Homeward Through the Marsh: The Daufuskie-to-Savannah Water Taxi Return
A salt-swept, 30–45 minute return from Daufuskie to Savannah that turns travel time into Lowcountry theater.
The dock on Daufuskie hums with the low thrum of an outboard and the soft shuffle of coolers, canvas totes, and sandy flip-flops. Morning light lifts over the spartina, turning every blade into a signal of departure. The river asks a simple question: Ready? On the return to Savannah, the water taxi noses away from the pilings, the line slithers back aboard, and the marsh opens like a subtle door. Fifteen seconds later, the island is already a memory—salt wind on your cheek, gulls taunting the wake, the current tugging you home.
Trail Wisdom
Arrive 30 Minutes Early
Build in time for the crew to safely load luggage and coolers. Early arrivals keep departures on schedule.
Dress in Layers
Wind over open water can drop the temperature fast. A light wind shell over a tee works even on warm days.
Label and Consolidate
All bags must be labeled with your reservation name and fully closed—no loose items. Extra luggage requires advance notice and may incur fees.
Pick Your Seat With the Wind
Sit on the leeward side to avoid spray and keep binoculars ready for dolphin sightings near channel edges.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Cockspur Island Lighthouse overlook near Fort Pulaski—bring a zoom lens for moody marsh shots
- •McQueens Island Historic Trail—a flat, scenic path paralleling US-80 with marsh vistas
Wildlife
Bottlenose dolphins, Great egrets and brown pelicans
Conservation Note
Salt marshes are nurseries for coastal life. Pack out all trash, keep wake low near shorelines, and give dolphins at least 50 yards of space.
Daufuskie Island sits within the Gullah Geechee Cultural Heritage Corridor, and nearby Fort Pulaski guarded the Savannah River during the Civil War.
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for: Mild temperatures, Fresh green marsh views
Challenges: Pollen, Variable breezes
A sweet spot for comfortable crossings and vibrant marsh color. Light layers are still smart.
summer
Best for: Long daylight, Frequent dolphin activity
Challenges: Heat and humidity, Pop-up thunderstorms
Expect strong sun and occasional squalls; plan morning or evening crossings for cooler air and softer light.
fall
Best for: Golden light, Fewer crowds
Challenges: Hurricane season watch, Cooler evenings
Calmer weather and warm water linger. Keep an eye on forecasts during storm season windows.
winter
Best for: Crisp visibility, Quiet waterways
Challenges: Cold north winds, Shorter days
Bundle up and enjoy stark, beautiful marsh color and smooth off-peak logistics.
Photographer's Notes
What to Bring
Light Windproof ShellEssential
Cuts windchill on open water while packing down small.
Dry Bag or Phone PouchEssential
Protects electronics and paper tickets from salt spray and splashes.
Polarized Sunglasses
Reduces glare, sharpens contrast, and makes spotting wildlife easier.
Non-Slip Boat Shoes or SandalsEssential
Secure footing on wet decks helps during loading and docking.
Common Questions
Do I need to book the return trip separately?
Yes. When booking your outbound transport to Daufuskie, you must add this return trip to your cart before checking out with Bull River Marina.
How early should I arrive for departure?
Arrive 30 minutes prior to departure to allow time for luggage loading and safety checks.
How long does the water taxi ride take?
The return to Bull River Marina typically takes 30–45 minutes, depending on conditions.
Is there a minimum number of passengers?
Yes. Water taxis require a minimum of 4 passengers to operate a departure. If not met, you’ll be contacted to reschedule.
What luggage can I bring?
Your included allowance is one 45 lb suitcase or tote, one carry-on, and one 25-quart cooler per person. All luggage must be labeled and closed; extra items require prior notice and may incur fees.
What happens in bad weather?
Safety comes first; in the event of adverse weather or unsafe conditions, Bull River Marina will contact you to reschedule your crossing.
What to Pack
Windproof layer for variable marine breeze; Dry bag to protect phones and cameras from spray; Polarized sunglasses for glare-free wildlife spotting; Luggage tags with your reservation name to comply with boarding rules.
Did You Know
Daufuskie Island is only accessible by boat and is part of the Gullah Geechee Cultural Heritage Corridor, preserving distinct West African-influenced traditions along the Southeast coast.
Quick Travel Tips
Book your return when you book your outbound to guarantee seats; Arrive 30 minutes early to streamline luggage loading; Bring cash or card for any excess luggage fees; Check the forecast—summer pop-up storms and winter winds can affect timing.
Local Flavor
After docking, head toward Tybee for peel-and-eat shrimp at The Crab Shack on Lazaretto Creek, or swing back into Savannah for a pint at Service Brewing and an ice cream at Leopold’s. Coffee people should detour to Tybean on Tybee for a laid-back caffeine fix with island vibes.
Logistics Snapshot
Closest airport: Savannah/Hilton Head International (SAV). Return dock: Bull River Marina, about 20 minutes east of downtown Savannah via US-80. Expect spotty cell service on the water but strong coverage at the marina. No permits required; minimum of 4 passengers per departure; arrive 30 minutes early; labeled, closed luggage only.
Sustainability Note
This is sensitive marshland—keep trash secured, minimize wake near shorelines, and never feed or approach wildlife. Observe dolphin-viewing guidelines and respect nesting birds on oyster rakes and spoil islands.