Savannah to Tybee Island with Dolphin Cruise

If you’re visiting Savannah and looking to experience a taste of its nearby coastal beauty without the hassle of driving yourself, this guided tour to Tybee Island offers a compelling mix of wildlife viewing, scenic beaches, and local flavor. While it’s not a deep dive into history or culture, it’s a lively day that combines nature, fun, and a splash of local hospitality.

We particularly appreciate how smoothly everything is organized, with hotel pickup and drop-off included. The chance to see dolphins in their natural habitat and snap photos at the iconic lighthouse makes this tour stand out. However, if your main goal is exploring museums or touring historic sites, you might find the schedule a bit rushed. It’s perfect for travelers who want a quick, enjoyable escape to the coast, with plenty of opportunities for wildlife sightings and relaxed beach time.

Who might love this? Families, first-timers to Savannah wanting a manageable day trip, or anyone who prefers guided comfort over self-planning.

Key Points

• The tour offers a stress-free way to visit Tybee Island from Savannah, with transportation included.
• A dolphin cruise provides a lively chance to spot marine wildlife and enjoy scenic waterways.
• Stops include the iconic Tybee Lighthouse and a popular local eatery, The Crab Shack.
• The tour balances nature, scenery, and casual sightseeing, making for a well-rounded day.
• Reviews consistently praise knowledgeable guides and friendly staff.
• The experience is slightly flexible, with pickup/drop-off and a focus on comfort over exhaustive sightseeing.

An Overview of the Experience

This Savannah to Tybee Island tour is designed for those who want to enjoy a straightforward, well-organized day trip without the stress of driving or navigating alone. For around $73.83 per person, you get roughly five to six hours of guided fun—including a scenic cruise, beach time, and a taste of local eateries. It’s a classic example of how a guided tour can turn a complicated logistics day into a relaxed adventure.

The tour starts with pickup at 223 Martin Luther King Jr Blvd in Savannah, with most travelers booking about 25 days ahead. Once onboard, the small group size—capped at 40 participants—ensures plenty of space and personal attention. The transportation is via comfortable trolley or bus, which is a significant plus for those who dislike long drives or navigating unfamiliar roads.

The Itinerary: A Closer Look

Tybee Island: The Star of the Day

The main attraction is Tybee Island itself, a popular spot for beach lovers and nature enthusiasts alike. The tour provides some free time on the island, giving you enough space to walk along the sandy shore, snap photos of the lighthouse, or just soak in the relaxed coastal atmosphere. The lighthouse visit is a highlight, offering iconic views and photo ops, although admission is not included and the lighthouse is closed on Tuesdays.

A common theme in reviews is that visitors wish they had more time at the lighthouse or the marine preservation area, suggesting the schedule is a bit tight. As one traveler noted, “I wish we would have started our trip with this… not enough time to see the museum or inside the lighthouse.” Still, the time allotted generally feels sufficient for a pleasant stroll and some beach relaxation.

Dolphin Cruise: Wildlife and Landmarks

The boat cruise through Tybee’s waterways is a major selling point. It combines wildlife watching—especially dolphins surfing the wakes—with glimpses of notable landmarks like Fort Pulaski and Cockspur Island Lighthouse. Passengers often comment on the abundance of dolphins—many say they saw more here than on other tours—and the guides’ lively commentary.

Reviews frequently mention the fun of spotting dolphins, with comments like “Seeing the Dolphins surf the wake was amazing,” and “We saw baby alligators and learned some history of Savannah.” The cruise is approximately 1-2 hours, during which you’ll glide past historic sites and enjoy the peaceful water views.

Lunch at The Crab Shack

A stop at The Crab Shack offers a chance to sample local seafood, with lunch at one of Savannah’s most-loved eateries. While the tour price doesn’t include the lunch itself, most travelers find it worth the stop. The reviews rave about the food, with mentions of delicious crab and friendly atmosphere. Be aware that the restaurant can get busy, especially during peak season, so plan accordingly.

