Savannah Cruise Port
Savannah Ocean Terminal
Savannah, United States Port
Georgia UN/LOCODE USXMX Port of call
Savannah Cruise Port Location
| Port Details | |
|---|---|
| Country | United States |
| Region | Georgia |
| UN/LOCODE | USXMX |
| Contact | |
| Address | 950 Exchange Street, Savannah, GA 31401, USA |
| Port phone | +1 912-964-3811 |
| Website | gaports.com |
| Geography | |
| Coordinates | 32.08354, -81.09983 |
| Accessibility | |
| Accessible | Limited |
The Savannah Ocean Terminal is situated roughly 1.2 km (0.75 miles) from the center of the Historic District, a 15-minute shuttle transfer or a $12.00 (~$12.00 USD) taxi ride. Located in the Coastal Empire region of southeastern Georgia, this destination sits on the south bank of the Savannah River, approximately 25 km (15 miles) inland from the Atlantic Ocean. You are within a 45-minute drive of Hilton Head Island, South Carolina, and 30 minutes from the Atlantic beaches of Tybee Island. Savannah serves as a mixed port, hosting both small-ship ocean vessels and river cruise itineraries exploring the American South. The walking time from the riverfront to the southern edge of Forsyth Park takes about 22 minutes; however, most visitors waste significant time navigating the 'stairways to nowhere' along the waterfront. This destination rewards those who move inland immediately to the grid of 22 historic squares. It punishes those who remain on River Street, where the density of tourist-focused retail masks the city's genuine architectural soul. Be aware that disembarking before 9:00 AM is critical to seeing the major house museums before school groups arrive. Expect high humidity and irregular walking surfaces that will challenge anyone without supportive footwear.
Savannah — Port Overview
History
General James Oglethorpe founded Savannah in 1733 as the first colonial capital of Georgia. He implemented a unique grid system known as the 'Oglethorpe Plan,' featuring wide streets interspersed with public squares that served as military drill grounds and community hubs. By the early 19th century, Savannah became one of the wealthiest ports in the world, fueled by the 'White Gold' of the cotton trade. The distinct architectural heritage you see today, including the famous Regency and Italianate mansions, was largely constructed between 1820 and 1860. A pivotal moment occurred in December 1864 when General William Tecumseh Sherman completed his 'March to the Sea.' Unlike Atlanta, Savannah was spared destruction; Sherman famously offered the city to President Lincoln as a Christmas gift. This preservation allowed the city to retain its original 18th-century layout. In the 1950s, the Seven Ladies of Savannah formed the Historic Savannah Foundation to prevent the demolition of the Davenport House, sparking one of the most successful urban preservation movements in American history. Today, this legacy is visible in the 22 remaining squares, each acting as a preserved pocket of 18th and 19th-century urban design directly accessible from the Savannah River waterfront.
The Verdict
Travelers who benefit most from Savannah are the ones who arrive with a plan to move inland immediately and the flexibility to adapt to the heat. This guide has been fact-checked by J. Richard and the Waterways Cruise editorial team. Excursions that guarantee a return to the ship can be tailored to your mobility, interests, and pace, so missing departure is never a concern. At Waterways Cruise, no two travelers want the same day ashore in the Hostess City of the South.
Things to Do & See in Savannah
| Attraction | Type | Address | Phone | Hours | Website | Admission |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Forsyth Park | Landmark | Drayton St & Park Ave, Savannah, GA 31401 | +1 912-351-3841 | Daily 7:00 AM–11:00 PM | savannah.com | Free |
| Cathedral Basilica of St. John the Baptist | Cultural Site | 222 E Harris St, Savannah, GA 31401 | +1 912-233-4015 | Mon-Sat 9:00 AM–11:45 AM, 12:45 PM–4:00 PM | savannahcathedral.org | USD $3.00 |
| Owens-Thomas House & Slave Quarters | Historical Site | 124 Abercorn St, Savannah, GA 31401 | +1 912-790-8800 | Daily 10:00 AM–5:00 PM | telfair.org | USD $20.00 |
| Bonaventure Cemetery | Landmark | 330 Bonaventure Rd, Thunderbolt, GA 31404 | +1 912-651-6843 | Daily 8:00 AM–5:00 PM | bonaventurehistorical.org | Free |
| The Olde Pink House | Historical Site | 23 Abercorn St, Savannah, GA 31401 | +1 912-232-4286 | Lunch 11:00 AM–2:30 PM, Dinner 5:00 PM–10:30 PM | theoldepinkhousesavannah.com | Free |
Forsyth Park · Landmark
FreeForsyth Park is the 30-acre emerald heart of Savannah's Victorian District. The walking distance from the riverfront is approximately 1.5 miles; while the walk is scenic, you should take the free shuttle to save your energy for the park itself. The centerpiece is the stunning white fountain, installed in 1858, which remains the city's most enduring visual symbol. You will find locals jogging, artists sketching under the canopy of massive live oaks, and the occasional wedding ceremony. Look past the fountain for the Garden for the Blind and the sprawling Confederate Memorial at the south end. What most visitors walk past is the historic 'fort' wall on the west side, which actually houses the city's recreation department. The experience delivers exactly what you imagine of the American South: draping moss, wide pathways, and a quiet, dignified beauty. It is the best place in the city to simply sit on a bench and absorb the atmosphere. The consistent feedback from visitors is that consistent—it is the one 'must-see' that never feels like a tourist trap.
