Introduction
Tybee Island isn’t just about sandy beaches and laid-back vibes; it’s also a fantastic spot for cruises and boat tours that let you see the island’s natural beauty from the water. Whether you want to watch the sunset in style, enjoy a relaxed group adventure, or rent a boat for a self-guided exploration, Tybee has options that suit different tastes. For example, you might opt for the Tybee Island Sunset Tiki Cruise to catch a vibrant sunset or choose the Tybee Tiki Boat Adventure if you’re looking for a more private and lively experience with friends or family.
This guide will walk you through three standout tours: a sunset tiki cruise, a personalized tiki boat adventure, and a flexible pontoon rental. Each offers a different way to enjoy the water — with unique highlights, varying group sizes, and different price points. You’ll find practical details like duration, what’s included, and who each tour best serves, helping you decide which floats your boat.
Quick Overview
We’ve rounded up three of the best water-based experiences in Tybee Island. First, a sunset cruise on a tiki boat, perfect for romantic evenings and picturesque views. Second, an adventure aboard a personalized tiki boat that suits groups wanting a fun, laid-back ride with plenty of room. Finally, a pontoon boat rental providing the most flexibility for those who want to explore at their own pace — whether that’s a few hours or half a day. Each tour caters to different preferences, from guided journeys to self-directed exploration.
1. Tybee Island Sunset Tiki Cruise
The Tybee Island Sunset Tiki Cruise is a great way to end the day enjoying the island’s iconic sunset views. This 1 hour 30-minute cruise (approx.) takes place aboard a tiki-style vessel, perfect for couples, families, or small groups looking for a relaxed way to soak in the scenery. The tour is highly rated at 4.5 out of 5 stars from 10 reviews, reflecting the memorable experience it provides. The cruise takes you past the famous Cockspur Lighthouse, a classic Tybee sight, offering a photo-worthy moment as the sky turns shades of orange and pink.
The experience is all about the ambiance and the views. You’ll drift over calm waters, enjoying the gentle sway of the boat and the cool sea breeze. The captain is knowledgeable about local history and points out interesting sights, making it more than just a pretty sunset. Many guests mention dolphin sightings and capturing stunning photographs. The price of $45 per person makes it an affordable way to enjoy a special evening.
What makes this cruise stand out is its intimate, tiki-themed setting and the chance to enjoy a true Tybee sunset without the crowds. It’s ideal for travelers seeking a romantic or peaceful activity, with the bonus of possibly spotting dolphins. The only potential downside is that with only 1.5 hours, it’s a short ride, so plan to arrive early for sunset views.
Bottom Line: The Sunset Tiki Cruise offers a relaxed, scenic experience with great value, perfect for couples and small groups wanting a memorable evening on the water.
2. Tybee Tiki Boat Adventure
The Tybee Tiki Boat Adventure is for those wanting a more personalized, fun-filled outing. This 1 hour 30-minute trip (approx.) is hosted on a custom Tiki boat that accommodates up to 16 guests. It’s perfect for groups looking for a lively, social experience while exploring Tybee’s coast. The tour is rated 4.5 out of 5 stars from 3 reviews, reflecting how much guests enjoy the relaxed vibe and friendly captain-led journey.
The tour usually includes a cruise past the Cockspur Lighthouse, with plenty of time to relax, chat, and enjoy the scenery. The boat’s open design makes it easy to take in views and get some sun, while music and drinks (note: alcohol policy is captain’s discretion) create a festive atmosphere. The $45-per-person price offers good value considering the small-group intimacy and personalized service.
Guests emphasize the laid-back, friendly environment and mention dolphin sightings as a highlight. The captain is described as knowledgeable, providing fun facts about the area, which enriches the experience. Kids are welcome, making it a family-friendly choice, especially if you want to avoid crowded tour boats.
The main advantage of this tour is its flexibility and social vibe, making it suitable for groups of friends, families, or even events. A potential drawback is that, due to its small size, it may fill up fast — so booking early is wise.
Bottom Line: The Tiki Boat Adventure provides an intimate, lively experience with plenty of room for socializing, ideal for groups seeking a relaxed but engaging water excursion.
3. Tybee Island: Pontoon Boat Rental by the Hour
For those who want full control over their water adventure, the Pontoon Boat Rental by the Hour is a flexible option. This self-guided rental allows groups of up to 10 guests to explore Tybee waters at their own pace. Starting at $311 per group, the rental can last from 2 to 6 hours, providing ample opportunity to customize your experience. You’ll navigate Lazaretto Creek, with the freedom to visit favorite spots or just enjoy cruising the coast.
This rental is ideal for travelers who prefer independence — whether that means looking for dolphins, trying some fishing, or just relaxing on the boat. The staff is praised for their friendly service and extensive local knowledge, helping you get the most out of your time on the water. The boat itself is described as fun, nice, and easy to handle, making it accessible even for first-timers.
Guests often note dolphin sightings, and the flexibility to set your own schedule makes this option attractive for longer outings. The key limitation is that this is a captainless experience — meaning you need to feel comfortable handling the boat or hire a captain separately if desired, depending on local rules. Also, alcohol onboard is not permitted without special arrangements.
Bottom Line: The Pontoon Rental offers freedom and flexibility, making it best for groups who want to craft their own adventure or spend an extended day on the water.
How to Choose the Best Water Experience in Tybee
When selecting between these options, consider your budget, group size, and what kind of experience you’re after. The Sunset Tiki Cruise is perfect for a romantic or peaceful evening focused on scenery and relaxation. The Tiki Boat Adventure suits groups wanting a lively, personalized ride with socializing and dolphin sightings. The Pontoon rental is best if you prefer total flexibility, have a larger group, or want to explore at your own pace.
Booking early is recommended, especially for the popular sunset cruises and pontoon rentals, which can fill up quickly during peak season. Think about the weather — calm, sunny days maximize dolphin sightings and scenic views. Whether you’re after a guided tour or a self-directed adventure, Tybee’s water offerings deliver memorable coastal experiences.
Concluding Thoughts
Tybee Island’s waters are a playground for all kinds of boat enthusiasts. For a romantic sunset, the Sunset Tiki Cruise offers stunning views with a relaxed vibe. If you’re traveling with a group and want a fun, social experience, the Tiki Boat Adventure provides plenty of room and a friendly atmosphere. For those who love to chart their own course, the pontoon rental offers unmatched flexibility to explore the island’s waterways on your own schedule.
Each option offers a distinct way to enjoy Tybee’s scenic coast and abundant dolphin sightings. Couples looking for romance might prefer the sunset cruise, while families or friends wanting a lively day might lean toward the tiki boat adventure. If independence and longer exploration appeal, the pontoon rental is your best bet. Whatever you choose, early booking ensures you won’t miss out on these memorable aquatic adventures.