Jazz-Fueled River Cruise with New Orleans Steamboat Company
Difficulty
easy
Duration
2–2.5 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels; minimal physical exertion required beyond boarding and some walking around decks.
Overview
Set sail on the Mississippi with live jazz and a Creole lunch aboard New Orleans Steamboat Company’s CITY of NEW ORLEANS. Enjoy two hours of rich history, stunning river views, and soulful music in the heart of NOLA.
Daytime Jazz Cruise w/ 12:15pm - 1:15pm Lunch Seating
All Ages • 2.5 Hour Cruise • 2nd Lunch Seating
Select participants and date
About This Adventure
Experience the charm of New Orleans on a two-hour cruise aboard the Riverboat CITY of NEW ORLEANS. Enjoy live jazz, a delicious Creole lunch, and captivating stories of the city’s history while taking in stunning views from all four decks. This unique riverboat adventure promises unforgettable memories on the mighty Mississippi.
Overview
Your two-hour cruise from the heart of the French Quarter shows you why the city was founded on the beautiful crescent of the lower Mississippi River. Let us show you New Orleans, one of the world's most active ports, as it can best be seen from the river - aboard Steamboat Natchez!
Duration
MORNING CRUISE
Boarding Times: 11:00am Dockside: 11:00am - 11:30am Cruising: 11:30am - 1:30pm
Please note, we have two lunch seatings - First Lunch Seating: 11:00am - 12:00pm Second Lunch Seating: 12:15pm - 1:15pm - YOU ARE BOOKING THIS!
Includes
- Optional Casual Lunch (Menu) prepared fresh on board, served buffet style.
- Live narration of historical facts and highlights of the port.
- Calliope concert at 10:45 am and 1:45 pm
- Riverboat Gift Shop for souvenirs
- Cocktail, beer and wine options are available for purchase onboard.
- Duke Heitger's Steamboat Stompers Jazz Trio plays each Harbor Cruise.
More info
Upgrade your cruise experience with our ""Party Package"" which includes a two-hour cruise, Buffet (1st seating option), three alcoholic beverages from our special drink menu (unlimited soft drinks and juice for children), a decorated reserved table in an air-conditioned dining room, and a sweet treat.
Essential Info/ Dress Code
- Reservations required for all meal functions.
- Dress code is casual, but feel free to dress up as much as you'd like!
- Group Rates available for 10 or more adults - call 504-569-1480.
- Children under 6 cruise free with paid adult. Food & Beverage costs apply.
- Non-smoking vessel-both indoors and on the outside decks.
- All menu items are prepared in a common kitchen. Steps are taken to minimize the likelihood of exposure to airborne gluten elements, but our menu is not recommended for those with gluten-sensitive disorders. We can recommend items on our menu that are not prepared as gluten inclusive.
- For vegan or vegetarian guests, we can recommend those items not inclusive of meat ingredients or animal products.
- We are unable to prepare separate individual meals for these preferences/needs.
- The riverboat is handicap accessible. However, access to the top deck is by stairs only. Please call us with any questions before finalizing your plans if you have questions on access or personal equipment.
- Decks may be closed to the public due to private event functions on any given night.
- Cocktail, beer, and wine options are available for purchase onboard.
- The New Orleans Steamboat Co. reserves the right to substitute a similar vessel should the Riverboat CITY of NEW ORLEANS become unavailable.
Adventure Tips
Arrive Early for Best Seating
Boarding starts at 11:00am—arriving early helps secure a prime spot on the top deck for unobstructed river views and photo ops.
Dress Code Is Casual with Options to Dress Up
Casual attire is perfectly fine, but you’re welcome to embrace the city’s vibrant style with dressy casual for a more festive feel.
Accessibility Considerations
The boat is wheelchair accessible, but note that access to the top deck requires using stairs only. Contact the company ahead with questions.
Purchase Beverages Onboard
Cocktails, beer, and wine aren’t included in the ticket price but available for purchase. Non-alcoholic drinks are included with lunch.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Great blue herons are often spotted fishing along the river’s edge.
- Ospreys and other raptors sometimes soar overhead during warmer months.
History
New Orleans rose as a critical port city at the Mississippi River’s crescent, deeply influencing American trade, culture, and music history.
Conservation
Efforts by local steamboat companies support river cleanliness and sustainable tourism to preserve this iconic waterway for future generations.
Select participants and date
Adventure Hotspots in New Orleans
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Light Jacket or Layer
A warm layer helps against river breezes, especially on the top deck.
fall specific
Sun Protection
Hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen shield you from southern sun exposure while cruising.
summer|null specific
Camera or Smartphone
Capture stunning views of New Orleans skyline and river life during the cruise.
Comfortable Footwear
Non-slip shoes are recommended to safely navigate decks and stairways.