Savannah’s scenic squares and luscious parks are known hot spots for weddings in the South, on brick sidewalks under live oaks.
But there’s an even more alluring spot for couples to tie the knot: right on the waters of the Savannah River on one of Savannah Riverboat Cruises’ beautiful white riverboats.
It’s there, on a third-story patio deck, set against a backdrop of historic buildings on River Street and magnificent sunsets behind the Talmadge Memorial Bridge, that brides and grooms have been saying “I do” for 24 years, since Captain Jonathan H. Claughton first brought riverboat cruises to Savannah in 1991.
With two riverboats – the Savannah River Queen and the Georgia Queen – and two event specialists, Savannah Riverboat Cruises are able to take care of multiple brides and give them the wedding of their dreams, no matter what that might be.
“We can accommodate any size wedding from as little as two (just the bride and groom) to as large as 600 guests,” said Bailee Bridwell, a Wedding Sales Representative.
They’ve done everything from upscale weddings and chic elegant soirees.
They hosted ‘20s gangster-themed wedding, and even a pirate-themed wedding for one of TLC’s show, “Four Weddings.”
“Everything was TOP NOTCH, from organizing the event to the boarding 11 months later,” said former bride Paulette Sasser. “The food was excellent, DJ was great and all the preparations and details were so nice. All we had to do was show up and have a ball!”
To accommodate the different parties, Savannah Riverboat Cruises offers many different wedding packages, including an Elopement Package for couples who are coming to Savannah with a handful of friends and family, an Intimate Ceremony Package for small destination weddings and an Elegant Ceremony Package for larger groups.
“Our Elegant Package is the most popular for our destination brides. It has everything and it makes it easy for them, which is perfect for 100 guests or more,” said Bridwell.
Savannah Riverboat Cruises doesn’t just provide the venue for their brides.
They provide a Cruise and Event Specialist with each package that will help couples plan a menu, décor, and entertainment. Not to mention, the riverboat captain is a licensed officiant.
“We are really a one-stop shop,” said Bridwell. “I can order your linen, cake, flowers and decorations. Just about anything you might want to add to your wedding, we can provide.”
They also have rehearsal dinner and reception packages for couples that are having their ceremony in a park or square. There’s an option to get a private deck or a VIP Suite with the add-on of a private patio. Both of these include a climate-controlled dining room, buffet menu, bar, DJ dance floor and restrooms.
“If you are looking to wow your guests with a unique location, outstanding food and a one-of-a-kind celebration, Savannah Riverboat Cruises is definitely the right choice,” said Bridwell.
But wedding parties aren’t the only ones that get to experience this Coastal Empire on a Savannah Riverboat. Anyone can go on their Harbor Sightseeing Cruises, Dinner Entertainment Cruises and special seasonal cruises. Savannah Riverboat Cruises offers a Monday Gospel Dinner Cruise. Thursday night is the Murder Mystery Cruise. Friday and Saturday nights offer the Moonlight Entertainment Cruises. On the weekends, they host a Saturday Luncheon Cruise and a Sunday Brunch Cruise.
“There really is no better way to experience Savannah than by water,” said Jonathan Captain Claughton.
Savannah Riverboat Cruises are located at 9 E. River St. For more information, call (912) 232-6404 or www.savannahriverboat.com.