Other Notable Stops and Passes

• Fort Pulaski: While not part of the tour’s entry fee, passing by this historic site during the cruise adds context and visual interest.
• Cockspur Island Lighthouse: A photogenic beacon that you’ll see from the water, perfect for postcards.

The Practical Side: Transport, Timing, and Group Size

The tour’s approximately 5 to 6 hours include pickup, transport, activities, and free time. The small group size—max 40 travelers—means less waiting and more personal interaction with guides. The transportation via trolley or bus is usually comfortable, making the journey pleasant rather than a chore.

Timing is generally reliable, but reviews note that schedules can shift slightly due to traffic, so it’s wise to keep flexible. The tour starts at 223 Martin Luther King Jr Blvd, in downtown Savannah, making it easy to access without hassle.

Cost and Value

At just under $75, you’re paying for a well-organized day that bundles transportation, a dolphin cruise, and a lighthouse stop—plus the expertise of friendly guides. Many reviews highlight the good value, especially considering the number of experiences packed into the day. Lunch at The Crab Shack is an extra, but most consider it a worthwhile treat rather than an added expense.

Authentic Experiences and What Travelers Say

Guides like Dennis and Brenda earn praise for their knowledge and humor, making the day feel personal and engaging. One traveler exclaimed, “Stephanie the bus driver is kind and very informative,” underscoring the importance of friendly service.

The dolphin sightings and scenic waterway are consistently praised, with multiple folks mentioning they’ve seen more dolphins than on previous trips. One reviewer said, “This was by far one of our favorite experiences,” summing up how this tour hits the right notes for many.

Some wish they had more time at the lighthouse or marine area, but overall, the balance of beach, wildlife, and local flavor makes for a satisfying day out.

The Sum Up: Is This Tour Right for You?

This Savannah to Tybee Island tour offers a relaxed, friendly way to experience the coast without the need for planning or driving. It’s especially suited for first-time visitors, families, or those with limited time who want a taste of beach life, wildlife, and local scenery. The inclusion of a dolphin cruise and guided transportation makes it an excellent value, given the packed itinerary and knowledgeable staff.

If your idea of a perfect day involves gentle boat rides, scenic lighthouse photos, and a laid-back beach walk, this tour delivers. It’s less about intense sightseeing and more about experiencing a coastal vibe with comfort and camaraderie.

However, if you’re eager to explore museums or historical sites in depth or crave more independent exploration, you might find this tour a little light on that front. It’s best viewed as a fun, casual escape rather than an exhaustive cultural tour.

All in all, this trip shines as a dependable choice for a memorable coastal day, balancing wildlife, scenery, and good company.

FAQ

Is transportation included? Yes, pickup and drop-off from downtown Savannah are included, with comfortable trolley or bus transport.

How long is the tour? Expect around 5 to 6 hours total, including travel, activities, and free time on Tybee Island.

What is the cost? The tour costs $73.83 per person, which covers transportation, dolphin cruise, and a lighthouse viewing. Lunch and admission to the lighthouse are extra.

Can I see dolphins? Most travelers do, with many noting they saw more dolphins here than on other tours. The cruise is designed specifically for wildlife viewing.

Is the lighthouse open? The lighthouse and museum are closed on Tuesdays, but you can still enjoy photos and views from the outside.

What should I bring? Comfortable shoes, sun protection, and a camera are recommended. Bring cash or card for lunch or souvenirs.

Are children allowed? Most travelers with children find it suitable, but check the group size and consider the attention span of younger kids.

Is the tour suitable for all ages? Yes, most participants can enjoy the experience, but very young children should be supervised for safety around water and busy areas.

What if the weather is bad? The tour requires good weather. Cancellations due to poor weather are fully refundable or can be rescheduled.

Is gratuity included? No, tips for guides and staff are appreciated but not included in the price.

This tour offers a straightforward, enjoyable taste of Tybee Island’s natural beauty and coastal charm, making it an excellent choice for a worry-free day by the sea.