90-Minute Savannah Riverboat Sightseeing Cruise

Savannah’s Waterway in Focus: A 90-Minute Riverboat Cruise

Imagine drifting along the Savannah River, surrounded by historic skyline and lush waterfront scenery. For just under $42, you can spend about an hour and a half soaking in the city’s sights from a classic riverboat with live commentary. This tour starts at the Riverboat Ticket Office on 9 E River St and takes you on a scenic cruise that highlights Savannah’s waterfront, its historic port, and a glimpse of the city’s maritime past. It’s a relaxed, family-friendly way to see Savannah from a fresh perspective while learning some interesting facts along the way.

What we really appreciate about this experience is the comprehensive narration from the captain, which brings the city’s waterborne history and modern port activity to life. Plus, the chance to pass by Old Fort Jackson—one of the oldest artillery sites in the country—is a nice bonus for history buffs. On the flip side, keep in mind that this cruise does not include lunch, so if you’re hungry, plan for a meal afterward or consider a luncheon cruise.

This adventure is best suited for travelers who enjoy scenic views, relaxed storytelling, and a touch of local history. It’s perfect for families, couples, or solo travelers looking for a calm, informative experience that complements Savannah’s vibrant street life and historic districts.

Key Points

• Authentic Waterway Experience: A 90-minute cruise showcasing Savannah’s scenic riverfront and skyline.
• Engaging Narration: Live commentary from the captain offers insights into Savannah’s port, history, and current importance.
• Great Photo Opportunities: Panoramic views from the climate-controlled decks and open-air patios.
• Historic Sight Passings: Pass by Old Fort Jackson, one of the country’s oldest artillery pieces.
• Accessible and Convenient: Located centrally on River Street, with easy access, though parking can take extra time.
• Value for Money: At just over $40, the tour offers a peaceful, informative experience with lovely water views—great for relaxing and photo sessions.

The Experience in Detail: What You Can Expect

The 90-Minute Savannah Riverboat Cruise operates from the Riverboat Ticket Office on East River Street, the historic heart of Savannah’s waterfront. The boat itself is a charming, traditional riverboat painted in patriotic red, white, and blue, echoing the classic steamboat style, which immediately sets a nostalgic tone.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Your journey begins with a straightforward boarding process, generally seamless if you arrive a little ahead of your scheduled departure. No need to worry about formal dress—this is a casual, family-friendly outing that welcomes all travelers. Once aboard, you’ll find a variety of comfortable seating options: climate-controlled interior decks with large panoramic windows for bad weather days, and open-air decks for those who want to soak up the sun or snap photos of Savannah’s skyline.

The narration from the captain is a highlight. Travelers consistently praise the guides for their engaging storytelling, often peppered with humor—think dad jokes—that keep the mood light and fun. As one reviewer, Chrisy W, noted, “Gage was a fun guide—dad jokes were great!!” The live commentary covers port activity, local landmarks, and historical tidbits, making the cruise both entertaining and educational.

Pass by Old Fort Jackson

A key highlight is passing by Old Fort Jackson, one of the oldest artillery sites in the United States. The boat offers a great vantage point for photos of this historic stronghold, which played a vital role in Savannah’s defense. It’s a visual treat and a moment to appreciate the city’s military history, even if you’re not a history buff.

Savannah Waterfront and River Street

The cruise also provides sweeping views of Savannah’s vibrant waterfront promenade, River Street. This stretch is lined with shops, restaurants, and lively bars—perfect for after the cruise if you want to continue exploring. As one traveler pointed out, “River Street is one of the main arteries of the historic city,” and the cruise gives you an excellent vantage point to see it all from the water.

Onboard Amenities

On the top deck, you’ll find a bar and grille, offering drinks (including alcoholic options) and light snacks. This makes the cruise a relaxed social occasion, perfect for unwinding with a cold beverage while enjoying the water views. Keep in mind, smoking is only permitted on the outside decks, which helps maintain a pleasant environment for all.

Practical Details

The cruise lasts approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, making it a manageable addition to your Savannah itinerary. Most travelers find the timing just right—long enough to enjoy the scenery and stories without feeling rushed. Arrive at the ticket office early, as parking downtown can be tricky, and the tour isn’t refundable if missed—an important consideration if you’re staying busy or on a tight schedule.

