Savannah Riverboat Gospel Music Dinner Cruise

Imagine spending an evening floating along Savannah’s historic riverfront, surrounded by soulful gospel music and delicious Southern bites. That’s exactly what this Savannah Riverboat Gospel Music Dinner Cruise offers — a blend of scenery, good food, and uplifting tunes. Based on hundreds of reviews, this experience has earned an impressive 5-star rating with travelers praising its atmosphere, music, and value.

What we really like about this cruise is how it combines stunning views of Savannah’s waterfront with live gospel performances that uplift and entertain. Plus, the hearty buffet featuring Southern classics makes for a well-rounded, enjoyable night. On the flip side, one thing to keep in mind is that the food isn’t the main highlight for everyone and some have mentioned that it could be improved. Still, for those seeking a relaxed, soulful evening, this cruise hits the right notes.

This experience is ideal if you enjoy live music, especially gospel, and want to see Savannah from a different vantage point. It’s also great for those who appreciate good value for money — with a two-hour duration and a hearty buffet included, many find it worth the price. Keep in mind, it’s best suited for travelers comfortable with a casual dress code and who don’t mind a no-frills, laid-back atmosphere.

Key Points

• Scenic views of Savannah’s historic riverfront and landmarks like the Talmadge Memorial Bridge
• Live gospel music performed by local Savannah singers
• Hearty dinner buffet featuring Southern favorites
• Relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere with no formal dress code
• Limited vegetarian options might mean some dietary restrictions aren’t fully met
• Booking in advance (average 21 days ahead) is recommended for better availability

An Overview of the Experience

The Savannah Riverboat Gospel Music Dinner Cruise offers a chance to combine sightseeing, entertainment, and good food in a single two-hour trip. Starting at the Riverboat Ticket Office on River Street, you’ll step aboard a traditional riverboat decked out in patriotic red, white, and blue. These boats are designed to evoke a sense of nostalgia, reminiscent of the times when river travel was an elegant affair. The main deck is accessible to those with handicapped needs, though restrooms are located upstairs and are not handicapped accessible.

The cruise runs from 7:00 pm, making it an ideal way to unwind after a day of exploring the city. It’s a casual affair, with no strict dress code, and smoking is only permitted outside on the decks. Keep in mind that you shouldn’t expect a guided tour — this is more of a scenic, entertainment-focused cruise with live performances and a buffet.

What You’ll See on the Water

The highlights include views of the Talmadge Memorial Bridge and the bustling River Street, lined with shops, bars, and restaurants. As you glide along the water, you’ll get a fresh perspective on Savannah’s historic waterfront, which is often much more impressive from the river than from land. Many reviews mention how much they enjoyed the scenery, with some expressing a desire to see more dolphins or wildlife, though sightings are not guaranteed.

One reviewer noted, “The deck level was nice. Roomy seating and clean. The River Boat staff were professional, helpful and friendly.” This reflects the overall vibe — a relaxed and friendly environment perfect for soaking in the views.

The Live Gospel Performance

The cornerstone of this cruise is the live gospel singing. Local Savannah singers take to the stage, filling the boat with soulful melodies that resonate deeply with many guests. Reviewers frequently mention how the performances felt like being “in a concert,” with some noting that the singers engaged with the crowd, making the experience feel personal and heartfelt.

One guest exclaimed, “The gospel choir was awesome. It was like being in a concert. They engaged participation from the audience which makes the event more personal.” These performances tend to be uplifting, energetic, and authentic — perfect if you’re looking to feel the spirit of gospel music while enjoying a scenic cruise.

The Dinner Buffet: Southern Comfort Food

The buffet is described as hearty and satisfying, featuring Southern favorites like fried chicken, mac and cheese, shrimp and grits, and collard greens. Several guests praised the food’s deliciousness, calling it “awesome,” especially if you’re a fan of Southern comfort cuisine.

However, not everyone was thrilled. A few reviews pointed out that the food was somewhat inconsistent, with some dishes undercooked or tasteless. One reviewer said, “The collard Greens were undercooked, the pork chops in gravy were tough, the shrimp salad was tasteless and shrimp overcooked.” So, while most found the buffet enjoyable and filling, it’s worth keeping expectations realistic — it’s more about the experience than gourmet dining.

Who Is This Cruise For?

This cruise appeals most to music lovers and those wanting a relaxed, culturally enriching evening. It’s a great choice for couples celebrating anniversaries or birthdays, as many reviews highlight special recognition for such occasions. It’s also suitable for families or groups looking for a fun night out, given the casual atmosphere and no dress code.

