Our Savannah Riverboat Cruises guide covers practical planning for Savannah Riverboat Cruises Georgia — best time to visit, getting there, and what to do on the ground.
There's a unique charm to experiencing Savannah from the water, and our team at Roam States firmly believes that a journey with Savannah Riverboat Cruises Georgia is an essential part of any visit to this historic city. We're talking about more than just a boat ride; it's an immersion into Southern hospitality, history, and stunning riverfront views. From the moment you step aboard one of their classic paddlewheel-style boats, like the impressive Georgia Queen, you're transported to an era where river travel was both elegant and an integral part of life.
Why Visit Savannah Riverboat Cruises
Stepping aboard a Savannah Riverboat Cruise offers a perspective of the city you simply can't get from land. We recommend it for anyone looking to truly connect with Savannah's past and present. The Savannah River itself is a storied waterway, and these cruises provide a comfortable and informative journey along its historic expanse.
Guests will glide past iconic landmarks like Old Fort Jackson, witness the bustling activity of Savannah's modern port, and take in the charming historic River Street district from a unique vantage point. Beyond the sightseeing, many cruises include delicious Southern cuisine, often served buffet-style, and live entertainment that brings the city's rich cultural tapestry to life. It's an opportunity to relax, enjoy the river breeze, and create lasting memories, whether you're savoring a brunch, a sunset dinner, or a festive holiday cruise.
Who It's Best For
Savannah Riverboat Cruises offers a diverse range of experiences, making them suitable for nearly everyone. We find that these cruises are particularly ideal for:
- Families: With options like narrated sightseeing tours and brunch cruises, families can enjoy a relaxed outing with plenty of photo opportunities and engaging commentary about Savannah's history. Children aged 4 and under often sail free on many cruises.
- Couples: Sunset and dinner cruises provide a romantic setting, complete with live music, delicious food, and breathtaking views as the sun dips below the horizon.
- History Buffs: The live narration by the captain offers fascinating insights into Savannah's founding, its role in maritime trade, and the landmarks that have shaped the city.
- Groups and Events: The riverboats are a premier venue for weddings, corporate events, birthdays, and other special celebrations, offering customizable packages. Group rates are available for 25 or more, and collective reservations are recommended to ensure seating together.
- Food Enthusiasts: Dining cruises feature Southern comfort food buffets, including local favorites like Savannah Shrimp and Grits, Southern Fried Chicken, and honey-glazed spiral ham.
Getting There & Parking
Understanding how to get to Savannah Riverboat Cruises and where to park is crucial for a smooth experience. The main departure point is conveniently located at 9 East River Street, right on the downtown waterfront.
How to Get There
For those staying in the historic downtown Savannah area, the riverfront is often within comfortable walking distance of many hotels. If you're coming from further afield, Savannah is easily accessible by car. The riverboat dock is situated behind City Hall and next door to the Hyatt Regency.
Savannah Riverboat Cruises Parking
Public parking is available in several locations near the Savannah Riverboat Cruises dock. We recommend allowing an extra 30-60 minutes to find parking, especially during peak seasons and weekends, as cruises often sell out.
- Public parking lots on River Street: These are available directly on River Street.
- Bay Street level parking: Additional public parking can be found on Bay Street.
- Bryan Street Parking Garage: This garage is just two blocks from the Riverboat Ticket Office and offers over 400 spaces with hourly fees.
Metered parking north of Liberty Street is enforced Monday-Saturday, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. For tour buses over 35 feet long, a special parking permit is required.
Top Things to Do
When planning your trip, you'll find a wide array of things to do at Savannah Riverboat Cruises, making it easy to tailor your experience. The cruises themselves are a major attraction, but the surrounding area also offers plenty of activities. Here's our guide to the top things to do:
On the Water: Savannah Riverboat Cruises
The core experience revolves around the various Savannah Riverboat Cruises available throughout 2026.
