Hilton Head Island: Round-Trip Ferry Ticket to Savannah

Traveling between Hilton Head Island and Savannah by ferry offers a charming blend of scenic waterway cruising, city exploration, and relaxed comfort. This experience, rated highly by travelers, provides a straightforward yet memorable way to enjoy two iconic Southern destinations without the hassle of driving or parking, all for a reasonable price of $85 per person. The experience is centered around a comfortable, air-conditioned boat journey that takes you through Intracoastal waterways, with plenty of open-air viewing options.

What we love about this excursion is how it combines convenience with scenic beauty. Sitting on the open upper deck, you’ll enjoy panoramic views of dolphins swimming alongside the boat, passing by lush marshlands, and glimpsing historic ships and forts. The direct dock on River Street makes exploring Savannah’s vibrant riverfront straightforward and hassle-free. However, one consideration is that the trip offers only four hours in Savannah, which might feel a bit tight if you’re keen on a thorough city tour.

This tour suits travelers who prefer a laid-back, scenic approach to visiting Savannah, especially if you want to avoid driving or just enjoy a relaxing waterway cruise. It’s also ideal for those interested in a bit of sightseeing with minimal fuss, and who appreciate the chance to sip drinks at happy hour prices on the return trip. The experience has garnered praise for its friendly staff, smooth operation, and the ability to see dolphins along the way — making it a solid choice for a day trip.

Key Points

• Scenic Waterway Journey: Cruise through the Intracoastal Waterway with views that are both relaxing and picturesque.
• Direct Docking in Savannah: Walk straight onto River Street and start exploring Savannah immediately.
• Open-Air Decks: Relax on the upper deck and enjoy unobstructed views of dolphins and ships.
• Flexible Return: Use your round-trip ticket to come back at your convenience and enjoy discounted drinks on the boat.
• Limited Time in Savannah: About 4 hours to explore the city, which is enough for a quick visit but not an in-depth tour.
• Cost-Effective: At $85, this experience offers a good balance of value and comfort, especially considering the scenic boat ride and direct city access.

A Detailed Look at the Experience

The Journey Begins: From Hilton Head to Savannah

The ferry departs from inside the Sea Pines Resort, a familiar and easily accessible starting point for visitors. You’ll want to arrive about 45 minutes early for check-in, which is handled efficiently by the Vagabond Cruise team. Boarding begins 30 minutes before departure, and travelers can go straight to the vessel, Spirit of Harbour Town, once they’ve checked in.

The boat itself is described as clean, comfortable, and equipped with both inside and outside decks. The main highlight here is the open-air upper deck, where you’ll likely spend most of your time soaking in the views. As one reviewer put it, “You might find dolphins swimming in the boat’s wake,” which adds a touch of magic to the cruise.

The Waterway Cruise: What You’ll See and Feel

The voyage takes you through intracoastal waterways, which are calm, protected, and lined with marshes, ships, and sometimes dolphins. Several reviews mention how scenic and relaxing the ride is, with many passengers noting the “beautiful day” and “dolphins swimming alongside.” The boat is air-conditioned inside, so if the sun gets too intense or the breeze isn’t enough, you can retreat indoors.

Many travelers appreciated the professionalism and friendliness of the staff. One review lauded the crew for being polite, respectful, and informative, making the experience even more enjoyable. Some mentioned that while the staff did a good job, they wish there had been more commentary during the cruise, as it was mostly scenic with little narration.

In Savannah: A Four-Hour Window

Once docked at River Street, you have roughly four hours to explore Savannah. This is enough time to take a quick stroll along the historic riverfront, browse shops, or grab a bite. Some reviews mention how the trolley tours or other sightseeing options can be purchased either beforehand or on the boat, helping to maximize your limited time.

However, a couple of reviewers noted that the time might be tight if you want an in-depth exploration. For example, “The time in port was not enough to tour the city thoroughly,” which suggests that if you want to see major landmarks, you might need to plan carefully.

The Return Trip: Happy Hour and Relaxation

The return ferry offers a chance to unwind, with some drinks available at “happy hour” prices on select beverages. This small detail adds a layer of relaxation to the day, especially after a busy morning of sightseeing. Many travelers appreciated the friendly staff and the smooth, stress-free return journey, which is often overlooked but highly valued in day trips like this.

