Savannah: Riverboat Sunset Cruise

Savannah Riverboat Sunset Cruise: A Balancing Act of Views, Music, and Relaxation

Imagine gliding gently along the Savannah River as the sky shifts through shades of pink and orange, with a cool breeze brushing your face and lively tunes floating through the air. That’s exactly what this Savannah Riverboat Sunset Cruise offers. For $55 per person, you get a two-hour voyage with live music and superb views of the historic Savannah waterfront. The boat departs in the evening, giving you the perfect chance to unwind after a day of exploring the city.

Two things we truly appreciate about this experience: First, the open-air top deck provides an unbeatable vantage point for watching the sunset. Second, the live music adds an authentic and lively atmosphere that lets you dance or sit back with a drink and soak in the surroundings. A third perk — the cruise is wheelchair accessible, making it inclusive for a broader range of travelers.

However, a potential drawback is that food and drinks are not included in the ticket price, so you’ll want to budget for purchases onboard. Also, since parking in downtown Savannah can take some extra time, it’s wise to arrive early or factor in additional time to find a spot. This cruise suits those looking for a relaxing, scenic, and musical way to see Savannah from the water, especially if you enjoy a bit of live entertainment and spectacular sunset views.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Stunning Sunset Views: The main highlight is the beautiful sunset over Savannah, timed perfectly for great photo opportunities.
• Live Music & Atmosphere: The onboard band or DJ creates a lively environment, making this more than just a boat ride.
• Flexible Experience: You can relax inside or outside, dance, or just enjoy the scenery at your own pace.
• Affordable Price: At $55, it offers a solid value considering the views and entertainment.
• Accessible & Easy to Join: The cruise is wheelchair accessible, with a straightforward ticketing process and convenient meeting point.
• Some Extra Costs: Food and drinks are available for purchase but are not included in the ticket price, so budget accordingly.

A Detailed Look at the Savannah Riverboat Sunset Cruise

Starting Point and Logistics

Your adventure begins at Savannah Riverboat Cruises, near Olympia Cafe and River Street Sweets. The location is central enough, but parking can be a challenge — especially during busy evenings. Public lots on River Street, Bay Street level, and Bryan Street Parking Garage are the most convenient options. Remember, you should allow an extra 30 to 60 minutes to find parking downtown, which is worth considering to avoid missing your cruise.

Once you pick up your tickets, the boat is located right across from the ticket office, at the dock. The process is straightforward, but if you’re arriving last minute, be mindful that you might need to wait in line to board.

What the Cruise Looks Like

The two-hour cruise typically departs in the evening, aligning with sunset timing. The boat itself is well-organized, with separate decks for different experiences. The top deck is open-air, perfect for panoramic views and capturing photos of the sunset or the city skyline. The middle deck provides a more shaded, climate-controlled environment with an onboard bar and grill, where you can purchase drinks and snacks.

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Views and Scenery

We loved the way the sunset cast a golden glow over Savannah’s historic waterfront, illuminating buildings, docks, and passing boats. Several reviews mention dolphins playing near the boat and how the city’s skyline lights up as dusk falls — a truly memorable scene. One traveler noted, “The sunset was breathtaking, and the city lights were brilliant,” highlighting just how captivating this moment can be.

Live Music and Atmosphere

The onboard entertainment ranges from DJs to live bands, creating a festive vibe. Many reviews praise the music selection, often mentioning how the DJ played a variety of tunes that appealed to different ages and tastes. The atmosphere is friendly and relaxed, with passengers often dancing on the top deck or sitting comfortably inside. One guest shared, “We danced and had a great time,” showing how the music complements the experience.

Food and Drinks

While food and drinks are not included in the ticket price, there is an onboard bar and grill where you can purchase beverages and snacks. Some reviewers mention enjoying ordering food while sitting outside, watching the sunset, and listening to music — a simple pleasure that adds to the cruise’s charm. Keep in mind, drinks can be pricey, and the food options might be limited. One traveler joked, “More bartenders would be nice,” pointing out that lines for beverages can be long.