It’s important to note that most travelers find booking about 3 weeks in advance helps secure a spot, especially during peak seasons. The cruise’s price of around $77 per person is reasonable when you factor in the scenic views, live entertainment, and buffet. Still, if you’re a foodie expecting a gourmet meal, you might find the buffet somewhat average.

In-Depth Look at the Itinerary

Starting Point: Riverboat Ticket Office
Your evening begins here, a central spot on River Street, which is lively and packed with bars and shops. Arriving early gives you time to settle in and get a feel for the surroundings.

The Cruise Journey
As you set sail, you’ll float past iconic sights like the Talmadge Memorial Bridge, an impressive span that lights up at night, offering perfect photo opportunities. The boat itself is spacious, with plenty of seating options, and features a climate-controlled indoor deck with panoramic windows, so you can enjoy the view regardless of weather.

Views of Historic Savannah
From the water, you’ll see the historic waterfront, with its colorful buildings and bustling activity. Some guests mention the peacefulness of the river, especially as the boat glides smoothly, making it an ideal setting for relaxing and taking photos.

Live Gospel Performance
Midway through the cruise, the gospel singers take the stage, filling the boat with powerful vocals. The performances are energetic, and many mention that they feel more like a concert than a background soundtrack. Audience participation is encouraged, and the singers often acknowledge special occasions like birthdays and anniversaries, adding a personal touch.

Dinner and Atmosphere
Throughout the cruise, guests indulge in the buffet, which offers a variety of Southern dishes. The service is generally well-received, with staff friendly and attentive, though some reviews noted delays in drink service.

Return to Dock
As the cruise concludes, you’ll float back to the starting point, with the opportunity to continue exploring River Street or head back to your accommodations.

Practical Tips for a Smooth Experience

• Book early — most travelers do about 21 days in advance, especially if you want a specific date.
• Arrive on time — the cruise starts promptly at 7:00 pm; latecomers risk missing the boat.
• Parking in downtown Savannah can take some time, so allow an extra 30-60 minutes. The activity is non-refundable if you miss the boat.
• Dress casually — no dress code, but comfortable clothing for an evening on the water is best.
• Weather considerations — the cruise requires good weather; if canceled due to rain or storms, you’ll be offered a different date or full refund.
• Dietary restrictions — the buffet might not cater well to vegetarians or specific dietary needs, so plan accordingly.
• Alcohol — a cash bar is available, but the minimum drinking age is 21.

The Sum Up: Who Will Love This Experience?

For those craving a relaxed night filled with soulful gospel music, scenic river views, and hearty Southern food, this cruise delivers with warmth and authenticity. The combination of live performances and beautiful vistas makes it particularly appealing for couples, music fans, or anyone wanting a memorable evening in Savannah. While the food might not satisfy gourmet expectations, most guests find the buffet enjoyable and plentiful, especially considering the overall value.

If you’re seeking a fun, culturally enriching activity that combines entertainment and sightseeing without hefty price tags, this cruise is a solid choice. It’s especially suited for travelers who enjoy a casual vibe, engaging performances, and picturesque waterway scenes. Just remember to book ahead and arrive on time, so you don’t miss out on this soulful adventure.

FAQ

Is this cruise suitable for children?
The experience is generally relaxed and family-friendly, but since it involves live gospel music and an adult-oriented atmosphere, it’s best suited for older children and teenagers.

Does the cruise include guided commentary?
No, the cruise is unguided in terms of narration. The main highlights are the views and the performances by the gospel singers.

Can I see dolphins or wildlife during the cruise?
Wildlife sightings aren’t guaranteed, but some guests hope to catch a glimpse of dolphins. The focus is mainly on scenic views and entertainment.

What’s the duration of the cruise?
It lasts approximately 2 hours, making it a manageable evening activity.

Are there vegetarian or special dietary options?
The buffet features Southern classics, but some reviews suggest limited options for vegetarians. Confirm dietary needs when booking if possible.

What is the dress code?
There’s no dress code—casual attire is perfectly acceptable.

Is parking available near the start point?
Yes, but allow extra time — downtown parking can be tricky. Arriving early helps avoid stress.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The cruise requires good weather; if canceled due to weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Are there any age restrictions?
No specific age restrictions, but the cash bar is only for those over 21. The atmosphere is suitable for a wide age range.

Can I cancel or change my booking?
No, this experience is non-refundable and cannot be changed once booked. Plan accordingly to avoid disappointment.

If you’re after a memorable, soulful night out in Savannah that combines scenic water views with heartfelt gospel music and delicious food, this cruise ticks a lot of boxes. It’s a genuine, enjoyable experience that many consider a must-do when visiting Savannah.