Savannah: Riverboat Cruise & City Tour Combo

Imagine spending a relaxed half-day absorbing Savannah’s stories — both on land and from the water. For $79 per person, you’ll enjoy about three hours of exploring the city’s historic streets and picturesque waterfront. Led by friendly guides, this combo tour takes you through Victorian mansions, Old Fort Jackson, and along the Savannah River, giving you a well-rounded view of this beloved Southern city.

What we love most about this experience is how it balances educational storytelling with stunning vistas. The open-air trolley makes the city’s leafy avenues and charming squares accessible and fun, especially with a knowledgeable guide like Cathleen or Dan, whose lively commentary keeps the energy high. Then, the river cruise offers a more relaxed perspective, with views of the bustling port and historic waterfront — perfect for snapping photos or just soaking in the sights.

One small consideration is that the tour can involve a wait between the trolley and boat segments, sometimes up to an hour or more. Travelers should plan accordingly, especially if parking or time constraints are a concern.

This tour suits those who appreciate history, scenic views, and authentic local stories, making it ideal for first-time visitors, families, or anyone wanting a comprehensive snapshot of Savannah in a single afternoon.

Key Points

• Two viewpoints of Savannah: land via trolley, water via river cruise.
• Expert guides share engaging stories, cultural context, and historical facts.
• Great photo opportunities of the riverfront and city skyline.
• Flexible drop-off options at hotels, City Market, or Visitor Center.
• Value for money includes a 90-minute trolley and a 90-minute boat cruise.
• Timing note: possible wait between tours, so plan your schedule.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at Savannah’s Riverboat & Trolley Combo

When we first considered this tour, what caught our eye was the clear promise of covering Savannah’s highlights from both land and sea. For just $79, you get a balanced glance at the city’s fascinating past and modern port activity — a smart way to pack a lot into a short time. The tour is lead by friendly guides who not only narrate the sights but add personal touches, making the experience more engaging.

The Trolley Tour: Savannah’s Streets and Stories

Starting at the Savannah Visitors Center, you’ll board an open-air trolley, which is perfect for enjoying the breezes and lush greenery. The route covers key sights like Old Fort Jackson and the Victorian-era homes, all while your guide shares stories that bring the city’s history to life.

One reviewer noted, “My guide Cathleen was amazing with her knowledge and super funny,” reflecting how the guides often go beyond dry facts to give personality to the city. The trolley’s fully narrated 90-minute journey offers insights into Savannah’s long and complex past, including stories about military history and local legends.

It’s a comfortable and social way to see Savannah, especially since many comments highlight how knowledgeable and personable the guides are. Plus, the open-air aspect makes it easier to take great photos of the Victorian mansions and shady streets.

The River Cruise: Gliding Down the Savannah River

After the land tour, you’ll board a sightseeing riverboat for another 90-minute experience. This part is often praised for its relaxing atmosphere and informative narration by the captain. You’ll see the historic waterfront, cargo ships, and Old Fort Jackson, which is home to one of the country’s largest original artillery pieces.

Many reviews mention how the captain’s stories and humorous tales make the cruise lively. For example, one reviewer said, “The narrator was very knowledgeable and entertaining,” adding that the cruise offered a great perspective on Savannah’s role as a port city.

This experience is ideal for capturing breathtaking skyline views and spotting dolphins, which some lucky guests have mentioned. Snacks and drinks are available onboard, making it a nice way to unwind and enjoy the scenery and stories.

The Practicalities: Timing and Logistics

While the total duration is around three hours, it’s important to note that there might be a wait between the trolley and boat segments, sometimes up to an hour or more. Some reviewers shared that the tour went longer than anticipated, which is a plus if you love in-depth explorations, but could be a consideration if your schedule is tight.

Parking is available at the Visitors Center for a fee, and the tour includes drop-off options for hotels, City Market, or the Visitor Center itself, adding convenience, especially for those unfamiliar with Savannah’s layout.

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What Travelers Say

The overwhelming majority of reviews are highly positive. Guests consistently praise the expert guides (“Dan was great,” “Kathleen is excellent”) and the enjoyable balance of history, scenery, and storytelling. Many mention how informative and entertaining the guides are, making the tour a highlight of their trip.

Some reviews mention that the boat ride is a relaxing counterpoint to the land tour and that the photo opportunities are excellent. A few travelers noted that seats could be more comfortable on the boat, but most found the experience enjoyable rather than uncomfortable.

A common theme is that the value for the price is excellent, especially given that the price includes both a full trolley tour and a river cruise. One reviewer summed it up: “It went a little longer than anticipated, but it was a great experience. We learned a lot about Savannah.”

Who Would Love This Experience?

If you’re someone who enjoys learning about local history, taking scenic photos, and relaxing on the water, this tour hits all those marks. It’s particularly well-suited for first-time visitors who want a rundown without the hassle of organizing multiple activities. Families and couples alike find it a convenient and affordable way to get a taste of Savannah.

The Sum Up

This Savannah combo tour offers a well-rounded taste of the city’s architecture, history, and river activity. The expert guides, stunning views, and value-packed price make it a solid choice for anyone looking to enjoy Savannah without the stress of itinerary planning. The trolley’s open-air charm and the relaxing river cruise ensure you’ll walk away with beautiful photos and lots of stories.

While the wait times between segments are something to keep in mind, most travelers find that the informative narration and scenic vistas more than make up for it. It’s an experience that caters to history buffs, photographers, and water lovers alike.

In sum, if you want a comfortable, engaging, and scenic introduction to Savannah — and you’re okay with some flexibility in timing — this tour will serve you well. It balances education, scenery, and fun at a price that’s hard to beat for what’s included.

FAQ

How long is the total tour?
The combined experience lasts about three hours, including land and water segments. However, be prepared for possible waiting time between the trolley and boat, which can extend the total time.

Where do I meet for the tour?
You meet at Savannah’s Visitor Center, next to the Gray Line Savannah kiosk, which is marked by a red, white, and blue sign.

Is parking included?
No, parking fees apply at the Visitor Center. Be sure to allocate some extra time and money if you’re driving.

What does the tour include?
The tour price covers a 90-minute fully narrated trolley land tour and a 90-minute sightseeing cruise on the Savannah River.

Are snacks and drinks available?
Yes, drinks and snacks can be purchased onboard the riverboat, making it a pleasant way to relax during the cruise.

Can I get drop-off after the tour?
Yes, transportation is available to hotels, City Market, or the Visitor Center, providing added convenience.

Is it suitable for families or people with mobility issues?
While many reviews highlight the fun guides and scenic views, the open-air trolley and boat may present some challenges for those with mobility issues; check with the provider for specific accommodations.

This combo tour of Savannah blends history, scenery, and local storytelling to create a memorable half-day. Whether you’re a lover of architectural details, waterfront views, or engaging guides, this experience delivers a balanced slice of Savannah’s charm.

You can check availability for your dates here: