Sunday Brunch Riverboat Cruise in Savannah

If you’re considering a way to enjoy Savannah’s scenic charm without the hustle of walking around, a Sunday Brunch Riverboat Cruise might be just what you need. Based on plenty of reviews and descriptions, this experience offers a blend of beautiful views, local history, and a hearty buffet—all afloat on a charming riverboat. While it isn’t perfect, it’s definitely worth considering if you’re a fan of relaxed, scenic outings with good food.

What we really like about this cruise? First, the stunning vistas of Savannah’s historic riverfront are a treat whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned visitor. Second, the live narration adds a layer of understanding to the sights, making the experience both entertaining and informative. On the flip side, a possible snag might be the food quality, which some reviews find just okay or even disappointing. This experience is best suited for travelers who want a relaxed, scenic outing with a touch of local flavor—ideal for those who appreciate a good cruise with a leisurely brunch.

Key Points

• Scenic views of Savannah’s historic riverfront from a multi-deck riverboat.
• Narrated tour providing insights into Savannah’s architecture and heritage.
• Buffet brunch with included drinks like iced tea, lemonade, and coffee.
• Relaxed pace with the ability to walk around and enjoy the scenery.
• Cost-effective at around $77 per person, offering good value for food, views, and storytelling.
• Important parking tip: Allow extra time for downtown Savannah parking, as it can take 30-60 minutes.

Experiencing Savannah from the Water

What makes a river cruise like this stand out? For a start, the vantage point on the water offers a different perspective of Savannah’s historic downtown. You get a panoramic view that’s tough to beat from the land, especially when the weather is clear or overcast with a gentle breeze. The boat itself is a classic styled vessel, decorated in the traditional red, white, and blue colors, and designed to evoke an elegant, bygone era of river travel.

The 1.5-hour cruise promises a laid-back trip, which is just enough time to soak in the scenery without feeling rushed. From the moment you step onto the boat at the Riverboat Ticket Office, you’re greeted with a fully narrated experience, informing you about the sights you’ll see. The onboard environment is comfortable, with climate-controlled decks and ample space to stand or sit, and the outside decks provide unobstructed views—my personal favorite spot for photos or just soaking in the atmosphere.

The Itinerary and What to Expect

The cruise kicks off around 1:00 pm, giving you plenty of time to arrive early—something many reviewers recommend since lines tend to grow quickly. Once onboard, you’ll notice the interior decks are spacious, with large windows and a glass-enclosed observation area, which is ideal if rain or sun becomes a concern. The main deck is accessible for those with mobility needs, but be aware that restrooms are not handicapped accessible.

The narration is a highlight for many guests. It covers Savannah’s history, architecture, and heritage, turning what could be a simple boat ride into an educational experience. Reviewers have shared that the information provided is both interesting and informative, although some mention the narration can be a bit fast for those wanting to catch every detail.

As for the food, the buffet features a variety of southern dishes and brunch staples, and drinks like iced tea, lemonade, and coffee are included. The quality of the food receives mixed feedback—some find it acceptable or even good, while others feel it could be better. A common praise is that the food is plentiful and well-organized, which adds to the relaxed vibe of the cruise.

The Views and Atmosphere

You’ll love the views of Savannah’s historic waterfront. From the water, the city’s architecture and bustling River Street come alive. Many reviews highlight how breathtaking the scenery is, especially when the weather is nice. The ability to walk around the decks means you can enjoy the view from different angles or get some fresh air while listening to the narration.

The atmosphere is casual; there’s no strict dress code, so you can opt for comfortable attire. Smoking is permitted only outside, which is helpful to know if you’re sensitive to cigarette smoke. The cruise encourages a leisurely pace, and many guests report it’s a relaxing way to spend part of your afternoon.

Is It Good Value?

At about $77 per person, this cruise offers a decent value considering the included buffet, drinks, and scenic experience. For some, the price feels fair, especially given the amount of time and the views you get. One review noted that the $20 for unlimited mimosas is worth it if you enjoy a bubbly toast with your brunch.

