2 HR Savannah Riverboat Dinner Cruise with Onboard Entertainment

Savannah Riverboat Dinner Cruise with Onboard Entertainment: A Detailed Look

If you’re exploring Savannah and want to take in the city from a different vantage point, a 2-hour riverboat dinner cruise might just be on your list. While I haven’t personally been on this exact cruise, I’ve gone through the reviews, details, and what it offers to help you decide if it’s worth your time and money.

What I like about this experience? First, the views of Savannah’s skyline and landmarks like the Talmadge Memorial Bridge are genuinely beautiful, especially at sunset. Second, the dinner buffet offers a variety of options, including favorites like shrimp & grits and carving stations, which tend to satisfy most appetites. On the flip side, a potential snag is the mixed reviews on service quality and food consistency—some found the experience charming, others less so.

This cruise is probably best suited for travelers who want a leisurely, scenic evening—whether you’re celebrating, looking for a romantic outing, or just want a break from walking around. Just keep in mind that it’s not ideal if you’re expecting a perfectly polished service or gourmet experience; it’s more about the atmosphere and the views.

Key Points

• Scenic views of Savannah’s skyline and Talmadge Memorial Bridge make this a visually appealing experience.
• Varied buffet dinner with options like shrimp & grits and carved meats generally satisfies most guests.
• Onboard entertainment includes live music and a dance floor, adding to the relaxed vibe.
• Group size can go up to 999 travelers, so it’s a popular choice, but that can sometimes mean less intimacy.
• No dress code and no walking required make it accessible, but parking in downtown Savannah can be tricky.
• Reviews are mixed, with some raving about the atmosphere and others pointing out service issues and food quality concerns.

The Itinerary Breakdown

The tour begins at the Riverboat Ticket Office on 9 E River St, which is pretty central and easy to find. The boat itself is decorated in the traditional red, white, and blue style—think old-time elegance on water. The cruise is unguided, so while you enjoy your meal and views, there’s no narration about the landmarks you pass. However, the main scenic highlights include a cruise along the Savannah River with views of the waterfront, including the iconic Talmadge Memorial Bridge.

You’ll cruise past a broad waterfront promenade lined with shops, cafes, and entertainment venues—perfect for snapping photos or just soaking in the atmosphere. The boat’s climate-controlled, glass-enclosed deck offers panoramic water views, and the open-air patio is perfect if you want fresh air or want to dance under the stars.

What You’ll Experience During the Cruise

The main event is the buffet dinner, served in a clockwise rotation around the tables, allowing everyone to get their fill at their leisure. The menu includes options like catch of the day, shrimp & grits, and a carving station. Some reviews mention that food quality is hit or miss—while many find it tasty and plentiful, others describe it as average or not particularly hot or fresh.

The entertainment is lively but not overwhelming. There’s a dance floor and live music that encourage guests to move around if they wish. One reviewer remarked, “The music was okay,” but enjoyed sitting outside with their partner—an ideal setting if you’re after a relaxed, romantic vibe rather than a wild party.

Service and Atmosphere

Reviews are quite divided here. Some guests rave about the friendly, welcoming staff and the overall atmosphere, calling it beautifully made and relaxing. One person mentioned: “The waiters are so friendly and welcoming.”

Others, however, had less positive experiences, citing rude or inattentive servers, long waits for food, or disorganized seating. One reviewer humorously recounted their frustration with seating arrangements and service mishaps, emphasizing that the experience can vary quite a bit depending on who’s serving.

The boat itself is accessible on the main deck, which is good news for travelers with mobility issues, although restrooms are not wheelchair accessible. No strict dress code is enforced, so casual attire is perfectly fine.

Food and Beverage

The buffet offers a decent variety, including seafood, carved meats, and typical Southern fare like shrimp & grits. It’s buffet style, so you can go back for seconds if you’re hungry. The price—about $92.52 per person—pays for the scenic water views, entertainment, and the buffet, but reviews suggest the food quality varies, and some find it overpriced for what they received.

A cash bar is available, with drinks ranging from soft beverages to alcohol, but remember, the minimum drinking age is 21. One positive note from reviews is that many guests enjoyed the drinks and found the bar service friendly.

The Views and the Atmosphere

What makes this cruise worthwhile, in our opinion, are the scenic views. Watching the sunset over Savannah while sipping a drink or dancing on deck is a pretty memorable experience. Several reviews describe the atmosphere as “welcoming,” “beautiful,” and “relaxing,” with some noting the live entertainment adds a lively touch.

However, some reviewers pointed out that the atmosphere can feel less polished—service can be inconsistent, and food sometimes lacks freshness. Still, if you’re after a peaceful evening on the water with lovely views and a lively but not over-the-top vibe, this cruise can deliver.

Practical Tips

• Arrive early, especially if you’re driving and need parking—it’s wise to budget an extra 30-60 minutes.
• Dress casually—no dress code, but comfortable attire is best.
• Consider your expectations—reviews suggest that service quality and food consistency can vary, so manage expectations accordingly.
• Bring your camera for the sunset and skyline views—these moments are genuinely photogenic.
• If you’re looking for a romantic experience, this cruise offers plenty of photo ops and a relaxed setting.
• Be aware that the cruise does not include hotel pickup and drop-off, so plan your transportation accordingly.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This cruise appeals most to those who enjoy scenic water views and a relaxed atmosphere. It’s a decent option if you’re celebrating a special occasion, want a romantic night out, or simply wish to see Savannah from the water without much walking.

However, if you’re expecting top-tier service, gourmet food, or an intimate experience, you might find this cruise falling short. It’s more about the combination of scenic views, entertainment, and Southern hospitality—with all the quirks that come with a popular, crowd-packed tour.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there a dress code for the cruise?
No, there’s no dress code. Casual attire is perfectly fine; dress comfortably and enjoy the evening.

Does the cruise include hotel pickup?
No, hotel pickup is not included. You’ll need to meet at the Riverboat Ticket Office at 9 E River St.

What’s the duration of the cruise?
It lasts approximately 2 hours, which is a good length for a relaxed evening without feeling rushed.

Can I bring children?
While the reviews don’t specify, this type of activity typically suits adults and older children who can enjoy the scenery and onboard entertainment.

Is there a dress code or specific attire recommended?
No formal dress code exists, so casual wear is most appropriate.

What is the price, and is it good value?
At around $92.52 per person, it’s a moderate price for a scenic dinner cruise with entertainment, but some reviews suggest the food and service may not always match expectations.

Is there alcohol available onboard?
Yes, a cash bar is available, with alcoholic beverages for purchase (minimum drinking age is 21).

Are there accessibility options?
The main deck is handicapped accessible, but restrooms are not.

What should I expect from the food?
A buffet with a variety of Southern staples, but food quality can vary from good to mediocre based on reviews.

What’s the best time to go?
The cruise starts at 7:00 pm, so late afternoon or early evening is perfect for catching sunset views and enjoying the whole experience.

To sum it up, the Savannah Riverboat Dinner Cruise offers a scenic, laid-back way to see the city from the water. It suits travelers seeking a relaxed, social atmosphere with good views and decent food. Just keep in mind that experiences can vary—some find it charming and romantic, while others notice service hiccups and inconsistent quality. It’s best enjoyed with relaxed expectations and an open mind, especially if you’re craving a peaceful evening on the water rather than a Michelin-star dining experience.