SPANISH FORT, Ala.—Near record-high heat in June drove some residents inside their homes but for those with summer “cabin fever” the cool breezes of the Tensaw Mobile River Delta enjoyed aboard the Blakeley State Park’s boat, the Delta Explorer, were a welcome relief, a spokesperson said.

The next eco-tour of the 47-foot covered boat is scheduled for Saturday July 11 in the cool morning hours of 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Blakeley State Park is accepting paid reservations now or visitors can take a chance on getting seating by “walking on” the morning of the tour. The last boat tour, June 27, was sold out.

The two-hour tour runs up through tree-lined backwaters of the Delta past secluded fish camps under moss-draped oaks and other trees that are habitat for osprey and other birds. Alligators are usually sighted before scurrying into the marsh or the river.

Price of tickets is $22 for adults, $12 for children 6 to 12 and free to children between 4 and 6. Seating is limited. For paid reservations using major credit cards call 251-626-5581. Charter tours are also available for groups.

The Delta Explorer is a 47-foot U.S.Coast Guard inspected pontoon boat with covered roof and sides and with a restroom. Blakeley State Park is located on Alabama Highway 225 about 4.5 miles north of its intersection with U.S. 31 at Spanish Fort.