However, the food quality seems to be a common point of contention. If you’re expecting gourmet cuisine, this might not fully meet those expectations. Still, if you’re more interested in the experience—sipping drinks, soaking up history, and enjoying Savannah from the water—it’s a solid choice.

The Reviews Speak: Highlights and Hurdles

The majority of reviews are positive, with a 4.1-star average from over 100 ratings. Many guests loved the friendly staff, informative narration, and beautiful scenery. One guest summed it up: “Great food and service. Would highly recommend this brunch cruise. Going to try the dinner cruise next time!”

On the flip side, some found the food disappointing—descriptions like “awful” and “overcooked” appear, and some mention that the sound system for the narration only worked intermittently. A few reviews point out that the views of the shipping channel can be less charming, appearing industrial and less picturesque than expected.

A notable tip from several guests: arrive early to beat the lines, as seating can fill up quickly, and parking in downtown Savannah can take extra time.

Practical Tips for Your Trip

• Allow extra time for parking in downtown Savannah—at least 30-60 minutes—to avoid missing your cruise.
• No dress code, but casual and comfortable attire is recommended.
• The main deck is handicapped accessible, but restrooms are not.
• Bring cash if you want to buy alcohol from the cash bar, which is available on board. Remember, the minimum drinking age is 21.
• Consider bringing a light jacket or layers, especially if it’s an overcast or breezy day.
• The cruise does not include hotel pick-up or drop-off, so plan your transportation accordingly.
• No refunds are issued if you cancel or change plans, but weather cancellations are fully refundable or can be rescheduled.

Who Will Enjoy This Cruise?

This experience is best suited for visitors who want a relaxed, scenic outing with a good dose of local history and some tasty brunch options. It’s a great way for couples, groups of friends, or solo travelers to unwind while soaking in Savannah’s charming riverfront. If you’re an enthusiast of interesting narration and beautiful water views, this cruise should satisfy.

However, if you’re very particular about food quality or are seeking a more upscale dining experience, you might find the buffet a bit underwhelming. Those who prefer more industrial or shipping channel views might want to consider whether the scenery aligns with their expectations.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included?
No, this cruise does not include hotel pickup or drop-off. You’ll need to make your own way to the meeting point on River Street.

What time does the cruise start?
It begins at 1:00 pm. Arriving early is recommended to avoid lines and secure good seating.

How long is the cruise?
The cruise lasts approximately 1 hour 30 minutes, providing a leisurely glimpse of Savannah’s waterfront.

Is the boat accessible for people with mobility issues?
The main deck is handicapped accessible, but restrooms are not, so plan accordingly.

Are drinks included?
Iced tea, lemonade, soft drinks, and coffee are included in the price. A cash bar is available for alcoholic beverages, with a minimum drinking age of 21.

Can I walk around during the cruise?
Yes, you can walk around the outside decks and sit on any level to enjoy the views and fresh air.

Is there a dress code?
No, there is no dress code. Casual attire is fine.

What about children?
The information doesn’t specify age restrictions, but given the leisurely pace and nature of the cruise, it could suit families with older children comfortable on boats.

What should I expect for food?
A buffet with southern dishes and brunch staples. The quality varies by review, from acceptable to underwhelming, so don’t expect gourmet fare.

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

The Sunday Brunch Riverboat Cruise in Savannah offers a pretty charming way to see the city’s waterfront while enjoying a laid-back brunch. It’s particularly appealing if you’re someone who appreciates historic narration, scenic water views, and casual dining. The experience may not be a culinary highlight, but the combination of informative commentary, relaxing atmosphere, and picturesque scenery makes it a worthwhile outing—especially if you manage your expectations around the food quality.

This cruise suits travelers who want a low-pressure, scenic activity that combines sightseeing with a bit of local flavor. It’s a good option for couples, groups, or anyone wanting to add a water-based experience to their Savannah visit without breaking the bank or requiring strenuous activity. Just remember to plan ahead for parking and arrive early to make the most of your time onboard.

Would we recommend it? Yes, especially if your priority is enjoying Savannah’s riverfront from the water with some interesting stories along the way. Just keep in mind the mixed reviews on the food and be prepared for a relaxed, casual experience. If that sounds like your kind of day, you’ll probably walk away with some lovely memories and great photos.