Coastal Cruises & Sunset Tours with Anchor Excursions in St. Simons - Savannah

Coastal Cruises & Sunset Tours with Anchor Excursions in St. Simons

Savannaheasy

Difficulty

easy

Duration

1.5–3 hours

Fitness Level

Minimal physical exertion required; suitable for all ages

Overview

Set sail with Anchor Excursions for sunset cruises and ferry tours around St. Simons and Jekyll Islands. Discover dolphins, coastal history, and live music on the water while soaking up warm Golden Isles evening views.

Details

St. Simons Island, located on Georgia’s Golden Isles, offers a refreshing coastal escape where history, ecology, and maritime culture converge. At the heart of this island adventure lies Anchor Excursions, a local favorite delivering immersive ferry tours and sunset cruises that reveal the natural and cultural richness of the region. Their offerings range from relaxed BYOB sunset tours to lively themed cruises featuring reggae music or local artists, showcasing the area’s vibrant coastal lifestyle.

The cruises depart from St. Simons and smoothly glide through the waters between this barrier island and Jekyll Island, presenting opportunities to spot bottlenose dolphins surfacing alongside the boat. Passengers often find themselves enjoying the magic of unhurried golden hour views as skies ignite in hues of orange and pink. Along the way, the knowledgeable crew blends stories about the Golden Isles’ maritime history with detailed insights into the fragile coastal ecosystem—including salt marshes, tidal creeks, and the diverse birdlife inhabiting the area.

Specialty trips like the Good Vibes Sunset Reggae Cruise with RASTAR and the Fourth of July St. Simons Cruise infuse regional culture and local talent into the experience, creating memorable evenings on the water. The First Friday Ferry and Summer Jam Cruises foster community spirit, making these more than just boat rides—they welcome you into a coastal tradition.

Anchor Excursions stands out by combining friendly, personalized service with flexible bookings and an intimate boat size that allows real connection with the surroundings. Their responsiveness to weather ensures excursions happen at optimal times, valuing comfort alongside adventure.

Whether you're a history buff fascinated by the islands’ past or an outdoor enthusiast chasing wildlife encounters and breathtaking sunsets, Anchor Excursions offers a genuine way to engage with the Golden Isles’ coastal environment. As part of St. Simons’ outdoor scene, these tours provide an accessible maritime experience that enriches visitors’ understanding of Georgia’s coast.

Adventure Tips

Arrive Early for Ideal Seating

Getting to the dock 15 minutes before departure helps secure prime seats for sunset views and wildlife watching.

Bring a Light Jacket for Evening Trips

Coastal breezes can cool down quickly as the sun sets; layering keeps you comfortable without bulk.

BYOB but Pack Responsibly

Many cruises permit BYOB—bring your own beverages, but avoid glass containers for safety on deck.

Keep Binoculars Handy

Dolphins and birdlife can appear at a distance; binoculars enhance your chance of spotting wildlife clearly.

Local Insights

Hidden Gems

  • Remote oyster beds visible near Jekyll's marsh edges
  • Quiet beaches on the north end of St. Simons with minimal foot traffic

Wildlife

  • Bottlenose dolphins
  • Great blue herons

History

St. Simons Island has a rich maritime heritage, including lighthouses and old forts that shaped Georgia’s coastal defense.

Conservation

The tours emphasize low-impact boating practices to protect fragile marsh ecosystems and support local wildlife preservation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Photography Tips

Best Times

Golden hour
Early evening
Late afternoon

Best Viewpoints

  • Bow of the boat during sunset
  • Alongside tidal marshes
  • Near Jekyll Island ferry dock

What to Photograph

Sunset skies
Dolphin pods
Marsh birdlife

Recommended Gear

Light Jacket or Windbreaker

Essential

Protects against coastal breezes and temperature drops as the sun sinks.

summer|fall|spring|winter specific

Binoculars

Helps identify distant dolphins and shore birds during the tour.

Reusable Water Bottle

Essential

Staying hydrated is important, especially on sunny daytime cruises.

Sunscreen

Essential

Protects skin from sun exposure during daytime or early evening outings.

spring|summer|fall specific