Savannah: Sightseeing Lunch Cruise

If you’re heading to Savannah and looking for a way to see the city from a fresh perspective, a river cruise combined with a Southern-style buffet offers both scenic views and a taste of local flavor. This experience, hosted by Savannah Riverboat Cruises, is a popular choice, boasting a solid 4.6 out of 5 stars from over 650 reviews. While we haven’t personally boarded, we’ve gathered enough insights from travelers’ feedback and the tour details to give you a well-rounded picture.

We love how this tour provides a relaxing atmosphere paired with informative narration that keeps you engaged without feeling like a lecture. The delicious buffet featuring favorites like shrimp and grits and fried chicken makes this cruise a true taste of Savannah’s culinary traditions. On the flip side, one consideration is that parking can take some planning, especially during busy times, and the scenery—while interesting—is more about the port and city views rather than untouched nature.

This cruise appeals most to history buffs, food lovers, and anyone wanting a leisurely way to take in Savannah’s waterfront. If you’re traveling with family, a partner, or friends who appreciate good storytelling alongside good food, this experience is a solid choice. Now, let’s explore what makes this tour stand out, what to expect, and how to get the most out of your two hours on the water.

Key Points

• Scenic Waterway: Cruising along the Savannah River offers views of the bustling port, local flora, and historic landmarks.
• Knowledgeable Narration: The captain shares stories and facts about Savannah’s history, including Old Fort Jackson.
• Tasty Southern Buffet: Expect a generous buffet featuring shrimp and grits, fried chicken, and southern greens.
• Relaxed Atmosphere: The cruise is casual, lively, yet calming, perfect for a laid-back afternoon.
• Value for Money: With food, narration, and scenery included, many reviewers find the price of $63 a good deal.
• Accessibility: The boat is wheelchair accessible, and the experience is generally suitable for most travelers.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Savannah Sightseeing Lunch Cruise

What to Expect Before You Set Sail

Your adventure begins at the Riverboat Ticket Office at 9 East River Street. It’s wise to arrive early—boarding starts about an hour before the cruise begins. Parking is available nearby at public lots on River Street, Bay Street, or the Bryan Street Parking Garage. If you’re driving, allocating extra time for parking is advised, especially during peak hours or busy weekends, as some reviews mention the difficulty in finding parking and the importance of arriving early.

The Boarding and the Vessel

The boat itself is described as beautiful, offering both indoor and outdoor decks. The lower decks are air-conditioned, which is a relief on hot days, while the upper decks provide better views and fresh air. Boarding is straightforward, and the boat’s size suggests it’s a comfortably sized group, ensuring you’re not lost in a crowd but still enjoy a lively atmosphere.

The Scenic Ride: Views and Landmarks

Once underway, the cruise takes you down the Savannah River, where you’ll see the modern port facilities, local greenery, and some of the city’s key landmarks. The highlight is often a visit to Old Fort Jackson, where you’ll hear cannons roar—a fun and historic touch. The views aren’t necessarily picture-perfect nature scenes but rather the busy port activity, river landscape, and cityscape, giving you a sense of Savannah’s commercial and historical significance.

Many guests comment on how the river cruise offers a different perspective of Savannah, especially if you’ve explored the city on foot already. It’s a chance to relax, watch the ships come and go, and maybe even spot some dolphins, as some travelers have mentioned.

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The Narration: Stories and Local Facts

The captain or guide offers live narration throughout the cruise, sharing stories about Savannah’s history, the port, and landmarks like Old Fort Jackson. Reviewers frequently praise the knowledgeable and engaging guides, with comments like “the captain was phenomenal, well spoken, and very entertaining.” The narration is not overly dry; it’s packed with interesting tidbits that appeal to history buffs and casual listeners alike.

Some reviews mention the narration being “smart and full of great info,” while others find it “a bit corny but funny,” which suggests a light-hearted approach that keeps things enjoyable without taking itself too seriously.