- Narrated Harbor Sightseeing Cruises: These 90-minute to 1.5-hour cruises offer a relaxing way to learn about Savannah's history, its modern port, and see landmarks like Old Fort Jackson. Adult tickets for a narrated harbor cruise are approximately $24.95, and child tickets are around $15.95.
- Lunch and Brunch Cruises: Enjoy a delicious Southern buffet while taking in daytime views of the river. The Sunday Brunch Cruise, for instance, features Southern Fried Chicken, Honey Glazed Spiral Ham, and Savannah Shrimp and Grits. Adult luncheon cruises are about $51.95, and child luncheon cruises are $33.95.
- Dinner Entertainment Cruises: These evening cruises often feature live music and dancing, alongside a buffet dinner that might include prime rib, Savannah Shrimp and Grits, and roasted potatoes. Adult dinner cruises are approximately $61.95 (except Saturdays, which are $67.95), and child dinner cruises are $35.95 (Saturdays are $39.95).
- Sunset Cruises: Perfect for couples, these cruises offer breathtaking views as the sun sets over the river, often accompanied by live music. Adult sunset cruises are about $35.95 (except Saturdays and holidays, which are $36.95), and child sunset cruises are $24.95 (Saturdays and holidays are $26.95).
- Gospel Dinner Cruises: Combine a hearty Southern dinner with uplifting live gospel performances. Adult gospel cruises are approximately $51.95.
- Seasonal and Holiday Cruises: Throughout 2026, Savannah Riverboat Cruises offers special themed events, such as the 4th of July Dockside Dinner and Fireworks Cruise (Adults: $149.95, Children: $102.95), New Year's Eve Dinner and Party Cruises, and even "Sailing with Santa" where kids sail free with a toy donation.
Things to Do in Savannah Beyond the Riverboat
The riverboats depart from River Street, a vibrant area with many other attractions. After enjoying the things to do at Savannah Riverboat Cruises, we recommend exploring the surrounding historic district and beyond:
- Explore River Street: This iconic cobblestone street is bustling with shops, restaurants, pubs, and art galleries. You can find unique souvenirs at the River Street Market Place or indulge your sweet tooth at River Street Sweets.
- Visit the Savannah Historic District: Wander through the charming squares, admire the antebellum architecture, and discover hidden courtyards. Many attractions, including the Juliette Gordon Low Birthplace and the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist, are within walking distance or a short trolley ride.
- Bonaventure Cemetery: A short drive from downtown, this stunning cemetery is famous for its picturesque landscapes and historic gravesites. It's a must-see for its natural beauty and rich history. You can find more details in our Bonaventure Cemetery guide.
- Tybee Island: Just 30 minutes away, Tybee Island offers beautiful beaches, a historic lighthouse, and opportunities for dolphin tours and kayaking.
- Old Fort Jackson: This historic fort, visible from the riverboat, offers cannon firings and insights into its role in the Civil War.
- Combo Packages: Savannah Riverboat Cruises also offers combo packages that combine a cruise with other popular Savannah tours, such as a Historic All Day On/Off Trolley Tour or a Haunted Savannah Trolley Tour, providing savings on adult tickets.
Best Time to Visit
Savannah Riverboat Cruises operates year-round, and the best time to visit often depends on your preferences for weather and crowd levels.
- Spring (March to May): We consider spring to be an excellent time to visit. The weather is mild, with temperatures ranging from 60-80°F (16-27°C), and the city's azaleas and magnolias are in full bloom, making for particularly scenic views from the river.
- Summer (June to August): Summer brings warm and humid weather, with temperatures between 75-95°F (24-35°C). While it can be hot, summer evenings are ideal for sunset cruises, offering long daylight hours. The climate-controlled riverboats ensure comfort regardless of the outdoor temperature. June is particularly noted for sunset cruises.
- Fall (September to November): Fall offers pleasant weather and stunning fall foliage, especially in October, which is considered the best month for sightseeing. Cooler breezes make for comfortable cruising.
