Unless you have access to a boat, spending a day on the water probably seems pretty far-fetched. But don’t discount the idea just yet; it’s a lot more plausible than you think. From educational cruises to unique kayaking trips, here are 8 Mississippi boat adventures you’re sure to love.

1. Hop aboard the Betsy Ann riverboat to explore the Gulf Coast like never before.

Departing from Biloxi, the coast’s newest boat tour offers the chance to go for a ride on Betsy Ann, an 85’ paddle wheeler. A great way to spend a day or evening, there are several tours to choose from, including a sightseeing tour, historical tour, and sunset dinner cruise.

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2. Spend the day in a tropical paradise after a quick boat ride to Ship Island.

The perfect place for some fun in the sun, Ship Island features pristine beaches and some of the clearest water in the state. Ship Island Excursions provides ferry service to and from the island. The tropical adventure begins at the Gulfport Small Craft Harbor, where you can buy tickets and board the ferry.

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3. Explore a lesser-known barrier island – Cat Island.

Open each year from May through the end of September, Cat Island Excursions takes guests on a "nature excursion" to Cat Island's bayou and beach. Departure time depends on the cruise you select. Choose between the Morning Tour, which leaves at 9 am, or the Sunset Cruise, which leaves at 5 pm.

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4. Head to Moss Point for a high speed adventure through some of the most beautiful swamp lands in south Mississippi.

Fulfill your inner thrill-seeker with ride on a high speed airboat at Gulf Coast Gator Ranch. Tours are offered 7 days a week, every 30 minutes, so there’s never a long wait. As you "fly" across 105 acres of unspoiled wilderness, you’ll likely spot alligators, birds, and other animals – so be sure to bring your camera. Touring the ranch is also an option and includes the opportunity to hand-feed gators!

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5. Tag along on a real shrimping expedition.

Learn about one of the Gulf Coast’s biggest industries firsthand as you board the Sailfish and head out on the 70-minute Living Marine Adventure Cruise. During the expedition, a net is used to catch "any and all sea creatures in its path." The entire catch is then identified by the captain. Have your camera handy, as you’ll get close-up views of blue crabs, flounder, stingray, squids, puffer fish, and more.

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6. Explore the cypress swamps and salt marshes of one of the nation’s longest rivers.

The Pascagoula River is home to an abundance of wildlife and over 300 species of plants - and an Eco Tour is a great way to see it all. Tour options include 2-hour, 4-hour, and all-day interpretive tours as well as overnight excursions. Perfect for nature enthusiasts, the overnight tour includes a stay in a secluded cabin along with guided kayak tours and cruises in a motor boat.

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7. Gain a whole new perspective on the city of Natchez with a kayaking tour.

Please note, Everyday Adventure is no longer in business.

Natchez is most known for its historic architecture; however, it has a lot to offer in the way of natural beauty. Luckily, Everyday Adventures’ features kayaking tours, so you can easily take in some of Natchez’s best scenery. You can even turn a kayaking trip into a unique date night by booking the company’s Sunset Kayak Tour, which is promised to be both "adventurous and relaxing."

8. Head to the "best offbeat destination" in the state for the ultimate canoeing or kayaking adventure.

Gently flowing and dotted with sandbars, waterfalls, and bluffs, the Okotoma Creek is the perfect place for some on-the-water fun. In fact, the creek’s been recognized countless times because of its incredible recreational appeal. Aside from being named the "best offbeat destination" by Best of Mississippi, it was featured in National Geographic. Check out the creek for yourself with a visit to the Okatoma Outdoor Post, which provides everything you need for a canoeing or kayaking adventure.

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So, have you ever been on any of the adventures mentioned above? Have another to add? Tell us in the comments section!

If you enjoyed this, be sure to check out "15 Epic Outdoorsy Things In Mississippi Anyone Can Do."