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Dolphin guarantee means you WILL see dolphins. Captain Derek has been doing this for decades and knows exactly where to find them. Magic every time.
Savannah Rankings
The Best Boat & Dolphin Tours
in Savannah
Our definitive guide to the top boat & dolphin tours in Savannah, Georgia. 9 businesses ranked for 2026.
Finding the right boat & dolphin tour in Savannah, Georgia shouldn't feel like a gamble. We've curated this list based on Google reviews, local reputation, and insider recommendations to bring you the best boat & dolphin tours in Savannah's Historic District and surrounding areas. Whether you're a visitor exploring the Hostess City or a local resident, these are the top-rated boat & dolphin tours you can trust.
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The sunset cruise with dolphins is absolutely magical. BYOB allowed, so bring some wine and enjoy the Lowcountry at golden hour.
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The paddlewheel boat is iconic Savannah. Dinner cruise includes live entertainment and great views of the riverfront and cargo ships passing by.
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The port tour is fascinating—see massive cargo ships up close and learn how Savannah's port works. Dolphin eco-tours combine wildlife viewing with Lowcountry ecology. BYOB makes it budget-friendly.
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Private charter means your own boat, your own schedule. Perfect for proposals, special occasions, or just wanting a more intimate experience.
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Paddle to a deserted island! Little Tybee is undeveloped and feels like you've gone back in time. Dolphins often swim right alongside the kayaks.
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Perfect for first-time kayakers. The guides are patient and knowledgeable, and the Little Tybee Island tour is a Tybee must-do. Plus, they welcome dogs on tours!
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The variety is unmatched. Choose from coastal tours, black water swamps, or full moon paddles. The Ebenezer Creek tour through cypress and tupelo trees is hauntingly beautiful.
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Great for families with kids. The crew is patient and makes the experience educational without being boring. Dolphins love to show off for the boats.
Guide to Boat & Dolphin Tours in Savannah
The coastal waterways around Savannah and Tybee Island offer some of the best boat-based wildlife viewing on the Eastern Seaboard. Atlantic bottlenose dolphins are year-round residents here, and most dolphin tour operators guarantee sightings—a promise they rarely have trouble keeping. The waters between Tybee and Little Tybee Island are a natural corridor where dolphins feed on the tidal currents, often swimming within arm's reach of smaller vessels.
Beyond dolphin watching, the options span paddlewheel dinner cruises on the Savannah River, sunset excursions through the salt marshes, and guided kayak trips to uninhabited barrier islands. The Savannah River cruises depart from River Street and offer views of massive container ships heading to and from one of the busiest ports on the East Coast—a sight that surprises first-time visitors. Kayak tours are best in spring and fall when the heat is manageable and migratory birds fill the marshes. Summer brings afternoon thunderstorms that can roll in quickly, so morning departures are the safer bet from June through August. If you get seasick easily, stick to the calmer river cruises rather than the open-water dolphin tours near Tybee.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the best time for a dolphin tour near Savannah?
Atlantic bottlenose dolphins are present year-round in the waters around Tybee Island, but activity peaks from April through October when the water is warmest and dolphins are most active near the surface. Morning tours generally offer calmer water and better visibility. Summer afternoons bring thunderstorms, so earlier departures are more reliable from June through August.
Will I actually see dolphins on a Savannah area boat tour?
Almost certainly. Most dolphin tour operators in the Tybee Island area guarantee sightings and will offer a free return trip if dolphins do not appear. The resident pods in the waters between Tybee and Little Tybee Island are accustomed to boats and frequently surface nearby. Sighting rates typically exceed ninety-five percent.
What should I bring on a boat tour from Savannah or Tybee Island?
Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat are essential—there is little shade on most vessels. Bring a light jacket or windbreaker even in summer, as wind on the water can feel cool. Some tours allow you to bring your own drinks and snacks. A waterproof phone case is worth the small investment for photos.
Are Savannah boat tours safe for young children?
Most boat and dolphin tours welcome children and provide life jackets for all ages. Kayak tours typically have minimum age requirements, usually around six to eight years old. River cruises on larger vessels are the calmest option for very young children. Check with the operator about specific age policies before booking.
What is the difference between a Savannah River cruise and a Tybee Island dolphin tour?
Savannah River cruises depart from River Street downtown and travel the Savannah River, offering views of the historic waterfront and cargo ships. They are smooth, calm-water experiences ideal for dining or sightseeing. Dolphin tours depart from Tybee Island and head into coastal waters where dolphins feed. The water can be choppier, but the wildlife encounters are the main draw.