Land and Sea: Savannah Historic Trolley Tour and Cruise

If you’re planning a visit to Savannah, you might be considering the popular land and water tour combo that promises a taste of this historic city’s sights and stories. While this package from Old Savannah Tours offers a nice overview, especially for first-timers, it’s worth looking at what you actually get—beyond the hype—to decide if it’s worth your time and money.

What we like about this experience? First, the knowledgeable guides on the trolley are often praised for their entertaining storytelling, making the city’s squares and landmarks come alive. Second, the scenic views from the river cruise provide a different perspective on Savannah’s historic waterfront and skyline—ideal for photo enthusiasts.

On the flip side, a key consideration is that some travelers have found the cruise component unreliable or disappointing, especially if timing or availability isn’t clear upfront. The overall value depends heavily on your expectations, timing, and how well the different parts of this experience are coordinated.

This tour is best suited for visitors who want a broad overview in a short amount of time, especially if they’re interested in both land sights and river views without committing to more extensive tours. It’s ideal for those with limited time, families looking for an easy-paced outing, or anyone curious about Savannah’s architecture, history, and scenic waterfront.

Key Points

• Comprehensive overview of Savannah’s iconic landmarks and history in a short, accessible format
• Expert guides bring local stories to life with entertaining narratives
• River cruise offers scenic views of the waterfront, perfect for photos and relaxing moments
• Inconsistent cruise schedule can lead to disappointment if not carefully planned
• Value varies depending on the timing and what components are available during your visit
• Suitable for first-time visitors wanting a quick look at the city’s highlights

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Point and Duration

The tour begins at 215 W Boundary St in Savannah, a central spot easy to reach with public transportation or car. The entire experience typically lasts between 1.5 to 3 hours, depending on the schedule and whether both the trolley and cruise components are completed as planned. The flexibility of timing allows you to choose a slot that fits your day, but keep in mind that some elements, especially the river cruise, may not run daily.

The Open-Air Trolley: A Short Tour Through Savannah

The core of this experience is a 75-minute open-air trolley ride that takes you through Savannah’s historic squares, city market, River Street, and other notable sites. The guides are often praised for their knowledgeable and lively commentary, weaving stories that connect landmarks to Savannah’s past.

You’ll pass familiar locations like Chippewa Square—often dubbed “Forrest Gump Square”—though some reviews mention that something seems missing here, perhaps because the famous bench isn’t actually on site. The trolley also stops at haunted houses like the Sorrel Weed House, adding a spooky twist, and at Forsyth Park, where the iconic fountain makes for a perfect photo backdrop.

Other stops include the Owens-Thomas House and Telfair Museum, offering a taste of Savannah’s architectural grandeur and artistic culture. The guide’s storytelling, especially when publicized, is a highlight—reviewers consistently mention how engaging and well-informed the guides are, making the land portion both fun and educational.

The Riverboat Cruise: A View from the Water

Scheduled at 1:00 pm or 3:30 pm, the river cruise is meant to provide a different perspective of Savannah’s waterfront. The boat offers great photo opportunities of the skyline, ships, and historic riverfront. The cruise lasts about one hour, with snacks and beverages available, making for a leisurely, relaxing experience.

However, some travelers have found that the cruise isn’t always available or runs on different days, which can be frustrating if you book expecting to enjoy it. One reviewer noted, “The trolley tour was great, but there was no riverboat cruise that day,” highlighting the importance of verifying availability in advance.

The Itinerary: What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour hits a number of Savannah’s most photogenic and historically significant sites:
– Chippewa Square — the iconic square with the famous bench, though some feel it’s a bit anticlimactic without the movie props.
– Haunted houses like Sorrel Weed House — perfect for those intrigued by Savannah’s spooky reputation.
– Forsyth Park — a must-see, with its grand fountain and lush greenery.
– Massie Heritage Center — offers insight into Georgia’s oldest school and 19th-century education.
– Cathedral of St. John the Baptist — a stunning example of Savannah’s religious architecture.
– The Pirates House — an authentic historic inn dating back to 1753, with tales of pirates and sailors.
– Owens-Thomas House and Telfair Museum — showcase Savannah’s elegant early 19th-century life.
– Reynolds Square and City Hall — local landmarks with character.
– Franklin Square — a lovely final stop for the tour, often described as a true example of the city’s charm.

