Savannah Riverboat: Sunday Brunch Sightseeing Cruise

Reviewed · SAVANNAH RIVERBOAT & HARBOR CRUISES

Savannah Riverboat: Sunday Brunch Sightseeing Cruise

4.6 · 113 reviews 1h 30m From $77 Operated by Savannah Riverboat Cruises · Bookable on GetYourGuide
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Five minutes of sailing and Savannah clicks. You get a Southern brunch buffet paired with a relaxed Savannah River cruise and the captain’s take on River Street landmarks. I like that it’s not just food-on-a-boat; the narration helps the sights make sense fast. One watch-out: the vibe is calm, not high-energy, so if you want a party, you’ll probably feel a little under-stimulated.

What I really like is the mix of a view and a plan—comfortable indoor seating for eating, with the river scenery doing the entertaining. The brunch spread is built around classic favorites like fried chicken and shrimp and grits. The main tradeoff is that the food quality can read as slightly varied depending on what you pick off the buffet, even though the overall selection is broad and filling.

Key Things That Make This Cruise Worth Your Sunday

Savannah Riverboat: Sunday Brunch Sightseeing Cruise - Key Things That Make This Cruise Worth Your Sunday

  • 90 minutes on the water that fit neatly into a day without wrecking your whole schedule
  • Captain narration focused on River Street landmarks so you’re not just sightseeing from a distance
  • A real Southern brunch buffet with heavy hitters like fried chicken, spiral ham, and shrimp and grits
  • Climate-controlled dining room for comfort, especially when Savannah weather gets moody
  • Small group size (limited to 10), which usually means less waiting and easier staff attention

Savannah Sunday Brunch, But Make It a River Cruise

Savannah Riverboat: Sunday Brunch Sightseeing Cruise - Savannah Sunday Brunch, But Make It a River Cruise
This is a straightforward idea done well: brunch plus a short scenic sail. You’re on a boat in Savannah for just 90 minutes, which means you get the river views without committing to a whole half-day tour.

I like how this format suits real life. If you’re visiting with family, friends, or you’re just tired of standing in line, this gives you a change of scenery while you eat. And because the captain narrates what you’re passing, the cruise feels more meaningful than a simple ride.

The “Sunday” part matters too. Savannah does a lot all weekend, but a brunch cruise gives you a built-in anchor. You’re not figuring out what’s open, where to go, or how long you’ll wait—you just show up, eat, and glide.

We have more Savannah River riverboat cruises to drift along

River Street Landmarks: Seeing the Familiar From a Better Angle

Savannah Riverboat: Sunday Brunch Sightseeing Cruise - River Street Landmarks: Seeing the Familiar From a Better Angle
The big sightseeing draw is what you see along the Savannah River, with the captain calling out River Street landmarks as you go. That narration is a big deal because it turns a skyline into a story you can follow.

From the water, you get a perspective that you don’t get walking the blocks. River Street is visual even from street level, but when it slides past the boat, you start noticing patterns—where buildings sit, how the river curves, and why certain spots feel like natural meeting points.

This is also the kind of sightseeing that doesn’t demand constant phone-out photo posing. You can eat, look around, and listen. It’s a smart way to do highlights without exhausting yourself.

One review singled out the captain’s style as funny and engaging. I’d treat that as a plus: it usually means the narration stays light enough to enjoy, not a lecture you need to endure.

The Southern Buffet: Fried Chicken, Shrimp and Grits, and the Comfort-Food Core

Savannah Riverboat: Sunday Brunch Sightseeing Cruise - The Southern Buffet: Fried Chicken, Shrimp and Grits, and the Comfort-Food Core
Let’s talk food. This brunch cruise isn’t trying to be trendy. It’s built around Southern comfort classics, served buffet style.

Here’s what you can expect on the spread:

  • Best Southern Fried Chicken and other breakfast entrees
  • Honey glazed spiral ham
  • Savannah shrimp and grits
  • Ham and broccoli quiche
  • Fresh garden greens with dressing and toppings
  • Assorted breakfast items and desserts

I like buffet brunches when they’re stocked like this, because you can tailor your plate. Want the heavier stuff? Go for it. Prefer something lighter? The greens and quiche give you options so you’re not stuck eating only one type of food.

That said, buffet food is always a mix of hits and misses. One person found the food good but not amazing, and another thought it was decent rather than wow. I’d read that as a practical hint: load your plate with the items that sound closest to your taste, not the ones you feel obligated to try.

If you love classic Southern flavors, this cruise is basically designed for you. And if you’re traveling with kids or picky eaters, the variety makes it easier to keep everyone happy without a special order fight.

Soft drinks, coffee, and tea are included. Alcoholic drinks are not, so plan accordingly if you want a mimosa or something stronger. (No guessing here: alcohol isn’t part of the included package.)

Inside Comfort: Eating in a Climate-Controlled Room While the River Works Its Magic

You won’t be stuck outside while you eat. The cruise includes a comfortable, climate-controlled dining room, which is a smart detail in Savannah. Weather can shift fast—especially if you’re there in summer—so having an indoor place to sit makes the experience feel smoother.

I also like that the river views don’t require you to choose between comfort and scenery. You can eat indoors and still enjoy the sightlines from the boat.

