The Mobile Bay Ferry connects Dauphin Island to Fort Morgan with a scenic 40-minute crossing of Mobile Bay. The ferry operates year-round with seasonal schedules.
Current Schedule (2024)
⛴️ Peak Season (March 1 – October 31)
From Fort Morgan: First departure 8:00 AM, then every 90 minutes until 6:30 PM From Dauphin Island: First departure 8:45 AM, then every 90 minutes until 7:00 PM Frequency: Every 90 minutes throughout the day
⛴️ Off-Season (November 1 – February 28)
From Fort Morgan: 8:00 AM, 10:30 AM, 1:00 PM, 3:30 PM From Dauphin Island: 9:00 AM, 11:30 AM, 2:00 PM, 4:30 PM Frequency: 4 crossings daily
Closed: Thanksgiving, Christmas Day, New Year’s Day Weather: Service suspended when winds exceed 35 mph or seas exceed 6 feet
Fares and Pricing
For current fares for vehicles, passengers, and bicycles, visit the official Mobile Bay Ferry pricing page: View Current Ferry Rates →
The ferry offers various fare categories including:
- Standard automobiles (includes driver and passengers)
- Motorcycles
- Walk-on passengers
- Bicycles
- RVs and motorhomes (priced by length)
- Commercial vehicles
- Multi-trip discount passes
Discounts Available:
- Children under 6 ride free
- Senior citizen discounts with ID
- Active military discounts with valid ID
- Multi-trip passes for frequent travelers
Important Information
Payment Methods: Cash and credit cards accepted at both terminals. No reservations for standard vehicles.
Arrival Times:
- Regular days: Arrive 30 minutes before departure
- Holiday weekends: Arrive 60-90 minutes early
- RVs/Large vehicles: Call ahead for space availability
Contact Information:
- Phone: (251) 540-7787 (current operating status)
- Website: MobileBayFerry.com
- Fort Morgan Terminal: 110 Hwy 180, Gulf Shores, AL 36542
- Dauphin Island Terminal: 111 Bienville Blvd, Dauphin Island, AL 36528
What to Expect
The 40-minute crossing offers:
- Excellent dolphin watching opportunities
- Views of historic Fort Morgan and Fort Gaines
- Pelicans, seabirds, and occasional sea turtles
- Climate-controlled passenger lounges
- Restrooms on board
- Snack bar (seasonal)
Vehicle Tips:
- Turn off car alarms (motion may trigger them)
- Motorcyclists should bring tie-down straps
- Stay with your vehicle or in designated passenger areas
- No hazardous materials permitted
Planning Your Trip
Best Times to Cross:
- Early morning for calmest seas
- Sunset crossings for photography
- Weekdays to avoid crowds
- Off-season for shorter wait times
Connecting Routes:
- From Fort Morgan: Continue to Gulf Shores and Orange Beach
- From Dauphin Island: Access to Mobile via AL-193
Learn More: For the fascinating 90-year history of the Mobile Bay Ferry and detailed travel tips, read our complete guide: The Mobile Bay Ferry: A Maritime History
Note: Schedule subject to change. Always verify current operating status before travel by calling (251) 540-7787 or checking MobileBayFerry.com. Fares and schedules updated seasonally.