Imagine gliding across the calm waters of Georgia’s coast aboard a comfortable, eco-friendly boat called the River Explorer. For about two hours, you’ll search for playful dolphins, spot seabirds, and learn about the surrounding estuaries, marshes, and tidal creeks. Guided by friendly, knowledgeable captains, this tour costs around $42 per person and offers a laid-back way to explore Savannah’s waterfront.
What we love about this eco cruise is how close you get to dolphins in their natural habitat — they’re often swimming alongside or leaping out of the water, giving you a real-life wildlife encounter. Plus, the scenic views of the port and surrounding waterways remind you how vital and busy this area is, balancing industry and nature beautifully.
One potential consideration is that parking isn’t included** — you’ll need to find your own spot either on River or Bay Street. Also, since it’s a BYOB tour, you’ll want to bring your own adult beverages if you’re celebrating or just want to unwind with a drink in hand. But overall, this experience is ideal for those who appreciate wildlife, gentle boat rides, and learning about local ecosystems.
This tour suits nature lovers, families, and anyone curious about Savannah’s maritime history and biodiversity. The friendly guides, detailed narration, and relaxed pace make it accessible and enjoyable for all ages.
Key Points
- Wildlife Encounters: See dolphins, birds, and possibly manatees in their natural environment.
- Educational Experience: Guides share insights into the ecosystem, port history, and marine behavior.
- Relaxing and Scenic: Enjoy a peaceful cruise with beautiful views of Georgia’s coast and port.
- Great Value: At $42 for 2 hours, it offers a balanced mix of fun, education, and scenic beauty.
- BYOB Policy: Bring along your favorite adult beverages to enhance the ride.
- Comfort and Convenience: The boat is designed for eco-friendly wildlife viewing with restrooms onboard.
A Detailed Look at the Savannah Dolphin & Wildlife Cruise
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What Sets This Tour Apart
This eco cruise stands out because it combines wildlife watching with educational commentary in a relaxed setting. The River Explorer is specially designed for comfortable, unobtrusive viewing, meaning you won’t feel cramped or hurried. The guides, often praised for their knowledge and friendliness, go out of their way to ensure that everyone in the group gets a good view — a fact many reviews emphasize.
Itinerary Breakdown
The tour typically departs from River Street Landing, just in front of Spanky’s restaurant, making it highly accessible for visitors staying downtown. You’ll board the River Explorer, a vessel described as comfortable and eco-friendly, ideal for spotting marine life without disturbing it.
The cruise begins with a scenic ride through the waterways, offering views of Georgia’s busy port and historic waterfront. Along the way, your guides will share fascinating facts about Savannah’s shipping industry, history, and ecology. This provides a well-rounded picture of why this area has been so important for centuries.
As you glide through the estuaries and tidal creeks, keep your eyes peeled for dolphins, which are often seen swimming alongside the boat or jumping out of the water. Many travelers mention the thrill of seeing pods of dolphins and even calves — some quote how “it was very peaceful and mind-blowing” to watch dolphins in the wild.
Wildlife and Nature Highlights
The main attraction, of course, is dolphin spotting. Reviewers frequently mention seeing around five dolphins, sometimes more, with some capturing close-up views and others just catching glimpses of playful leaps. The guides are praised for their persistence — they won’t give up until everyone has a chance to see these intelligent creatures.
Beyond dolphins, you might see a variety of seabirds, such as seagulls, herons, and sometimes even manatees or alligators. The guides’ educational commentary offers insights into dolphin behavior, like how they raise calves or hunt in groups, enriching your understanding of these animals.
More Great Tours NearbyThe Scenic and Educational Experience
The tour isn’t just about wildlife. The guides share historical facts about the waterways, ports, and Savannah’s maritime importance. One review highlights how they discussed the port’s shipping industry, making the experience both scenic and informative.
The natural beauty of Georgia’s marshes and tidal creeks is stunning — quiet, peaceful, with a gentle breeze that many reviewers find relaxing. The views of ships entering and leaving the port add a layer of industrial charm and remind us of Savannah’s role as a bustling port city.
Food, Drinks, and Comfort
Since it’s a BYOB tour, travelers often bring adult beverages, making the experience more festive. Drinks and snacks are available for purchase onboard if you prefer not to BYOB. The boat is equipped with restrooms, which add convenience on this two-hour trip.
Many reviewers appreciate the friendly and knowledgeable guides, such as Captain Birdie and Sierra, who kept everyone engaged and answering questions. Their enthusiasm and expertise seem to make the difference between a good ride and a memorable one.
Price and Value
At $42 per person, the tour offers excellent value for a two-hour experience that combines wildlife, scenery, and education. Considering the positive reviews praising the guides and the opportunity to see dolphins up close, most visitors feel they received good value for their money.
Considerations for Travelers
While the experience is generally highly praised, you should plan to arrive early — 30 minutes before departure — to find parking, as it isn’t included. Also, if you’re sensitive to heat or cold, bring appropriate clothing, especially during the morning or late afternoon cruises.
If you’re traveling with children or wildlife enthusiasts, this tour will likely delight. However, those hoping for extensive historical narration might find it more focused on natural sights and ecosystems.
Who Should Consider This Tour?
This cruise is perfect for families, wildlife lovers, and those wanting a relaxed way to see Savannah from the water. It’s especially suited for travelers interested in learning about local ecosystems and enjoying up-close animal encounters. The friendly guides and educational focus make it accessible to all ages, and the reasonable price point makes it a great value.
FAQs
Is parking included in the price?
No, guests are responsible for parking on River Street or Bay Street. It’s advisable to arrive about 30 minutes early to secure a spot and prepare for boarding.
Can I bring drinks or snacks?
Yes, the tour is BYOB, so you can bring your own adult beverages. Drinks and snacks are also available for purchase onboard.
How long is the tour?
The cruise lasts approximately two hours, which is enough time to enjoy the scenery and wildlife without feeling rushed.
What should I wear?
Dress comfortably for the weather. During warmer months, lightweight clothing, sun protection, and hats are recommended. If it’s cooler or breezy, bring a light jacket.
Are restrooms available onboard?
Yes, the boat is equipped with restrooms, adding to your comfort during the cruise.
What wildlife might I see?
Most commonly, expect to see dolphins, seabirds, and possibly manatees or alligators depending on the day.
Is this tour suitable for children?
Absolutely. The relaxed pace and educational focus make it a good choice for families with kids.
What if I want a different time or day?
Tours are usually available in the morning and afternoon, and you can reserve now and pay later to keep your plans flexible.
Final Thoughts
The Savannah Dolphin Spotting and Wildlife Eco Cruise offers a genuine chance to connect with Georgia’s natural beauty and maritime heritage. It’s a relaxing, educational, and fun way to spend a couple of hours, especially if you enjoy wildlife and scenic waterways. For $42, you’re getting a well-reviewed experience that combines stunning views, friendly guides, and the thrill of dolphin sightings.
This tour is best suited for families, wildlife enthusiasts, and anyone curious about Savannah’s coastal environment. Its balance of relaxation and learning makes it ideal for those wanting an authentic, memorable outing—without breaking the bank.
Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned local, this cruise offers a peaceful escape into the waterways that have shaped Savannah’s history and continue to sustain its vibrant ecosystem. Don’t forget your camera and a sense of adventure — you might just have your best wildlife sighting yet.
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