Authenticity, Value, and Common Criticisms

While the tour is often praised for knowledgeable guides and beautiful sights, multiple reviews point out issues with timing and organization. Several travelers mention miscommunications or cancellations of the river cruise, which can diminish the overall experience.

The price of $78.39 per person might seem reasonable for a combined land and water tour, but the value depends heavily on the cruise running. If the cruise is canceled or unavailable, you’re left with a trolley-only tour, which is shorter and less immersive. Some reviews describe feeling misled or disappointed when the cruise component doesn’t meet expectations.

Another aspect to consider is the group size, which can be up to 500 travelers, making it a fairly large tour. While guides are often praised, the experience might feel more generic in larger groups.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Book early and confirm the cruise schedule before your day.
• Arrive early at the meeting point on Boundary Street to avoid missing the start.
• Dress comfortably for the trolley, and bring sunscreen or a hat if riding during warmer months.
• Bring a camera—the views along the river and at the squares are picture-worthy.
• Check the cancellation policy if your plans are uncertain; you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
• If you’re particularly interested in the river cruise, consider verifying if the cruise is scheduled before booking.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is best suited for first-time visitors who want a quick, rundown of Savannah’s most famous sites. It’s perfect for those who appreciate guided storytelling and want a relaxed way to see the city without walking too much. Families with kids might also enjoy the accessible boat cruise as a calming break from walking.

However, if you’re a seasoned traveler seeking a deeply immersive experience or a flexible, personalized tour, you might find this offering somewhat limited—especially given the potential for schedule inconsistencies with the river cruise.

Final Words

The Land and Sea: Savannah Historic Trolley Tour and Cruise provides a solid introduction to Savannah’s visual charms and narratives. The combination of engaging guides, scenic stops, and the added water perspective can give you a well-rounded snapshot of the city.

That said, organizing and scheduling can be a bit tricky, and the overall experience can be dampened if the water component doesn’t operate during your visit. The value is good for those wanting a short, structured tour with a taste of everything—but be prepared for some variability depending on the day.

Ultimately, if you’re after authentic sights, friendly guides, and scenic views, this tour offers a decent way to tick off Savannah’s highlights—just double-check the availability of all components before you book.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, the tour is designed to be family-friendly and fun for both children and adults, especially the river cruise.

How long does the whole experience last?
The total time ranges from about 1.5 to 3 hours, depending on the schedule and whether both components are completed.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at 215 W Boundary St in Savannah and ends back at the same location.

Can I cancel the tour if I change my plans?
Yes, you can cancel for a full refund if you do so at least 24 hours before the scheduled start.

What if the river cruise isn’t available on my day?
You’ll still have the trolley tour, but the full “land and sea” experience won’t be complete, which some reviewers say diminishes overall value.

Are snacks and drinks included?
Snacks and beverages are available for purchase on the riverboat, but they’re not included in the ticket price.

Is this a small group tour?
No, it can accommodate up to 500 travelers, which may feel large but is typical for city sightseeing tours.

Will I get good photo opportunities?
Absolutely. Sites like Forsyth Park, Riverfront, and the river cruise deck offer plenty of chances for memorable photos.

To sum it up, this Savannah combo tour offers a friendly, guided introduction to the city’s highlights, with the added bonus of a scenic river view. It’s a good pick for those seeking convenience and a broad overview, but always verify cruise availability before booking. For travelers wanting a more personalized or in-depth experience, exploring other options might be worthwhile.