Savannah to Tybee Island with Dolphin Cruise

Getting out of Savannah for a day at the beach can be tricky without your own car. Luckily, this guided Savannah to Tybee Island tour simplifies things, offering comfortable transportation, a chance to spot dolphins, and time to enjoy the beach. At just under $75 per person, it packs a lot into about 5 to 6 hours, making it a convenient and engaging way to experience one of Georgia’s most beloved coastlines.

We love how the tour handles all the logistics—no parking hassles, no navigation stress—so you can focus on soaking up the scenery and wildlife. The dolphin cruise is a big highlight, with many guests noting how many dolphins they saw and how fun it was to spot wildlife in the waterways. Plus, the stop at The Crab Shack offers a chance to enjoy a casual, tasty seafood meal without the wait if you’re hungry after the boat ride.

One thing to keep in mind is that the lighthouse and museum are closed on Tuesdays**, which could affect plans if that’s part of your must-see list. Also, the comfort of the bus seats is sometimes mentioned as less than ideal, but most travelers find it a small trade-off for the convenience and value. This tour fits best for time-pressed visitors, wildlife enthusiasts, and anyone seeking a relaxed, all-in-one day trip from Savannah.

Key Points

• Comfortable transportation eliminates parking worries and makes the trip stress-free.
• Wildlife spotting, especially dolphins, is a major highlight confirmed by many happy travelers.
• Flexible timing allows enough time for sightseeing, lunch, and beach strolls.
• Knowledgeable guides make the experience more engaging and informative.
• Value for money is high, considering the inclusion of the dolphin cruise and round-trip transport.
• Potential limitations include early closure of the lighthouse and the bus comfort, but these rarely dampen the overall experience.

Why Choose This Tour?

This tour offers more than just a day at Tybee Island; it combines scenic waterways, wildlife viewing, and cultural stops into one seamless experience. It’s perfect for travelers who want to leave the driving behind and focus on enjoying their day. The dolphin cruise is a crowd favorite, with many reporting impressive sightings—some even for the first time in their lives. Guided commentary and narratives from guides like Stephanie and Tim, praised for their friendliness and knowledge, add a layer of context that makes the trip richer.

The lunch at The Crab Shack is another high point, offering good food with views, although it’s an optional expense. Many reviews highlight how the timing allows for a relaxed pace, with plenty of opportunity to take photos at the Tybee Lighthouse or walk along the beach. For those with limited time or those who prefer organized tours, this trip balances activity and leisure well.

The Itinerary in Detail

Departure from Downtown Savannah

The tour kicks off from a central location, 223 Martin Luther King Jr Blvd, in the late morning. The ride to Tybee Island is via trolley or bus, with round-trip transportation included. This means no worrying about parking or figuring out directions—just hop on and relax. The guide, often praised for their knowledge of Savannah and Tybee Island, keeps the ride lively with stories and historical tidbits.

Arrival at Tybee Island and The Crab Shack

Once on the island, the first stop is at The Crab Shack, a local institution known for its laid-back vibe and seafood. You have the option to purchase lunch here, which many guests say is worth the extra cost—especially after the boat cruise. Reviews mention the great views and tasty seafood, although some noted the restaurant’s seating design can attract small flying bugs, so be prepared if you’re sensitive.

Dolphin Cruise through Waterways

After lunch, the tour’s star attraction begins—the dolphin cruise. You’ll glide through Tybee’s waterways, passing landmarks like Fort Pulaski and Cockspur Island Lighthouse. Guests frequently comment on the abundance of dolphins they saw, with some describing it as “seeing dolphins for the first time in our life.” The crew makes sure passengers get good views, and the experience feels relaxed and fun, with plenty of sea breezes.

Free Time at Tybee Beach and Lighthouse

Following the cruise, you’ll have free time on Tybee Beach, ideal for photos, shell collecting, or a leisurely stroll. The Tybee Lighthouse is a popular photo spot, offering classic coastal scenery. Be aware that the lighthouse and museum are closed on Tuesdays, so plan accordingly. Many reviews express a desire for more time here, especially to explore the lighthouse interior or visit the Marine Life Preservation Area, which are not always part of the itinerary.

Return to Savannah

The trip concludes with a comfortable trolley ride back downtown, arriving in the early evening. Most travelers find this timing perfect for dinner plans or further sightseeing.

What Travelers Say

According to reviews, the guides—like Stephanie, Kelly, and Brenda—are consistently praised for their knowledge, friendliness, and humor. Many mention how they made the trip memorable, with stories and tips that added context to the sights. The dolphin sightings are another recurring highlight, with guests noting how many dolphins they saw, making it a truly special wildlife experience.

The value for money is often emphasized; considering the cruise, transportation, and sightseeing, most feel the tour offers solid value. The lunch stop at The Crab Shack is also a favorite for its tasty offerings and scenic setting, although some suggest skipping the meal to save time.

Some minor drawbacks mentioned include bus comfort—the seats are not plush—and the fact that certain attractions like the lighthouse are closed on specific days, which could affect your plans.

Practical Tips for Your Trip

• Book in advance—most travelers reserve about 25 days ahead, reflecting its popularity.
• Arrive early at the meeting point for a smooth start.
• If you’re a seafood lover, consider the lunch at The Crab Shack; otherwise, plan your own meal.
• Bring sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses for the beach and boat.
• Confirm if the lighthouse and museum are open on your scheduled day.
• The tour is suitable for most travelers, but those with mobility issues might want to check the accessibility of certain stops.

Who Should Take This Tour?

This experience is ideal for families, wildlife enthusiasts, and those wanting a hassle-free day trip from Savannah. It’s perfect if you want a mix of beach, wildlife, and local flavor—without the stress of planning transport or navigation. If you’re a first-time visitor or a repeat traveler wanting a relaxed behind-the-scenes look at the area, most reviews suggest you’ll find this tour both fun and educational.

The Sum Up

In short, the Savannah to Tybee Island with Dolphin Cruise tour offers a well-rounded, accessible way to enjoy Georgia’s coast. From comfortable transport and engaging guides to the thrill of dolphin sightings and beach time, it hits many marks for a memorable day. The inclusion of a dolphin cruise and the convenience of round-trip transit make it especially appealing for travelers who prefer organized outings.

While a few minor inconveniences like bus seats or attraction closures exist, they rarely overshadow the tour’s many positives. It’s a great choice for busy visitors who want to maximize their time and experience without missing the scenery, wildlife, or local flavor. Whether you’re into wildlife watching, relaxing on the beach, or just exploring new places, this trip delivers on its promise to make your day in Savannah truly special.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts about 5 to 6 hours, including transportation, lunch stop, and free time on Tybee Island.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch at The Crab Shack is an optional extra. Many travelers recommend trying the seafood here, but you can also bring your own or eat elsewhere.

What sights will I see on the dolphin cruise?
You’ll cruise through Tybee’s waterways, passing landmarks like Fort Pulaski and Cockspur Island Lighthouse, with plenty of chances to see dolphins.

Are the lighthouse and museum open on Tuesdays?
No, they are closed on Tuesdays, so plan your visit accordingly if those are priorities.

How is the transportation?
Most reviews mention the trolley or bus is comfortable enough, and round-trip transit is included, which simplifies logistics.

Is this tour suitable for children or seniors?
Yes, most travelers find it suitable for a wide age range, but those with mobility issues should confirm accessibility, especially at the lighthouse.

Can I customize the experience or skip parts?
The itinerary is fixed, but optional expenses like lunch are at your discretion. You can enjoy the free time and sightseeing at your own pace within the schedule.

By choosing this tour, you get an easy, fun, and wildlife-rich day out—perfect for making the most of your time in Savannah while experiencing the best of Tybee Island’s natural beauty.