Looking for a late summer getaway or adventure for the family? Then look no further than our very own Mississippi Gulf Coast. To experience a part of the Gulf Coast in some of its most natural, seemingly unexplored and untouched forms, you simply must take a Ship Island Cruise Excursion.
One of the five Mississippi barrier islands, Ship Island is located about 11 months south of Gulfport and is a perfect destination for the whole family. Those that love fun in the sun will have plenty of sunshine to enjoy as there is very little shade on the beach line, but there are canopies and a gift shop for those that want to take a little bit of a break from the sun.
“If you’re a beach person, then you will love it on Ship Island,” Captain Louis Skrmetta said. “There’s not too much shade so you can get all the sun that you want.”
If the heat gets a little too much for you, take a dip in the beautiful turquoise, blue, and green waves that bring gorgeous, cascading waves to the shoreline. Looking for more adventure? Try wakeboarding!
The waves are usually mild so they are perfect for young children to dip their toes in the salty sea. If you’re there to relax in the sun and the sand, grab a float and let the gentle waves rock all your troubles away. You can also get a close view of crabs, large fish, and jellyfish.
The beautiful white sandy beaches give the impression of a long-lost forgotten island. There are miles of sparkly white sands as far as they eye can see and they are a rare treat for many that have never seen such a secluded looking beach. The shores are perfect for taking a walk and searching for exquisite and unique seashells which is always one of my favorite activities on any beach.
Ship Island is unique in that you can see how the island has moved and changed throughout the years. Different ecosystems can be seen as sand bars lead you to small bodies of water or marshlands. Plus, there is a variety of wildlife that can be on the island and in the nearby waters.
The rides to and from the island are fun for everyone! Be sure to keep a watchful eye on the water for dolphin sightings. When the Captain saw a few of these beautiful, graceful bottle nosed dolphins, he pointed out exactly where they could be seen. I don’t know who was more excited to see them, the little ones or those that are young at heart. There were shouts of glee when these beautiful creatures were spotted and those that were lucky enough to sit in the “splash zone” as waves crashed over the boat to the delight of the children onboard.
For history buffs, the historic Fort Massachusetts can also be found on Ship Island. The fort was built to defend the Coastline following the War of 1812. Armed secessionists commandeered the island in 1861 and exchanged fire with the USS Massachusetts. Once recaptured by the Union troops, construction on the fort was resumed and completed in 1866. Unfortunately for right now, the fort is closed to the public due to damage from several hurricanes. Reconstruction can be seen on many parts of the island as it prepares to host even more guests in the future.
For more information on times and dates for Ship Island Excursions, check out their website at www.msshipisland.com.