The Southern Buffet: A Feast on Deck

The highlight for many is the buffet lunch, which offers a hearty sampling of Southern comfort foods. The menu typically includes shrimp and grits, fried chicken, macaroni and cheese, greens, squash casserole, and sweet potato soufflé. For dessert, expect classics like banana pudding and peach cobbler.

Reviewers consistently comment on how delicious and plentiful the food is, with some describing it as “superb” or “way better than expected.” Guests appreciate the all-you-can-eat style, allowing them to sample multiple dishes and go back for seconds. It’s an excellent way to enjoy a relaxed meal while taking in the river views.

The Overall Experience

Most travelers describe the cruise as lively yet relaxed. The atmosphere is friendly, with attentive staff serving the buffet and engaging with guests. Several reviews mention their great servers and guides, which enhances the overall ambiance.

While some reviewers note that the scenery isn’t “stunning,” they still find the combination of good food, engaging narration, and scenic views makes for a worthwhile experience. The duration of two hours is just right—long enough to enjoy the cruise without feeling rushed.

Pricing and Value

At $63 per person, this cruise provides solid value. You’re getting the scenic ride, a hearty meal, and local storytelling all bundled together. Many reviews highlight how the food alone makes it worth the price, and the added education and entertainment make it a well-rounded outing.

Some mention that, given the cost, the experience is great for families, couples, or groups seeking a mix of relaxation and local culture without overspending.

Who Will Love This Experience?

If you’re someone who enjoys learning about local history without sitting in a classroom, this cruise offers a lively narrative paired with scenic views. Food lovers will especially appreciate the Southern buffet, which is considered hearty and tasty. It’s also ideal for travelers who want a comfortable, all-in-one activity—scenic, entertaining, and delicious—in just a couple of hours.

The tour is wheelchair accessible, making it suitable for a range of mobility levels. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or returning for a new perspective, this cruise offers a relaxed way to experience Savannah’s waterfront.

Final Thoughts

This Savannah sightseeing lunch cruise isn’t just about the scenery; it’s an experience that blends history, hospitality, and hearty Southern food into a two-hour package. It’s best suited for those who enjoy a casual, engaging, and well-rounded activity—perfect for families, couples, or groups of friends wanting a taste of local flavor on the water.

Many travelers leave glowing reviews about the knowledgeable guides, good value, and delicious food, making it clear that this cruise hits its mark as a popular and worthwhile experience. While it might not be a high-adventure excursion, it offers a relaxing break from sightseeing with plenty of opportunities to learn and indulge.

If you’re visiting Savannah and looking for a leisurely way to see the river, learn some history, and enjoy a Southern-style feast, this cruise is an excellent choice—just remember to arrive early and come hungry.

FAQ

Is there a dress code for the cruise?
There’s no strict dress code, but weather-appropriate clothing is recommended. If it’s sunny, light layers or hats are wise; on cooler days, bring a jacket.

Does the cruise run rain or shine?
Most cruises operate in various weather conditions, but if there’s severe weather, the tour provider might reschedule or cancel. Check their cancellation policy if weather is a concern.

How long before the cruise should I arrive?
Boarding begins about one hour prior to the departure time. Arriving early ensures you won’t miss the boat and gives you time to settle in.

Are there vegetarian options on the buffet?
The menu features southern favorites, but specific dietary requests are best confirmed directly with the provider. Many reviews mention the buffet as very satisfying, though.

Is alcohol available on board?
Alcoholic beverages are not included in the ticket price. You might find drinks available for purchase onboard.

Can I bring my camera or smartphone?
Absolutely. The scenic views and interesting sights make for great photos, and the boat offers plenty of vantage points.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, most reviews suggest this is a family-friendly activity. The relaxed pace and engaging narration make it enjoyable for all ages.

To sum it up, the Savannah Sightseeing Lunch Cruise offers a well-balanced mix of scenic views, engaging storytelling, and hearty Southern food. It’s an experience that’s both relaxing and enriching, perfect for those wanting to see Savannah from a different angle without leaving the comfort of a well-organized, enjoyable outing. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a foodie, or simply seeking a memorable way to spend an afternoon, this cruise stands out as a dependable choice.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby