Tides, Sails, and Champagne: Savannah’s Lowcountry by Private Catamaran
2 Hour Sailing Trip • Champagne Included • Up to 6 Guests
The wind starts as a whisper, teasing the marsh grass until the blades lift their chins and hush. On Wilmington Island, a 35-foot catamaran noses into the channel, catlike and sure, while the river tugs at your expectations. You step aboard, the deck broad and steady beneath your feet. No heel, no dramatic roll—just a catamaran’s confident glide. A bottle of champagne rests on ice. The crew smiles. The tide exhales. And then the sails find their line, snap to attention, and carry you into the green-braided Lowcountry where spartina marsh meets big sky.
Trail Wisdom
Book the golden hour
Sunset departures often deliver the best colors, cooler temps, and frequent dolphin sightings.
Wear non-marking shoes
Light-soled sneakers protect the deck and give you better grip while moving around the catamaran.
Layer for the breeze
Even warm days can feel cool underway; a light windbreaker keeps you comfortable.
Respect wildlife space
Enjoy dolphins and birds at a distance; never feed or chase—your captain will keep a safe buffer.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •The Wyld Dock Bar for post-sail Lowcountry plates on the marsh
- •McQueen’s Island Trail, a flat rails-to-trails path with big river views on the way to Tybee
Wildlife
Bottlenose Dolphins, Brown Pelicans
Conservation Note
Georgia’s salt marsh is a protected nursery habitat. Follow NOAA’s dolphin-viewing guidelines, pack out all trash, and avoid plastics that can escape in the wind.
Savannah, founded in 1733, grew up on tidal trade routes; nearby Thunderbolt became a hub for shrimping fleets through the 20th century.
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for: Steady breezes, Wildflowers and fresh greenscapes
Challenges: Pollen, Changeable showers
Mild temperatures and consistent winds make spring ideal for learning the ropes and savoring lush marsh views.
summer
Best for: Warm water, Long daylight for evening sails
Challenges: High heat and humidity, Pop-up thunderstorms, Strong UV
Plan for sun protection and hydrate; late-day trips dodge the worst heat and often catch spectacular sunsets.
fall
Best for: Clear air and dramatic sunsets, Fewer bugs
Challenges: Occasional coastal fronts, Breezy afternoons
Autumn sharpens the light and eases humidity—arguably the most comfortable and photogenic season to sail.
winter
Best for: Crowd-free waterways, Crisp, high-visibility days
Challenges: Cool north winds, Short daylight
Bundle up and enjoy glassy rivers and bird activity; winter sails are serene and surprisingly vivid.
Photographer's Notes
What to Bring
Light windbreaker or fleeceEssential
Keeps you comfortable when the breeze picks up underway.
Polarized sunglassesEssential
Cuts glare off the water and helps spot dolphins and shorebirds.
Non-marking deck shoesEssential
Provide traction and protect the catamaran’s deck from scuffs.
Small dry bag
Protects phones, wallets, and cameras from spray and splashes.
Common Questions
Where does the charter depart from?
Trips depart from Wilmington Island, about 20 minutes from downtown Savannah; exact marina details are provided after booking.
Can we bring our own food and drinks?
Yes. Water, soft drinks, and a complimentary bottle of champagne are provided, and you’re welcome to bring additional snacks and beverages.
How stable is the boat? Will I get seasick?
Catamarans are notably stable and stay relatively flat compared to monohulls, which helps minimize motion discomfort for most guests.
Are dolphin sightings guaranteed?
Wildlife is unpredictable, but bottlenose dolphins are commonly seen in these waterways. The crew avoids disturbing them and follows responsible viewing guidelines.
Is this suitable for kids or older adults?
Yes. The catamaran’s wide deck and stable ride make it accessible for families and multi-generational groups. Always supervise children on deck.
What happens if the weather turns bad?
Safety comes first. The captain may delay, reschedule, or cancel if conditions are unsafe; you’ll be contacted with options.
What to Pack
Polarized sunglasses for glare; lightweight windbreaker for breeze underway; non-marking shoes for traction and to protect the deck; reef-safe sunscreen to guard against strong coastal sun.
Did You Know
Georgia contains roughly one-third of the salt marsh along the U.S. East Coast, making it one of the most significant tidal ecosystems in North America.
Quick Travel Tips
Arrive 15 minutes early to park, meet the crew, and stow your cooler. Choose rideshare from the historic district to avoid marina parking crunches on weekends. Bring a small dry bag—coastal breezes can mist electronics. Check the forecast and dress in layers; river wind often feels cooler than in town.
Local Flavor
After your sail, head to The Wyld Dock Bar for shrimp rolls and marsh views, or grab oysters at Desposito’s in Thunderbolt. In town, Two Tides Brewing pours creative sours and IPAs, while Treylor Park and The Grey offer distinct Savannah takes on comfort fare and coastal cuisine.
Logistics Snapshot
Closest airport: Savannah/Hilton Head International (SAV). Departure: Wilmington Island marina (details after booking). Drive time: ~20 minutes from Savannah’s Historic District. Cell service: Generally good on main rivers; can be spotty in back creeks. Permits: None required for passengers; BYO allowed within charter guidelines.
Sustainability Note
These tidal marshes are a vital nursery for fish and shellfish. Pack reusable containers, secure lightweight items from blowing overboard, keep 50 yards from dolphins, and let shorebirds rest undisturbed on exposed flats.