Savannah offers several excellent dolphin watching options, all launching from the scenic Georgia coast. I’m especially fond of two standout tours: the Savannah to Tybee Island combo tour, which pairs dolphin watching with local history, and the Wildlife Eco Cruise, known for its knowledgeable naturalists and high success rate in spotting dolphins. Both tours consistently earn top marks from families and nature enthusiasts. The sunset tour provides stunning photo opportunities as dolphins surface in the golden light, while private marsh tours offer a more intimate experience. Let’s explore the best dolphin watching tours Savannah has to offer.
Key Points
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The Savannah to Tybee Island Guided Tour offers a 5-6 hour experience including a dolphin cruise, wildlife sightings, and free time at Tybee Island Lighthouse.
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The Dolphin Spotting and Wildlife Eco Cruise provides a 2-hour tour with a focus on spotting dolphins in their natural habitat and observing coastal ecosystems.
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The Tybee Island Dolphin Tour is a 5.5-hour tour that includes a boat cruise for dolphin and marine life sightings, lunch at Crab Shack, and transportation to Tybee Island Lighthouse.
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The Sunset Dolphin Watching Eco Tour offers a 2-hour river cruise on the Savannah River with the opportunity to observe dolphins and learn about river history.
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Private Dolphin Tours in Savannah Marsh provide a 2.5-hour private experience for up to 4 participants with the chance to see over 5,000 dolphins, manatees, eagles, and seabirds.
Savannah to Tybee Island With Dolphin Cruise
On this guided tour, visitors embark on a journey from Savannah to the picturesque Tybee Island, where they’ll enjoy a delightful dolphin cruise.
The 5-6 hour experience includes round-trip transportation via trolley or bus, taking passengers from downtown Savannah to the area’s most popular nearby beach.
Once at Tybee Island, the highlight is a wildlife and landmarks cruise on the island’s waterways, where guests have the chance to spot dolphins.
After the cruise, the tour stops at the Original Crab Shack for lunch, though the meal cost isn’t included. Travelers can also visit the iconic Tybee Island Lighthouse and have free time to relax on the beach.
With over 1,100 reviews and a 96% traveler recommendation, this tour is a highly rated and popular way to experience Savannah and its coastal surroundings.
The knowledgeable and friendly guides make this an informative and enjoyable outing.
Read our full review: Savannah to Tybee Island With Dolphin Cruise Review
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Savannah: Dolphin Spotting and Wildlife Eco Cruise
Visitors seeking a closer encounter with Savannah’s natural wonders can embark on the Savannah: Dolphin Spotting and Wildlife Eco Cruise. This 2-hour tour departs from the River Street Landing dock, where the eco-friendly River Explorer boat awaits. Priced from €40.07 per person, the cruise offers the chance to spot dolphins in their natural habitat and observe the diverse coastal ecosystems.
Along the way, knowledgeable guides provide insights into dolphin behavior and the surrounding marshes, estuaries, and tidal creeks. Customers have consistently praised the crew’s expertise, with 4.5/5 stars across 120 reviews. The tour also boasts high ratings for transportation and value for money.
While parking on River Street or Bay Street is the responsibility of guests, the tour’s cancellation policy offers flexibility, allowing free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Onboard, restrooms are available, and non-alcoholic drinks and snacks can be purchased, though visitors are welcome to bring their own alcoholic beverages.
Read our full review: Savannah: Dolphin Spotting and Wildlife Eco Cruise Review
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Savannah: Tybee Island Dolphin Tour
The Savannah: Tybee Island Dolphin Tour offers an immersive experience for nature enthusiasts seeking a closer encounter with Savannah’s diverse wildlife. This 5.5-hour tour departs from the city’s historic district, taking visitors on a journey to the picturesque Tybee Island.
Highlights of the tour include a boat cruise through the island’s waterways, where participants can spot dolphins and other marine life.
Lunch at the renowned Crab Shack provides an opportunity to savor local seafood specialties in a casual setting. Guests can also explore the Crab Shack’s unique atmosphere, complete with exotic birds and an alligator pond.
The tour includes transportation, parking fees, and photo opportunities at the iconic Tybee Island Lighthouse.
With a live English-speaking guide and a 4.7/5 overall rating from over 300 reviews, the Savannah: Tybee Island Dolphin Tour ensures a memorable and informative experience.
Visitors are advised to bring comfortable clothing, cash, and sun protection to fully enjoy this eco-friendly adventure.
Read our full review: Savannah: Tybee Island Dolphin Tour Review
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Savannah: Sunset Dolphin Watching Eco Tour by Boat
Frequently, travelers to Savannah can embark on the Sunset Dolphin Watching Eco Tour by Boat, a two-hour river cruise that offers an intimate encounter with the city’s diverse marine life.
Priced from $50.80 per person, this tour allows guests to cruise along the Savannah River on the River Explorer, where they can spot bottlenose dolphins, various marine species, and birds.
The tour also provides the opportunity to learn about the history of the river and observe large containerships heading to the Port of Savannah.
As the sun sets, passengers can enjoy the spectacular views.
On board, the captain and first mate provide live narration, and non-alcoholic drinks and snacks are available for purchase, while BYOB is permitted for alcoholic beverages.
With an overall rating of 4.2 out of 5 based on 25 reviews, this tour is a must-try for those seeking an immersive and informative Savannah experience.
Read our full review: Savannah: Sunset Dolphin Watching Eco Tour by Boat Review
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Private Dolphin Tours in the Amazing Savannah Marsh
For those seeking a more intimate and exclusive dolphin-watching experience in Savannah, private tours through the amazing Savannah Marsh offer unparalleled opportunities.
Priced at $340 for up to 4 participants, these 2.5-hour private tours provide the chance to observe over 5,000 dolphins, manatees, eagles, and seabirds in their natural habitat.
The guided boat cruise also allows visitors to explore historical sites and mansions only visible from the water, as well as visit isolated beaches for a peaceful experience.
Onboard amenities include coolers, bottled water, ice, and life jackets, with large Bimini tops for shade. Guests can bring their own food and drinks, and the tour can even be customized with a barbecue grill and steward service.
With USCG-licensed captains ensuring a comfortable and safe experience, these private tours aim to educate, entertain, and enlighten guests about the Georgia Low Country marsh system.
Read our full review: Private Dolphin Tours in the Amazing Savannah Marsh Review
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The Sum Up
Savannah offers a variety of dolphin watching tours, from cruises to Tybee Island to private eco-tours. Visitors can spot dolphins in their natural habitat, learn about the local wildlife, and enjoy scenic views. Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly outing or a more intimate experience, Savannah’s dolphin tours provide an excellent opportunity to witness these incredible marine mammals up close.