Land and Sea: Savannah Historic Trolley Tour and Cruise

Explore Savannah’s Charm with the Land and Sea Tour

The Land and Sea: Savannah Historic Trolley Tour and Cruise offers an engaging combination of city sightseeing and riverfront views for $78.39 per person. This 1 hour 30 minutes to 3 hours experience takes you through Savannah’s historic squares, landmarks, and haunted houses on an open-air trolley, followed by a 1-hour riverboat cruise along the Savannah River. The tour is ideal for those seeking a quick, yet comprehensive glimpse of Savannah’s southern charm and history.

While the trolley tour covers famous landmarks like Chippewa Square, Forsyth Park, and City Hall, the river cruise provides a relaxing perspective of the historic riverfront. The experience is suitable for most travelers and features a mobile ticket, with the flexibility to select your preferred start time. However, some reviews highlight potential scheduling issues and the importance of clarifying tour details in advance.

Key Points

• Combined land and sea experience with sightseeing and river cruise
• 75-minute trolley tour covers key landmarks such as Chippewa Square and Forsyth Park
• One-hour riverboat cruise offers views of Savannah’s historic riverfront and skyline
• Tour starts at 215 W Boundary St with flexible departure times
• Expert guides bring Savannah’s stories to life, blending entertainment and education
• Price of $78.39 includes both trolley and cruise components

The Land Trolley Tour: Savannah’s Top Landmarks

The 75-minute open-air trolley takes visitors past Savannah’s most iconic sites, guided by knowledgeable locals who bring the city’s history to life. The tour stops at Chippewa Square, famously linked to “Forrest Gump,” though the actual square lacks the bench but is still a must-see. It also visits Forsyth Park, with its famous fountain and lush gardens, a favorite spot for photos.

Other stops include the Massie Heritage Center, showcasing a historic schoolhouse, and Reynolds Square, home to a statue of John Wesley and moss-draped live oaks. The tour also passes by City Hall, with its distinctive gold dome, and the Owens-Thomas House, built in 1819 with original slave quarters and gardens.

The Pirates House offers a glimpse into Savannah’s maritime past, opened in 1753 and once used by real pirates. The trolley route also includes Telfair Museum locations, Cathedral of St. John the Baptist, and Franklin Square, wrapping up the city’s most notable neighborhoods and hidden details.

Historic Stops with Unique Stories

Each stop on the trolley has its own story. The Sorrel Weed House is considered one of the most haunted in the country, adding a spooky twist to the tour. The Telfair Museum, including the Jepson Center, boasts impressive art collections. The Owens-Thomas House offers a step back into 19th-century Savannah, highlighting architecture and history.

The Massie Heritage Center allows visitors to experience 19th-century classroom life, while Reynolds Square offers a peaceful space under moss-covered oaks, featuring a statue of John Wesley. The City Hall with its gold dome is another striking landmark, situated just off Bay Street and Factors Walk.

The Riverboat Cruise: Savannah from the Water

Scheduled at 1:00 pm or 3:30 pm, the riverboat cruise provides a different perspective of Savannah. The captain’s commentary shares stories about the modern-day port, ships from around the world, and historic facts about the riverfront.

The one-hour cruise is described as fun and relaxing, with photo opportunities of Savannah’s skyline and riverfront. Snacks and beverages are available at the Riverboat Snack Shop, making it a comfortable experience for both adults and children. The cruise is designed as a leisurely way to sit back and enjoy the scenery.

Practical Details and Meeting Points

The tour begins at 215 W Boundary St, which is the main meeting point for both the trolley and riverboat portions. The activity ends back at the same location, simplifying logistics. The tour is accessible to most travelers and service animals are allowed, though pets and emotional support animals are not permitted.

The tour is operated by Old Savannah Tours and offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, providing flexibility for travelers. Group sizes can be up to 500 people, making it suitable for individuals and larger groups alike.

Insights from Reviews: What to Expect

While some reviews praise the knowledgeable guides and beautiful views, others highlight scheduling issues. Notably, there are reports of river cruise cancellations, which can be disappointing if not clarified beforehand, as some reviews mention no cruise on the scheduled day.

The trolley experience receives positive remarks for guide expertise and engaging storytelling, but some guests express frustration with booking and coordination. One review notes confusion about the meeting location, emphasizing the importance of confirming details ahead of time.

Comparing with Similar Savannah Tours

This land and sea package offers a rundown of Savannah, though travelers might consider other options if they prioritize reliable cruise schedules or specific landmarks. The linked similar experiences include hop-on-hop-off trolley tours and ghost tours, providing additional ways to explore the city.

Who Should Book This Tour

This experience suits first-time visitors who want a broad overview of Savannah’s most famous landmarks and riverfront sights. It is well-suited for families and casual travelers seeking a relaxed pace with informative guides. However, those with strict schedules should double-check cruise availability and booking details to avoid surprises.

Final Thoughts on the Land and Sea Tour

The combination of a trolley ride and river cruise offers a balanced snapshot of Savannah. Its affordable price and flexible timing make it an attractive option for travelers looking to maximize their short visit. That said, the possibility of cruise cancellations and booking confusion are points to consider.

Travelers who value guided storytelling, scenic views, and a light-paced itinerary will find this tour worth considering. It provides a good introduction to Savannah’s historic squares, architecture, and riverfront, capturing the city’s distinctive southern character.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, the riverboat cruise is described as fun for both children and adults.

What landmarks will I see on the trolley?
You’ll visit Chippewa Square, Forsyth Park, City Hall, Owens-Thomas House, and more.

How long is the trolley tour?
The trolley ride lasts approximately 75 minutes.

Can I choose my tour time?
Yes, you select your preferred start time when booking.

Are snacks available during the cruise?
Yes, snacks and beverages are sold at the Riverboat Snack Shop.

Is the tour accessible for most travelers?
Yes, it is suitable for most, with service animals allowed.

What should I know about the cruise schedule?
The cruise is scheduled at 1:00 pm and 3:30 pm, but some reviews note cancellations, so verify availability in advance.

Where does the tour start and end?
The tour begins and ends at 215 W Boundary St in Savannah.

What is the cancellation policy?
Full refunds are available if canceled at least 24 hours in advance; cancellations within 24 hours result in no refund.

Can I book this experience through third-party providers?
Yes, but some reviews indicate booking issues and cancellations with third-party companies like Viator, so it’s best to confirm directly with the provider.