2 HR Savannah Riverboat Dinner Cruise with Onboard Entertainment

Discover the Charm of the Savannah Riverboat Dinner Cruise

The 2-hour Savannah Riverboat Dinner Cruise offers an engaging way to experience the city’s waters and skyline. Priced at $92.52 per person, this cruise departs from River Street at 7:00 pm, giving visitors a chance to unwind after a day of exploring. The tour includes a buffet-style dinner featuring dishes like shrimp & grits, carving stations, and catch of the day. With live onboard entertainment and a dance floor, this cruise caters to those seeking a relaxed evening with scenic views and lively music.

While the onboard experience is designed to entertain, it is important to note that the cruise is unguided, allowing guests to enjoy their meal and the scenery at their own pace. The climate-controlled upper deck provides panoramic water views, and the open-air patio adds an extra layer of enjoyment. The tour’s price and duration make it a popular choice for an after-dinner outing, especially considering the average booking is made 14 days in advance.

The Setting and Location of the Savannah Riverboat Cruise

This cruise takes place along the Savannah River, with views of the Talmadge Memorial Bridge and the waterfront promenade known as River Street. This area is lined with shopping, dining, and entertainment venues, making it an ideal starting point. The meeting point at 9 E River St ensures easy access for visitors staying nearby.

The riverboat itself sports the traditional red, white, and blue coloring, reminiscent of historic riverboats. Its glass-enclosed observation deck maximizes water and city skyline views, giving guests a full perspective of Savannah’s picturesque waterfront. The location provides a relaxed yet scenic backdrop, perfect for enjoying the sunset or evening lights reflected on the water.

Dining Experience and Menu Highlights

The buffet dinner is a key feature of this cruise, with a varied selection designed to satisfy diverse tastes. The menu includes shrimp and grits, a carving station, and catch of the day, along with other standard buffet offerings. The food quality receives mixed reviews, with some praising the deliciousness and others noting that food can sometimes be mediocre or not very hot.

Guests are advised not to expect a formal dining experience—the dinner is served counter-clockwise around the table, and desserts are sometimes in short supply or served with some logistical issues. However, the friendly staff and the casual atmosphere help create a welcoming environment. The cash bar offers alcoholic beverages for guests over 21, and it’s recommended to plan accordingly, as no alcohol is included in the ticket price.

Onboard Entertainment and Atmosphere

The cruise features live onboard entertainment designed to keep the mood lively. Many reviews highlight the music as being “okay” but note that the dance floor is an inviting spot to enjoy a little boogie. A notable positive is the friendly and welcoming staff, with some reviews praising their attentiveness and personality.

However, there are points to consider regarding the entertainment quality. Some guests express disappointment that the live music ends right after dinner, leaving little else for entertainment. Nevertheless, the view of the sunset and the atmosphere onboard are often described as relaxing and enjoyable, especially for couples or groups seeking a laid-back evening.

Accessibility and Practical Tips for Participants

The main deck of the riverboat is handicapped accessible, though restrooms are not. Guests are encouraged to arrive early to find parking, as downtown Savannah can be busy, and parking time can take an extra 30-60 minutes. The cruise does not have a dress code, but smart casual attire is appropriate if desired.

Smoking is only permitted on outdoor decks, and the cruise requires no walking beyond boarding. The group size can be up to 999 participants, so the experience can range from intimate to lively, depending on the crowd. The timing—starting at 7:00 pm—provides a perfect window to watch the sunset and enjoy Savannah’s skyline.

What to Expect Based on Guest Feedback

Reviews reveal mixed experiences. Many travelers praise the cruise for its beautiful views, friendly staff, and relaxing atmosphere. Some describe the dinner as exceeding expectations, with delicious food and good service. Others, however, report poor service, mediocre food, or feeling misled about the experience’s quality.

A few reviews mention disappointments such as difficult parking, missed boarding due to delays, or unacceptable service. Still, the majority of positive reviews highlight the scenic water views, enjoyable music, and casual vibe making the cruise worth considering for an evening outing.

Additional Activities and Optional Additions

While the cruise itself is unguided, guests have the opportunity to walk along River Street before or after the cruise to explore shops and local eateries. The views of Savannah’s skyline and the Talmadge Memorial Bridge are highlights of the experience, creating great photo opportunities.

For those seeking more entertainment, the cruise can be combined with a walk through the historic district or a visit to nearby cafes and bars. It is a convenient way to combine dining, scenic views, and light entertainment in a single evening.

Final Thoughts: Is the Savannah Riverboat Dinner Cruise Worth It?

This 2-hour cruise offers a relaxing water experience with scenic views and a buffet dinner, making it suitable for couples, families, or groups looking for a casual night out. The price point and duration position it as a reasonable option for a memorable evening, especially if guests expect laid-back ambiance rather than high-energy entertainment.

However, guest reviews caution that service quality and food variety can be inconsistent, and parking may pose a challenge. The onboard scenery and the views of Savannah’s skyline are consistently praised and are likely to be highlights regardless of the experience’s flaws. This cruise appeals most to those who appreciate water-based outings and casual dining in a historic setting.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the Savannah Riverboat Dinner Cruise?
The cruise lasts approximately 2 hours.

What is included in the ticket price?
The ticket covers the 2-hour cruise, buffet dinner with dishes like shrimp & grits and carving station, live onboard entertainment, and access to the dance floor.

Is there an age restriction for alcohol?
Yes, the cash bar is available only to guests aged 21 and over.

Where does the cruise depart from?
It departs from 9 E River St, Savannah, GA 31412, at the Riverboat Ticket Office.

Are there any accessibility accommodations?
The main deck is handicapped accessible, but restrooms are not.

Do I need to make a reservation in advance?
Yes, most bookings are made 14 days in advance, but tickets may be purchased on the day of if available. Arrive early to secure parking.

Is there a dress code?
No, the cruise does not have a formal dress code, but casual attire is suitable.

Can I smoke during the cruise?
Smoking is permitted only on outside decks.

What should I do if I miss the cruise?
The tour is non-refundable and cannot be changed. It is important to arrive early due to parking and boarding times.

Are there any other activities nearby?
Yes, you can explore River Street’s shops and dining options, or walk along the waterfront to enjoy Savannah’s scenic beauty after the cruise.