Sunday Brunch Riverboat Cruise in Savannah

A relaxing way to see Savannah from a different perspective starts with this Sunday Brunch Riverboat Cruise—a 1.5-hour voyage that combines sightseeing, southern hospitality, and a hearty buffet. For $77.09 per person, you’ll climb aboard a beautifully maintained multi-deck riverboat that offers panoramic views of Savannah’s historic riverfront. The cruise departs from the Riverboat Ticket Office at 1 E River St, with a start time of 1:00 pm, making it a perfect midday activity.

What we love most about this experience is the blend of scenic beauty and cultural storytelling. The narration about Savannah’s architecture and river history adds a layer of depth to the gentle ride. Plus, the buffet brunch with drinks included makes it feel like a leisurely Sunday affair. On the flip side, a potential snag is the need to arrive early and factor in parking time—Savannah’s downtown can be busy, and the experience is non-refundable, so planning ahead is essential.

This cruise is ideal for those wanting a casual, informative outing with good food and beautiful river views. Whether you’re a history buff, a food lover, or simply looking for a relaxing way to soak in Savannah’s charm, this tour offers a straightforward, enjoyable experience perfect for families, couples, or solo travelers.

Key Points

• Scenic Views: Get a different perspective of Savannah’s riverfront from a boat deck, with panoramic views of the historic district.
• Narrated Tour: Learn about Savannah’s architecture and river heritage from a friendly, informative guide.
• Hearty Buffet: Enjoy a buffet brunch with Southern dishes and drinks included, on a climate-controlled deck.
• Flexible Deck Space: Walk around the main and upper decks for fresh air and unobstructed vistas.
• Accessibility: The main deck is wheelchair accessible, though restrooms are not.
• Timing & Planning: Arrive early to avoid long lines and allow extra time for parking downtown.
• Cost & Value: Priced at just over $77, the experience offers good value for a relaxed, scenic cruise with food.
• Weather Dependence: As an outdoor activity, it’s weather-dependent; poor weather could lead to rescheduling or refunds.

Detailed Review: Why You Might Like This Tour

Setting the Scene: Imagine stepping onto a classic riverboat, painted in waving red, white, and blue, reminiscent of a bygone era of leisure on the water. This isn’t just a transportation vessel; it’s a floating venue offering a leisurely exploration of Savannah’s historic riverfront. From the deck, you’ll see the charming mix of old warehouses, modern shops, and scenic parks, all narrated by a friendly guide who shares tidbits about Savannah’s storied past.

The Itinerary: The cruise begins at the riverfront dock at the Riverboat Ticket Office, where the anticipation of a relaxed sightseeing tour builds. You’re encouraged to arrive early—about an hour before departure—to secure good seating and avoid the long lines that form quickly. Boarding is smooth, and most reviews note how friendly and helpful the staff are.

The boat itself offers several decks, with a glass-enclosed climate-controlled main deck that provides comfortable seating and panoramic views. The upper decks are perfect for those wanting more fresh air and unobstructed sights, especially on a clear day.

The Experience: The cruise features a fully narrated commentary, which many reviewers find engaging and informative. Words like “great history lesson” and “interesting narration” appear frequently, suggesting that your guide isn’t just pointing out sights but also telling stories that bring Savannah’s history alive. One reviewer even mentions that the Captain shares information during the tour, enhancing the experience.

Food and Drinks: The buffet brunch is a highlight for many, described as “delicious” and “very good” by some, and offering a wide variety of southern dishes. Soft drinks, iced tea, lemonade, and coffee are included, making it a refreshing complement to the views. For those looking to indulge, a cash bar also offers alcoholic drinks, with mimosas being a popular choice—especially at $20 for unlimited refills.

The Downside: A few critics mention that the food can be hit or miss, with some overcooked or lacking seasoning, and the wine served was not well-rated. Plus, a couple of reviews criticized the industrial-looking views during the cruise, stating that it’s not as picturesque as some might expect. Noise from the narration can also be inconsistent, with one reviewer noting it only worked half the time.

Who It’s Best For: This cruise suits those who appreciate a laid-back, informative outing with great views and don’t mind a casual buffet. It’s perfect for families, couples, or solo travelers, especially if you’re interested in learning about Savannah’s riverfront and architecture without a strenuous activity. It’s also an excellent choice if you prefer indoor comfort, with the climate-controlled main deck.

Deep Dive into the Itinerary: What You Can Expect

Starting Point & Boarding

The tour kicks off at the Riverboat Ticket Office on River Street, an area bustling with shops, cafes, and historic charm. Arriving early (about an hour beforehand) is recommended because the lines can get long, and you’ll want to settle in comfortably. The staff are generally friendly and efficient, guiding you onto the boat smoothly.

