travelers!) casting their votes.

We’re incredibly grateful to everyone who voted, sailed with us, shared their photos, and made Wild Hearts part of their vacation memories. While we’re honored by the recognition, the real reward has always been seeing families step off the boat with sun-kissed smiles and stories they’ll be talking about for years.

So, why do people love sailing with Wild Hearts? We have a few theories.

What Makes Sail Wild Hearts Different?

Winning a national award is exciting, but we think the best endorsement comes from the guests who sail with us every season. Here are just a few of the reasons families return to Wild Hearts year after year.

A Boat Built for Comfort

Let’s be honest: spending several hours on the water is a lot more enjoyable when you’re comfortable.

Wild Hearts is a spacious 53-foot catamaran with plenty of room to spread out, relax, and enjoy the ride. She has a custom mast (for getting through The Pass) and a wide 30-foot beam that keeps things smooth and steady on the waves.  Guests have access to onboard restrooms, a shaded cabin when they need a break from the sun, and a snack bar stocked with refreshments and light bites.

Because adventures are more fun when nobody is asking, “How much longer until we’re back?”

Unique Amenities Make a Splash

If you thought cruising in comfort was all Wild Hearts brings to the dock, think again. Our catamaran features some unique amenities that turn a good boat day into a one-of-a-kind Orange Beach adventure.

Stretch out in the hammock on deck for a little more rock in your ride. When we arrive at the island, our dropdown stairs offer an easy way to step offboard and onto the sand. We also have two onboard swings that are perfect for snapping a pic and enjoying some shade.

It’s More Than a Boat Ride

Anyone can take a boat ride. Sail Wild Hearts was built to be an adventure.

Our Orange Beach dolphin cruises combine sailing, wildlife encounters, swimming, island exploration, and plenty of opportunities to simply kick back and enjoy the view. Every trip offers something a little different, which is part of the fun.

Kids love the swings, opportunities to spot dolphins, and the chance to jump in the water during select cruises. Parents appreciate the extra space, comfortable seating, and laid-back atmosphere that makes it easy for everyone to enjoy the day together.

The Crew Makes the Difference

Ask our guests what they remember most, and chances are Captain Zach and Deckhand Brittney will come up pretty quickly.

Captain Zach knows these waters like the back of his hand, and Brittney keeps things running smoothly from bow to stern. Then there’s Grace, our resident mermaid guide, who has a gift for turning even the shyest sailors into wide-eyed believers.

Their local knowledge, enthusiasm, and ability to make every guest feel welcome help turn a great day on the water into a memorable experience. Whether they’re sharing stories about the area, pointing out dolphins, or helping kids feel comfortable aboard, they’re a big part of the Wild Hearts experience.

Wildlife Is Always on the Guest List

Our local wildlife residents love to put on a show when Wild Hearts is on the waves. Guests regularly spot dolphins, pelicans, rays, and other local wildlife throughout the season. Some of our sails include catch-and-release fishing, and there are plenty of fish, crabs, and jellies at our sandbar islands. One of the best things about exploring the waters around Orange Beach and Gulf Shores is never knowing exactly what you’ll see!

There’s Something for Every Kind of Explorer

Not every family vacations the same way, which is why we offer several different Orange Beach dolphin cruise experiences:

• Orange Beach dolphin cruises for families and wildlife lovers
• Family Adventure Sails for fun on the water
• Kayak Adventure Sails to Robinson Island for sun and snorkeling
• Dolphins & Angels Cruises featuring the famous Blue Angels aerial shows
• Sunset Sails for those picture-perfect Gulf Coast evenings

Whether you’re traveling with young kids, teenagers, grandparents, or a group of friends, there’s a dolphin cruise designed with you in mind.

Don’t have good sea legs? Our sister company, Parasail Sky Surfer, was voted Best Parasailing Tour and would love to help you soar the skies.

Thank You for Helping Us Sail to the Top

Awards are wonderful, but what means the most to us is being part of your vacation traditions, family photos, and favorite Gulf Coast memories.

To everyone who voted, thank you for helping Sail Wild Hearts earn this recognition. And if you haven’t joined us aboard yet, we’d love to show you why readers across the country named us one of America’s best boat tours.