Excursions Unlimited

Based in Savannah, Georgia, Excursions Unlimited has cultivated a strong reputation over many years, primarily as a specialist in organized bus tours. For travelers who appreciate detailed itineraries and the camaraderie of group travel, this agency has consistently delivered memorable experiences. However, prospective clients should be aware of a significant operational change: Excursions Unlimited has merged with Kelly Tours, a larger regional tour operator. This evolution brings both the legacy of a trusted name and the resources of a larger company, a crucial factor for anyone considering their services for future vacation packages.

The Enduring Legacy of Service and Quality

The historical feedback for Excursions Unlimited is overwhelmingly positive, painting a picture of a travel agency that mastered the art of the escorted tour. Customer testimonials consistently highlight the caliber of the staff as a primary reason for their satisfaction. Travelers frequently praise the company's drivers and hosts, with names like Evelyn, Aaron, and the Roddenberrys being cited for their excellent, wonderful, and amazing service. On journeys that often involve long hours on the road, the presence of a skilled, safe, and personable driver is paramount, and this is an area where Excursions Unlimited clearly excelled. The tour directors are remembered as being caring, responsive, and knowledgeable, ensuring that trips ran smoothly from start to finish.

The destinations offered were another key strength. Reviews mention enjoyable trips to diverse locations such as Harrah's in North Carolina, the Ark Encounter in Kentucky, the Hatfield & McCoy Dinner Show in Pigeon Forge, and the vibrant city of Nashville. This variety demonstrates a knack for creating appealing guided tours that cater to a range of interests, combining attractions with entertainment. Customers felt these trips offered excellent value, with one traveler noting that the rates were particularly good when factoring in the costs of driving, hotels, and food. This all-inclusive approach to travel planning is a significant draw for those who prefer a hassle-free vacation.

A Reputation Built Over Time

The loyalty of its customer base is evident in the reviews. Several clients mention having taken multiple trips with the company and express a desire to travel with them again. One poignant review recalls taking several tours with her mother years ago, fondly remembering that every single one was a great time. This long-term satisfaction speaks volumes, suggesting a consistent standard of quality that has endured for many years, cementing its status as a reliable choice for regional tourism.

Understanding the Kelly Tours Merger

Perhaps the most critical piece of information for any potential customer is the merger with Kelly Tours. As one reviewer noted, there can be confusion about the relationship between "Excursions Unlimited" and "Excursions Unlimited by Kelly Tours." The reality is that the two companies have joined forces. Jim Lanier, the founder of Excursions Unlimited, is now a senior vice president at Kelly Tours, where he continues to design itineraries. This merger effectively places the legacy and expertise of Excursions Unlimited under the operational umbrella of the much larger Kelly Tours.

What This Means for Travelers: The Pros and Cons

This transition presents a mixed bag of considerations for both new and returning customers.

• Potential Positives: Being part of Kelly Tours, a company with a modern fleet of over 60 motorcoaches and multiple locations, brings significant advantages. These include access to more resources, potentially a wider array of destinations (including international trips and cruises), and enhanced operational and administrative support. The core team, including familiar drivers, was intended to remain, blending the beloved staff of the original company with the assets of the new one.
• Potential Drawbacks: For clients who cherished the intimate, small-company feel of the original Excursions Unlimited, the transition to a larger corporation could be a concern. Larger operations can sometimes lose the personal touch that defines a smaller business. Returning travelers might find that while the name is familiar, the booking process, communication, and overall experience are now aligned with Kelly Tours' corporate structure. The unique identity of Excursions Unlimited is now part of a larger brand, which could alter the character of the tours themselves.

Who Should Consider Booking a Tour?

The services descending from the Excursions Unlimited legacy are best suited for a specific type of traveler. If you are seeking meticulously planned, pre-packaged all-inclusive trips where every detail is handled for you, this is an excellent fit. The model is ideal for seniors, social clubs, families, and solo travelers who enjoy the security and social aspect of a group setting. The focus is on comfortable, stress-free travel to popular domestic destinations without the burden of driving, booking accommodations, or planning activities.

Conversely, this is likely not the right choice for independent travelers seeking bespoke, adventurous, or highly flexible custom itineraries. The nature of organized bus tours is inherently structured, and while relaxing for many, it can feel restrictive to those who prefer spontaneity. In essence, you are booking an experience curated by the tour operator, not a blank canvas for your own travel plans.

Final Assessment

Excursions Unlimited built an admirable reputation in Savannah for its high-quality staff, enjoyable tour destinations, and reliable service. That legacy of excellence now continues under the brand "Excursions Unlimited by Kelly Tours." The merger provides customers with the stability and resources of a major travel provider, though potentially at the cost of the small-business charm the original was known for. For travelers looking for well-managed and enjoyable bus tours, the foundational quality that made Excursions Unlimited a local favorite remains a strong selling point within its new, expanded operational framework.