- Winter (December to February): Winter is Savannah's low season, meaning fewer crowds and potentially better deals on accommodation. While cooler, the riverboats are climate-controlled, and special holiday-themed cruises add a festive touch.
Reservations are highly recommended, especially during peak travel seasons and weekends, as popular cruises can sell out.
Where to Stay Nearby
Finding comfortable Savannah Riverboat Cruises lodging is easy, as many excellent hotels are located within the historic downtown area, often within walking distance of the River Street dock. Our team recommends focusing on hotels near River Street for the most convenient access to your cruise and other city attractions.
Here are some top choices for Savannah Riverboat Cruises lodging:
- Hyatt Regency Savannah: Located directly on River Street, this luxurious 4-star hotel offers unbeatable access to the riverboat cruises and the vibrant River Street scene. It's known for its excellent guest ratings and proximity to major attractions.
- The Bohemian Hotel Riverfront, Autograph Collection: This upscale boutique hotel is situated right on River Street, offering stylish accommodations and easy access to the riverboats.
- River Street Inn: Housed in a historic building on River Street, this charming inn provides a classic Savannah experience with convenient access to the waterfront.
- Holiday Inn Express Savannah - Historic District: A reliable and well-regarded option, this hotel is located in the historic district and offers good access to River Street.
- Hampton Inn Historic District Savannah: Another highly-rated choice in the historic district, offering comfortable stays within walking distance of the riverfront.
- JW Marriott Savannah Plant Riverside District: This beautiful hotel is located on the riverside, close to everything, and offers a luxurious experience.
Many hotels in the historic district, such as the Kehoe House Inn, DoubleTree by Hilton Historic Savannah, and Hilton Garden Inn Historic District Savannah, offer parking, though it often comes with a nightly fee (e.g., $20-$35 per night for valet). When considering Savannah Riverboat Cruises lodging, always check if parking is included or available, and factor in potential costs.
Sample 2-Day Itinerary
To help you make the most of your visit, our team has crafted a sample 2-day itinerary that integrates a Savannah Riverboat Cruise with other key Savannah experiences.
Day 1: Historic Charm & River Views
- Morning (9:00 AM - 12:00 PM): Start your day with a leisurely stroll through the Savannah Historic District. Explore Forsyth Park, admire the iconic fountain, and wander through the tree-lined squares. Consider a visit to the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist.
- Lunch (12:00 PM - 1:30 PM): Enjoy a traditional Southern lunch at a local eatery in the historic district.
- Afternoon (2:00 PM - 3:30 PM): Embark on a Narrated Harbor Sightseeing Cruise with Savannah Riverboat Cruises. This 90-minute cruise will give you a fantastic overview of the city's history and waterfront from the water.
- Late Afternoon (3:30 PM - 6:00 PM): Explore River Street. Browse the shops, watch the cargo ships pass by, and maybe grab a sweet treat from River Street Sweets.
- Evening (7:00 PM onwards): Indulge in a delightful Dinner Entertainment Cruise with Savannah Riverboat Cruises. Enjoy a buffet dinner, live music, and dancing as you sail under the stars.
Day 2: Culture, Gardens & Coastal Beauty
- Morning (9:00 AM - 12:00 PM): Dive deeper into Savannah's unique culture. Visit the Bonaventure Cemetery for its haunting beauty and historical significance. Alternatively, explore the Telfair Museums or the American Prohibition Museum.
- Lunch (12:00 PM - 1:30 PM): Grab a casual lunch on River Street or in City Market.
- Afternoon (2:00 PM - 5:00 PM): Take a short drive to Tybee Island for a change of scenery. Explore the Tybee Island Light Station and Museum or enjoy some time on the beach. Consider a dolphin spotting eco-cruise from Tybee.
- Late Afternoon/Evening (5:30 PM onwards): Return to Savannah. For your final evening, enjoy dinner at one of Savannah's renowned restaurants, perhaps the Olde Pink House, and cap off your trip with a ghost tour to experience the city's legendary haunted history.
