The 14 Best Cruises And Boat Tours in Savannah
Savannah’s charm isn’t just in its historic streets and moss-draped oaks—it’s also in its water. The Savannah River offers a lively stage for everything from elegant dinner cruises to wildlife eco-tours, giving visitors a fresh perspective on this historic city. Whether you want a relaxing daytime sightseeing cruise with a Southern buffet or an evening sunset sail with live music, Savannah’s water-based experiences are plentiful and varied.
In this guide, we’ll explore 14 of the best boat and cruise options in Savannah. From narrated harbor tours and port excursions to gospel dinners and dolphin eco-cruises, each offers a unique way to enjoy Savannah’s scenic waterways. We’ll cover the details, what makes each one special, and who they’re best suited for—helping you choose the perfect water adventure.
1. Savannah: Sightseeing Lunch Cruise
The Sightseeing Lunch Cruise is perfect for those wanting a relaxed yet informative cruise down Savannah’s waterfront. For $63 per person, you get about 2 hours of scenic views on the Savannah River, complemented by a Southern buffet that includes local favorites. The captain’s lively commentary shares stories and history of Savannah, providing context as you soak up the views.
What makes this cruise stand out is the combination of gorgeous scenery and delicious food, making it ideal for a leisurely midday escape. Reviewers appreciate the service and quality of the buffet, even if some feel it’s a bit pricey for a buffet. It’s a good pick for travelers who want a taste of Southern hospitality with their sightseeing. The main drawback? Limited seating times, so booking ahead is wise. Bottom line: a relaxing way to enjoy Savannah’s water and cuisine.
2. Savannah: Riverboat Narrated Harbor Sightseeing Cruise
This Harbor Sightseeing Cruise offers a 1.5-hour journey along Savannah’s historic waterfront for $42 per person. It features live narration about Savannah’s history, complemented by views of the Old Fort Jackson cannons and other local landmarks. The boat’s old-world charm adds to the experience, and hearing about Savannah’s maritime past makes it more than just a pretty ride.
The standout feature here is the live commentary, which adds depth and interest, especially for history buffs. Reviewers often emphasize the guide’s humor and insight, making this a fun and educational option. The downside? There’s only so much time, and the size of the boat can fill up fast, so booking early is recommended. Bottom line: a well-rounded, affordable cruise for those wanting engaging storytelling.
3. Savannah: Riverboat Cruise & City Tour Combo
At $79 per person for 3 hours, this combo tour blends Savannah’s land and water attractions. You’ll explore the city’s streets on an open-air trolley, then hop onto a river glide that offers stunning vistas of the waterfront. The tour pairs historic narration with scenic views, giving a rundown of Savannah’s long history.
What makes this combo appealing is the variety—you get both an on-land immersive experience and a water-based one with ample photo opportunities. The guide’s storytelling is often praised, making it suitable for first-time visitors. It’s a bit pricier than single tours, but the breadth of experience justifies the cost. The only potential downside is the time commitment, so plan accordingly. Bottom line: ideal if you want a broad picture of Savannah’s history both on land and sea.
4. Savannah: Buffet Dinner Cruise with Live Entertainment
For $93 per person, this 2-hour dinner cruise offers a Southern-style buffet paired with live entertainment on the Savannah River. The cruise provides a relaxing atmosphere with scenic views at night, perfect for a special evening out. The music ranges from local bands to thematic performances, enhancing the dinner experience.
What sets this cruise apart is the combination of delicious food and nighttime city views. Many reviewers mention the friendly service and the quality of the buffet, though some find the price a bit high for a buffet. It’s suited for couples celebrating a special occasion or anyone wanting a romantic, lively evening on the water. A potential drawback is that the dinner is buffet-style, so expect some variability in food quality. Bottom line: a lively, scenic dinner experience with entertainment.
5. Savannah Riverboat Gospel Music Dinner Cruise
With a perfect 5-star rating and at $77.09, this 2-hour gospel dinner cruise is a soulful way to experience Savannah’s riverfront. You’ll enjoy live Gospel singers as you cruise past landmarks like the Talmadge Memorial Bridge and River Street. The hearty buffet complements the uplifting music, making this a memorable spiritual and cultural experience.
What makes this tour special is the live Gospel music, which brings an authentic Southern flavor and uplifting atmosphere. Reviewers love the blend of music, scenery, and food—many say it’s a highlight of their Savannah visit. It’s best suited for those who enjoy music and cultural traditions. The main limitation? The tour is slightly shorter and more focused on the music than extensive narration. Bottom line: a soulful, heartfelt cruise perfect for music lovers and those seeking a meaningful experience.
6. Narrated Harbor Luncheon Riverboat Cruise
This 1.5-hour lunch cruise costs around $62.76 per person and features Southern-style buffet and live narration about Savannah’s history. The boat’s traditional design adds to the nostalgic feel, offering a relaxing way to see the city’s waterfront while enjoying a meal.
The highlight here is the combination of good food and informative commentary, making it ideal for visitors who want to learn while they eat. Reviewers praise the professional staff and detailed narration, though some mention the limited seating options. It’s a good choice for those wanting a laid-back, educational experience during lunchtime. The drawback is that it’s a relatively short tour, so don’t expect in-depth exploration. Bottom line: a pleasant, informative way to enjoy Savannah’s riverfront with a meal.
7. Savannah: Riverboat Sunset Cruise
For $55 per person, the Sunset Cruise lasts 2 hours and offers a perfect ending to a day. You’ll watch the sunset over the Savannah River, with live music onboard creating a relaxing atmosphere. Both decks—air-conditioned and open-air—allow you to choose your perfect spot to soak in the view.
What makes this cruise appealing is the timed sunset viewing paired with live entertainment, making it both romantic and picturesque. Reviewers say the sunset is often breathtaking, and the relaxed vibe makes it ideal for couples or solo travelers wanting quiet reflection. Some mention that the boat can get crowded, so arriving early helps. Bottom line: a peaceful, scenic cruise ideal for sunset lovers.
8. Savannah: Monday Gospel Dinner Cruise
This Monday-only event at $77 per person offers a 2-hour gospel dinner cruise with live gospel music and a Southern buffet. The tour’s focus on gospel music lends a soulful, uplifting vibe, great for an evening immersed in local culture. The cruise runs in the evening, offering great views of the Savannah skyline.
What makes this tour unique is the religious heritage and live gospel, which many find deeply inspiring. Reviewers often comment on the “fire” of the entertainment and the quality of the food. It’s perfect for those seeking an authentic cultural experience with a spiritual touch. A possible downside is that it’s only available on Mondays, limiting flexibility. Bottom line: a soul-stirring, cultural evening cruise.
9. Savannah: Dolphin Spotting and Wildlife Eco Cruise
For $42 per person, this 2-hour eco-cruise is all about wildlife, especially dolphin sightings. The trip focuses on biodiversity and nature, with knowledgeable captains sharing insights into Georgia’s coastal ecosystems. It’s ideal for nature lovers or families wanting a more relaxed, educational experience.
The key highlight is the chance to see dolphins in their natural habitat, often accompanied by birds and other wildlife. Reviewers praise the engaging guides and the tranquil surroundings. The tour allows BYOB adult beverages, which adds to the laid-back atmosphere. Some travelers might find the scenery less dramatic than city cruises, but it’s a genuine wildlife experience. Bottom line: a peaceful, educational, wildlife-focused cruise for nature enthusiasts.
10. 2 HR Savannah Riverboat Dinner Cruise with Onboard Entertainment
This $92.52 dinner cruise offers about 2 hours of scenic river views with dinner buffet and live entertainment onboard. The relaxed atmosphere includes a dance floor and cash bar, making it a lively evening option. The boat’s classic style adds an authentic touch.
The experience combines great food, music, and scenery, appealing to those who want a lively night out. Reviewers comment on the friendly staff and impressive atmosphere, though some mention the buffet could be more diverse. It suits couples or small groups looking for fun and entertainment. The main drawback is the lack of guided narration, so it’s more about the vibe than story. Bottom line: an energetic, scenic dinner cruise with dancing and live music.
11. Savannah Riverboat: Sunday Brunch Sightseeing Cruise
For $77 per person, this Sunday brunch cruise lasts 1.5 hours and features a Southern brunch buffet with live commentary. It’s a relaxed way to start the day, cruising past Savannah’s landmarks while enjoying some of the best brunch food.
The highlight is the combination of delicious food and informative narration, making it a friendly, laid-back experience. Reviewers enjoy the friendly crew and the interesting stories about Savannah’s riverfront. The limited duration means it’s a quick, satisfying overview rather than an in-depth exploration. Suitable for brunch lovers and those wanting a casual, scenic cruise. Bottom line: a tasty, informative way to enjoy Sunday morning in Savannah.
12. 2-Hour Savannah Sunset Riverboat Cruise
At $55.05, this twilight cruise offers a 2-hour journey during sunset, providing a peaceful way to experience Savannah’s evening colors. The boat features live music and outdoor seating, perfect for a relaxed, romantic outing.
Reviewers mention the breathtaking sunset and the calm atmosphere, especially good for couples. Some note that seating can be limited, so arriving early helps ensure a good spot. It’s best suited for those looking to unwind at day’s end with beautiful views. Bottom line: a serene, scenic sunset cruise ideal for romantic evenings.
13. Narrated Port Tour Cruise of Savannah
This 1.5-hour port tour is a must for anyone curious about Savannah’s bustling port. For $48, you’ll learn about the port’s history and see the largest and fastest-growing container terminal in the US. The narrated cruise takes you under the Talmadge Memorial Bridge to the port’s edge, where giant ships loom nearby.
Reviewers find this tour fascinating, with plenty of insight into the port’s importance to Georgia and the nation. It’s perfect for those interested in shipping, industry, or just wanting a different view of Savannah. The small size and high rating reflect its popularity. Bottom line: a compelling, educational cruise for industry and history buffs alike.
14. Savannah: Cruise Port Tour
For $51 per person, this 1.5-hour port tour offers a narrated look at Savannah’s busy port, with views of containers, ships, and mega yachts. It’s a practical, straightforward way to learn about Savannah’s maritime significance.
Reviewers appreciate the interactive guides and the close-up views of port activity, including ships arriving and departing. It’s ideal for anyone new to ports or interested in logistics, and the small group size enhances the experience. It’s more educational than scenic, but highly informative. Bottom line: a solid choice for industry enthusiasts or curious travelers wanting a behind-the-scenes look.
How to Choose the Right Water Tour in Savannah
When deciding among Savannah’s water tours, think about your interests, budget, and time availability. If you love history and want a longer, comprehensive experience, the Riverboat Cruise & City Tour Combo or the Port Tour are excellent. For food lovers, the Dinner Cruises and Sunday Brunch provide flavorful Southern cuisine with scenic views. Those seeking live music will enjoy the Gospel Dinner Cruise or the Sunset Cruise with live entertainment.
If wildlife is your focus, then the Dolphin Spotting Eco Cruise offers a peaceful nature experience. For a romantic evening, the Sunset or Moonlight Cruise delivers a quiet, picturesque setting. Booking in advance is advisable, especially during peak seasons, to secure your preferred time slot.
Consider also the duration—shorter options like the Harbor Luncheon or the Port Tour are perfect for tight schedules, while longer cruises are better if you want a more immersive experience. Lastly, check for discounts or combo deals to maximize your value.
Final Thoughts
Savannah offers a rich menu of water-based experiences, each providing a different window into the city’s soul—from lively dinner cruises to wildlife safaris. If you’re seeking an elegant evening with live entertainment, the Dinner Cruise with Live Entertainment is a great pick. For a family-friendly, educational outing, the Dolphin Eco Cruise ticks all the boxes. Those interested in history and industry will find the Port Tour fascinating, while romantics will love the Sunset Riverboat.
No matter your preference, booking early ensures you get the best seat or time slot, especially during peak tourist months. With so many options, Savannah’s waterways promise a memorable slice of southern life—so choose your adventure and enjoy the ride.
This comprehensive guide should help you navigate Savannah’s many water tours with confidence. Whether you prefer a lively dinner show, a scenic sunset ride, or an educational port tour, Savannah’s waters are calling. Happy sailing!