Registration
There is no entry fee but all vessels must be registered and have proof of insurance to participate.

Register Here

Host Hotel
Thompson Savannah is the host hotel this year. Rooms for captains and crew are available at the discounted rate of $209 plus taxes and fees through November 7. Please email julie@savannahswaterfront.com to request a room reservation.

T-Shirts
Long-sleeved 2025 T-Shirts are available this year for $35 each. Pre-order by November 13 when registering for parade day pickup. Each captain will receive one free t-shirt. Design details coming soon!

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. 

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 be checked in at the dock by 3:00pm 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.

Parade Day Details
Parade begins at 7:00pm from the Eastern Wharf docks, 101 Port Street, Savannah, GA 31401. Dock space is limited and will be assigned in the order of arrival, or per the dock captain’s orders.

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: On your starboard side at the Eastern Wharf Dock. Have lines and fenders ready. Docking assistance is available until 3:00pm on Saturday.
  • Dock Space: The dock is free for participants from Friday, November 28 at noon to Sunday, November 30 at 1:00pm.

Registration & Schedule:

  • Mandatory Check in: Saturday, November 29 from 11:00 am to 3:00 pm at the tables near the dock. You must arrive by 3:00pm.
  • 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: 4:00pm sharp on the dock walkway.
  • 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.
Register Here