Savannah, Georgia, is one of those cities that feels like it was made for exploring by water. The Savannah River winds through centuries of history, past moss-draped bluffs and a bustling riverfront that has welcomed travelers for generations. And when it comes to experiencing all of it from the deck of an authentic paddlewheel riverboat, the only real question is: do you want to see it in the light of day or painted in the glow of a Georgia sunset?
Both the Savannah Sunset Cruise and the Narrated Harbor Sightseeing Cruise are fan favorites aboard Savannah Riverboat Cruises, but they offer two very different experiences. Here’s a breakdown of what each one brings to the table so you can choose the one that fits your trip.
The Narrated Harbor Sightseeing Cruise: For the Curious Traveler
If you’re visiting Savannah for the first time and want to understand the city’s history, harbor, and heartbeat, the daytime sightseeing cruise is hard to beat.
This 1½-hour guided tour takes you along the Savannah River with a knowledgeable captain narrating the whole way. You’ll hear intriguing tales about how this waterway shaped Savannah into what it is today, from its origins as a colonial port to its current status as one of the busiest shipping ports in the world. Massive cargo ships from across the globe make their way through these same waters, and seeing them alongside Savannah’s historic riverfront makes for a striking contrast of old and new.
One of the highlights of the daytime tour is passing Old Fort Jackson, one of the oldest standing brick fortifications in the United States and home to one of the largest original artillery pieces in the country. History enthusiasts will love it, and it makes for a great photo opportunity for the whole family.
The sightseeing cruise is a natural fit for families with kids, first-time visitors who want context for what they’re seeing, and anyone who wants to learn while they relax. A full bar and grill are available onboard, so you can order drinks, appetizers, sandwiches, and more while you take in the views.
Pricing:
- Adults: $37.95
- Children (5–12): $24.95
- Children 4 & under: Complimentary
Prices do not include state tax, local tax, port fees, or service charges.
The sightseeing cruise runs year-round (with seasonal schedule variations), with a 1:00 p.m. sailing and an additional 3:30 p.m. option available. That makes it a flexible option whether you’re planning a morning-into-afternoon excursion or a relaxed early evening on the water.
The Sunset Cruise: For Those Who Want to Unwind
If the sightseeing cruise is for the explorer, the sunset cruise is for the one who just wants to breathe. There’s something about watching the sky turn over the Savannah River that just slows everything down, and that’s exactly the vibe aboard this experience.
The Savannah Sunset Cruise runs from April through October, boarding at 6:00 p.m., sailing at 7:00 p.m., and returning at 9:00 p.m. You’ll spend two hours on the open-air top deck, catching the evening breeze and watching the light change over the water while live entertainment keeps the energy going. One of Savannah Riverboat’s own entertainers performs songs spanning the 50s through today, so whether you want to sit back with a drink in hand or get up and dance, that’s your call.
This is a great choice for couples looking for a relaxed evening out, friend groups wanting a fun night on the river, or anyone who has already done the daytime sightseeing and wants a different experience for round two.
One important thing to keep in mind: the sunset cruise does not include a dinner buffet. However, there’s no need to go hungry. A full bar and grill are available onboard, and you can order from a menu of drinks, appetizers, salads, sandwiches, and entrees throughout the cruise.
Pricing (Sunday–Friday):
- Adults: $49.95
- Children (5–12): $33.95
- Children 4 & under: Complimentary
Pricing (Saturday & Holidays):
- Adults: $53.95
- Children (5–12): $35.95
- Children 4 & under: Complimentary
Prices do not include state tax, local tax, port fees, or service charges.
Celebrating something special? Savannah Riverboat Cruises offers special event packages (think birthdays, anniversaries, and more) that can be added to your cruise to make the evening even more memorable.
So, Which One Is Right for You?
Here’s a simple way to think about it:
Choose the Narrated Harbor Sightseeing Cruise if you:
- Are visiting Savannah for the first time
- Want to learn about the history of the river and the city
- Are traveling with curious kids who love stories and landmarks
- Prefer a daytime outing
Choose the Sunset Cruise if you:
- Are looking for a relaxing, fun evening on the water
- Want live music and a laid-back atmosphere
- Are celebrating a special occasion
- Have already done a daytime tour and want something different
Of course, there’s no rule that says you can only do one. Plenty of visitors, and even Savannah locals, come back for both. The city looks completely different from the water at noon versus the water at dusk, and each experience is worth having on its own terms.
Ready to Get on the Water?
Both cruises depart from 9 E. River Street in historic downtown Savannah, which is centrally located behind City Hall and within walking distance of most accommodations in the historic district. Advance reservations are strongly recommended, especially on weekends and during peak travel season, as cruises frequently sell out.
Whether you’re drawn to the stories of Old Fort Jackson or the sound of live music drifting across the river at golden hour, Savannah Riverboat Cruises has a way to make your time on the Savannah River something you’ll talk about long after you’ve headed home.
Book your tour today and get ready to see Savannah from the water, the way it was meant to be seen.
Frequently Asked Questions About Savannah Riverboat Cruises
Does the Savannah Sunset Cruise include food?
The sunset cruise does not include a dinner buffet. However, a full bar and grill are available onboard throughout the cruise, where you can order drinks, appetizers, salads, sandwiches, and entrees. The daytime Harbor Sightseeing Cruise also has a full bar and grill available, so you can grab a bite on either experience.
What is the difference between the sunset cruise and the daytime sightseeing cruise?
The main differences come down to timing, atmosphere, and what’s included. The Narrated Harbor Sightseeing Cruise runs during the day year-round, lasts 1½ hours, and features a guided narration covering the history and landmarks along the Savannah River. The Sunset Cruise runs from April through October in the evening, lasts two hours, and focuses on live entertainment and a relaxed, open-air experience as the sun goes down.
Which cruise is better for families with kids?
Both cruises are family-friendly, but the Narrated Harbor Sightseeing Cruise tends to be a great fit for families because of the guided narration, historical sights like Old Fort Jackson, and the daytime schedule. Children 4 and under ride free on both cruises, and children ages 5–12 receive a reduced fare. If your kids enjoy live music and staying out a little later, the sunset cruise can also be a fun evening outing.
Do I need to make a reservation in advance?
Yes, advance reservations are strongly recommended for both cruises. Spots fill up quickly, especially on weekends and during peak travel season. Booking ahead guarantees your spot and saves you the disappointment of a sold-out sailing. You can reserve your tickets at savannahriverboat.com.
Can I do both the daytime sightseeing cruise and the sunset cruise on the same trip?
Absolutely. Many visitors choose to do both, and it’s a great way to experience the Savannah River in two completely different lights. The sightseeing cruise gives you the history and landmarks, while the sunset cruise offers live entertainment and evening views of the river. Since the sightseeing cruise wraps up well before the sunset cruise boards, it’s even possible to do both on the same day during the spring and summer months when both are running daily.
Savannah Riverboat Cruises offers a one-of-a-kind way to experience the Savannah River aboard two authentic paddlewheel riverboats: the Savannah River Queen and the Georgia Queen. From narrated harbor tours to evening sunset cruises with live entertainment, there’s a cruise for every kind of traveler. Docked at 9 E. River Street in the heart of historic downtown Savannah, we make it easy to get on the water. Book your cruise today.