Savannah is one of those Southern ports that charms with its mix of history, scenic riverfront, and bustling shipping activity. What makes Savannah especially fun for shore excursions is the chance to see its vibrant port in action, right from the water. Whether it’s watching colossal cargo ships glide past or learning about the port’s role in global trade, these tours give you an authentic peek behind the scenes. We particularly like the Narrated Port Tour Cruise of Savannah for its friendly guides and dolphin sightings, and the Savannah Georgia Port Tour for its dynamic look at one of the busiest ports in the U.S. You can explore these options and more below.
Quick Overview
For travelers eager to experience Savannah’s port up close, there are three standout tours. The first, the Narrated Port Tour Cruise of Savannah, offers a 1.5-hour narrated boat ride with a focus on port history and lively commentary. The second, the Savannah Georgia Port Tour, is slightly more comprehensive, giving you a full view of the port’s operations and massive ships in action, all from the water. Finally, the Savannah: 90-Minute Informational Port Tour provides a shorter, educational glance at how the port functions, perfect for those short on time but still curious about international shipping.
1. Narrated Port Tour Cruise of Savannah
At number one on our list, the Narrated Port Tour Cruise of Savannah stands out for its engaging commentary and the chance to see dolphins swimming alongside the vessel. This 1 hour 30-minute cruise takes you aboard the River Explorer, heading northwest under the Talmadge Memorial Bridge toward the busy Port of Savannah. What makes this tour special is its focus on the port’s history and economic importance, with entertaining stories from knowledgeable guides like Captain Bernie and Sierra.
During this cruise, you’ll get to see massive containerships up close, often sailing just feet from the boat. Travelers consistently praise the guides’ friendliness and expertise—”Captain Bernie waited for us five minutes late, which was much appreciated,” said a reviewer. The boat isn’t large, so you get an intimate view of port activity, and dolphin sightings add a fun surprise. The tour is well-priced at $48, making it accessible for most budgets. The only drawback? The small vessel means limited space if you prefer a more spacious environment.
Bottom Line: This tour offers a lively, personal experience of Savannah’s port with plenty of opportunities to see ships and marine life, perfect for those who want a relaxed but informative cruise.
2. Savannah Georgia Port Tour
At number two, the Savannah Georgia Port Tour is a full 90-minute water-based look at the port’s operations. This tour is slightly more comprehensive at $67 per person and is unique because it’s the only way to see Savannah’s port in action from the water. Starting with a scenic view of the historic riverfront, your captain then guides you upriver to the Georgia Ports Authority, where you get a front-row seat to cranes unloading cargo, huge container ships, and the busy docks.
What makes this tour stand out? Many reviews highlight how informative and engaging the guiding is, with guides like Peter and Boo sharing insights about port logistics, ship types, and local industry. For example, one traveler noted, “Boo was very friendly and informative, and we felt like we had a behind-the-scenes look at how international shipping works.” The tour’s value is high, considering the close-up views of massive cargo ships and busy cranes that dominate the waterfront. It’s especially suited for those who want a thorough understanding of global trade without leaving Savannah.
Bottom Line: The Savannah Georgia Port Tour offers an immersive, educational experience of the port’s functioning, ideal for logistics enthusiasts or anyone curious about how international commerce keeps the world moving.
3. Savannah: 90-Minute Informational Port Tour
In third place, the Savannah: 90-Minute Informational Port Tour provides a concise, engaging overview of the port’s inner workings. For $65, you’ll explore Savannah’s historic riverfront and learn how the Georgia Port Authority operates the nation’s largest container port. This tour emphasizes the logistics behind cargo handling, giving you a good perspective on how ships are loaded and unloaded.
While shorter than the other two tours, many reviewers appreciate its educational focus and the chance to see cargo ships up close without an overly lengthy commitment. It’s best suited for travelers who want a quick but informative experience, especially if they’re pressed for time. The tour is designed to be accessible for all ages and interests, making it a good choice for families or casual visitors.
Bottom Line: This tour is perfect if you want a quick, insightful look at Savannah’s port operations without sacrificing educational value or the chance to see large ships at close range.
How to Choose Your Savannah Shore Excursion
Choosing between these tours depends on your interests, budget, and how much time you want to spend. If you’re after a relaxed, dolphin-filled cruise with storytelling, the Narrated Port Tour Cruise is ideal. For a deep dive into port logistics and international trade, the Savannah Georgia Port Tour offers a more detailed look—and at a moderate price. If your schedule is tight but you still want to learn about how ships are loaded and unloaded, the 90-Minute Informational Port Tour fits the bill.
Consider your fitness level—these tours are all on boats, so if you’re prone to seasickness, check reviews for vessel size and stability. Booking early is wise, especially in peak season, to secure your spot.
Savannah’s port is more than just a gateway for ships; it’s a vibrant part of the city’s identity. Whether you prefer a dolphin-watching cruise, an up-close look at cranes and cargo ships, or a quick educational overview, these tours will give you a new appreciation for Savannah’s role in global shipping. For a memorable shore excursion, think about which experience best matches your curiosity and schedule—then book early and enjoy!