2 HR Savannah Riverboat Dinner Cruise with Onboard Entertainment

Savannah’s 2-Hour Riverboat Dinner Cruise with Onboard Entertainment offers an inviting way to see the city from a different angle. For $92.52 per person, you’ll board a charming traditional riverboat along the Savannah River, enjoying a buffet dinner, live entertainment, and the chance to dance under the stars. This cruise lasts approximately 2 hours and is perfect for those seeking a relaxed yet lively evening in Savannah.

What we really appreciate about this experience are the panoramic views of the Savannah skyline and the friendly, welcoming atmosphere that many reviews highlight. Plus, the varied dinner buffet—featuring classics like shrimp & grits and a carving station—is surprisingly generous for a two-hour cruise. However, one consideration is that parking downtown can take some extra planning, and dinner service is not guided, so you’ll want to arrive prepared.

This cruise is well-suited for couples, families, or anyone wanting to enjoy Savannah from the water with good food and entertainment. If you’re looking for a romantic sunset outing or a fun night with friends, this trip could be just the ticket—although some reviews suggest that expectations about the service and food can vary.

Key Points

• Stunning Views: Expect a panoramic perspective of Savannah’s skyline, especially the Talmadge Memorial Bridge.
• Varied Buffet: Offers a hearty selection including shrimp & grits, carving stations, and catch of the day.
• Onboard Entertainment: Features live music and a dance floor, encouraging guests to unwind and dance the night away.
• Relaxed Atmosphere: No formal dress code, making it accessible for most travelers.
• Potential Drawbacks: Parking can be challenging, and service quality may vary based on reviews.
• Ideal For: Couples, families, or groups seeking a laid-back, scenic evening with good food and music.

A Detailed Look at the Savannah Riverboat Dinner Cruise

Setting the Scene: When you arrive at the Riverboat Ticket Office at 9 E River St, you’re stepping into a scene reminiscent of classic river travel. The boats themselves are painted in traditional red, white, and blue, evoking a nostalgic charm. From the start, it’s clear that this isn’t just about the meal—it’s about savoring Savannah from a water-based perspective, with the city’s skyscrapers and bridges providing a constantly changing backdrop.

The Itinerary: The cruise lasts about two hours, beginning at 7:00 pm. You’ll start by boarding the Savannah River Queen, where you’ll find both climate-controlled and open-air decks offering spectacular views. The cruise takes you past notable sights like the Talmadge Memorial Bridge and along the waterfront promenade, River Street, lined with shops and eateries. If you prefer a more relaxed, scenic experience, sitting on the top deck with a drink in hand is the way to go.

What to Expect During the Cruise:

• Dinner Buffet: The buffet is a highlight, with a variety of hearty options. Reviewers praise the delicious food, mentioning dishes like shrimp & grits and catch of the day. Some note that the dinner is served in a counterclockwise rotation, which means you might need to be patient if you want seconds or desserts. One reviewer humorously warns, “don’t you dare reach for a dessert plate despite there being no dinner plates out,” highlighting potential logistical quirks.
• Live Entertainment & Dance Floor: The onboard entertainment includes live music, with some reviews describing the performers as phenomenal. The dance floor is open for guests who want to keep the fun going after dinner. One reviewer fondly recalls a local band playing as the sun set, providing a peaceful, musical backdrop to the evening.
• Views & Atmosphere: Expect panoramic water views and beautiful cityscapes. Many mention the stunning sunset and the bright city lights coming alive as dusk falls. The atmosphere is generally described as welcoming and relaxed.

Authentic Experiences & Honest Feedback: While many reviews praise the experience, others offer cautionary tales. One reviewer wrote, “the food was mediocre, and service was rude,” reminding us that not all experiences are perfect. Another reflects disappointment with poor customer service and disorganized seating, which can happen in busy evenings.

The Food & Drinks: The buffet includes shrimp, carving stations, and desserts like peach cobbler, though some note that dessert serving can be slow or messy. The cash bar offers alcoholic beverages, with a minimum drinking age of 21. Alcohol prices are standard for a cruise setting, but note that no alcohol is included in the ticket price.

Accessibility & Practicalities: The main deck is accessible to those with mobility issues, but restrooms are not. No formal dress code exists, making this cruise accessible to most attire. However, you should allow extra time for parking downtown, as it’s often a challenge and no refunds are given if you miss the boat due to parking delays.

The Pros & Cons

What we love about this cruise is the combination of scenic beauty with entertainment and good food. The view of the city skyline at sunset is genuinely memorable, and the friendly onboard staff seem dedicated to creating a relaxed environment. The buffet offers hearty, well-liked dishes, and many reviewers highlight the quality of live music.

On the flip side, some travelers report variable service quality and disorganized seating, which can detract from the overall experience. A handful of reviews mention poor food quality or long waits for desserts, so don’t expect Michelin-starred cuisine. Also, parking hassles in downtown Savannah can be a concern, especially if you’re arriving close to the start time.

Who Should Consider This Cruise?

This experience suits those wanting a relaxed, scenic evening with good food and entertainment. It’s ideal for romantic couples, families, or groups of friends looking to enjoy Savannah from the water. If your goal is a quiet, romantic sunset cruise with ample city views and a casual dress code, you’ll likely enjoy this. However, if you’re expecting high-end service or gourmet cuisine, you might find this cruise a bit underwhelming.

Final Thoughts

The Savannah Riverboat Dinner Cruise offers an accessible way to see the city’s skyline and waterfront from a different perspective. While the views are stunning and the buffet satisfying, the experience can be marred by service inconsistencies and logistical quirks. It’s most suitable for relaxed evenings and casual enjoyment rather than a lavish dinner experience.

For travelers who love live music, river views, and a laid-back atmosphere, this cruise can be a highlight. But be prepared for the parking hustle and potential service hiccups—and view the experience as part of Savannah’s charm, not its luxury.

If you’re after a genuine, enjoyable night on the water and don’t mind a little unpredictability, this cruise might become a treasured memory. Just arrive early, keep expectations realistic, and enjoy the views and good company.

FAQs

Is there a dress code for the cruise?
No, there is no formal dress code, so casual attire is perfectly fine.

Does the cruise include alcohol?
No, the ticket price does not include drinks. A cash bar is available, with alcoholic beverages for purchase.

How long does the cruise last?
The cruise runs for about 2 hours, starting at 7:00 pm and ending back at the dock.

Is parking available nearby?
Parking in downtown Savannah can be challenging; travelers should allow extra time to find a spot, as parking issues are common.

Are the cabins accessible for those with mobility issues?
Yes, the main deck is handicapped accessible, but restrooms are not.

Can I expect guided narration during the cruise?
No, the dinner cruise is unguided; you’ll enjoy the sights and atmosphere, but not narrated commentary.

To sum it up, this cruise is a fine choice if you’re looking for a relaxing, scenic water experience with entertainment and good food. It’s especially appealing if you prioritize views and atmosphere over gourmet dining or high-end service. With a bit of patience and an appreciation for the relaxed Savannah vibe, you’ll walk away with memorable photos and a warm feeling of having experienced a classic Southern evening.