Authentic Experiences from Reviews

The genuine warmth and friendliness among staff and fellow travelers are frequently praised. Many reviewers note how welcoming and organized the crew is, making for a smooth and enjoyable trip. For example, one review remarks, “Everyone was smiling and happy,” capturing the joyful spirit of the cruise.

Potential Drawbacks and Considerations

Besides parking challenges, some guests mention that the music playlist can sometimes be boring or not very diverse. Also, during hot summer nights or busy times, finding a comfortable outside seat can be tricky, and the lines for drinks might be longer than expected. If you’re expecting a gourmet meal, this cruise might not satisfy that craving, but it’s perfect if you’re after spectacular views and casual entertainment.

Who Will Love This Cruise?

This experience is ideal for couples, families, or groups of friends looking for a relaxed, scenic way to end the day. It suits those who appreciate live music and beautiful sunsets but don’t need a formal dinner or luxury setting. It’s especially good for travelers who want a snapshot of Savannah’s waterways with a lively, social atmosphere.

Why This Experience Offers Good Value

At $55, the cruise presents a fair price considering the stunning sunset views, live entertainment, and the chance to see Savannah from a different perspective. The fact that it is wheelchair accessible broadens its appeal. Although food and drinks come at an extra cost, the onboard bar offers convenience if you want a cold drink while soaking up the scenery.

The cruise’s flexibility — sitting inside, outside, dancing, or relaxing — makes it adaptable to different moods and group dynamics. From the heartfelt reviews, it’s clear that many travelers find this cruise to be a highlight of their Savannah visit, especially if they enjoy a mix of scenic beauty and lively entertainment.

Final Thoughts: Is the Savannah Riverboat Sunset Cruise for You?

If you’re seeking a straightforward, enjoyable way to see the sunset over Savannah’s historic waterfront, this cruise hits the mark. It offers beautiful scenery, friendly staff, and good music, making it perfect for those wanting a laid-back experience with a touch of fun. The open decks and lively atmosphere create an engaging environment, whether you’re dancing or quietly admiring the view.

However, if you’re after a gourmet dinner or a quieter, more intimate experience, you might want to consider other options. But for something casual, memorable, and well-organized, this cruise provides excellent value and authentic charm.

For travelers who prioritize spectacular sunset views, lively music, and a friendly group atmosphere, this cruise could well become a highlight of your Savannah trip.

FAQ

Is the cruise wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the Savannah Riverboat Sunset Cruise is wheelchair accessible, making it easy for travelers with mobility needs to enjoy the experience.

How long is the cruise?
The cruise lasts approximately two hours, usually in the evening to coincide with sunset.

Are food and drinks included in the ticket price?
No, they are available for purchase onboard. The ticket covers only the cruise itself and live music.

Where do I meet the cruise?
You pick up your tickets at Savannah Riverboat Cruises, near Olympia Cafe and River Street Sweets. The boat docks across from the ticket office.

What if I miss the cruise?
Tickets are refundable if canceled up to 24 hours in advance. It’s important to arrive on time because there are no refunds for missing the boat.

Is there a dress code?
Comfortable casual clothing and shoes are recommended. Weather-appropriate clothing is also advised, especially if you plan to be outside.

Can I sit inside or outside?
Yes, the cruise offers both shaded indoor areas and open-air decks, so you can choose your preferred environment.

Is this cruise suitable for children?
While the reviews mention families enjoying the experience, be aware that the environment can be lively, especially if the DJ is playing dance music. It’s suitable for most ages but check if your kids enjoy relaxed sightseeing and music.

In all, the Savannah Riverboat Sunset Cruise combines the best of scenic beauty, lively entertainment, and a relaxed atmosphere. It’s a great way to unwind and see Savannah from a new perspective — especially if you’re in town for just a short visit or want a lively evening outing.

You can check availability for your dates here: