Hilton Head to Savannah Round-Trip Ferry Ticket

Cruising from Hilton Head to Savannah: A Practical Day Trip Worth Considering

If you’re exploring the South Carolina coast and looking for a way to enjoy Savannah without the headache of driving or parking, the Hilton Head to Savannah Round-Trip Ferry Ticket offers a compelling option. We haven’t personally taken this trip, but based on reviews and the details available, it looks like a smooth, scenic way to experience two beautiful spots in one go.

What we like most about this experience is how it combines the ease of a boat ride with the chance to explore Savannah on your own time—no stress about traffic or parking. Plus, the views along the Intracoastal Waterway are a big highlight, offering a different perspective from traditional land-based tours. However, a potential downside is the limited time in Savannah, which might leave some wanting more.

This ferry is best suited for travelers who appreciate a relaxed vibe, scenic water views, and easy logistics. It’s particularly handy if you want to avoid the chaos of driving, but still want to see Savannah’s charm for a few hours.

Key Points

• Scenic Waterway Views: Enjoy a leisurely cruise on the Intracoastal Waterway, with chances to spot dolphins and other wildlife.
• Convenient Downtown Access: Skip parking hassles in Savannah by docking right downtown.
• Flexible Exploration: You get around four hours in Savannah to shop, dine, or take a trolley tour.
• Comfortable Ride Options: Sit inside in air-conditioned comfort or enjoy the open-air upper deck.
• Good Value for Money: At around $85 per person, it’s an affordable way to see Savannah with included transportation.
• Mixed Reviews on Comfort: Some travelers find the seating a bit uncomfortable, especially on hot days, which is worth considering.

An In-Depth Look at the Hilton Head to Savannah Ferry Experience

The Booking and Pricing

For around $84.75 per person, this round-trip ferry offers an accessible way to visit Savannah without the hassle of driving or parking. Booking about 22 days in advance is common, so it’s wise to plan ahead if you want to secure a spot, especially during peak seasons.

The ticket includes the ferry ride itself, with the opportunity to purchase drinks and snacks onboard (at your own expense). Its pricing seems reasonable considering the convenience and the scenic nature of the trip. When we compare the value, it’s not just about the cost but the experience of avoiding traffic and parking in Savannah, which can be a significant headache.

The Departure Point and Timing

The ferry departs from Lighthouse Road on Hilton Head Island at 9:00 am. The meeting process seems straightforward and organized, with a large vessel called the Spirit of Harbour Town. The boat makes a quick run at a speed of 23 knots, making the ride both swift and stable.

Travelers should arrive a little early to check in, especially during busier months, to ensure a smooth boarding process. The group size caps at 148 passengers, so it’s a fairly social but not overcrowded experience.

The Ferry Ride: What to Expect

Once aboard, you can choose between the air-conditioned lower cabin and the open-air upper deck. The open deck is perfect if you want to soak in the views, but keep in mind that it can get chilly or windy, especially if the weather isn’t cooperating. The boat features a full bar, where you can purchase drinks—though this is an extra expense.

Reviews indicate that the views are genuinely impressive, with travelers spotting dolphins and jellyfish along the way. The ride offers a chance to relax, enjoy the breeze, and take photos of the waterway and passing boats. Some reviews mention that the crew is friendly and helpful, which adds to the overall comfort.

The Savannah Stop: What You Can Do

Once docked in Savannah, you’re granted about four hours to explore. This is enough time to walk around the historic district, visit the city squares, or grab lunch at a local spot. Many travelers take advantage of discounted trolley tickets, which make sightseeing more efficient and fun.

The reviews highlight that Savannah’s charming architecture and lush gardens make a great backdrop for a quick visit. “Fun relaxing way to travel to Savannah with unique views,” one review states. Others appreciated how the ferry made visiting Savannah so easy, especially when parking and traffic could otherwise be a hassle.

The Return Trip: What to Keep in Mind

The boat departs Savannah in the late afternoon, giving you ample time to enjoy your explorations. The return ride back to Hilton Head is typically just as scenic, with some reviews noting interesting experiences like hitting logs in the water which caused the boat to tilt—something to be mindful of if you’re sensitive to sudden movements.

Many travelers mention that the ride back was smooth, although a few noted it could be chilly or windy, so dressing warmly is recommended. The ferry crew generally remains friendly and accommodating, even when dealing with minor bumps along the way.

The Review Highlights and Common Criticisms

Most reviews are quite positive, praising the scenic views, friendly crew, and the convenience of the trip. “Great scenery, comfortable ferry, and nice bar,” one reviewer notes. Others emphasize how relaxing the ride was, especially when dolphin sightings occurred, adding a touch of magic to the journey.

That said, some travelers found the seating uncomfortable, especially on very hot days when the open deck becomes less ideal. A few reviews mention the boat slowing down or hitting logs in the water, which slightly impacted their experience. The onboard snack selection also received some criticism for being limited, but that’s understandable given the focus of the trip.

Is This Experience Worth It?

Considering the price, views, and convenience, this ferry trip provides solid value for travelers wanting to see Savannah without the stress of city driving or parking. It’s a good choice if your main goal is to enjoy a relaxing waterway cruise combined with a couple of hours to explore Savannah at your own pace.

However, if you’re seeking a full day of sightseeing or a more immersive tour, you might find the four hours in Savannah a bit brief. Also, if comfort is a priority and you’re sensitive to wind or seating quality, you might want to prepare accordingly.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This trip is well-suited for relaxed travelers who value scenic views and a hassle-free visit to Savannah. It’s perfect if you want to avoid the parking and traffic headache, especially during busy seasons. Nature lovers will appreciate dolphin sightings and the waterway scenery, while those wanting a laid-back day will find it relaxing.

It’s also a good fit for people who enjoy cruise-style experiences, are okay with limited time ashore, and appreciate friendly crew service. Not ideal if you’re looking for a long, in-depth tour or have mobility challenges, as walking around Savannah requires some effort, and the boat ride can be windy or gusty.

FAQs

Is the ferry suitable for kids?
Yes, the ferry can be enjoyed by families, but keep in mind that the open-air deck might be windy or chilly, especially for young children. The trip is generally relaxed, but you might want to bring jackets for little ones.

Can I buy drinks onboard?
Yes, there is a full bar onboard where you can purchase drinks, though this is at your own expense.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel for free up to 24 hours in advance. If you cancel less than 24 hours before departure, the full amount isn’t refunded. Weather cancellations are handled flexibly, with the option to reschedule or get a full refund.

How long is the trip?
The total duration is about 8 hours, including the ferry ride and free time in Savannah. The actual sailing time is roughly a couple of hours each way.

What should I bring for the boat ride?
Dress in layers, especially if you’re sensitive to wind. Bringing a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen helps if you’re on the open deck. Consider a camera for the scenic views.

Is parking available at the departure point?
The tour departs from Lighthouse Road, which typically has parking options, but during busy times, plan to arrive early or check local parking facilities.

Can I purchase trolley tickets on the day?
Yes, discounted trolley tickets are available for purchase during the trip, which are convenient for exploring Savannah.

Final Thoughts

For those who want a relaxed, scenic way to visit Savannah, the Hilton Head to Savannah ferry is a solid pick. It combines beautiful waterway views, ease of logistics, and enough free time to get a taste of Georgia’s charming city. While the experience may lack some comfort on the seating front and the visit duration isn’t lengthy, most travelers find it a worthwhile way to enjoy both destinations in one day.

If you prefer a calm boat ride, love spotting dolphins, and want to skip the parking frustrations, this trip could be just what you need. On the other hand, if you’re craving a more immersive tour or a full day’s adventure, you might want to look at other options or extend your Savannah stay.

Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned local, this ferry trip offers a laid-back, picturesque way to enjoy the Lowcountry’s best features—something that can be hard to beat for the value and simplicity it provides.