This itinerary can be adapted to include other fantastic Georgia destinations like Amicalola Falls State Park or the Atlanta Botanical Garden if you're planning a longer trip through the state. For more ideas, check out our comprehensive guide to the Best places in Georgia.
Frequently Asked Questions
Savannah Riverboat Cruises with kids
Absolutely! Savannah Riverboat Cruises are very family-friendly. Children aged 4 and under typically sail for free on many cruises. The narrated sightseeing cruises are particularly engaging for kids, offering historical facts and views of the working port. Brunch and lunch cruises provide a relaxed atmosphere with a buffet that caters to various tastes. Seasonal cruises, like "Sailing with Santa," are specifically designed with children in mind, often including special treats and activities. The climate-controlled decks and open-air spaces ensure comfort for all ages.
best hotels near Savannah Riverboat Cruises
The best hotels near Savannah Riverboat Cruises are those located in the historic downtown and River Street areas, offering convenient walking access to the departure dock. Top recommendations include the Hyatt Regency Savannah, The Bohemian Hotel Riverfront, River Street Inn, Holiday Inn Express Historic District Savannah, and Hampton Inn Historic District Savannah. These hotels provide a blend of comfort, amenities, and proximity to both the cruises and other popular attractions.
Savannah Riverboat Cruises tips
Our top tips for enjoying Savannah Riverboat Cruises include booking your tickets in advance, especially during peak seasons and for popular dinner or holiday cruises, as they can sell out. Arrive early to allow ample time for parking and check-in, as missing your boat due to parking issues will not result in a refund. Dress comfortably and consider weather-appropriate clothing, especially if you plan to spend time on the open-air decks. If you're on a dining cruise, iced tea, lemonade, soft drinks, and coffee are included, but a cash bar is available for alcoholic beverages. Finally, take advantage of the combo packages if you plan to explore other Savannah attractions like trolley tours.
where to stay near Savannah Riverboat Cruises
We recommend staying in hotels within Savannah's historic downtown district. This area offers the closest proximity to the Savannah Riverboat Cruises dock at 9 East River Street. Hotels such as the Hyatt Regency Savannah, The Bohemian Hotel Riverfront, and River Street Inn are excellent choices, often within walking distance. Staying in this area also puts you in the heart of Savannah's dining, shopping, and other historical attractions, minimizing travel time and maximizing your experience.
Savannah Riverboat Cruises parking
Parking for Savannah Riverboat Cruises is available in several public parking lots on River Street, on the Bay Street level, and at the Bryan Street Parking Garage, which is conveniently located two blocks from the ticket office. We strongly advise allowing an extra 30-60 minutes to find parking, particularly during busy periods, to avoid missing your cruise. Metered parking north of Liberty Street is enforced Monday-Saturday, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.
best time to visit Savannah Riverboat Cruises
The best time to visit Savannah Riverboat Cruises depends on your preferences. Spring (March-May) and Fall (September-November) offer the most pleasant weather for outdoor activities and sightseeing, with blooming flowers in spring and fall foliage in autumn. Summer (June-August) is great for sunset cruises and enjoying the long daylight hours, with the added benefit of climate-controlled boats. Winter (December-February) means fewer crowds and festive holiday cruises. Regardless of the season, the climate-controlled vessels ensure a comfortable experience.
A Savannah Riverboat Cruise offers an unparalleled way to experience the charm, history, and natural beauty of Georgia's First City. From relaxing sightseeing tours to lively dinner cruises, our team believes it's an essential part of any Savannah itinerary. We encourage you to plan ahead, book your preferred cruise, and prepare for an unforgettable journey on the historic Savannah River. For more travel inspiration in the region, consider exploring other gems like Explore Georgia, or venturing further to Cumberland Island or the Golden Isles.
Last updated: 2026-07-13 by the Roam States team.