River Cruises to St Simons Island

St. Simons Island: A Coastal Georgia Gem Awaits

Arriving by river cruise adds a layer of elegance and immersion, offering intimate access to waterways like the Brunswick River and nearby Savannah River, where dolphins arc alongside the hull and coastal breezes carry the scent of salt and magnolia. Unlike ocean cruises, which often bypass hidden gems, river cruises deliver guests directly to the soul of each destination—onboard experiences and curated excursions merge seamlessly with the landscape and local lore.

Whether you’re tracing the maritime roots of Georgia’s early settlers, cycling past tabby ruins, or indulging in a shrimp and grits tasting under stars, a river cruise to St. Simons Island is more than a journey—it’s a return to what travel should feel like: warm, welcoming, and wonderfully enriching.

Anchoring off St. Simons Island is like stepping into a time capsule. Visitors can explore the St. Simons Lighthouse Museum, the ruins of Fort Frederica, and miles of bike trails weaving through ancient live oaks. The island's charming Pier Village offers boutiques, seafood cafés, and ice cream parlors where local flavor abounds. Dolphins and seabirds frequently accompany smaller cruise vessels near the island’s edge, making each arrival unforgettable.

Exploring the Rivers: A Scenic Tapestry of Culture and Nature

Brunswick River

The Brunswick River is the primary gateway to St. Simons Island and its sister isles. This wide, winding waterway offers a calm passage past salt marshes, oyster beds, and maritime forests, bringing cruisers face-to-face with Georgia’s low country in all its glory. As you navigate its peaceful bends, the skyline gives way to quaint docks, historic shrimping boats, and the golden haze of coastal dawns. The river is known for its slow, soulful tempo—ideal for travelers seeking reflection, birdwatching, and a touch of Southern elegance.

Jekyll Island

Just south of St. Simons, Jekyll Island invites cruisers into a realm of Victorian mansions and wild beaches. Once an exclusive retreat for America’s elite, today it offers enriching shore excursions to the Jekyll Island Historic District, the Georgia Sea Turtle Center, and the windswept sands of Driftwood Beach. This leg of the cruise blends heritage and habitat, where every path is lined with tales and tidal whispers.

Brunswick

The port city of Brunswick serves as a lively base for river cruise embarkations and shore visits. With its historic downtown, colonial-era squares, and shrimp boat docks, it’s a microcosm of Georgia’s coastal identity. Don’t miss the Lover’s Oak tree or a bowl of creamy she-crab soup at a local tavern.

Sea Island

Though more private in nature, Sea Island is another jewel in the Brunswick River route. Often featured on exclusive or luxury itineraries, it boasts five-star resorts, championship golf, and intimate encounters with Georgia’s coastal cuisine and wellness traditions.

Little St. Simons Island

Accessible by small-ship tenders, Little St. Simons Island is a pristine wilderness sanctuary. Shore excursions here focus on ecology, birding, and guided kayak adventures. With over 11,000 acres of protected lands, it’s a haven for those seeking rare flora, fauna, and a serene escape from crowds.

Savannah River

Savannah

While a bit farther afield, the Savannah River is a common inclusion in longer itineraries that pair with St. Simons Island. Arriving in Savannah by water is an evocative experience, passing beneath bridges and along the historic riverfront. Guests can stroll beneath oak canopies, tour antebellum homes, and dine in candlelit taverns—Savannah’s Southern Gothic charm is irresistible.

Fort Pulaski

Located near the mouth of the Savannah River, Fort Pulaski National Monument is a dramatic highlight. Guests step ashore to explore Civil War battlements, drawbridges, and moats, with reenactors often present to bring the past alive.

Tybee Island

Tybee Island offers a blend of beach town playfulness and maritime heritage. Cruises here might include beach stops, lighthouse climbs, or seafood tastings of oysters and local crab cakes at sunset.

Richmond Hill

This charming riverfront town offers access to coastal nature preserves and plantations. Excursions often include visits to Fort McAllister and scenic kayak trips along the marshes of Ossabaw Sound.

