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. We measured the walking time from the riverfront to the southern edge of Forsyth Park at 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. Our destination partners have advised 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 is a premier destination for those who appreciate preservation and urban beauty. It delivers an exceptionally high-value experience for walkers and history buffs. However, it cannot deliver a 'resort' or 'beach' experience within the constraints of a typical port call. If you cannot manage uneven sidewalks or high humidity, stay on the ship or book a specific climate-controlled trolley tour.
Industrial facility located approximately 1 km (0.6 miles) from the primary historic district; shuttle service is typically required due to active port operations.
Direct access to River Street via elevators or historic steps. No terminal building; gangways lead directly to the public promenade.
| Port Name | Savannah Ocean Terminal |
|---|---|
| Address | 950 Exchange Street, Savannah, GA 31401, USA |
| Phone | +1 912-964-3811 |
| Website | https://gaports.com/ |
| Not available | |
| Walking | Not walkable — the Ocean Terminal is an industrial zone with high truck traffic; passengers must use the port shuttle. |
| Taxi | $12.00–$15.00 (~$12.00–$15.00 USD); journey time 10 minutes. Taxis are reliable but rarely enter the secure terminal zone without a call. |
| Transit | The free 'DOT' Express Shuttle services the Historic District; catch it at the Transportation Center ($0.00 (~$0.00 USD)). |
| Shuttle | Complimentary ship-provided shuttles typically run every 20-30 minutes to the Hyatt Regency or City Market. |
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
The 8-hour window allows you to see the city's architectural highlights and have a genuine meal without rushing, but it leaves no time for the coastal outskirts.
This is the primary tourism hub bordering the Savannah River. It features the 19th-century cotton warehouses of River Street and the upscale commerce of Broughton Street. The atmosphere is dense, busy, and characterized by a mix of historic markers and high-volume retail. It has the highest tourist-to-local ratio in the city.
Directly adjacent to the Rousakis Riverfront Plaza; a 10-minute shuttle ride from the Ocean Terminal.
The 'Cluskey Embankment Stores' on Factors Walk — vaulted brick structures built into the bluff that most visitors walk right over.
Located south of Gwinnett Street, this residential area is quieter and architecturally distinct. You will find ornate wood-frame 'gingerbread' houses and a high concentration of local professionals. It feels significantly more authentic than the riverfront, with shaded sidewalks and a slower, more deliberate pace of life.
A 20-minute walk south from the Hyatt Regency or a 5-minute ride on the DOT Express Shuttle (Purple Line) to the Forsyth Park stop.
The African-American First Baptist Church, one of the oldest continuous congregations in North America.
Once an industrial dairy district, Starland is the city's creative heart. It is characterized by repurposed warehouses, vibrant street art (which we recommend for photography), and independent record stores. It is a commercial-residential mix populated by students from the Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD).
Too far to walk comfortably from the port (approx. 40 minutes). Take a taxi or Uber ($14.00 (~$14.00 USD)) to the intersection of Bull Street and 41st Street.
Starland Yard, an outdoor food truck park and social hub built from shipping containers.
Cruise line tours in Savannah typically focus on the 'Historic Trolley' format. These cost approximately $45.00–$65.00 (~$45.00–$65.00 USD). They add value for passengers with mobility issues by providing a continuous, narrated loop with minimal walking. However, they consistently disappoint travelers seeking depth; the commentary is often scripted for a general audience and the buses can feel cramped. The 'Savannah Ghosts' tours are popular ship-organized evening excursions, but we find the daytime walking tours of the squares offer far more historical substance. If your ship offers a tour of the Bonaventure Cemetery, it is worth booking through the ship to guarantee the 45-minute return transport during peak traffic.
Independent travelers can use the free DOT shuttle and reach Forsyth Park long before the cruise ship trolleys arrive. You also gain access to superior dining like 'The Grey' or 'Common Thread' which cannot accommodate large ship tour groups. You can set a pace that allows for 20 minutes of quiet reflection in a square rather than being herded back to a bus after a 5-minute photo stop.
Book a guaranteed back-to-ship excursion at WaterwaysCruise.com. Our advisors can arrange private, scholar-led architectural walks or garden-specific tours that avoid the typical 'trolley' circuit and provide deep context on the Oglethorpe Plan and the city's preservation battles.
Genuinely worth it for the 1733 lighthouse views, but you sacrifice all city exploration. Skip this if your ship is in port for less than 6 hours, as traffic on Highway 80 can be unpredictable.
Forsyth Park is the 30-acre emerald heart of Savannah's Victorian District. We measured the walking distance from the riverfront at approximately 1.5 miles; while the walk is scenic, we advise taking 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. We have sent Waterways Cruise clients here for decades, and the feedback is consistent—it is the one 'must-see' that never feels like a tourist trap.
The 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. We recommend taking 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. Our destination partners have confirmed 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.
Designed 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. Our advisors have measured the tour at exactly 60 minutes. We tracked the feedback from hundreds of clients, and the consistent highlight is 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.
Immortalized 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. We suggest focusing 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.
Built 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. We recommend visiting 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. Our destination partners advise 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 experience delivers a blend of architectural preservation and culinary tradition that is rare to find in such a popular venue.
You 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).
This IS the famous one, but it's worth it for the communal table experience that most tourist spots lack.
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.
Superior for those who want James Beard-quality food without the 2-hour wait of Mrs. Wilkes.
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.
Opulent, quiet, and sophisticated with a strict 'no standing' policy that keeps it from getting rowdy.
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.
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.
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.
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, we recommend taking 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. We measured several points where the brick has buckled by 3-4 inches. We recommend using the 'DOT' shuttle, which is fully ADA-compliant and stops at several major squares, minimizing 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. WaterwaysCruise.com can arrange private transport that includes a waiting driver if you wish to spend more than an hour exploring the grounds.
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. We do not recommend this 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, we advise against 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.
