If you’re visiting Savannah and looking to see its beautiful waterfront from a different perspective, a riverboat cruise might be just what you need. This 1.5-hour narrated tour offers a relaxing way to soak in the sights, learn about the city’s shipping and port history, and even catch a glimpse of historic artillery at Old Fort Jackson.
Although I haven’t done it personally, I’ve gathered enough info to help you decide whether this experience fits your travel style.
What I really like about this cruise is how it combines stunning views of Savannah’s skyline with engaging live commentary. Plus, the chance to see one of the country’s oldest artillery pieces adds a dash of history.
The trip visits the port and container ships as well…very interesting, and our "guide" was one of the Captains, who was not only knowledgeable about history and maritime stuff, but was a punster! Enjoyable trip.
Guide was very knowledgeable and made the cruise fun.
Guide was great! All staff were very polite, pleasant, and professional. Great overall experience!
On the flip side, if you’re hoping for a food-focused experience or a private, intimate setting, this might not hit the mark. It’s best suited for those who enjoy a leisurely ride with some educational and scenic elements thrown in.
This tour is perfect if you want a casual, informative experience that doesn’t take up your whole day. Families, history buffs, or anyone curious about Savannah’s port activities will find it worthwhile. Just remember, it’s weather-dependent and doesn’t include lunch, so plan accordingly.
Key Points
- Live commentary makes the experience engaging and educational.
- The scenic views of Savannah’s riverfront and skyline are photogenic.
- The tour includes a visit to Old Fort Jackson and its historic artillery.
- The 1.5-hour duration offers a relaxed pace without feeling rushed.
- Comfort options include inside A/C seating and outdoor decks.
- Food and drinks are available for purchase on board, but no included meals.
- The cruise operates rain or shine, so dress weather-appropriate.
- Parking is convenient but allow extra time for downtown Savannah’s parking challenges.
What to Expect on the Savannah Riverboat Cruise
Imagine gliding smoothly along Savannah’s lifeblood—the river—while the captain shares intriguing stories about the port’s bustling activity and history. The live narration is a highlight, providing interesting facts and historical gems that keep everyone engaged, whether you’re a history nerd or just in it for the scenery.
You’ll start at the meeting point on East River Street, a spot bustling with activity and close to local eateries. Boarding begins about 30 minutes before the cruise, so arriving early ensures you find a good spot—and perhaps squeeze in a quick snack or coffee beforehand.
Gage was a great guide. He was knowledgeable and gave off friendly vibes. Everyone on the ship was helpful and friendly. It was a really enjoyable experience.
Our guide was excellent, he not only had lots of great information & insight but delivered the talk in a way that was interesting & had humorous
The riverboat cruise was great. Inside was a bit noisy, outside the PA system works on the side decks, the weather was fine. It was excellent.
Since it’s a public cruise, expect a mixed crowd, but the boat’s layout caters to comfort, with options for inside seating with air conditioning and shaded outdoor decks.
You can also read our reviews of more boat tours in Savannah
The Itinerary and Sights
The first part of the cruise focuses on Savannah’s modern port and shipping activity. The narrator’s tales illuminate the importance of the river for commerce and how ships from around the world visit the city. You might find the commentary lively and humorous, as many reviews praise the guides for their passion and wit.
Next, the boat heads towards Old Fort Jackson, where you’ll zoom past one of the largest and oldest artillery pieces in the U.S. This stop is a hit for photos—imagine capturing the historic cannon against the skyline—and offers a window into Savannah’s military past. The sight of the fort is quite a visual treat, and the commentary often includes anecdotes about its role during Civil War times.
Seating and Comfort
The boat offers ample seating options, with inside areas providing a cool retreat from the sun, and top decks shaded but open, great for those wanting unobstructed shots of the harbor. The sound system works well, ensuring everyone can hear the guide clearly, regardless of where they stand.
It was a good tour with a lot of information about Savannah harbor that I did not know. Also the scenery was amazing
The boat was clean and all staff very friendly and helpful. The narrator was excellent. I would definitely recommend this trip.
Most enjoyable and a lot of interesting history given by the guide!
The Food and Drinks
While the cruise doesn’t include a lunch buffet, a bar and grille are available for purchasing drinks and snacks, including light bites like tapas. The reviews suggest that the food quality is decent, and many travelers enjoy relaxing with a cold drink while taking in the views. However, be aware that queues can form, especially on busy days, and some guests have noted shortages in certain items.
