Savannah by Sail: A Private Charter Through the Lowcountry Tides
Two hours, six guests, and Savannah’s tides as your guide—learn to sail or simply let the wind do the work.
The wind tugs at the rigging like an impatient friend, urging you off the dock and out toward the green sweep of marsh. On Wilmington Island, just east of Savannah, the tide slides beneath the hull with a quiet confidence, guiding you toward a salt-scented horizon stitched with herons and shrimp boats. You settle into the cockpit, ice clinking in your cup from the onboard cooler, and the sail lifts—white, eager, ready. The marsh flats glow gold, spartina grass nodding as if to say, finally. The Lowcountry likes to take its time, but when it moves, it moves with purpose.
Trail Wisdom
Arrive 15 Minutes Early
Give yourself time to park, meet the crew, and stow any snacks or drinks in the onboard fridge before lines are cast.
Wear Non-Marking Shoes
Soft-soled, non-marking footwear helps with grip on deck and keeps the boat in good shape—flip-flops can be slippery underway.
Sun Smart, Wind Ready
Bring polarized sunglasses, reef-safe sunscreen, and a light windbreaker; the breeze can feel cooler on the water than on land.
Secure Your Essentials
Use a small dry bag for phones, keys, and wallets—gusts and spray can surprise even on calm days.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Cockspur Island Lighthouse viewpoints near Fort Pulaski at low tide
- •Lazaretto Creek’s shrimp boat fleet at sunset
Wildlife
Bottlenose dolphins, Brown pelicans
Conservation Note
Georgia’s salt marsh is fragile—keep a respectful distance from wildlife, pack out all waste, and use reef-safe sunscreen to reduce chemical runoff.
Savannah’s barrier islands and tidal rivers shaped centuries of maritime trade; Fort Pulaski, completed in the 1840s, guarded the river’s approach and changed Civil War-era artillery tactics.
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for: Mild temperatures, Active wildlife sightings
Challenges: Variable winds, Occasional showers
Spring brings comfortable sailing and lively marsh life; pack a light layer and be ready for quick weather shifts.
summer
Best for: Sunset sails, Warm water and steady breezes
Challenges: High UV index, Afternoon thunderstorms
Long days make golden-hour trips spectacular; plan earlier or later departures to avoid peak heat and watch the radar.
fall
Best for: Clear air and soft light, Reliable afternoon sea breeze
Challenges: Shorter daylight, Cooler evenings
Fall is prime for crisp, photo-ready conditions with comfortable winds and fewer crowds on the water.
winter
Best for: Quiet waterways, Vivid sunsets
Challenges: Chilly wind on deck, Limited departure windows
Cool, calm days reward with solitude and color-drenched skies; dress warm and check forecasts closely.
Photographer's Notes
What to Bring
Polarized SunglassesEssential
Cuts glare off the water so you can spot wildlife and read the surface in bright conditions.
Light WindbreakerEssential
Blocks breeze underway and keeps you comfortable when clouds or gusts roll through.
Non-Marking Deck ShoesEssential
Provides traction on wet decks and protects the boat from scuffs.
Small Dry Bag
Keeps phones, keys, and a wallet dry if spray kicks up or a quick shower passes.
Common Questions
Will we see dolphins?
Bottlenose dolphins are common in these waters and are frequently spotted, though sightings can’t be guaranteed.
Can I bring my own food and drinks?
Yes. There’s a fridge onboard stocked with water, La Croix, and soft drinks—you’re welcome to bring additional snacks or beverages.
What should I wear on my feet?
Soft-soled, non-marking shoes with good grip are best. Avoid black soles that scuff and flimsy flip-flops that can slip on deck.
Is this trip suitable for kids?
Yes, families are welcome. Keep an eye on young children while on deck and consider bringing a familiar, properly fitted PFD if preferred.
What happens if the weather looks bad?
The crew monitors forecasts and may delay, reschedule, or cancel for safety. You’ll be contacted with options if conditions deteriorate.
Is there a restroom onboard?
Availability can vary by vessel; confirm at booking so you know whether to plan a bathroom stop before departure.
What to Pack
Polarized sunglasses — essential for cutting glare and spotting wildlife; Non-marking deck shoes — safe traction on wet decks without scuffing; Lightweight windbreaker — blocks breeze and spray even on warm days; Refillable water bottle — stay hydrated while keeping plastic waste down.
Did You Know
Georgia contains roughly one-third of the salt marsh on the U.S. Atlantic coast—about 368,000 acres that serve as a vital nursery for fish, shrimp, and crabs.
Quick Travel Tips
Plan sunset sails for cooler temps and dramatic skies; Check tide and wind forecasts—conditions shape routes and comfort; Bring cash or card for nearby marina snacks or post-sail bites; Build in 20–25 minutes of drive time from downtown Savannah to Wilmington Island.
Local Flavor
After your sail, head to The Wyld Dock Bar in nearby Isle of Hope for local shrimp and cold beer with marsh views. In Thunderbolt, Tubby’s Tank House serves classic Lowcountry plates. Back in Savannah, cap the night with a pint at Service Brewing Co. or a scoop at Leopold’s before a stroll along the riverfront.
Logistics Snapshot
Closest airport: Savannah/Hilton Head International (SAV). Departure: Wilmington Island, roughly 20–25 minutes from downtown Savannah by car. Cell service: Generally good, with occasional weak spots on the water. Permits: None required for guests; arrive early for parking and boarding instructions.
Sustainability Note
These estuaries are protected under Georgia’s Coastal Marshlands Protection Act—pack out everything you bring, use reef-safe sunscreen, and maintain at least 50 yards from dolphins as advised by NOAA.