Practical Details and Logistics

• Pricing: At $85 per person, the fare covers the round-trip ferry—an economical way to visit Savannah without parking hassles or driving stress.
• Inclusions: Ferry ticket, with no food or drinks included, but drinks are available for purchase on board.
• Additional Fees: If you’re staying outside Sea Pines, there’s a $9 cash fee per vehicle for access to the resort, which is worth noting if you’re planning your day.
• Accessibility: The boat involves a set of 10 steps to the lower deck and another 10 to the upper deck, so it’s not suitable for travelers with mobility impairments.
• Cancellation & Payment: Flexible policies allow free cancellation up to 24 hours ahead, and you can reserve now and pay later.

Authentic Traveler Insights

Looking at the reviews, it’s clear that several aspects resonate strongly with past guests. The crew’s friendliness, especially mentioned by multiple reviewers, enhances the overall experience. One guest wrote, “The staff was very friendly and helpful,” highlighting the importance of good service on such trips.

Another key point is the scenic quality of the ride. Many guests enjoyed dolphins swimming nearby, and the views of ships, marshlands, and the coastline are considered a highlight. A traveler noted, “The boat was very clean, and the staff was sweet and accommodating,” showing how even small details matter.

While most reviews are positive, some mention the limited time in Savannah. A few wished for more time to explore or commented on the somewhat outdated ticketing process, which could cause minor delays. Still, these are minor inconveniences compared to the overall enjoyment of the trip.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This ferry trip is ideal for those who want a relaxed, scenic waterway cruise combined with a quick visit to Savannah. It’s perfect for travelers looking to avoid driving and parking, offering a scenic escape with comfortable amenities. It also suits visitors interested in dolphin sightings, beautiful marshlands, and the chance to see Savannah’s historic riverfront without the fuss of planning multiple transport modes.

It’s best for those who value comfort and convenience over extensive touring. If you’re short on time but want to enjoy some of Savannah’s charm and a peaceful water journey, this is a solid option. However, if you’re eager to explore Savannah in depth, you might want to supplement this experience with additional tours or a longer stay.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

Absolutely. This round-trip ferry provides a relaxed, scenic way to experience Savannah’s waterfront and the surrounding waterways. It’s a budget-friendly option that combines comfort, beautiful views, dolphin sightings, and the ease of direct dock access—making it a practical choice for a day trip.

The high praise for the crew’s professionalism, the scenic beauty, and the convenience of returning to Hilton Head makes this a dependable option for travelers wanting a hassle-free experience. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy water-based trips, appreciate good service, and want a taste of Savannah without committing to a full-day tour.

While the limited time in Savannah requires some planning, the overall experience offers excellent value and memorable views. Whether you’re visiting Hilton Head for a few days or just passing through, this ferry route is a charming way to see the Lowcountry from a different perspective.

FAQ

How early should I arrive for check-in?
It’s best to arrive about 45 minutes prior to departure to allow for check-in and boarding procedures, which start 30 minutes before the cruise.

Is the ferry wheelchair accessible?
No, this experience involves a set of 10 steps onto the lower deck and another 10 to reach the upper deck, so it’s not suitable for travelers with mobility impairments.

What is included in the ticket price?
The ticket covers the round-trip ferry ride. Food and drinks are not included but are available for purchase on board, and there are happy hour prices on select drinks during the return trip.

How long is the stay in Savannah?
You will have approximately four hours to explore Savannah after docking. It’s enough for a quick walk, shopping, or a short tour, but not for an in-depth sightseeing spree.

Are there any additional fees?
Yes, if you are staying outside the Sea Pines Resort, there is a $9 cash fee per vehicle to access the resort for the day.

Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.

Is this experience suitable for children or families?
While the trip is generally family-friendly, the steps involved in boarding and disembarking may be cumbersome for very young children or travelers with mobility issues.

In sum, this ferry trip from Hilton Head to Savannah offers a mix of scenic waterway cruising, dolphin sightings, and a quick city visit—great for travelers seeking a relaxed, beautiful, and practical way to enjoy the Lowcountry.