Savannah: Sunset Dolphin Eco Tour & River Explorer Cruise

Summary

Sunset river cruise with dolphins local stories & city views

You’ll cruise Savannah’s waterways at sunset searching for dolphins alongside locals who know every bend in the river. Expect stories about city legends, close-up views of giant ships and wildlife, plus time to relax with your own drink as dusk settles over historic River Street.

What’s the experience like?

I almost missed the boat — literally. I got distracted watching a street musician on River Street and had to jog awkwardly across those uneven cobblestones (why do they always trip me up?) to catch up with the group. The captain just grinned and waved me aboard like he’d seen it all before. We set off from Savannah as the sun was already starting to dip, that honey-colored light hitting the water in a way I can’t really describe. It smelled faintly briny, like marsh grass and river mud mixed together — not unpleasant, just… honest.

Our guide, Captain Mike, started pointing out little things right away: pelicans gliding low over the water, cargo ships stacked impossibly high heading for the Port of Savannah. He told us about the Waving Girl statue — I’d never heard her story before — and everyone scrambled for photos as we drifted past. Someone cracked open a can (BYOB is allowed), and you could hear little clinks of bottles mixed with seagull calls. There was this moment when we spotted our first Atlantic Bottlenose dolphin, its fin slicing through the surface so quietly that half of us missed it until a kid yelled “There!”

I didn’t expect how peaceful it would feel out there, honestly. Even with the captain’s stories and people chatting in soft voices, there were long stretches where you just listened to the engine hum and watched colors shift over the marshes. The crew handed out snacks — nothing fancy but somehow perfect with that salty air. At one point I tried to say something about “Lowcountry” in my terrible Southern accent; first mate Li laughed so hard she nearly dropped her binoculars.

The sunset itself kind of snuck up on us — suddenly everything was gold and pink, even the big steel bridge looked soft around the edges. We turned back upriver toward Savannah’s lights flickering on. I still think about that view sometimes when I hear boat horns at home; it’s funny what sticks with you.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Sunset dolphin cruise and sightseeing

• Depart from River Street
• Cruise past Waving Girl Statue
• Pass under or away from Talmadge Bridge
• Search for Atlantic Bottlenose Dolphins
• Learn Savannah history from Captain and First Mate
• View Lowcountry ecosystem
• Enjoy sunset view of Savannah
• Return to port

Top questions

Is this dolphin eco tour suitable for kids?

Yes, it’s fun for all ages and infants or small children can ride in a stroller or pram onboard.

Where does the Savannah dolphin tour depart from?

The tour departs from River Street in downtown Savannah.

Can I bring alcoholic drinks on board?

Yes, adults can bring their own beverages (BYOB) but are asked to drink responsibly.

Are snacks or drinks included?

Non-alcoholic drinks and snacks are available for purchase during the cruise.

Will we definitely see dolphins?

Dolphin sightings are common but not guaranteed since they’re wild animals.

Is there narration or a guide during the tour?

The captain and first mate narrate throughout, sharing history and ecosystem facts.

Is this dolphin cruise wheelchair accessible?

No, unfortunately there are steps onto the boat and cobblestones leading to the dock make access difficult for wheelchairs.

How long does this sunset dolphin eco tour last?

The exact duration isn’t specified but most tours cover sunset hours on the river.

What wildlife might we see besides dolphins?

You may spot birds like pelicans or other marine life along Savannah’s waterways.

What’s included

Your evening includes departure from River Street aboard the River Explorer with full narration by your captain and first mate, sightings of dolphins and marine life (as nature allows), close-up views of passing containerships headed to port, BYOB privileges for adult beverages if you wish (with non-alcoholic drinks and snacks available for purchase), before returning upriver as sunset colors fade over Savannah’s skyline.