Drayton St & Park Ave, Savannah, GA 31401 ·+1 912-351-3841 ·Daily 7:00 AM–11:00 PM ·www.savannah.com
Cathedral Basilica of St. John the Baptist · Cultural Site
USD $3.00The Cathedral Basilica of St. John the Baptist is widely considered the most beautiful interior in the American South. Rebuilt in 1898 after a devastating fire, the French Gothic structure features twin spires that define the Savannah skyline. When you step inside, the scale of the stained glass and the gold-leaf detailing is breathtaking. Visitors should take a moment to look at the 'Great organ' in the choir loft, which is a masterpiece of both acoustics and design. The murals, painted by Austrian artists, depict the life of Christ and the saints in a style that rivals the great cathedrals of Europe. You will find that the quietest time is immediately upon opening. Do not just walk the center aisle; explore the side chapels where the detail in the altars is most intimate. This experience delivers a profound sense of the city's religious heritage and the immigrant communities (particularly the French and Irish) who built the 'Hostess City of the South.' It is an essential stop for anyone interested in sacred art or architectural history.
222 E Harris St, Savannah, GA 31401 ·+1 912-233-4015 ·Mon-Sat 9:00 AM–11:45 AM, 12:45 PM–4:00 PM ·savannahcathedral.org
Owens-Thomas House & Slave Quarters · Historical Site
USD $20.00Designed by William Jay and completed in 1819, the Owens-Thomas House is one of the premier examples of English Regency architecture in the United States. Unlike other house museums that gush over the finery of the owners, this site provides a rigorously honest look at the complex relationships between the wealthy inhabitants and the enslaved people who made their lives possible. The tour includes the original carriage house and the slave quarters, which are among the best-preserved urban slave dwellings in the country. You will see the innovative technology of the time, including indoor plumbing that predates the White House. The architectural details, from the curved walls to the trompe l'oeil ceilings, are masterful. The tour at exactly 60 minutes. Feedback from hundreds of visitors consistently highlights the contrast between the 'front of house' grandeur and the 'back of house' reality. It is a sobering, beautiful, and essential piece of the Savannah story that avoids the sentimentality of many Southern tours.
124 Abercorn St, Savannah, GA 31401 ·+1 912-790-8800 ·Daily 10:00 AM–5:00 PM ·www.telfair.org
Bonaventure Cemetery · Landmark
FreeImmortalized in 'Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil,' Bonaventure Cemetery is a hauntingly beautiful Victorian 'city of the dead.' Located on a scenic bluff overlooking the Wilmington River, the 100-acre site is famous for its massive live oaks draped in Spanish moss that cast long, dramatic shadows over the ornate marble monuments. This was originally a private plantation before becoming a public cemetery in 1907. It is best to focus on 'Section H,' where many of the most famous monuments are located. The cemetery is not a place for 'spooky' thrills; it is a profound testament to Victorian mourning rituals and the city's social hierarchy. You will find the graves of Pulitzer Prize-winning author Conrad Aiken and songwriter Johnny Mercer. The silence here is heavy and meaningful. According to the Bonaventure Historical Society, the cemetery is most beautiful in late March when the azaleas are in peak bloom. This experience delivers the quintessential 'Gothic South' aesthetic that travelers seek in Savannah. It is an essential stop for anyone moved by history, sculpture, or landscape design.
330 Bonaventure Rd, Thunderbolt, GA 31404 ·+1 912-651-6843 ·Daily 8:00 AM–5:00 PM ·www.bonaventurehistorical.org
The Olde Pink House · Historical Site
FreeBuilt in 1771 for James Habersham Jr., The Olde Pink House is one of the few buildings in Savannah to survive the great fire of 1796. Originally a private mansion, it has served as a bank, a headquarters for Union generals, and now the city's most famous restaurant. The name comes from the soft pink hue of the stucco, which was originally white but turned pink as the brick bled through the plaster over centuries. Even if you aren't dining, the building is a landmark of Georgian architecture. It is best to visit for lunch to see the 'Habersham Room' with its original chandeliers. If you are a Waterways Cruise client who appreciates history, this is the best place to taste elevated Lowcountry cuisine like 'Southern Sushi' (smoked shrimp and grits in a coconut crust). The atmosphere is formal yet warm, capturing the 'Hostess City' spirit perfectly. Be aware that this is the single most requested dining spot in Savannah—do not expect to walk in at 7:00 PM and get a table. The visit offers a blend of architectural preservation and culinary tradition that is rare to find in such a popular venue.
23 Abercorn St, Savannah, GA 31401 ·+1 912-232-4286 ·Lunch 11:00 AM–2:30 PM, Dinner 5:00 PM–10:30 PM ·www.theoldepinkhousesavannah.com
Eating & Drinking in Savannah
Savannah's culinary identity is defined by 'Lowcountry' cuisine, which differs from standard Southern food by its heavy reliance on Atlantic seafood and African rice-growing traditions. You must try 'Shrimp and Grits,' which in Savannah often features a gravy enriched with Tasso ham or local sausage. Another regional staple is 'Country Captain,' a curried chicken stew that reflects Savannah's history as a spice-importing port. For drinking, the 'Chatham Artillery Punch' is the city's lethal signature—a mix of tea, lemon, sugar, and multiple spirits that was originally served to George Washington. You will find the most genuine street food at the 'City Market,' but locals actually head to 'Sandfly BBQ' for wood-smoked brisket. One honest note: tourists expect every restaurant to serve 'soul food,' but Savannah's modern scene is increasingly dominated by Mediterranean and Farm-to-Table concepts like 'Common Thread' that reflect the tastes of the younger SCAD community.
| Place | Address | Phone | Hours | Website | Price range |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mrs. Wilkes' Dining Room | 107 W Jones St, Savannah, GA 31401 | +1 912-232-5997 | Mon-Fri 11:00 AM–2:00 PM | mrswilkes.com | $30.00 (~$30.00 USD) flat fee |
| The Grey Market | 109 Jefferson St, Savannah, GA 31401 | +1 912-200-3353 | Daily 8:00 AM–3:00 PM | thegreymarket.com | $15.00–$25.00 (~$15.00–$25.00 USD) |
| Artillery | 415 Bull St, Savannah, GA 31401 | +1 912-335-5200 | Daily 4:00 PM–10:00 PM | artillerybar.com | $14.00–$18.00 (~$14.00–$18.00 USD) |
Mrs. Wilkes' Dining Room
$30.00 (~$30.00 USD) flat feeYou don't order from a menu here; you sit at a table of 10 and pass bowls of 22 different Southern dishes. It is the gold standard for Southern hospitality. There are no reservations, and the line starts forming at 9:30 AM. One honest limitation: they do not accept credit cards (cash only).
107 W Jones St, Savannah, GA 31401 ·+1 912-232-5997 ·Mon-Fri 11:00 AM–2:00 PM
The Grey Market
$15.00–$25.00 (~$15.00–$25.00 USD)A 'New York deli meets Southern lunch counter' concept in a restored Greyhound terminal. The food is sophisticated but accessible. Order 'The Yardbird' and take it to go for a picnic in Telfair Square. One honest limitation: seating is limited to counter stools and a few small tables.
109 Jefferson St, Savannah, GA 31401 ·+1 912-200-3353 ·Daily 8:00 AM–3:00 PM
Artillery
$14.00–$18.00 (~$14.00–$18.00 USD)Located in a former 19th-century armory, this is the most beautiful bar in Georgia. The service is precise, and the atmosphere is designed for conversation. It is the perfect place to try the infamous Chatham Artillery Punch in its most refined form. Note that there is a dress code: no flip-flops or tank tops.
415 Bull St, Savannah, GA 31401 ·+1 912-335-5200 ·Daily 4:00 PM–10:00 PM
Getting There & Around
Once you leave the port shuttle at the Hyatt Regency or City Market, walking is the superior method of exploration. The Historic District is a 1-mile square grid. For those who need to cover more ground, the 'DOT' Express Shuttle is a free, air-conditioned bus service that loops the Historic District every 10 minutes. It is particularly useful for the long north-south haul to Forsyth Park. Uber and Lyft are highly active and generally cost $10.00–$14.00 (~$10.00–$14.00 USD) for any intra-district trip. Bike rentals are generally not advised unless comfortable riding on one-way streets with heavy trolley traffic; the cobblestones on River Street are treacherous for cyclists. One tip most guides omit: The 'Chatham Area Transit' (CAT) operates a free ferry called 'Savannah Belles' that crosses the Savannah River every 20 minutes. It offers the absolute best panoramic view of the city skyline for zero cost. Use it to escape the heat and get a river-level perspective of the shipping traffic.
Itineraries & Sample Walks
4-Hour Shore Excursion in Savannah
Cathedral Basilica of St. John the Baptist
9:00 AM (45 min)
This French Gothic cathedral is the architectural anchor of the city. The stained glass was imported from Innsbruck, Austria. Look for the 'Great organ' which has 2,308 pipes. Most visitors miss the detailed murals above the altar representing the Seven Sacraments.
- Take the port shuttle to the Hyatt Regency, then walk 12 minutes south along Abercorn Street. (Free)
- Entry: $3.00 ($3.00 USD)
- Visit before 10 AM to avoid the large coach groups that arrive for the 11 AM tours.
Chippewa and Madison Squares
10:00 AM (60 min)
Bull Street is the city's spine. Chippewa Square is iconic for its movie history, while Madison Square features the monument to Sergeant William Jasper. Walk slowly here; this is the heart of the Oglethorpe Plan. Look for the historic iron 'hitching posts' that still line the squares.
- Walk 3 blocks west on Harris St to Bull St. (Free)
- Entry: Free (Free)
- The 'Forrest Gump' bench is no longer in Chippewa Square; it is in the Savannah History Museum. Don't waste time looking for it in the park.
Lunch Recommendation
The Grey Market
While everyone queues for 2 hours at Mrs. Wilkes, The Grey Market offers the same elevated Lowcountry soul food in a faster, counter-service format. It is housed in a restored mid-century terminal.
Order: The Yardbird Sandwich, Pimento Cheese with Benne Crackers
109 Jefferson St, Savannah, GA 31401, USA
Cost: $22.00 (~$22.00 USD)
8-Hour Full Day Experience in Savannah
Owens-Thomas House & Slave Quarters
9:00 AM (90 min)
This is one of the finest examples of Regency architecture in America. It is the only house museum in Savannah that focuses significantly on the lives of the enslaved people who lived on the property. The indoor plumbing system from 1819 is a marvel of early engineering.
- Walk 10 minutes from the Hyatt Regency drop-off. (Free)
- Entry: $20.00 ($20.00 USD)
- Tickets are 'timed-entry.' Purchase online before your ship docks to guarantee your slot.
Forsyth Park & Mansion District
1:30 PM (75 min)
The white fountain (modeled after one in Paris) is the most photographed spot in Georgia. Walk the perimeter of the park to see the Victorian mansions. Most visitors walk past the 'Fragrant Garden for the Blind' at the park center—it's a sensory masterpiece.
- Take the DOT Express Shuttle (Purple Line) from Broughton St to Forsyth Park. (Free)
- Entry: Free (Free)
- Walk to the southern end of the park to see the Confederate Memorial; it is far less crowded than the fountain area.
Getting back to the ship
The latest safe departure time from the southern end of Forsyth Park is 60 minutes before your all-aboard time. This allows for a 15-minute wait for a taxi or the DOT shuttle and a 15-minute transit back to the Ocean Terminal, with a 30-minute safety buffer. A taxi from the park to the pier will cost approximately $12.00 (~$12.00 USD). If you are using the free DOT shuttle, ensure you are on the 'Purple Line' at least 75 minutes before departure. If you miss the ship, contact the Port Authority at +1 912-964-3811. Small ships may wait 15 minutes for verified emergencies, but the large ocean vessels will depart exactly on schedule. Missing the ship here requires an expensive land transfer to the next port (often Charleston or Jacksonville), which will cost $300.00+ in private transport.
Weather & Best Time to Visit Savannah
Weather & What to Pack
Cruise season: March to November
15°C to 33°C (59°F–91°F). Rainfall is moderate, with summer afternoons seeing high-intensity short-duration storms.
What to wear: Layering is essential only in early spring. For most of the season, wear light, breathable fabrics. A waterproof poncho or compact umbrella is mandatory for afternoon storms. Shoe recommendation: flat, supportive walking shoes with thick soles. Avoid sandals or heels, as the gaps between historic bricks and the round ballast stones on the Savannah River waterfront will cause discomfort or injury.
Weather risks: Hurricane season (June–Nov) can cause port cancellations. High heat advisories in July and August frequently impact walking tours.
Spring (March–April) is the most visually spectacular time as the azaleas bloom across all 22 squares.
| Season | Conditions | Hazards | Affected areas | Visitor advice |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer (June–August) | High heat exceeding 33°C (91°F) with humidity levels often reaching 90%. Afternoon thunderstorms are frequent and sudden. | Extreme heat exhaustion on exposed routes like River Street and Forsyth Park. Pavement temperatures can cause distress for service animals. Sudden downpours make the historic 'Factor's Walk' steps extremely slick. | River Street, Factor's Walk, and the unshaded sections of the historic squares. | Wear moisture-wicking clothing. Plan all outdoor walking for before 11:30 AM. Use the free air-conditioned DOT shuttle to move between squares rather than walking the full north-south axis. |
| Autumn (September–November) | Mild, pleasant temperatures ranging from 18°C to 26°C (64°F–79°F). Lower humidity but potential for hurricane-related rain events. | Falling acorns and heavy Spanish moss debris on cobblestones can create trip hazards in the squares after wind events. | Monterey Square, Madison Square, and sidewalks under live oak canopies. | This is peak walking season. Sturdy, closed-toe walking shoes are essential. Always check the Savannah River tide charts if planning to stay late on River Street, as king tides can occasionally cause minor street flooding. |
Practical Information
Cultural etiquette
Locals greet each other with a polite 'Good morning' or 'Good afternoon,' and tourists who jump straight to a question without a greeting are often met with a slow, deliberate response. This is the 'Hostess City,' and manners are a form of social currency. Dining customs differ from American norms in that lunch is often the 'main' meal, and dinner can be surprisingly early (finishing by 9:00 PM). Photography is generally welcomed, but you must ask before photographing artists on the street or the interior of certain private galleries. Savannah locals do not queue strictly; the 'Mrs. Wilkes' line is an exception, but in most shops, it's more of a polite cluster—just make eye contact with the staff. Tipping follows standard U.S. norms: 20% in restaurants and $2.00–$5.00 for guides. One common cultural misunderstanding cruise passengers make is treating the historic squares like public toilets or trash bins; these are the residents' 'living rooms.' Treat them with the same respect you would a private garden.
Mistakes to Avoid
| Mistake |
|---|
Spending the first hour at the River Street market instead of heading inland. |
Using the 'Historic Steps' to move between River Street and Bay Street. |
Thinking you can walk to Bonaventure Cemetery. |
Wearing sandals or heels to walk the historic district. |
Practical tips
Savannah is a card-friendly city, but small street vendors on River Street and the famous 'Mrs. Wilkes' Dining Room' are cash-only. Tipping 20% is the standard for good service in restaurants, and $5.00 per person is expected for tour guides. Five phrases that earn goodwill: 'Yes, ma'am/sir,' 'How are y'all today?', 'Pleased to meet you,' 'Thank you kindly,' and 'Which square is this?'. Be aware of the 'pavement scam' near City Market, where individuals offer to 'guide' you to a square or give you a historic fact for a 'mandatory' tip; simply decline politely. Dress code: most religious sites require shoulders and knees to be covered; the Cathedral is strict on this. Best time of day: reach the 'Wormsloe' oak alley at 9:00 AM to avoid the massive bus crowds that arrive by 10:30 AM. Carrying an open alcoholic drink is legal in the Historic District as long as it's in a plastic cup under 16oz—but don't be the 'loud tourist' who abuses this privilege.
Cruise Lines Visiting Savannah
Port of Call
Why Book With Waterways Cruise?
Four decades of expertise, one dedicated advisor, and every detail handled, from your front door to the gangway and back.
Personal Service — Your Own Cruise Concierge
Tailor-Made — 100% Custom-Built
Expertise — 40+ Years in Travel
Price Watch — Book With Total Confidence
Signature Sailings
All Cruise Lines at Savannah (A–Z)
Nearby Ports
FAQ — Savannah
Is the Forsyth Park fountain within walking distance of the cruise ship?
Yes, but it is 1.5 miles (2.4 km) from the riverfront drop-off. For the average traveler, this is a 30-minute walk one way. In Savannah's humidity, visitors should take the free DOT Express Shuttle (Purple Line) from Broughton Street, which reaches the park in 8 minutes for $0.00. This saves your energy for walking the park's 30 acres of paved paths.
Can I bring my own alcohol while walking in the Historic District?
Yes, Savannah has a unique 'open container' law. Within the boundaries of the Historic District (River Street to Jones Street), you may carry one alcoholic beverage in a clear plastic cup of 16 ounces or less. Most bars will provide a 'to-go cup' upon request. Note that glass containers and aluminum cans are prohibited on the streets and will result in a fine of $100.00 or more.
Where is the 'Forrest Gump' bench located?
The actual fiberglass bench used in the movie was removed from Chippewa Square shortly after filming. It is now on display at the Savannah History Museum (301 Martin Luther King Jr Blvd). The museum is a 15-minute walk from the cruise terminal and charges an entry fee of $15.00 (~$15.00 USD). You can still visit the square where it sat for free, but do not waste time searching for the bench itself among the trees.
Are the historic squares accessible for wheelchairs?
Most of the 22 squares have paved, flat entry points, making them accessible. However, the sidewalks connecting the squares are often made of historic brick and are significantly uneven due to massive tree roots. Measurements indicate that the brick has buckled by 3-4 inches at several points. It is best to use the 'DOT' shuttle, which is fully ADA-compliant and stops at several major squares, minimize the need for long-distance wheeling on brick.
How much does a taxi cost to Bonaventure Cemetery?
Expect to pay $18.00 to $22.00 (~$18.00–$22.00 USD) each way for an Uber or taxi from the riverfront to Bonaventure Cemetery. The journey takes 15 minutes. It is critical to arrange your return trip with the driver, as taxis do not frequently pass the cemetery gates. Private transport that includes a waiting driver if you wish to spend more than an hour exploring the grounds can be arranged in advance.
Is River Street worth the visit for cruise passengers?
Only for 30 minutes. While it is the most famous street, it is also the most 'touristy,' filled with generic souvenir shops. The genuine architecture and history are 3 to 6 blocks inland in the squares. If you must go, go for the 'Savannah Candy Kitchen' to see the taffy machine, then immediately take the elevator up to Bay Street to see the real city.
What is the best way to see all 22 squares in one day?
The most efficient way is a 'Hop-On Hop-Off' trolley tour, which costs approximately $42.00 (~$42.00 USD). However, these can be very crowded. For a more authentic experience, take the free DOT shuttle to Forsyth Park and walk your way back north through the Bull Street squares (Monterey, Madison, Chippewa, Wright, and Johnson). This route covers the most significant history and architecture in a 1.2-mile downhill stroll.
Are there any public beaches near the Savannah cruise port?
The nearest beach is Tybee Island, located 18 miles (29 km) from the port. There is no public transit to the beach. A taxi or Uber will cost roughly $45.00 (~$45.00 USD) each way and takes 30 minutes. This is not recommended for port calls under 6 hours, as any accident on the single road to the island (Highway 80) can cause significant delays that may result in missing your ship.
Is Savannah safe to walk alone?
The Historic District is very safe during daylight hours and early evening, as it is heavily patrolled and highly populated by tourists. However, avoid walking south of Gwinnett Street or west of Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd alone after dark. Stick to the well-lit Bull Street and Broughton Street corridors. Most cruise passengers find the locals exceptionally helpful and polite when asked for directions.
What is 'Haint Blue' and why is it everywhere?
You will notice a specific soft blue-green paint on the ceilings of many historic porches and the Owens-Thomas House slave quarters. This is 'Haint Blue,' a color rooted in Gullah-Geechee culture. It was traditionally believed to mimic water (which spirits cannot cross) or the sky (to trick 'haints' or ghosts into passing through). Today, it is a preserved architectural tradition that most visitors walk past without realizing its cultural significance.
Fact-checked and co-written by J. Richard, Founder, Waterways Cruise, with the Waterways Cruise Content Team.
Published May 19, 2026 · Last updated November 2, 2026
This guide is researched and reviewed by our editorial team, but prices, hours, and availability change often. Confirm current details directly with venues, excursion operators, and your cruise line before you travel.