Port Wentworth

North of Savannah, Port Wentworth provides a quieter, more industrial slice of Georgia’s coastal life. Some specialty itineraries include it for its proximity to historic rice plantations and wildlife reserves.

Itineraries for Every Traveler

Short River Cruises (3–5 Days)

Perfect for long weekends or first-time cruisers, short itineraries may focus exclusively on the Brunswick River with stops at Jekyll Island, St. Simons Island, and Brunswick. Guests enjoy beach walks, lighthouse tours, and laid-back Southern dining. Sunset cruises and oyster roasts add flair to these brief yet rich journeys.

Medium River Cruises (6–9 Days)

These cruises may expand to include both the Brunswick and Savannah rivers, offering a mix of cultural landmarks and island leisure. Guests often enjoy Savannah’s art scene, St. Simons’ historic sites, and immersive ecological tours on Little St. Simons. Expect longer onboard experiences and multiple overnight stays in picturesque harbors.

Long River Cruises (10+ Days)

Extended cruises cater to seasoned travelers seeking to delve deeply into the region’s natural wonders, rich history, and diverse cuisine. These itineraries might connect Charleston, Savannah, and Georgia’s Golden Isles in one sweeping journey. Aboard premium riverboats, guests can expect wine pairings, expert-led lectures, and personal encounters with artists and naturalists along the way.

Special Interest Cruises

• Wine & Culinary Cruises: Experience Southern coastal cuisine through oyster farm visits, seafood cooking demos, and Lowcountry boil feasts.
• Art & History Cruises: Walk in the footsteps of plantation owners, Civil War soldiers, and early European settlers, accompanied by expert guides and curated museum visits.
• Holiday Cruises: Discover a Southern twist on Christmas markets and holiday feasts, complete with live music and decorative riverfront towns.
• Nature & Birding Cruises: Join naturalists on kayaking safaris and dawn hikes on Little St. Simons Island, where roseate spoonbills and painted buntings light up the canopy.

The Onboard Experience

Ship Sizes and Ambiance

River cruise ships in this region are typically small and intimate, accommodating between 40 and 120 guests. With their shallow draft, they can navigate narrow tributaries and dock directly in historic towns. Interiors lean toward classic Southern elegance, with features such as wood paneling, antique décor, and wraparound decks being common. The onboard pace is relaxed, with ample time for personal discovery and connection.

Cuisine and Wine

Menus on board reflect the seasonal and coastal bounty of Georgia. Think shrimp and grits, pecan-crusted fish, and sweet potato soufflé. Local wines, craft beers, and Southern-inspired cocktails enhance each meal. Culinary demonstrations and chef-led shopping excursions are often included.

Excursions and Enrichment

Daily excursions focus on cultural heritage, nature, and leisure. Choose from bike tours through St. Simons, Gullah-Geechee cultural talks in Savannah, or guided beachcombing on Jekyll. Onboard enrichment includes guest lectures, live jazz evenings, and stargazing sessions under the Southern sky.

Something for Everyone

• Couples: Romantic views, fine dining, and spa treatments await honeymooners and anniversary travelers.
• Solo Travelers: Intimate ships encourage camaraderie, and many offer waived single supplements or hosted dinners.
• Families: Select itineraries cater to multigenerational travelers with wildlife excursions, bike rides, and beach outings.
• Luxury Travelers: Private butler service, suite-only ships, and curated tastings elevate select sailings into five-star experiences.

Let the River Guide You Home

A river cruise to St. Simons Island isn’t just a journey—it’s a gentle immersion into a world where the tides carry stories, where heritage whispers from the shoreline, and where every horizon invites you to slow down and savor the South.

For those seeking an authentic coastal escape steeped in charm and discovery, St. Simons Island delivers—with every river bend offering something new to see, taste, and feel. Whether you’re captivated by maritime legends, culinary delights, or sunlit estuaries, a river cruise through Georgia’s Golden Isles is a timeless way to experience the best of the American South.