About the Event
The 2026 Savannah Lighted Boat Parade will take place on Saturday, November 28 from 7:00pm – 9:00pm. The parade is organized by Savannah’s Waterfront, a 501c3 non-profit organization whose mission is to preserve the history, maintain the appearance, promote the area, and promote collaboration among businesses along Savannah’s Waterfront.

Parade Details
Dock space is available at the Eastern Wharf Docks, 101 Port Street, Savannah, GA 31401 and IGY Savannah Harbor Marina, 101 Cay Plz Suite A, Savannah, GA 31421. In 2025 we used every inch of the 1,000 ft. Eastern Wharf docks, and are excited about the new marina’s participation which will allow the parade to grow. Dock space is limited and will be assigned by the dock captain.

Parade begins at 7:00pm. Lining up behind the Georgia Queen, boats will fall in from the Eastern Wharf docks, then the IGY Savannah Harbor Marina. Towing vessels or workboats are not required to dock, and will communicate with boat captain via radio.

Registration
There is no entry fee for recreational boaters, tow vessels or workboats. Commercial vessels (with ticketed passengers) are charged a $500 fee, or have the option to become an event sponsor which includes entry fees. All vessels must be registered and have proof of insurance to participate.

Lodging
Thompson Savannah is the host hotel this year on the south side of the Savannah River. More info soon on hotel rooms on the north side of the river for those docking at IGY Savannah Harbor Marina. At the Thompson Savannah, complimentary King rooms are available for captains on a space available basis. Once those rooms are filled, additional rooms are available at the discounted rate of $209 plus taxes and fees. Captains assigned complimentary rooms will submit their credit card information to the hotel and a $150 deposit will be collected to hold the room. The deposit will be refunded upon check-in. The deposit will not be refunded if the captain no shows for their reservation. Room block deadline is October 28th and please note Thompson Savannah has a 72-hour cancellation policy.

Please email Julie@savannahswaterfront.com if you have questions regarding hotel reservations.

T-Shirts
2026 Christmas on the River T-Shirts will be available for $35 each. Made with 100% U.S. cotton and the latest breakthrough in soft cotton technology, in a bright Christmas green color. Each captain will receive one free t-shirt with their registration. To ensure correct sizes for your crew, pre-order by November 5 when registering and pickup on parade day.

Awards
A panel of judges located at Eastern Wharf will rank all entries and select winners in the following categories:
Best Overall Boat
Best Power Boat
Best Sail Boat
Best Small Boat – under 28′

Judges determine the winner of each award. Ruling of judges is final.

In addition to the Judges Awards, a Spectator’s Choice Award will be presented to the vessel that receives the highest number of popular votes during the event.

Captain’s Party
Working on a post-parade gathering. Plans coming soon!

Participation Rules

• All vessels must be fully decorated in Christmas lights in a holiday-related theme. Non-holiday decor is not allowed.
• The participants shall be fully responsible for his/her vessel and guests at all times.
• All participating vessels must check in at their assigned dock between 11:00am and 2:00pm on parade day. 
• Boat toilets shall not be used while the boat is docked, unless the boat is equipped with an operating holding tank, so that no effluent is discharged into the Savannah River.

The Captain’s Pledge

Declaration of Safety and Preparedness
• Seaworthiness: The captain certifies that their vessel is in good working order and seaworthy for the conditions.
• Safety equipment: The captain confirms that all required U.S. Coast Guard safety equipment, including life jackets for all on board, is present and in proper working order.
• Sober captain: The captain pledges to remain sober while operating the vessel.

Adherence to Regulations and Authority
• Parade rules: The captain agrees to follow all rules and instructions set by the parade organizers.
• Official directions: The captain agrees to obey all directions from official authorities, such as the U.S. Coast Guard, harbor patrol, and event officials.
• Navigation: The captain promises to follow the designated parade route and maintain a safe speed and distance from other boats.

Liability and Conduct
• Acceptance of responsibility: The captain accepts full responsibility for their vessel, crew, passengers, and actions before, during, and after the event.
• Hold harmless: The captain and boat owner agree to indemnify and hold harmless the event organizers and sponsors against any liability for injuries or damages.
• Good sportsmanship: The captain agrees to exhibit good seamanship and conduct, and acknowledges that poor behavior could result in disqualification from current and future parades.

Use of Likeness
I understand that before, during, and following the parade my crew and I may be photographed or videotaped. To the fullest extent allowed by law, I waive all rights of publicity, privacy or pre-approval for any such likeness of me or use of my name in connection with such likeness, and I grant  Savannah’s Waterfront and its assigns (including by electronic means) use of such likeness of me, whether in whole or in part, in any form, without restrictions, and for any purpose.

All Captains must adhere the Participation Rules, Captains Pledge, and Use of Likeness.

Contact Information:

• General Questions: Email Robert Hale satdesk@yahoo.com  text or call 912-224-8313.
• Arrival/Docking: Call or use marine radio Channel 68.

Arrival & Docking:

• Docking: Have lines and fenders ready. Docking assistance is available until 2:00pm on Saturday.
• Dock Space: The dock is free for participants from Friday, November 27 at noon to Sunday, November 29 at 1:00pm.

Registration & Schedule:

• Mandatory Check in: Saturday, November 28 from 11:00am to 2:00pm at the tables near the dock. You must arrive by 2:00pm.
• At Check in: You will receive your boat number (place on starboard side), t-shirts, crew wristbands, and float plan.
• Boat Numbers: Must be returned to a volunteer after the parade.
• Mandatory Captain’s Meeting: 3:00pm sharp at Eastern Wharf; 4:00pm sharp at IGY Savannah Harbor Marina.
• Parade Departure: All crew must be on board by 6:30pm for a strict 7:00pm parade start. The parade is from 7:00pm to 9:00pm.

Requirements & Safety:

• VHF Marine Radio: Mandatory for all participants, monitoring Channel 68.
• Safety Gear: Captains are responsible for having all Coast Guard safety equipment in working order.
• Life Jackets: Required to be worn by children 13 and under at all times. Ensure enough life jackets are on board for all crew. Life jackets must be in good condition and readily accessible. Boats over 16 feet also require a throwable flotation device.