Savannah: Riverboat Sunset Cruise

If you’re planning a trip to Savannah and want to enjoy the city from a different perspective, a riverboat sunset cruise might just be the right pick. This experience offers a chance to soak up breathtaking river views, listen to live music, and unwind as the sky lights up with sunset hues. It’s popular among visitors, and with good reason — the scenery is unbeatable, and the laid-back atmosphere makes for a relaxing outing.

What we really appreciate about this cruise is the combination of charming views and engaging entertainment — plus, it’s generally considered a solid value at $55 per person. It’s also accessible, with wheelchair-friendly facilities, and runs for about two hours, usually in the evening, which fits nicely into most travel schedules. One thing to consider: if you’re expecting a gourmet meal or all-you-can-drink options included, this isn’t that kind of cruise. Food and drinks are available for purchase, so you’ll want to budget accordingly.

This experience is well-suited for couples, groups of friends, or anyone who enjoys a mellow, scenic outing with a bit of live entertainment. It’s not necessarily geared toward families with very young children, but older kids or teens who enjoy music and boat rides could definitely get a lot out of it. If you’re into scenic views, relaxed evenings, and a touch of music, this cruise could be a highlight of your Savannah stay.

Key Points

• Scenic views: The cruise offers stunning sunset vistas and views of Savannah’s historic riverfront.
• Live music: Enjoy performances on board that add a lively, festive touch to the experience.
• Affordable experience: At $55, it’s considered good value for a two-hour scenic outing.
• Flexible setup: Multiple decks and areas for sitting or dancing give you options to relax or get a little groove on.
• Optional purchases: Food and drinks are available for purchase, giving you flexibility but also requiring some planning.
• Accessibility: The cruise is wheelchair accessible, making it inclusive for most guests.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What’s It Like on the Riverboat Sunset Cruise?

The moment you set foot on the boat, you’ll notice the inviting atmosphere that’s perfect for unwinding after a day of exploring Savannah. The boat itself is comfortable, with both covered and open-air decks, giving you options depending on your preference for weather. We loved the top deck outdoor patio, where you can lean against the rail and gaze out at the river, especially during that magical sunset hour.

The ride itself is about 2 hours long, usually scheduled in the evening, which gives plenty of time to relax and enjoy the scenery without feeling rushed. The boat departs from a dock near the Olympia Cafe and River Street Sweets, conveniently close to parking lots on River Street, Bay Street, and Bryan Street. Just remember, finding parking in downtown Savannah can take some time, so plan accordingly — especially if you’re driving.

Once underway, the views of the Savannah riverfront are genuinely impressive. The historic buildings and ships floating by create a picture-perfect backdrop, especially as the sun begins to dip. Several reviewers mentioned how beautiful the sunset was, with one describing it as “breathtaking,” and others noting the perfect timing of the captain to catch the sunset just right for photos. It’s one of those moments where you’ll want to have your camera ready.

Live Music and Atmosphere

One of the touchpoints that makes this cruise stand out is the live music. The onboard entertainment varies but generally includes a DJ or live performers that help create a lively, celebratory vibe. Many guests, including one who called it “the best sunset/party boat,” enjoyed dancing and singing along as the boat drifted along the river.

Music options seem to be diverse enough to appeal to a broad audience — from pop hits to Latin beats — and the decks offer space for both sitting quietly and dancing your heart out. Several reviews pointed out how fun it was to dance outside on the top deck, especially during the sunset, with one guest saying they enjoyed “ordering food and enjoying the views while listening to the playlist.”

However, a few noted that the playlist could be more diverse or lively, so if music is your main focus, it’s good to keep expectations in check. That said, the overall ambiance remains upbeat and friendly, and the crew does a good job keeping the atmosphere engaging.

Food, Drinks, and Onboard Amenities

While the cruise itself doesn’t include meals, there is an onboard bar and grill where you can purchase drinks — including cocktails, beers, and soft drinks — and some basic snacks like fries and hot dogs. Several reviews mentioned enjoying the drinks and that it was nice to have a bar on board, especially with multiple decks accommodating different preferences.

The reviews also highlight some minor inconveniences — for example, one guest wished there were more bartenders available, especially on busier decks. Prices for drinks are reportedly on the higher side, which is typical for boat cruises, so keep that in mind when budgeting.

