Ship Island Excursions

Among the vast waters of the Gulf of Mexico lies a true gem of Mississippi — Ship Island. This unique natural space, part of the Gulf Islands National Seashore, attracts travelers with its endless beaches of dazzling white sand and crystal-clear water. Located just 11 miles (18 kilometers) from the coast of Gulfport, this island offers the perfect escape from urban bustle into the world of pristine nature in the USA.

The island is divided into two parts, and it is on West Ship Island where the main treasures are concentrated: the historical Fort Massachusetts and well-equipped recreation areas. The journey here begins with an exciting ferry ride, during which passengers often witness the play of Atlantic bottlenose dolphins accompanying the vessel along the way.

This destination harmoniously combines educational tourism with classic beach relaxation. Here, you can touch 19th-century history by wandering through the casemates of the old fort, or simply enjoy the silence while listening to the sound of the surf on one of the best beaches in the region. Ship Island remains one of the most popular destinations for family trips and sea adventure enthusiasts.

To check ferry schedules and book tickets, you can use the official communication channels. It is recommended to verify current information before your trip, especially depending on weather conditions.

The island's main magnet is its magnificent beaches. Visitors can spend time sunbathing on the soft sand, collecting unusual seashells, or swimming in the warm waters of the Gulf. For the comfort of tourists, beach chair and umbrella rentals are available on the south shore, and a convenient boardwalk makes it easy to move between the pier and the main recreation areas.

History buffs should definitely visit Fort Massachusetts. Free tours are conducted here under the guidance of experienced rangers and volunteers who bring the past to life, sharing stories about the fort's construction and its role in coastal defense. This is a great opportunity to see the massive walls and cannons that have been preserved in excellent condition to this day.

The boat trip to the island is an adventure in itself. In addition to regular trips, the company offers dolphin watching cruises and atmospheric sunset tours with live music. On the island itself, there is a snack bar where you can grab a bite and a souvenir shop to take home a memory of this sunny place.

The journey to the island begins at the Gulfport Small Craft Harbor, located at 1040 23rd Ave. If you are arriving by car from downtown Gulfport or neighboring Biloxi, follow highway I-10 or US-90, which will lead you directly to the port where parking is available.

For those arriving by air, the trip from Gulfport-Biloxi International Airport (GPT) by taxi or rental car takes only 15–20 minutes. You can also use the Coast Transit Authority buses that run to Gulfport; however, an additional walk or a short taxi ride may be required from the bus stop to the pier.

Organizers strongly recommend arriving at the port 45–60 minutes before departure. This time is necessary for a smooth boarding process and to handle tickets, which are best booked in advance through the official website during peak season.

Ship Island received its name in 1699 from French explorers who were struck by its deep-water harbor, which was perfect for anchoring vessels. Because of this, the island became a key port for French Louisiana, earning the prestigious title of the "Plymouth Rock" of the Gulf Coast — it was the first landing site for many early colonists.

The military history of the site is equally impressive. In 1812, a massive British fleet gathered off its shores before the Battle of New Orleans. Later, during the Civil War, the island served as a base for Admiral David Farragut and the station for the 2nd Louisiana Native Guard Volunteers — one of the first African American units. The primary architectural witness of those years is the brick Fort Massachusetts, the construction of which was completed in 1868.

Interestingly, the island's modern tourism history is inextricably linked to the Skrmetta family. Nearly a hundred years ago, in 1926, Captain Peter Skrmetta began taking the first excursionists here. Since then, the Ship Island Excursions business has been passed down through generations, maintaining the traditions of hospitality and sea voyages to this historic piece of land.

To fully enjoy the island's atmosphere, it is recommended to plan for a trip of 4–6 hours. Keep in mind that the ferry journey itself takes about an hour each way, while the rest of the time can be spent exploring the fort and relaxing on the beach.

If your goal is more than just a walk but a full beach holiday with swimming and a picnic, it is better to set aside a whole day for the visit. For those choosing special themed cruises (such as music or sunset cruises), 2.5 hours in the evening is usually sufficient.

Access to the island is seasonal. Ferries operate from mid-March to early November. The spring season typically runs until mid-May, followed by the peak summer period ending in mid-August, and the fall schedule concludes the season.

Since the ferry schedule can change depending on the day of the week and weather conditions, visitors are strongly encouraged to check the current schedule on the official website before heading out. Ticket prices vary: an adult ticket costs about $30, with discounts available for children, seniors, and military personnel.

A visit to the island can be perfectly combined with exploring other interesting locations in the coastal area. The Mississippi Gulf Coast offers many options for recreation, from modern entertainment centers to quiet historical memorials.

A walk around the port area will allow you to see the city's architectural landmarks and enjoy local cuisine at restaurants overlooking the gulf.