Savannah: Dolphin Eco Tour & River Ship Sightings BYOB

Summary

Atlantic bottlenose dolphins river ships and salt marshes in Savannah

You’ll ride out from Savannah’s River Street with a local crew, spotting Atlantic bottlenose dolphins and watching giant container ships glide by while learning about Lowcountry salt marshes. Bring your own drinks for a laid-back vibe—snacks are available too—and soak up stories and river breezes you’ll remember long after you’re back on shore.

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t expect the air to smell that salty right in downtown Savannah. We’d barely stepped onto the River Explorer before our captain, Mike, was already cracking jokes about the container ships — those things are massive up close. There’s something weirdly calming about watching them slide past, slow and silent except for the low hum of engines. I kept losing track of what Mike was saying about the port’s history because I was just staring at all that steel drifting by.

Our first mate, Tasha, handed out some snacks (chips and sodas if you want them) and pointed toward a patch of choppy water near the marshes. “That’s where they like to play,” she said — and sure enough, a flash of grey fin cut through the sunlight. I tried to get a photo but mostly ended up with blurry water; still, seeing those Atlantic bottlenose dolphins pop up so close is something I’ll remember. The marsh grass looked almost neon green against the brownish water — it’s not pretty in a postcard way, but it feels alive.

You can bring your own beer or wine (BYOB), which honestly made it feel more like hanging out with friends than a formal tour. A couple next to me shared their cooler; we all laughed when one dolphin seemed to splash just as someone opened a drink — maybe coincidence, maybe not. Tasha knew every bird call too, pointing out an egret standing so still it looked fake. There were kids onboard chasing each other between benches and an older guy who kept asking about ship sizes. Nobody seemed bored.

The whole thing lasted two hours but felt shorter — maybe because I kept waiting for another dolphin to surface or just listening to Mike talk about how these salt marshes are basically nurseries for everything living here. The sun was warm but not hot; there was this easygoing mood that stuck with me after we docked back on River Street. I still think about that view downriver at dusk sometimes.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Dolphin eco tour on Savannah river

• Board River Explorer on River Street
• Learn Savannah history from Captain and First Mate
• Travel down river past containerships
• Search for Atlantic Bottlenose Dolphins
• Explore Lowcountry ecosystem and salt marshes

Top questions

Where does the dolphin eco tour depart from?

The tour departs from River Street in downtown Savannah.

Are dolphin sightings guaranteed on this tour?

No, sightings aren’t guaranteed but dolphins are often seen during the tour.

Can I bring my own alcoholic beverages?

Yes, this tour is BYOB for adult beverages—please drink responsibly.

Is food or drink included?

Non-alcoholic drinks and snacks are available for purchase onboard.

How long does the dolphin eco tour last?

The tour lasts approximately two hours.

Is this dolphin tour suitable for children or infants?

Yes, children and infants can join; prams or strollers are allowed onboard.

Are service animals allowed on board?

Yes, service animals are permitted on this tour.

Will we see container ships during the cruise?

Yes, you’ll pass by container ships heading to the Port of Savannah.

Is public transportation nearby?

Yes, public transportation options are available near River Street.

What’s included

Your day includes a fully narrated cruise with sightings of Atlantic bottlenose dolphins (when they show up), views of container ships en route to Savannah’s port, insights into Lowcountry salt marshes from your captain and first mate, plus non-alcoholic drinks and snacks for purchase onboard—and you’re welcome to bring your own adult beverages along for the ride.