More Great Tours NearbyThe Value for Money
At $42 per person, this cruise offers a good balance between price and experience. It’s not overly expensive for a scenic, guided boat ride with plenty of photo opportunities and educational commentary. Many reviews highlight the entertaining guides and the stunning vistas as worth the ticket price.
The fact that it runs rain or shine means you’re paying for the experience regardless of weather, so dress accordingly. It’s also flexible with cancelations up to 24 hours in advance, which adds peace of mind if your plans change.
What We Loved Based on Reviews
- The guides and narrators consistently receive high praise for their knowledge, humor, and engaging delivery.
- Travelers love the scenic views—from passing cargo ships to the historic skyline—making it a great photo opportunity.
- The comfort of the boat, with shaded decks and indoor seating, keeps the experience enjoyable in different weather conditions.
- The value is clear when you consider the length of the cruise, the live commentary, and the historical insights shared.
A Few Downsides to Consider
- The bar service can be slow when busy, and some reviews mention running out of certain drinks or snacks.
- The lack of included food means you might want to eat beforehand or be prepared to purchase on board.
- Parking downtown can be challenging, requiring extra time to find a spot, especially during busy periods.
Who Should Book This?
If you’re after a relaxing way to see Savannah’s waterfront, enjoy learning about the port and local history, or want some beautiful photos of the skyline, this cruise is a solid choice.
All excellent! Was a great experience , the staff were amazing!
The quality of the the commentary was excellent. Very articulate and passionate about his subject. Especially when talking about the Civil War. As Brits this was particularly interesting.
This is a great way to get an overview of the Savannah River’s historic significance. Our guide was well informed and entertaining. Traveling on the boat was fun and provided a different view of the city. I would recommend this activity to all ages.
It’s especially suited for history enthusiasts, families with older children, or couples looking for a scenic outing. It’s less ideal if you’re seeking an intimate experience, a private boat ride, or a gourmet meal.
Final Thoughts
This Savannah Riverboat Narrated Harbor Sightseeing Cruise offers a well-rounded experience packed with scenic beauty, interesting stories, and historical highlights. It’s a reliable activity to add to your Savannah itinerary, especially if you’re curious about the city’s maritime history and want a relaxing hour and a half on the water.
The entertaining guides and spectacular views make it a popular choice, and many visitors leave with great photos and new knowledge. Just remember to bring weather-appropriate clothing and some cash or cards for food and drinks on board.
If you’re looking for a fun, educational, and scenic break from walking around Savannah, this cruise might just be perfect. It’s definitely a crowd-pleaser, and with its reasonable price, it’s worth considering for your visit.
Having one person working the bar for the entire riverboat was a little silly…stood in line for 20 minutes for a Diet Coke, only to find out they were out. The narrator was excellent!
I enjoyed the boat ride. The narrator was great very interesting.
This was a great trip with a fantastic guide, who clearly loved his job and the history of the river and Savannah’s port life. He made it really fun and informative; we learned so much. There’s a career as an educator waiting for him somewhere!
Savannah: Riverboat Narrated Harbor Sightseeing Cruise
“Enjoyable cruise down the river, great staff and knowledgeable narration”
FAQ
Is the cruise suitable for children?
This tour is generally family-friendly, especially for older children who can enjoy the commentary and views. However, it’s best to check if children need tickets and to consider weather conditions.
Does the cruise include lunch?
No, there is no lunch buffet included. You can purchase food and drinks on board, but it’s not part of the ticket price.
Is parking available near the departure point?
Yes, there are public parking lots on River Street, Bay Street level, and Bryan Street Parking Garage. Be sure to allow extra time for parking, as downtown Savannah can be busy.
What should I bring?
Bring your passport or ID, comfortable shoes, a camera, and weather-appropriate clothing. It’s always good to have a hat and sunscreen if you’re outside.
How long does the tour last?
The cruise runs for 1.5 hours, usually in the afternoon, giving you plenty of time to explore other parts of Savannah afterward.
Are there amenities onboard?
Yes, there are options to purchase drinks and light snacks from the bar and grille. The boat’s seating arrangements include inside A/C areas and shaded outdoor decks.
What if it rains?
The cruise takes place rain or shine, so dress accordingly. The inside seating provides shelter, but outdoor decks will be exposed to the elements.
In the end, this river cruise is a dependable, scenic, and educational way to experience Savannah from the water. With friendly guides, beautiful vistas, and a relaxed vibe, it makes for a memorable part of any trip to this charming Southern city.
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