SAVANNAH BOAT TOUR FIELD GUIDE
Salt, Lighthouses, and Dolphins: A Day Trip from Savannah to Tybee
A 5–6 hour Gray Line day outing from Savannah that pairs a barefoot lunch at The Original Crab Shack with a dolphin-watch cruise and shoreline views of Tybee Island and Fort Pulaski.
Salt, Lighthouses, and Dolphins: A Day Trip from Savannah to Tybee.
Adventure brief
Salt, Lighthouses, and Dolphins: A Day Trip from Savannah to Tybee
From Savannah’s historic district you journey east by Gray Line trolley to Tybee Island, where a relaxed seaside rhythm takes over: lunch at the famed Crab Shack among exotic birds and an alligator pond, a dolphin cruise through marsh-lined waterways, and photo stops at storied coastal defenses and lighthouses.
Embark on an unforgettable adventure from Savannah to Tybee Island with a captivating dolphin cruise that showcases the beauty of Georgia's coastline. This boat tour with Gray Line Savannah offers travelers a perfect blend of coastal scenery, wildlife encounters, and local history. As you set sail, you'll enjoy scenic views of the Atlantic, passing iconic cotton warehouses and historic landmarks along the Savannah River. The highlight of the journey is the chance to spot playful dolphins swimming alongside the boat, making it ideal for wildlife enthusiasts and families alike. Once on Tybee Island, explore pristine beaches, tidal marshes, and charming shops, all while learning about the area's rich maritime history. Whether you're seeking a relaxing day on the water or an educational experience about Georgia's coastal ecosystem, this tour offers something for everyone. The cruise is suitable for all ages and provides an excellent way to enjoy Savannah’s natural beauty from the water, making it a must-do adventure for visitors wanting an authentic coastal experience.
Route Schematic
Itinerary Route Schematic
Key stops and sights you’ll pass on the Savannah-to-Tybee circuit.
Savannah (Meeting / Departure)
Depart from Savannah’s Historic District via Gray Line trolley/bus for the trip to Tybee Island.
The Original Crab Shack
Lunch on your own at the Crab Shack—an iconic waterfront restaurant with barefoot dining, exotic birds and an alligator pond.
Dolphin Cruise on Tybee’s waterways
Board the dolphin cruise (Captain Derek’s Dolphin Adventure) to search the estuaries for bottlenose dolphins and observe local birdlife and marsh habitat.
Tybee Island Lighthouse & Fort Pulaski (Photo stop)
Pass by and photograph Tybee Island Lighthouse and views of Fort Pulaski before some free time and the return to Savannah.
Participants must comply with federal regulations: there is to be no feeding or touching of dolphins at any time; operators may adjust routes and stops based on conditions and wildlife behavior.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Barefoot lunch at The Original Crab Shack
Enjoy lunch on your own at the Crab Shack, a lively waterfront spot known for its casual, barefoot dining atmosphere, exotic birds and an alligator pond with more than a hundred reptiles to view.
Dolphin cruise through Tybee’s estuaries
Board a boat for a dolphin-watch cruise in search of playful bottlenose dolphins amid the estuaries and marshes that support abundant birdlife and marine activity.
Historic lighthouses and Fort Pulaski views
The route affords views of coastal landmarks, including Fort Pulaski, Cockspur Island Lighthouse (built in 1856), and the Tybee Island Lighthouse—prime photo opportunities on the return toward Savannah.
What the day feels like
What the day feels like
The outing unfolds as a casual half-day escape: a trolley ride from Savannah’s Historic District to Tybee, a leisurely lunch at the Crab Shack, then the tempo shifts to the water—out on a boat, scanning channels and marsh edges for bottlenose dolphins, with pauses for shoreline photo ops before a return trip to the city.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this trip suits—and who should reconsider.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
The outing is a 5–6 hour day trip from Savannah to Tybee Island and back.
Lunch is on your own at The Original Crab Shack—plan for payment and casual, beach-appropriate attire.
Travel is provided by Gray Line from Savannah’s Historic District to Tybee Island; boat cruise is included in the outing.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the tour?
The total outing runs approximately 5–6 hours.
Where does the tour depart from?
The trip departs from Savannah (the Historic District), with travel to Tybee Island provided by Gray Line.
Is lunch included?
Lunch is on your own at The Original Crab Shack on Tybee Island.
Will we see dolphins?
The dolphin cruise searches Tybee Island’s waterways for bottlenose dolphins and other estuarine wildlife, though sightings depend on animal activity.
Can I feed or touch the dolphins?
No. In compliance with federal regulations, there is to be no feeding or touching of dolphins at any time.
What coastal landmarks will we pass?
The outing provides views of Fort Pulaski, Cockspur Island Lighthouse (built in 1856), and the Tybee Island Lighthouse.
How this guide was prepared
This field guide is synthesized using verified supplier specifications, route descriptions, and destination data. Some booking links may generate affiliate revenue for ADV Guides.
- Verified: 2026-08-07T13:03:22.203Z
Some booking links may generate revenue for ADV Guides or The Adventure Collective.
Availability, pricing, schedules and operating details can change.
Trip details and contextual sources were reviewed by ADV Guides Editorial.