Narrated Harbor Luncheon Riverboat Cruise

If you’re visiting Savannah and looking for a way to experience its charm from a fresh perspective, a scenic riverboat cruise offers an inviting blend of sights, stories, and Southern flavors. The Narrated Harbor Luncheon Riverboat Cruise is designed to give visitors an enjoyable two-hour journey along the Savannah River, complemented by a hearty buffet and engaging commentary.

What we love about this tour are the stunning panoramic views of the city and Talmadge Memorial Bridge that you can’t get from land, and the well-informed narration that brings Savannah’s riverfront history to life. The delicious Southern-style buffet adds a satisfying touch, making this experience both scenic and flavorful.

One aspect to consider, however, is that the cruise doesn’t include hotel pickup—so you’ll need to plan your arrival at the meeting point. Also, while the boat is accessible, restrooms are not available on the main deck, which might matter to some travelers.

This cruise appeals most to those who enjoy a relaxed pace, appreciate local history, and love good food with a view. It’s perfect for couples, families, or groups of friends wanting a taste of Savannah’s riverfront culture.

Key Points

• Enjoy a scenic boat ride along the Savannah River with expert narration
• Savor a hearty Southern buffet included in the ticket price
• View iconic landmarks like the Talmadge Memorial Bridge and River Street
• The vessel is accessible, but restrooms are outside the main deck
• The tour lasts about 1 hour 30 minutes, perfect for a relaxed visit
• No hotel pickup; plan to arrive at the meeting point on your own

A Detailed Look at the Savannah Riverboat Experience

The Narrated Harbor Luncheon Riverboat Cruise is hosted by the River Street Riverboat Company on the Savannah River Queen, a vessel decked out in traditional red, white, and blue, reminiscent of classic riverboats. Its design invites a sense of nostalgia and a leisurely atmosphere, making the cruise feel like a step back into a gentler era of river travel.

What makes this tour stand out is the combination of scenic cruising, engaging narration, and a buffet that satisfies both appetites and curiosity about Southern cuisine. You’ll find the boat is decorated with a paddlewheeler motif, adding to the vintage feel. Most reviews mention the professional, friendly staff and the detailed commentary, which enhances the understanding of Savannah’s riverfront and its significance.

The Itinerary: What to Expect

The cruise begins at the Riverboat Ticket Office on 9 E River Street. It’s worth noting that you should plan to arrive early, especially since finding parking downtown in Savannah can take some extra time—there’s no hotel pickup, after all. The initial boarding is fairly straightforward, and the boat is wheelchair accessible, though restrooms are not inside the main cabin—a small consideration for longer excursions or those with special needs.

Once aboard, you’ll find the climate-controlled observation deck offers panoramic views, perfect for those who want to stay out of the sun or rain. For nice days, many sit on the open-air patio, soaking up the sunshine and taking photos of the city skyline and river.

The Highlights of the Cruise

Views of Savannah and the Talmadge Memorial Bridge

From the boat, you’ll see River Street from a new angle, with its historic buildings, cobblestones, and lively shops. The Talmadge Memorial Bridge looms impressively overhead, providing a striking backdrop for photos. Many reviews praise the beautiful scenery and the lively narration that makes the sights more meaningful.

The Fully Narrated Tour

The live guide enriches the experience with stories about Savannah’s history, culture, and the river’s role in shaping the city. The narration is described as detailed and friendly, with some reviewers noting the captain’s jokes and entertaining style. It’s a real value-add that makes the cruise more than just a sightseeing tour.

The Buffet Lunch

The lunch is a major highlight, offering a Southern-style buffet that includes favorites like fried chicken, shrimp and grits, turnip greens, mac and cheese, sweet potato souffle, and seasonal vegetables. The menu is described as delicious, with many reviewers mentioning the hot, fresh, and well-presented food.

Some reviews note that the food is plentiful and of good quality, with a good balance of flavors and comfort food staples. Vegetarians or those with dietary restrictions are advised to mention their needs in advance, as accommodations are available. The inclusion of iced tea, lemonade, soft drinks, and coffee adds to the relaxed, all-inclusive feel.

The Experience: What Travelers Say

Reviewers cite the professionalism of the staff and the entertaining narration as reasons for high satisfaction. One reviewer said, “Excellent food and service! The staff was very professional, attentive, and friendly,” which echoes many comments. Others appreciated the cleanliness of the boat and the pleasure of sitting in the well-designed upper decks.

Some feedback points out that window seats may not be necessary, as the views are equally good from the open decks, and the price for window seats might not be worth the extra cost. Others suggest that the cruise is suitable for all ages, thanks to the relaxed pace and engaging commentary.

Practical Details and Considerations

Duration: About 1 hour 30 minutes—just enough time to relax without feeling rushed.

Price: At $62.76 per person, it’s a solid value when you consider the included buffet, the scenic views, and the narration. Given the quality and quantity of food, and the opportunity to learn about Savannah, it feels like a fair price.

Group size: Up to 999 travelers—though most groups tend to be smaller, creating an intimate experience.

Accessibility: The main deck is accessible, but restrooms are outside the main cabin, so plan accordingly.

Weather Dependence: The cruise is weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund—so check the forecast before booking.

No hotel pickup: You’ll need to find your way to the departure point on your own, which might involve parking downtown. Plan to arrive 30-60 minutes early to avoid stress.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This cruise is ideal for those who enjoy a laid-back, scenic experience with a touch of storytelling. It’s perfect if you love beautiful views, engaging guides, and hearty southern food. It also suits travelers who want a light history lesson combined with good company and a tasty meal.

It’s less suited for those who need quick access to amenities or who prefer active excursions. Also, if you’re sensitive to cold or need restrooms nearby, you might want to plan ahead.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

For a relaxed, scenic way to see Savannah’s riverfront, this luncheon cruise offers a fine balance of sights, sounds, and flavors. The professional narration and delicious buffet make it feel like good value for the price. You’ll stroll away with beautiful photos, new insights, and a satisfied appetite.

It’s especially perfect for visitors who want to combine a bit of sightseeing with a leisurely meal and some history—without the fuss of a more structured tour. The boat’s vintage charm and friendly staff turn a simple cruise into a memorable part of your Savannah trip.

This experience stands out as a pleasant, informative, and tasty way to enjoy Savannah’s riverfront. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want a relaxing day on the water, this cruise is sure to add a warm touch to your visit.

FAQ

How long is the cruise?
It lasts approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, offering plenty of time to relax and enjoy the scenery.

What’s included in the ticket price?
The fully narrated lunch cruise, a southern buffet, iced tea, lemonade, soft drinks, and coffee are included. Taxes, fees, and port charges are also covered.

Are dietary restrictions accommodated?
Yes, you can mention any dietary restrictions when booking, and efforts will be made to accommodate you.

Is there a bar on board?
Yes, a cash bar is available, offering alcoholic beverages for guests 21 and over.

Do I need to bring my own transportation?
Yes, there’s no hotel pickup. You’ll need to arrive at the meeting point on your own, so plan for parking in downtown Savannah.

Is the vessel accessible?
The main deck is accessible for wheelchairs, but restrooms are outside the main cabin, so plan accordingly.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather. If canceled due to weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Can I bring children?
Most travelers can participate, making it suitable for families with children who enjoy scenic views and storytelling.

Can I sit outside during the cruise?
Absolutely, many guests prefer the open-air decks for the best views and sunshine.

To sum it up, the Narrated Harbor Luncheon Riverboat Cruise offers a well-rounded experience blending scenic beauty, historical storytelling, and hearty Southern cuisine. It’s a relaxing way to spend a couple of hours, especially if you’re eager to see Savannah from a different vantage point and enjoy some genuine local flavors. It’s best suited for those who enjoy gentle outings with a bit of education and a lot of comfort. For a leisurely, scenic, and tasty adventure, this cruise should be on your Savannah list.