Food-wise, the options are limited to snacks and quick bites, so if you’re hungry for a full meal, you might want to eat beforehand or plan to buy something on the boat. Some reviewers felt the food could be warmer or more varied, but overall, the experience was still enjoyable, especially if you’re in the mood for a casual drink and a view.

The Experience: What to Expect

The highlight of this cruise is definitely the sunset, which is timed well to give passengers incredible photo opportunities. Many reviews mention how the captain scheduled the timing perfectly, and one guest described the sunset as “beautiful,” with the city lights coming on afterward creating a stunning contrast.

You’ll likely find yourself in a relaxed mood, either sitting and chatting, taking pictures, or dancing to the music. Some guests appreciated the friendly crew and the well-organized nature of the cruise, while others noted it can get crowded, especially on the top deck during peak times.

Since the cruise is wheelchair accessible and designed to accommodate various needs, most guests find it easy to enjoy regardless of mobility. And because it’s just two hours long, it’s a manageable outing even for those with tight schedules.

A few reviews pointed out some minor inconveniences, like long lines for drinks or difficulty finding comfortable outside seating due to the crowd. Still, most guests felt it was a worthwhile experience, especially given the views and the lively atmosphere.

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Who Will Love This Cruise?

If you’re looking for a relaxing evening with beautiful scenery, good music, and a friendly vibe, this cruise ticks those boxes. It’s perfect for couples celebrating a special occasion, friends wanting a fun night out, or visitors who want a laid-back way to see Savannah from the water.

It’s also a good choice if you’re traveling on a budget but still want a memorable experience — for $55, you get a scenic cruise with entertainment and great photo ops. The open decks and live music make it a lively but comfortable environment, and it’s accessible for most guests.

Keep in mind, if you’re expecting a gourmet dinner or unlimited drinks included, this cruise isn’t that experience. Instead, it offers a beautiful setting with the option to purchase refreshments, making it more about the ambiance than an all-you-can-eat or drink extravaganza.

Final Thoughts

The Savannah Riverboat Sunset Cruise offers a solid blend of scenic beauty, entertainment, and casual fun. For about two hours, you get to unwind aboard a comfortable boat, watch the sunset over one of Georgia’s most charming cities, and enjoy some live music. It’s a straightforward, well-organized outing that consistently receives positive reviews, particularly for its views and friendly crew.

While it may not satisfy those seeking a gourmet dinner or all-inclusive experience, it remains a worthwhile choice for travelers wanting a relaxed, picturesque evening in Savannah. The price point feels fair, especially considering the quality of the views and the atmosphere you’ll enjoy.

If you’re someone who loves a good sunset, appreciates lively music, or just wants a peaceful way to see the riverfront, this cruise might become one of your favorite memories from Savannah. Just plan for some extra time to find parking, bring weather-appropriate clothing, and be ready to relax and enjoy the ride.

FAQs

Is the cruise suitable for families with children?
While the experience is generally friendly and the boat is wheelchair accessible, most reviews don’t specify family-specific amenities. Older children and teens who enjoy music and boat rides would likely have a good time, but check with the provider if you need specific accommodations.

How long does the cruise last?
About 2 hours, usually scheduled in the evening to catch the sunset.

Where do I meet the boat?
At the dock across from the ticket office of Savannah Riverboat Cruises near Olympia Cafe and River Street Sweets.

Is parking easy?
Parking is available at public lots on River Street, Bay Street, and Bryan Street, but expect some time to find a spot, especially during busy times.

Are drinks and food included?
No, they are available for purchase onboard. The boat has a bar and grill, with drinks and snacks, but prices are higher than on land.

Is the cruise accessible for wheelchair users?
Yes, the cruise is wheelchair accessible, making it more inclusive for guests with mobility needs.

What is the best time to go?
Most often in the evening, timed for sunset, typically around dusk.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the cruise offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are recommended, along with weather-appropriate clothing, as it can be breezy or cooler on the water.

Is there live music on every cruise?
It varies; some cruises feature a DJ, others have live performers. Both add to the lively, fun atmosphere.

If you’re after a peaceful, scenic, and lively way to experience Savannah’s riverfront, the Riverboat Sunset Cruise seems like a dependable choice. Just remember to plan ahead for parking, bring your camera for those sunset shots, and prepare for a relaxed, enjoyable evening.

You can check availability for your dates here: