Yacht charter in Georgia
Crewed yacht cruising in Georgia centres on the Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway, tidal rivers, and protected barrier islands. The coast features extensive salt marshes, maritime oak forests, and historic ports like Savannah. Navigating the substantial tidal range requires attentive passage planning. The region suits charterers seeking historic coastal settlements, birdwatching, secluded barrier island anchorages, and sheltered inland waters rather than offshore ocean sailing.
Best time to charter
Spring from April to May and autumn from October to November provide mild temperatures, lower humidity, and settled breezes. Summer from June to August brings heat, humidity, frequent afternoon thunderstorms, and marsh insects. Winter is cool but generally ice-free. Peak cruising activity coincides with spring and autumn migrations along the Intracoastal Waterway.
Anchorages and harbours to know
Duplin River, Sapelo Island
A sheltered anchorage west of Sapelo Island, providing good holding in mud amidst expansive salt marshes and maritime forest.
Cumberland Island
Anchorage in Cumberland Sound off the western shore of the island, offering tender access to wilderness trails and historic ruins.
St Simons Sound
A broad, deep-water inlet between St Simons Island and Jekyll Island with sheltered holding and marina access nearby.
Wassaw Sound
A quiet coastal sound south of Savannah, offering good anchorages near the undeveloped shores of Wassaw National Wildlife Refuge.
Savannah River
Mooring and docking options along the Savannah riverfront, providing direct deep-water access to the city's historic district.
Practical tips
- Getting there: Savannah (SAV) and Brunswick Golden Isles (BQK). Savannah's marinas are about 20–30 minutes from Savannah airport.
- Fly into Savannah (SAV) or Brunswick Golden Isles (BQK); Savannah's marinas are about 20–30 minutes from Savannah airport.
- Monitor tide tables closely, as Georgia's six- to nine-foot tidal range generates swift currents and exposes extensive mudflats at low water.
- Stock all provisions and water in Savannah, Brunswick, or St Simons Island, as barrier island anchorages offer minimal shoreside facilities.
- Landing tenders on Cumberland Island National Seashore requires paying a federal park entry fee at designated dock areas.