When visiting the barrier islands Mississippi will boast its true beauty before your very eyes. Reachable by the Ship Island ferry a wealth of history and activities await. Just over ten miles from the northern part of the Gulf of Mexico these Mississippi beaches lie among some of the primitive barrier islands Mississippi is proudly home to. Great swimming, shelling and relaxing await as Ship Island excursions take visitors across the waters to this ideal destination.

The Ship Island Ferry makes the round trip to the island on a 22 mile jaunt over beautiful waters where Bottle-Nosed Dolphins can often be seen surfacing near the boats along the way. In current day the nautical activity upon the water comes mostly in the form of barges, ocean freighters and shrimp boats which continue in the history of waterway transportation. One of the top attractions is Fort Massachusetts built around 1866. Guided tours are available so visitors can learn in-depth history of the fort and the events that occurred in its existence.

The Ship Island ferry operates during the spring from March31 through May 19. In the summer from May 19 through August 12 the Ship Island ferry runs from Monday through Sunday. Departure times from Gulfport are 9:00am and noon. The ferry leaves Ship Island Mississippi at both 2:30pm and 5:00pm. There are different schedules that the Ship Island ferry follows in different seasons. Spring, late summer and fall all have their own schedules so be sure to check before visiting. Tickets are between $12.00 and $22.00 for different ages and season passes are also available for a savings.

Mississippi Map

Though parts of Ship Island Mississippi incurred damage during Hurricane Katrina much of the islands have been reopened to the public. Visitors are still able to enjoy the beauty of the barrier islands Mississippi beaches and the fantastic surf along the Gulf. Make sure to pack sunscreen as there isn't much shade in the area. Ship Island has restrooms and small concession stands on the island making snacks and drinks readily available. Note that Ship Island Excursions does not allow large items to be taken to the island and no glass bottles or pets are allowed.

Ship Island Excursions only takes visitors to the biggest of the barrier islands which is West Ship Island. Once on the island visitors will find beach umbrellas an chairs available for rental. The best time to go during the summer months is during the week if possible as the weekends do see heavy crowds. The pier and boardwalk are fun to walk along and afford beautiful views of the area. If planning on heading to the gulf side of the island note that a pleasant one-third mile walk along the boardwalk has to be made to get there.

Ship Island Excursions makes visiting this pristine area convenient and easy. Since being discovered in 1699 by French explorers Ship Island Mississippi has since implemented laws that keep it protected and preserved. Ship Island Excursions commits its policy to going beyond safety and environmental laws set forth for the Gulf Islands National Seashore An intriguing mix of flora and fauna can be found about the area including a large number of migratory birds. Binoculars are great to take along for the best views.

Upon arriving back in Gulfport at the end of a great day at Ship Island be sure to check out the city and all it offers. Mississippi casinos can be found in the area offering endless entertainment options. The variety of Gulfport hotels enables visitors to find something in every price range. Gulfport is also a great place to set up a Mississippi fishing charter and the possibility of experiencing the catch of a lifetime! Make the most of your visit and explore all the possibilities available in the area to make your trip one to remember.