Is Savannah Riverboat Cruises worth it?

Yes. It’s one of the best ways to experience Savannah from a completely different perspective while learning about the city’s maritime history, working waterfront, and historic landmarks.

Which Savannah Riverboat Cruise should I choose?

The narrated sightseeing cruise is ideal for first-time visitors, while dinner and sunset cruises are perfect for couples, celebrations, or anyone looking for a memorable evening on the river.

How long do the cruises last?

Most sightseeing cruises last approximately 90 minutes, while dining and specialty cruises may run closer to two hours, depending on the experience you select.

Can you see dolphins during the cruise?

Many guests do spot dolphins along the Savannah River, although wildlife sightings are never guaranteed.

Is Savannah Riverboat Cruises within walking distance of the Historic District?

Yes. The riverboats depart from 9 East River Street, making them an easy walk from many hotels and vacation rentals located throughout Savannah’s Historic District.

Where do Savannah Riverboat Cruises depart from?

Savannah Riverboat Cruises departs from 9 East River Street, directly along Savannah’s historic waterfront. The dock is within easy walking distance of River Street, City Market, and many vacation rentals in Savannah’s Historic District, making it easy to include in a day of sightseeing.

Things to Do

Savannah Riverboat Cruises

9 E River St, Savannah, GA 31401

Who It's For

ADA Friendly

Children

Couples

Families

First-Time Visitors

Groups

History Buffs

Luxury Experience

Outdoor

Photography

Romantic

Seniors

Solo Travelers

Location

River Street

Savannah Historic District

Best Time To Visit

Afternoon

Evening

Duration

1-2 Hours

Best Seasons

Fall

Spring

Summer

Environment

Indoor & Outdoor

Type of Experience

Attraction

Tour

A visit to Savannah isn’t complete without spending time on the Savannah River, and few experiences showcase the city’s rich maritime history better than Savannah Riverboat Cruises. Departing from historic River Street, these authentic paddlewheel riverboats offer visitors a unique perspective of Savannah’s iconic waterfront, the Port of Savannah, Old Fort Jackson, and the Georgia Lowcountry.

Whether you’re planning a romantic evening on the water, introducing your family to Savannah for the first time, or simply looking for a relaxing break after exploring the Historic District on foot, Savannah Riverboat Cruises offers an experience that appeals to nearly every type of traveler. With sightseeing cruises, dinner cruises, sunset sailings, brunches, and seasonal events available throughout the year, it’s one of the city’s most recognizable attractions—and for good reason.

Why We Recommend It

One of the attractions we recommend most often to guests staying in Savannah’s Historic District is Savannah Riverboat Cruises. While Savannah is a wonderfully walkable city, seeing it from the river offers an entirely different appreciation for its history and character.

From the upper deck, you’ll watch massive cargo ships navigate one of the busiest ports on the East Coast, pass beneath the towering Talmadge Memorial Bridge, and cruise toward historic Old Fort Jackson while hearing stories about Savannah’s maritime heritage. Many guests tell us this becomes one of the most relaxing afternoons or evenings of their trip, especially after spending several days exploring the city’s museums, squares, and cobblestone streets.

The combination of beautiful waterfront views, engaging narration, Southern hospitality, and a slower pace makes this one of our favorite recommendations for first-time visitors.

History

Although paddlewheel riverboats have long been associated with Savannah’s waterfront, Savannah Riverboat Cruises was established in 1991 with the goal of bringing an authentic riverboat experience back to the city. Founder Captain Jonathan Claughton began with a single vessel before expanding the fleet over the years to meet growing demand. Today, the company operates multiple riverboats offering sightseeing, dining, entertainment, and special event cruises throughout the year.

The cruise route itself tells the story of Savannah’s evolution. Guests travel past the historic riverfront where General James Oglethorpe first landed, continue alongside one of the nation’s busiest container ports, pass the famous Waving Girl monument, and cruise toward Old Fort Jackson, one of the oldest standing brick forts in Georgia. It’s a fascinating reminder that Savannah has always been a city shaped by its relationship with the river.

What We Like

What makes Savannah Riverboat Cruises stand out isn’t simply the boat—it’s the perspective.

Seeing Savannah from the water provides views you simply cannot experience from land. Watching cargo vessels move through the harbor, passing beneath the Talmadge Bridge, spotting dolphins on occasion, and approaching Old Fort Jackson from the river creates an entirely different appreciation for the city’s history.

We also appreciate that there are cruise options for almost every type of traveler. The narrated sightseeing cruise is perfect for first-time visitors, while the sunset and dinner cruises offer a more romantic atmosphere with live entertainment and Southern cuisine. If you’re celebrating an anniversary, birthday, or simply looking for a memorable evening, a dinner cruise is one of the most unique experiences in Savannah.

Another feature guests consistently enjoy is the captain’s narration. Rather than simply floating down the river, you’ll hear stories about Savannah’s shipping industry, military history, and the important role the Savannah River continues to play today.

Things To Know Before You Go

Choose the Right Cruise

Sightseeing cruises are ideal for history lovers, while dinner and sunset cruises are better suited for couples and celebrations.

Dress for the Weather

Outdoor decks provide the best views, so bring a light jacket during cooler months or evenings.

Reserve in Advance

Popular cruises, especially dinner, sunset, and holiday events, frequently sell out. Reservations are highly recommended.

Bring Your Camera

The best photo opportunities include Savannah’s historic skyline, the Talmadge Memorial Bridge, Old Fort Jackson, and passing cargo ships.

Watch for Wildlife

While never guaranteed, dolphin sightings are common enough that many visitors consider them a highlight of the cruise.

Restrooms Are Available Onboard

All Savannah Riverboat Cruises vessels have onboard restrooms, making the experience comfortable for families with children, seniors, and guests enjoying longer dining or sightseeing cruises.

FAQs

One of the biggest advantages of staying in Savannah’s Historic District is having attractions like Savannah Riverboat Cruises just a short walk from your front door. Spend the morning exploring the city’s historic squares, enjoy lunch on River Street, then step aboard for an unforgettable afternoon or evening on the Savannah River without worrying about traffic or parking.

If you’re planning a visit, explore our collection of Savannah Historic District Vacation Rentals to stay close to Savannah Riverboat Cruises, River Street, City Market, and many of the city’s best restaurants, shops, and historic attractions. Whether you’re visiting for a romantic getaway, family vacation, or long weekend with friends, Luxury Living Savannah offers the perfect home base for experiencing the Hostess City at your own pace.