One review mentioned spending most of the time on the open deck for wind-in-the-hair views. The takeaway isn’t that you must be outside; it’s that there seems to be opportunity for fresh air if you want it. Just don’t forget that your primary comfort zone is inside where you’re eating.

Bottom line: this is the kind of tour where you can relax while still getting something pretty and memorable done.

Captain Narration: Why the Storytime Makes the Sights Stick

Savannah Riverboat: Sunday Brunch Sightseeing Cruise - Captain Narration: Why the Storytime Makes the Sights Stick
Many boats show you sights. This one adds context. The captain narrates landmarks along the way, and several reviews emphasized that the narration was interesting, personable, and even funny.

I think this is the secret sauce. If you’re new to Savannah, seeing the riverfront without explanation can feel like a blur of pretty buildings. Narration turns it into something you can remember—what you’re looking at, why it’s there, and what makes the riverfront important.

Also, the pacing matters. You’re not sprinting from place to place. You eat, you listen, and you look out the windows. That makes it a great option when you’d rather not burn energy on logistics.

A small caution: one person reported a recording looping problem when it should have been narration, and they had to reach out for help. That’s not the norm from the overall feedback, but it’s a reminder that technology can hiccup anywhere. If something sounds off, the simplest move is to tell the staff right away so it can get fixed faster.

We have more Savannah boat tours and river cruises to set sail on

Price and Value: What $77 Buys You on This Sunday Cruise

At $77 per person, you’re paying for three things at once: the 90-minute cruise, the brunch, and included soft drinks plus coffee and tea.

That bundle is where the value lives. You’re not paying separately for a river ride and a full brunch meal. And because the food is buffet-style, you’re not stuck with one entrées-and-hope situation.

Is it a bargain? It can feel like one if you were going to pay for brunch anyway and you also want a sightseeing component. If you only care about the boat ride and you won’t eat much, it may feel pricey. But if you actually plan to eat and enjoy the views, it’s a solid deal.

Two more practical notes:

  • Alcohol is not included, so factor that cost in if you want to drink.
  • The vibe is relaxed. If you’re the type who needs nonstop entertainment, you may find the experience calm rather than thrilling.

Getting There Without Stress: Meeting Point and Timing in Downtown Savannah

Savannah Riverboat: Sunday Brunch Sightseeing Cruise - Getting There Without Stress: Meeting Point and Timing in Downtown Savannah
The meeting point is 9 East River Street, at the Riverboat Ticket Office near Olympia Cafe and River Street Sweets. The boat is located across from the ticket office at the dock.

If you’re driving, give yourself extra time. Plan on 30–60 minutes to find parking downtown. There’s no refund if you miss the boat, so don’t treat arrival time like a suggestion.

My practical advice is to park early, walk calmly, and build a buffer. Downtown Savannah parking can be slower than you think, and once you’re late, there’s not much you can do.

For check-in, bring an ID or passport. Also note that pets aren’t allowed, so plan for that if you’re traveling with animals.

Who This Sunday Brunch Cruise Is Best For

This tour fits best when you want an easy, feel-good experience with built-in food and a scenic element.

You’ll likely enjoy it if:

  • you’re doing a family-friendly Sunday plan and want fewer decisions
  • you like Southern food and want a variety buffet rather than a single dish
  • you’d rather listen and look than walk for hours
  • you appreciate narration that helps you understand what you’re seeing

It may be less ideal if:

  • you want a high-energy experience with nonstop activities
  • you’re ultra-picky and won’t touch buffet-style food
  • you’re hoping alcohol is included

One review praised the service as attentive and helpful. Another highlighted a server named Renee as awesome. Staff friendliness seems to be a consistent plus, which matters a lot on a short tour where you want things to run smoothly.

Should You Book This Savannah Riverboat Sunday Brunch Cruise?

I’d book it if you want a simple Sunday plan that combines Savannah’s river views with a classic brunch you don’t have to plan. The captain narration, the comfortable indoor dining setup, and the heavy-hitting Southern menu make it a good “high reward, low hassle” option.

Skip it (or at least adjust expectations) if you’re hunting for a party atmosphere or you think brunch should be gourmet restaurant-level perfection. Buffets are meant for variety, and while many people call the food outstanding, a few found it only decent.

If you’re the kind of traveler who likes to slow down, eat well, and get your bearings fast around a place, this cruise is a strong choice.

FAQ

How long is the Savannah River Sunday Brunch sightseeing cruise?

It lasts 90 minutes.

What is included in the $77 per person price?

The cruise includes the 90-minute ride, brunch, and soft drinks, coffee, and tea.

Are alcoholic drinks included?

No. Alcoholic drinks are not included.

Where do I pick up my tickets?

Pick up tickets at the Riverboat Ticket Office at 9 East River Street, near Olympia Cafe and River Street Sweets. The boat is across from the ticket office at the dock.

If I’m driving, where should I park?

You can park in public lots on River Street or Bay street level, or in Bryan Street Parking Garage. You should allow 30–60 minutes to find parking.

What do I need to bring?

Bring a passport or ID card.

Is the cruise wheelchair accessible?

Yes, it is wheelchair accessible.

Can I get a refund if plans change?

Yes. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.