Savannah’s riverfront is a captivating tapestry of history and charm, and there’s no better way to experience it than on a narrated harbor sightseeing cruise. This 1.5-hour excursion offers stunning views of the city’s iconic skyline, including the impressive Old Fort Jackson, while the knowledgeable captain provides insights into Savannah’s rich cultural heritage. With convenient amenities and accessibility, it’s a must-do activity for anyone looking to enjoy the enchanting atmosphere of this coastal gem. But what secrets lie waiting to be uncovered during this captivating journey?
Key Points
- A 1.5-hour narrated harbor sightseeing cruise along Savannah’s historic waterfront, priced from $41.82 per person.
- Features dramatic firing of Old Fort Jackson cannons, scenic views of Savannah’s riverfront and skyline, and numerous photo opportunities.
- Includes live English commentary from the captain, providing insights into the city’s unique culture and heritage.
- Wheelchair accessible and offers food and drink options for purchase, with hotel pickup and drop-off available.
- Highly rated by over 1,000 reviews, with an overall score of 4.3/5 and praise for the knowledgeable guides and scenic experience.
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Overview of the Cruise
The Savannah Riverboat Narrated Harbor Sightseeing Cruise offers visitors a 1.5-hour journey along the city’s historic waterfront.
Explore Savannah’s historic waterfront on a 1.5-hour narrated harbor sightseeing cruise.
Priced from $41.82 per person, the cruise takes guests on a scenic tour, featuring live commentary from the captain on Savannah’s rich history.
Along the way, participants can witness the impressive Old Fort Jackson cannons and capture photos of the city’s iconic riverfront and skyline.
Reservations can be made online, with a free cancellation option up to 24 hours in advance.
The cruise departs from the Riverboat Ticket Office on River Street, with nearby public parking available for a seamless experience.
Highlights of the Experience
Sailing along Savannah’s waterfront on a riverboat, visitors can enjoy the city’s rich history. The cruise offers a live commentary from the captain, providing fascinating insights into Savannah’s past.
Highlights of the experience include:
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Witnessing the dramatic firing of the Old Fort Jackson cannons
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Capturing scenic views of the city’s historical riverfront and iconic skyline
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Enjoying photo opportunities throughout the cruise
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Experiencing the sights and sounds of the active harbor
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Learning about Savannah’s unique culture and heritage from the knowledgeable tour guide.
Included Amenities
The riverboat cruise includes a 1.5-hour tour along Savannah’s waterfront, complete with live commentary from the captain in English.
The cruise is wheelchair accessible, allowing all passengers to enjoy the experience.
The cruise is wheelchair accessible, ensuring all passengers can fully enjoy the experience.
Food and drinks are available for purchase on board, though a lunch buffet isn’t included.
Hotel pickup and drop-off options are offered, making it convenient for travelers.
With public parking lots nearby, visitors have ample options to park and make their way to the dock, though they should allow an extra 30-60 minutes for parking.
Meeting and Parking Information
Visitors can find the Riverboat Ticket Office at 9 East River Street, near the Olympia Cafe, where they’ll board the boat across the dock.
Public parking is available at several nearby locations:
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River Street parking lots
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Bay Street level parking
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Bryan Street Parking Garage
Visitors should allow an extra 30-60 minutes for parking to ensure they arrive on time for the cruise.
The boat’s location and meeting point make it easy for guests to find and board the riverboat for their narrated sightseeing experience.
Customer Ratings and Feedback
Based on the overwhelmingly positive reviews, it’s clear that the Savannah Riverboat Cruise provides a delightful experience for visitors.
The tour has an impressive 4.3/5 overall rating from over 1,000 reviews. Customers praised the knowledgeable and friendly guides, rating them 4.5/5. The transportation experience also received high marks at 4.5/5.
Savannah Riverboat Cruise boasts an impressive 4.3/5 rating, with knowledgeable guides and a highly-rated transportation experience.
While the value for money was slightly lower at 4.2/5, reviewers still felt the cruise offered great value. Highlights included the interesting historical commentary, scenic views, and memorable photo opportunities.
With excellent customer feedback, the Savannah Riverboat Cruise is a must-do activity for those visiting the city.
Savannah’s Waterfront Scenery
As visitors sail along the Savannah River, they’re treated to a captivating panorama of the city’s historical riverfront and skyline.
The cruise offers stunning views of:
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The iconic Talmadge Memorial Bridge, a graceful suspension bridge spanning the river
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The quaint buildings and cobblestone streets of the Savannah Historic District
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The stately mansions and lush greenery of Hutchinson Island
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The towering masts of ships docked at the Savannah River’s commercial port
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The historic Old Fort Jackson, which dates back to the War of 1812 and fires its cannon during the cruise.
Historical Commentary by the Captain
The captain provides a captivating narration throughout the cruise, regaling passengers with tales of Savannah’s rich history.
Listeners learn about the city’s colonial past, the role it played in the American Revolution, and its importance as a major port in the 19th century.
The captain points out historic landmarks along the riverfront, such as Old Fort Jackson, and explains their significance.
With an engaging delivery, the captain brings Savannah’s storied past to life, offering a uniquely informative and entertaining perspective on the city’s heritage.
Memorable Photo Opportunities
Throughout the Savannah Riverboat Cruise, passengers will find ample opportunities to capture memorable photographs.
The cruise offers:
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Stunning views of Savannah’s iconic riverfront skyline, including the Talmadge Memorial Bridge and historic warehouses.
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Close-up perspectives of the Old Fort Jackson cannons as they fire during the tour.
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Picturesque scenes of Savannah’s lush, tree-lined shores and marshes.
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Unique angles of the riverboat itself, showcasing its charming paddle wheel and classic design.
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The chance to immortalize a serene moment on the tranquil Savannah River.
With the city’s rich history and natural beauty on full display, the Savannah Riverboat Cruise provides endless photographic opportunities for passengers.
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- Savannah Hop-On Hop-Off Trolley Tour
- Savannah First Squares Culinary & Cultural Walking Food Tour
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- Historic Savannah Guided Walking Tour
- Southern Flavors Food, Pub Crawl, and History Walking Tour
- Genteel and Bards Savannah Dark History and Ghost Encounter Walking Tour
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Purchase Tickets on the Day of the Cruise?
Yes, you can purchase tickets on the day of the cruise, though it’s recommended to reserve in advance as availability may be limited. Walk-up tickets can be purchased at the Riverboat Ticket Office.
Are Pets Allowed on the Riverboat?
Pets are not allowed on the riverboat cruise. The tour operator has a strict policy prohibiting animals onboard, except for service animals. Guests are advised to leave their pets at home for this sightseeing experience.
Is There an Option to Rent Audio Headsets?
The riverboat cruise doesn’t offer audio headsets. However, passengers can enjoy the live commentary from the captain throughout the 1.5-hour tour, providing insights into the historical sights along Savannah’s waterfront.
How Often Do the Cruises Operate During the Day?
The cruises operate throughout the day, with multiple departures. Specific start times can vary, so customers should check for availability when making their reservation to find the most convenient option for their schedule.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks Onboard?
You can purchase food and drinks on board, but you’re not allowed to bring your own. The cruise offers a selection of snacks, beverages, and a lunch buffet option that can be purchased during the tour.
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The Sum Up
The Savannah Riverboat Narrated Harbor Sightseeing Cruise offers a delightful way to explore the city’s captivating waterfront. With live commentary, stunning views, and convenient amenities, it’s an excellent choice for capturing the charm of Savannah. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a local, this cruise provides a memorable and informative experience that showcases the city’s rich history and beautiful scenery.