Savannah: Buffet Dinner Cruise with Live Entertainment

Savannah: Buffet Dinner Cruise with Live Entertainment — A Relaxed Evening on the Savannah River

If you’re looking for a way to wind down after sightseeing or just want to enjoy Savannah from a new perspective, the Buffet Dinner Cruise with Live Entertainment offers a relaxed, scenic, and delicious experience. While I haven’t done this particular cruise myself, reviews suggest it’s a delightful option for those wanting a blend of good food, live music, and beautiful river views all wrapped into a couple of hours.

There are a couple of things we really like about this cruise: first, the Southern-style buffet with fresh, local ingredients that’s designed to satisfy a variety of tastes, and second, the live entertainment that keeps the atmosphere lively and engaging. On the flip side, one thing to keep in mind is that the cruise operates rain or shine, which might affect your experience if weather isn’t cooperating. This cruise suits travelers who want a relaxing, scenic evening with some good eats and tunes, especially those who enjoy social settings and picturesque sunsets.

Key Points

• Relaxing Two-Hour Experience: Perfect for unwinding after busy days or sightseeing.
• Delicious Buffet: Features regional favorites like Shrimp and Grits, fresh catch, and tender meats.
• Scenic Views: Offers beautiful nighttime vistas of historic Savannah from the river.
• Live Music & Dancing: Multiple reviews praise the quality of entertainment, from bands to a DJ.
• Flexible Booking & Cancellation: Reserve in advance with a full refund if canceled 24 hours before.
• Family & Accessibility: Small group sizes and wheelchair accessibility make it inclusive, but check for specific needs.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Experience

What’s Included and How It Feels

The round-trip cruise is led by a captain and crew, ensuring a smooth ride along the Savannah River. From the moment you step on board, you’re treated to a beautifully appointed indoor setting, often described as a cozy yet elegant ballroom. It’s a comfortable spot to settle in for the evening, especially if you prefer indoor dining or need some shade or shelter.

The buffet-style dinner is central to this experience. Reviews highlight the quality and variety of the food, with mentions of shrimp and grits, beef carving stations, fresh catch of the day, and flavorful chicken dishes. One traveler noted the food was very good, praising the freshness and presentation. The menu seems designed to cater to a range of tastes, with plenty of vegetables, greens, potatoes, and other hearty regional favorites.

The Views & Atmosphere

One of the main draws here is the scenic setting. As the boat slowly glides down the river, you’ll get to see the illuminated historic buildings of Savannah, which are particularly stunning under the stars. Several guests mentioned the spectacular sunset views and how the city’s lights reflect on the water.

The top deck offers a fantastic opportunity to step outside and enjoy the cool evening breeze and unobstructed views. Many reviews recommend taking advantage of the outdoor space, especially with good weather, to really soak in the sights or just enjoy a quiet moment.

Entertainment That Keeps You Moving

Post-dinner, the live music or DJ takes center stage. Multiple reviews rave about the quality of the entertainment, mentioning bands that play a mix of music from the 50s to current hits. The music encourages dancing and adds a lively, fun vibe to the cruise. Some guests, like Tameka, even highlight special moments, such as celebrating birthdays or anniversaries, with friendly and attentive staff making the night memorable.

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Timing & Group Size

The cruise runs around two hours, with boarding at 6:00 p.m., sailing at 7:00 p.m., and returning by 9:00 p.m. It operates Sunday through Friday year-round. With a small group limit of about 10 participants, the experience feels intimate and personalized, which most guests seem to appreciate.

Practical Tips & Considerations

Parking in downtown Savannah can be a bit of a hassle, so plan to arrive early—many reviews mention giving yourself extra time for parking. The meeting point is conveniently located at 9 East River Street, with several public parking options nearby. Also, the cruise doesn’t include hotel pickup or alcohol, which you can purchase separately, so plan accordingly.

Since the cruise is rain or shine, weather could influence your comfort. If it’s cool or rainy, bring layers or a jacket. Some reviews also noted that the dining room can be quite cold, so dressing comfortably and bringing a jacket might be a good idea.

What Makes This Cruise Stand Out

What really shines on this tour are the consistent positive reviews about the food, the friendly staff, and the entertainment. Travelers like Joanne and Patricia praise the delicious food and attentive service, while others like Brittany and William mention how much they enjoyed the spectacular views and lively music. For many, it’s a highlight of their Savannah trip because it offers a relaxing yet engaging way to experience the city from the river.

The value for money seems to be recognized by most, especially considering the quality of the food and entertainment. The two-hour duration feels just right—not too short, not too long—to enjoy the scenery and still have energy for other evening plans.

Downsides & Things to Keep in Mind

While most reviews are glowing, a few mention that the food can arrive a bit cold and that the indoor dining area can be chilly. Also, because the cruise is about relaxing and entertainment, it isn’t a historical tour per se, so if you’re looking for in-depth history or a more educational experience, this might not be the best fit. Plus, if you’re traveling with very young children, consider that the entertainment is geared more toward a general adult crowd, and the atmosphere is more evening relaxation than a family activity.

Who Is This Experience Best For?

This cruise is ideal for adults and couples who want a carefree evening with good food, music, and river views in Savannah. It’s especially suited to those celebrating special occasions like birthdays or anniversaries, given the lively atmosphere and friendly staff. It also works well for travelers who prefer a casual, social setting and want to enjoy Savannah’s scenic beauty without setting aside a whole day.

If you’re a foodie, you’ll appreciate the regional menu, and if you like live music, this cruise delivers consistently high-quality entertainment. It’s not necessarily a budget activity, but many reviews suggest it’s worth the price for a memorable evening.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the cruise suitable for people with mobility issues?
Yes, the cruise is wheelchair accessible, making it easier for travelers with mobility concerns to enjoy the experience.

How long does the cruise last?
The cruise lasts about two hours, with boarding at 6:00 p.m. and returning around 9:00 p.m.

Can I buy alcohol on board?
No, alcohol isn’t included, but it is available for purchase during the cruise.

What should I bring?
Bring your passport or ID for check-in, and consider layers or a jacket since the indoor dining area can be cold. The cruise operates rain or shine, so dress accordingly.

Is there a dress code?
The experience is casual. Most guests dress comfortably, but you might want to avoid overly casual attire if you want to elevate the experience slightly.

What’s the size of the group?
It’s a small group experience, limited to about 10 people, which helps create a more intimate atmosphere.

Where do I meet for the cruise?
Meet at the Riverboat Ticket Office at 9 East River Street, near Olympia Cafe. The boat docks right across from the ticket office.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering some flexibility if your schedule shifts.

Is this experience good value?
Most reviews suggest yes, especially considering the quality of food, the scenic views, and the lively entertainment packed into just two hours. It’s a good way to enjoy Savannah’s riverfront in a relaxed setting.

Final Thoughts

If you’re aiming for a laid-back yet memorable evening in Savannah, this Buffet Dinner Cruise with Live Entertainment ticks many boxes. You’ll enjoy delicious regional food, beautiful city views, and live music that keeps the energy lively. Whether celebrating a special night or just looking to experience Savannah from a different angle, this cruise offers a balance of fun, relaxation, and good eats.

While it’s not a formal or historical tour, the combination of scenery, food, and music makes it a popular choice among visitors who want to soak in Savannah’s charm without the fuss. Just be sure to plan for parking and dress appropriately for weather, and you’re set for a lovely evening.

In the end, this experience seems best suited for couples, adults, and anyone wanting a taste of Savannah’s hospitality from the river — all in just a couple of hours. It’s a solid pick for a relaxed, enjoyable night out.

You can check availability for your dates here: