Segway Tour in Historic Bonaventure Cemetery in Savannah

If you’re considering a way to see the expansive and historically significant Bonaventure Cemetery without exhausting your feet, a Segway tour might just be your best bet. This particular experience, offered by Adventure Tours in Motion, promises a lively blend of stunning visuals, local lore, and a bit of adventure—all wrapped into 1.5 hours of smooth riding.

While I haven’t personally taken this tour, reviews and descriptions give us plenty to consider, and the overall impression is glowing.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the ease of covering a 100-acre site on a Segway. No trudging along in the sweltering heat, no worries about missing key sights—just gliding effortlessly from one famous grave to the next. Second, the knowledgeable guides who not only teach you how to handle your Segway in minutes but also weave stories and history that bring the place alive.

A minor caveat: the tour can start late, which might affect tight schedules, but with the promise of a fun, informative ride, most find it well worth the wait.

This experience suits first-time visitors, history buffs, and anyone who appreciates a unique, relaxed way to explore. If you’re a bit nervous about riding a Segway, don’t worry—most travelers find it surprisingly easy to learn. Those with mobility issues might be pleased to hear that the guides are accommodating and ready to offer alternatives, such as bicycles.

Key Points

• Cover more ground in less time compared to walking tours of the cemetery.
• Expert guides make the experience informative, entertaining, and safe.
• Beautiful river views and peaceful surroundings add to the overall experience.
• Small group size ensures personalized attention and plenty of opportunity for questions.
• Highly rated and recommended by 100% of reviewers.
• Pre-book well in advance—about 22 days ahead on average—due to high demand.

The Tour Experience: What to Expect

Meeting and Training at Bonaventure Cemetery

The adventure begins at the main entrance of Bonaventure Cemetery on 330 Bonaventure Road, in Thunderbolt, Georgia. Most travelers arrive about 15 minutes early to meet their guide and go through a quick safety and instructional session. You’ll learn how to operate your Segway, which most find straightforward after a few minutes of practice. As one reviewer put it, “Neil was very knowledgeable about the cemetery and had us up and running on the Segway within minutes,” making this a perfect first-time Segway experience.

Gliding Through the Historic Grounds

Once comfortable, you’ll set off on a serene 1.5-hour ride, covering key areas of the cemetery’s sprawling 100 acres. The route includes visits to famous graves of notable residents such as Johnny Mercer, Conrad Aiken, and Gracie Watson. The latter, a young girl whose sweet statue and touching story are iconic in Savannah, is a highlight for many.

The guide will share stories about the artists and symbolism behind the tombstones, adding depth to what you see. Many reviews mention the knowledgeable guides, like Neil and Carolyn, who not only share facts but also add humor and personal anecdotes, making the tour lively and memorable. One reviewer shared, “Neil knew so much about the cemetery, and it was clear he has spent a lot of time researching these things.”

Scenic River Views and Peaceful Atmosphere

The cemetery’s location on the Wilmington River means you’ll get glimpses of the water, adding a peaceful backdrop to your ride. Several travelers mention the beautiful views, the calm ambiance, and the tranquility that makes this a special place to explore.

Special Features and Group Size

Keeping the group small—limited to just 10 travelers—ensures that everyone gets personal attention and plenty of opportunity to ask questions. Several reviews highlight the friendly, personable guides who make everyone feel at ease, whether it’s their first Segway ride or their tenth.

The Value of the Tour: Price, Duration, and Experience

At $80 per person, this tour offers a considerable value when you factor in the coverage of a large cemetery in less than two hours, guided storytelling, and the fun of riding a Segway. Compared to a walking tour, you’ll cover more ground comfortably and quickly, which is crucial given the size of Bonaventure.

The duration is about 1 hour 30 minutes, but some reviews mention the ride lasting longer—up to two hours in some cases—so it’s smart to plan ahead. While the tour starts at 9:30 am and often runs on schedule, a few guests reported late starts, so arriving early or being flexible helps ensure a smooth experience.

Accessibility and Practical Considerations

The tour is designed to be accessible to most travelers, with guides offering safety instructions and even bicycles as alternatives for those with mobility challenges. The small group size and easy-to-learn Segways mean that even complete beginners can enjoy this without concern.

You’ll find the experience near public transportation, making it convenient to reach the starting point. Service animals are allowed, which is helpful for travelers with disabilities or special needs.

What We Loved and What to Consider

The Highlights

• Most reviews praise the expertise of guides, calling Neil and Carolyn especially knowledgeable and personable.
• The stunning scenery and peaceful setting of Bonaventure make for a memorable backdrop.
• The easy learning curve and small groups foster comfort and engagement.
• Covering more ground than walking allows you to see more, especially in the heat or if you’re short on time.

Potential Drawbacks

• The late start was a common complaint; although not typical, it’s worth being flexible.
• The cost might seem high to some, but when considering the time saved and the fun factor, it’s a fair deal.
• Since it’s a guided tour, spontaneous exploration isn’t possible, but the storytelling enriches the experience.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This Segway tour best suits those who want a mix of fun, education, and efficiency. It’s an excellent choice for first-time visitors to Savannah who want a gentle introduction to Bonaventure’s graves and stories. Travelers with a sense of adventure or who enjoy small group, personalized experiences will appreciate the small-group setting.

If you’re someone who prefers self-guided exploration or has mobility issues, it’s worth noting the guides are accommodating and ready to offer alternatives, making this accessible for many.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Yes. The guides provide safety instructions and rapid training, making it easy for first-timers to get comfortable on the Segway.

How long is the tour?
The official duration is about 1 hour 30 minutes, but some guests find they are on the Segway a bit longer, which adds value.

What is the starting point and how do I get there?
It starts at 330 Bonaventure Rd, Thunderbolt, GA. It’s near public transportation, making it convenient to reach.

Can I cancel if I change my mind?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Are service animals allowed?
Yes, service animals are permitted on this tour.

What if I am not comfortable riding a Segway?
Guides are ready to assist and offer bicycle alternatives if needed, ensuring everyone can participate.

Is there a maximum group size?
Yes, the tour is limited to 10 travelers, promoting a more intimate experience.

What are the reviews generally saying?
All reviews are 5-star, praising knowledgeable guides, beautiful scenery, and the fun of riding a Segway.

Will I see famous graves?
Yes, notable graves like Johnny Mercer, Conrad Aiken, and Gracie Watson are included in the route.

Is the tour appropriate for children?
Most travelers find it suitable, but check with the provider for specific age or height restrictions.

Final Thoughts

A Segway tour of Bonaventure Cemetery offers a lively, efficient way to experience one of Savannah’s most iconic sites. It balances entertainment with education and provides an unmatched perspective on the cemetery’s beauty and stories. The guided approach, combined with the novelty of riding a Segway, makes it a truly memorable part of any Savannah visit.

Ideal for those who appreciate authentic, relaxed exploration and want to avoid the fatigue of walking, this tour is especially recommended for first-timers and history lovers. The small-group setup enhances the personal touch, ensuring that your time is spent enjoying the scenery and stories rather than navigating crowds.

If you’re ready for a fun, informative ride and want to see Savannah’s famous graves without the strain, this tour is a compelling choice. Just be sure to arrive early, be flexible with timing, and prepare for a memorable adventure through history on wheels.