Savannah’s Tidal Highways: A Private Charter Through the Marsh
Up to 18 passengers • Chart your own course!
Just after the tide turns slack, the Bull River loosens its grip and invites you out. Marsh grass leans like a crowd parting for a parade, fingers of sunlight flickering across a glassy channel. The captain eases the throttle and the boat slides free, the engine a low hum beneath a chorus of gulls. The river nudges you forward—south toward Little Tybee’s wild edges or east toward the open sound—while the salt air sharpens your senses and the day begins to stretch. This is Savannah from water level, where the coast breathes in long, tidal sentences and every bend offers a new surprise.
Trail Wisdom
Time Your Tide
Ask your captain about outgoing vs. incoming tides—outgoing can be livelier for dolphin activity and moving water, while incoming often means calmer conditions.
Pack Polarized
Polarized sunglasses cut glare so you can spot dolphins, rays, and baitfish just below the surface.
Layer for Wind
Even warm days can feel cool underway; bring a light windbreaker or hoodie to stay comfortable at speed.
Hands Free, Eyes Up
Use a wrist strap or lanyard for your phone or camera—boats move unexpectedly when wakes cross the channel.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Back creeks behind Little Tybee for quiet wildlife viewing
- •Cockspur Island Lighthouse perspective from the channel at higher tide
Wildlife
Bottlenose dolphin, Osprey
Conservation Note
Follow NOAA guidelines by giving dolphins space, and pack out all trash—salt marshes are sensitive nurseries for fish and birds.
Fort Pulaski and the historic Cockspur Island Lighthouse sit just downriver, marking a strategic coastal corridor shaped by Civil War innovation.
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for: Wildlife viewing, Mild temperatures
Challenges: Breezy afternoons, Pollen on windy days
Cool mornings and comfortable afternoons make spring a prime time for wildlife-rich runs and glassy early starts.
summer
Best for: Family outings, Warm water & sunsets
Challenges: Heat and humidity, Pop-up thunderstorms
Plan morning or golden-hour cruises to avoid peak heat; afternoon storms can build quickly but usually pass fast.
fall
Best for: Golden light, Active birdlife
Challenges: Occasional tropical remnants, Variable winds
Clear skies and crisp light set up standout photo conditions, with migrating birds adding motion to the marsh.
winter
Best for: Quiet waterways, Low-angle photography
Challenges: Chilly windchill on the run, Short daylight
Bundle up and enjoy empty channels; the low sun paints the marsh in rich color even on cold days.
Photographer's Notes
What to Bring
Polarized SunglassesEssential
They cut surface glare and make spotting wildlife much easier.
Light WindbreakerEssential
Helps manage breeze and spray when the boat is underway.
Non-Slip FootwearEssential
Closed-toe, grippy shoes provide safe footing on wet decks.
Waterproof Phone Pouch
Keeps your phone dry and secure while shooting photos on the move.
Common Questions
Where does the charter depart from?
Trips typically depart from Bull River Marina, about 20–25 minutes east of downtown Savannah by car.
Can we bring alcohol on the boat?
Yes. This is a BYOB charter for guests 21+, and the marina shop sells drinks and snacks if you need extras.
Will we see dolphins?
Dolphins are common residents and sightings are frequent, but they are wild animals and cannot be guaranteed.
Is the boat suitable for kids and older adults?
Yes. The stable powerboat and seated ride are family-friendly; children should be supervised and may want a small jacket for wind.
Do I need to tip the captain?
A 20% gratuity for the captain and crew is customarily added to all charters and can be paid in cash or added at check-in.
What should we wear?
Dress in layers with sun protection—hat, polarized sunglasses, and non-slip shoes. Bring a light jacket for wind if cruising at speed.
What to Pack
Polarized sunglasses for spotting wildlife; light windbreaker to cut spray and breeze; non-slip closed-toe shoes for safe footing; waterproof phone pouch to protect your camera and keep hands free.
Did You Know
Georgia protects roughly 368,000 acres of salt marsh—about one-third of all East Coast salt marsh—fueling rich biodiversity and healthy fisheries.
Quick Travel Tips
Book morning or late-day slots for best light and calmer conditions; arrive 20 minutes early to park, use restrooms, and load coolers; bring cash or card for the marina shop and gratuity; check the forecast—pop-up summer storms can shift timing by 15–30 minutes.
Local Flavor
Post-cruise, detour to Tybee Island for peel-and-eat shrimp and a cold beer at a dockside joint, or head back toward Savannah for oysters and cocktails along River Street. If time allows, stop by Fort Pulaski National Monument to connect your water route with the area’s history.
Logistics Snapshot
Closest airport: Savannah/Hilton Head International (SAV). Departure: Bull River Marina, ~20–25 minutes from downtown Savannah. Drive/ride-share friendly with ample parking. Cell service is generally good near the marina but can drop in back creeks. No permits required; BYOB allowed for 21+. Gratuity (20%) is added to charters.
Sustainability Note
This estuary is a nursery for countless species—minimize wake near shorelines, keep 50 yards from dolphins when possible, and pack out all trash to protect marsh grass and oyster beds.