Savannah: Riverboat Cruise & City Tour Combo

Discover Savannah’s Land and Water in One Excursion for $79

The Savannah: Riverboat Cruise & City Tour Combo offers a practical and engaging way to see Savannah, Georgia in just 3 hours. Priced at $79 per person, this experience combines a 90-minute guided trolley tour of the city’s top sights with a 90-minute river cruise along the Savannah River. It’s ideal for those wanting a rundown without spending the entire day exploring.

The tour departs from Savannah’s Visitor Center and features live narration in English to enrich your understanding of Savannah’s history. While the tour includes transportation and sightseeing, it’s important to note that parking fees at the Visitor Center are not included. The tour is well-suited for visitors who appreciate both land and water views, and who value insightful guides and great photo opportunities.

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Key Points

• Price: $79 per person for 3 hours of combined land and water sightseeing
• Includes: 90-minute fully-narrated trolley tour and 90-minute river cruise
• Location: Savannah Visitor Center, Georgia
• Highlights: Historic waterfront, Victorian mansions, Old Fort Jackson
• Drop-off options: Hotels, City Market, Visitor Center
• Reviews: 4.5 out of 5 from 501 reviews, praised for guides, views, and value

Savannah’s Landmarks on a Trolley Ride

The guided trolley tour starts at the Savannah Visitor Center, where guides lead guests through the city’s most notable sights. As the trolley winds through Savannah’s streets, you’ll enjoy open-air views of lush foliage and historic Victorian mansions. Guides share interesting stories and facts about the city’s development, going back to the 18th century.

Guests frequently praise the expertise and humor of guides like Cathleen, Dan, and Benjamin. The tour visits Old Fort Jackson, one of Savannah’s oldest military sites, which adds a layer of historical significance. The trolley’s enclosed and open-air options provide flexibility, though some reviews suggest that more comfortable seats could improve the experience.

The land tour typically lasts around 90 minutes, providing ample time to grasp Savannah’s cultural and architectural heritage while enjoying photo opportunities of the skyline and riverfront. The guides excel at making history accessible and engaging, making this part of the tour suitable for all ages.

Gliding Down the Savannah River

After the land exploration, the tour transitions smoothly to a 90-minute river cruise aboard the Savannah Riverboat. The cruise offers a relaxed view of Savannah’s waterfront, showcasing historic ships, cargo barges, and the port’s modern significance. The narrated cruise features captain-led stories about Savannah’s port and its international trade connections.

Onboard, snacks and drinks are available for purchase at the Riverboat Snack Shop, adding a casual dining element. The cruise not only highlights the city’s maritime importance but also provides excellent photo opportunities of the historic riverfront and skyline. The entire cruise runs about 90 minutes, allowing enough time to enjoy the relaxing atmosphere and spot dolphins, as some reviews mention.

The ship’s history and the captain’s engaging stories make this water segment a highlight, especially for those who enjoy scenic river views and marine tales.

Making the Most of the Tour’s Logistics

The tour begins at the Savannah Visitors Center, where guests find the Gray Line Savannah kiosk marked by a red, white, and blue sign. Parking is available but comes with an additional fee, so arriving early is recommended, especially if you plan to visit other parts of the city afterward.

The trolley tour lasts about 90 minutes, with live narration in English. Between the land and water segments, there might be a wait of up to 1.5 hours depending on the schedule, as some reviews note. Transportation for drop-off options is available to hotels in the Historic District, City Market, or the Visitor Center, making it convenient for visitors staying in those areas.

The tour schedule is flexible, usually offered in morning and afternoon sessions, allowing guests to choose a time that suits their plans. Since Snacks and drinks are sold onboard the cruise, bringing some cash or cards is advisable.

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The Experience of Guides and Narration

Throughout the tour, guides like Cathleen, Dan, and John receive high praise for their knowledge, humor, and storytelling skills. Guests appreciate the friendly and engaging narration that brings Savannah’s history and maritime significance to life. One reviewer mentions Lieutenant Dan as a memorable guide, emphasizing the personal touch guides bring to the experience.

The captain of the riverboat also shares fascinating tales about Savannah’s port, making the cruise both educational and entertaining. Guests often remark on the entertaining nature of the guides and the good balance of historical facts and lively storytelling.

Photo Opportunities and Scenic Views

The riverboat cruise offers fantastic photo opportunities of Savannah’s historic waterfront and skyline. The open-air deck and large windows allow for unobstructed views, especially at sunset or during clear weather. The vistas of cargo ships, historic ships, and the port area provide a visual story of Savannah’s maritime role.

On land, the trolley route takes you past Victorian mansions and lush foliage, perfect for photographs of Southern architecture and green spaces. The combination of city streets and the riverfront ensures a well-rounded collection of scenic shots.

Food and Drink Options During the Tour

Snacks and drinks are available for purchase onboard the riverboat, but there are no included meals in this tour. Some reviews suggest that more accessible complimentary water could elevate the experience, especially during hot weather. It’s a good idea to bring your own water or snacks if needed, particularly if you plan to spend extra time exploring Savannah after the tour.

The food options onboard are casual, making this a laid-back experience rather than a fine dining event. The focus remains on scenic views and storytelling, with refreshments enhancing the relaxed atmosphere.

Who Should Book This Savannah Tour?

This combo tour is perfect for first-time visitors to Savannah who want a rundown in a manageable timeframe. It’s also suitable for families, couples, and small groups seeking a relaxed, informative experience that covers both landmarks and waterfront views.

The 3-hour format and guided narration make it accessible for all ages, though guests should be comfortable with standing and walking during the trolley component. The drop-off options offer added convenience for those staying in the city’s historic areas.

However, travelers should note the potential wait times between tours and plan accordingly. Also, parking fees are not included, so arriving early or using public transport can streamline the experience.

The Sum Up: A Practical and Enjoyable Savannah Experience

The Savannah: Riverboat Cruise & City Tour Combo delivers a solid, value-packed way to see Savannah’s historic streets and waterfront in just 3 hours. The combined land and water format offers unique perspectives and great photo opportunities. The knowledgeable guides and lively narration stand out as key strengths, making history engaging and fun.

While some minor logistical considerations, like wait times and parking fees, exist, the overall experience remains highly recommended. It’s especially suited for those looking for a relaxed, informative introduction to Savannah without the need for a full-day commitment. This tour balances scenic views, historical insights, and casual comfort, making it a smart choice for any visitor eager to explore Savannah on land and sea.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes a 90-minute guided trolley tour and a 90-minute river cruise, both with live narration in English. Snacks and drinks are available for purchase onboard the cruise.

Where does the tour start?
The tour departs from Savannah’s Visitor Center, with parking available for a fee. The Gray Line Savannah kiosk is marked by a red, white, and blue sign.

How long does the entire experience last?
While the scheduled duration is 3 hours, there may be up to 1.5 hours of wait between the land and water components, according to some reviews. The trolley and cruise each last about 90 minutes.

Is transportation provided for drop-offs?
Yes, after the tour, drop-off options are available for hotels in the Historic District, City Market, or the Visitor Center, providing added convenience.

Are there any restrictions or considerations?
Guests should be prepared for standing and walking during the trolley tour. Parking fees are not included in the ticket price. It’s advisable to arrive early to avoid missing parts of the tour due to wait times.

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