The Vessel & Views

Once aboard, you’ll find the riverboat’s classic design immediately charming, with bright red, white, and blue hues. The boat boasts a climate-controlled main deck with large windows—ideal for viewing even if the weather isn’t perfect—and an outdoor upper deck for those who love the breeze.

Expect to see the bustling Savannah waterfront—including warehouses, docks, and the busy shipping channel—although some reviews mention that part of the cruise looks quite industrial. Still, this offers a real-world glimpse of Savannah’s river commerce.

Narrated Tour & Commentary

The narration is one of the tour’s highlights. The guide provides insight into Savannah’s architecture, the significance of the river, and local stories. The commentary is generally well-received, with travelers saying it offers “a great history lesson” and keeps the experience engaging.

Dining Experience

The buffet brunch is served on the second deck, with Southern favorites like fried chicken, eggs, biscuits, and other brunch staples. The food is often described as “acceptable” or “good,” with many appreciating the variety. Some reviews note that the food can be overcooked or lukewarm, but overall, most find it satisfying, especially considering the setting.

Drinks are included as soft drinks and iced tea, with a cash bar offering beer, wine, and mimosas. Several travelers mention that for $20, the unlimited mimosas are “definitely worth it” and add to the leisurely Sunday vibe.

Seating & Atmosphere

The boat’s spacious tables and reserving options make for an uncrowded, comfortable meal. You’re encouraged to walk around and sit outside for the best scenery, which many guests enjoy, especially those who want to take photos or simply soak up the atmosphere.

Disembarkation & Additional Tips

The cruise concludes back at the starting point, and most reviews indicate that the entire experience is smooth and enjoyable. A common tip is to plan for extra time for parking and arriving early to avoid missing the boat.

Authentic Perspectives From Travelers

Many reviews praise the staff and guides, mentioning how friendly and informative they are. One reviewer said “The actual cruise and narration were fun and interesting,” while another appreciated the “great food and service.” The scenery from the water is often described as “breathtaking”, making this a worthwhile way to see Savannah’s historic skyline.

However, not everyone loved everything. A few critics found the industrial views dull or the food lacking in flavor. One person even shared a negative experience with an inattentive waiter, emphasizing the importance of early arrival and managing expectations.

Why You Should Consider This Tour

If you’re after a relaxed, scenic outing with educational value and good food, this cruise ticks many boxes. It’s a great introduction to Savannah’s waterfront, especially for those who enjoy narrated tours and outdoor seating. The value for money is generally regarded as fair, considering the included drinks and buffet.

For travelers who prefer more picturesque, less industrial views, or who are very picky about food, this might not be the top choice. Still, the overall friendly atmosphere and informative narration appeal to those wanting an authentic, laid-back experience on the water.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
Yes, the main deck of the Savannah River Queen is handicapped accessible, but restrooms are not. If you use a wheelchair, you can stay on the main level comfortably.

How early should I arrive?
It’s best to arrive about an hour early, as lines tend to form quickly, and seating fills up fast. This will help ensure you get a good spot and avoid missing the departure.

Are drinks included in the price?
Soft drinks, iced tea, lemonade, and coffee are included in the ticket price. Alcoholic beverages are available for purchase at the cash bar, with mimosas at $20 for unlimited drinks.

What should I wear?
There’s no dress code, so casual attire is fine. The boat is climate-controlled, but it’s wise to bring a jacket or sweater if you plan to sit outside on a cooler day.

Is there a lot of walking involved?
No, the tour does not require significant walking. Most of the experience takes place on the boat, and you can stay seated or move around as you wish.

What’s the duration of the cruise?
The cruise lasts approximately 1 hour 30 minutes, perfect for a relaxing midday activity.

Can I bring my own food or drinks?
Outside food and drinks are not permitted onboard; the buffet is included with your ticket.

What views will I see?
You’ll see Savannah’s historic riverfront, shipping channel, and possibly some industrial scenery. The views from the water are often described as breathtaking, especially if the weather is clear.

Is this experience weather-dependent?
Yes, it requires good weather. If canceled due to rain or storms, you’ll be offered a different date or full refund.

Final Thoughts

This Sunday Brunch Riverboat Cruise offers a leisurely way to experience Savannah’s waterfront with the added bonus of a buffet brunch and engaging narration. It’s especially appealing for those who enjoy scenic views combined with relaxed dining. The friendly staff and informative guides help make it a memorable outing, while the price point balances affordability with a quality experience.

If you’re looking for a gentle cruise that combines sightseeing, history, and good food, this tour should definitely be on your list. Be prepared to arrive early, dress casually, and enjoy the breeze and beauty of Savannah from the water.

For anyone wanting a laid-back, scenic, and educational experience with a hearty brunch, this cruise hits the mark. Just keep an eye on the weather and arrive prepared for a delightful afternoon on the river.