Accessibility and Other Considerations

The main deck is handicapped accessible, but note that restrooms are not. Since the tour involves no walking other than boarding and disembarking, most travelers can participate comfortably. The boat is not overly crowded, with a maximum capacity of 999 travelers, but reviews suggest that the overall group size remains manageable.

Authentic Traveler Insights

From diverse reviews, it’s clear this river cruise hits a sweet spot for many visitors. For example, James C called it an “amazing experience,” praising the nice staff, good food and drinks, and the relaxing atmosphere. Others loved Gage’s engaging storytelling, adding humor to the historic facts, which keeps the cruise lively and memorable.

Several reviews emphasize the stunning water views and the informative narration. Kristin Q appreciated that “the 90-minute cruise was the perfect amount of time,” noting Gage’s “engaging and knowledgeable” narration. Meanwhile, Laura B enjoyed the relaxing environment and the ample seating on the top deck, which facilitated great sightseeing and photo-taking.

Some travelers mentioned the need for sunscreen and a reminder that no lunch buffet is included—so bring snacks or plan to eat afterward. As one reviewer noted, “write-up should have suggested bringing sunscreen,” which is a good tip for sunny days.

The Value for Travelers

At just over $40, this cruise offers a good balance of affordability, scenery, and storytelling. It’s a leisurely way to see Savannah from a different angle—perfect for those who prefer a relaxed pace over walking tours or bus excursions. Plus, the live narration adds a personal touch many other water-based tours lack.

The passage by Old Fort Jackson and views of the historic skyline give a sense of the city’s maritime history and modern port activity, enriching your understanding of Savannah’s evolution. Whether you’re a history buff, a photography enthusiast, or just seeking a peaceful break on the water, this tour has appeal.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This cruise is well-suited for families, couples, or solo travelers** who want a gentle, scenic experience. It’s particularly good for those interested in local history and water views without the effort of walking or strenuous activity. If you’re traveling with children or seniors, the easy access and relaxed atmosphere make it comfortable.

It’s also ideal for travelers who appreciate live narration and the chance to hear stories about Savannah’s port, skyline, and historic fortifications firsthand. If you’re looking to capture memorable photos, the panoramic decks and passing views are a big bonus.

Final Thoughts

The 90-Minute Savannah Riverboat Sightseeing Cruise offers a charming, relaxing way to see Savannah’s waterfront from a different perspective. The live guide and scenic views are definite highlights, providing both entertainment and education in a comfortable setting. For a reasonable price, you gain a peaceful water-based experience that complements your exploration of this historic city.

While it doesn’t include lunch or a formal sightseeing agenda, what it does offer—stunning vistas, interesting stories, and a chance to slow down and enjoy Savannah’s riverfront—is well worth considering for your itinerary.

This tour is a solid choice for travelers who want a calm, insightful, and visually stunning experience that pairs nicely with other historic or culinary adventures in Savannah.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the cruise suitable for all ages?
Yes, most travelers can participate comfortably, and the relaxed nature makes it ideal for families, seniors, or solo explorers.

Does the cruise run rain or shine?
The experience requires good weather. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Is there a dress code?
No, there is no dress code. Just wear something comfortable, and consider bringing sunscreen on sunny days.

Are there restroom facilities onboard?
The main deck is handicapped accessible, but restrooms are not available on the boat.

Can I buy drinks or snacks?
Yes, a cash bar is available on all cruises for alcoholic beverages, and there are light snacks available on the top deck.

How long before departure should I arrive?
It’s wise to arrive a bit early to find parking and board smoothly, especially since parking downtown can be time-consuming.

Does the cruise include lunch?
No, the standard sightseeing cruise does not include lunch. If you want a meal, look into the luncheon cruise options.

Is there any special history or landmarks included?
Yes, you’ll pass by Old Fort Jackson and enjoy commentary on Savannah’s port and waterfront, giving you context about the city’s maritime past.

How many people typically participate?
The tour can accommodate up to 999 travelers, but it usually feels comfortably sized with a small group of fellow passengers.

Whether you’re after a peaceful scenic cruise, a new perspective on Savannah’s history, or a memorable photo opportunity, this riverboat tour offers genuine value and a relaxing way to experience the city from its waters.