Is dining included in the cruise?

Yes, a Creole lunch is served aboard the steamboat as part of the experience.

Can I bring drinks onboard?

The cruise provides food and beverages; outside alcohol is not permitted on the vessel.

Is this activity suitable for children?

Absolutely—families are welcome, and children often love the lively music and scenic views.

Do I need to make a reservation?

Reservations are recommended as this popular cruise can fill quickly, especially during peak seasons.

Is there wheelchair access?

The vessel accommodates guests with limited mobility; contact ahead to ensure specific needs are met.

What should I bring with me?

Bring sun protection, water, and an appetite for a memorable Southern dining experience.

Jazz & Bites: Daytime Steamboat Cruise with Lunch in Lafitte

Set against the backdrop of Lafitte’s bustling Mississippi River, the New Orleans Steamboat Company offers a slice of authentic Southern charm with their daytime jazz cruise. As the Steamboat Natchez gently drifts along the water, guests are treated to a lively soundtrack of live jazz— the soulful melodies weaving through the air as the river’s past and present collide. This two-hour voyage isn’t just about the scenery; it’s a full sensory experience. Aboard the historic Riverboat CITY of NEW ORLEANS, diners savor a Creole lunch that features classic flavors—spicy gumbo, jambalaya, and sweet beignets—served amidst panoramic river views.

The Mississippi’s expansive waters stretch out, revealing glimpses of old steamboat machinery, towering cypress trees, and distant barges that remind visitors of its vital role in the city’s history. The boat’s period-perfect design transports passengers to a time when river travel was the heartbeat of commerce and community in New Orleans. The lively jazz bands, often featuring local musicians, bring an authentic slice of the city’s musical heritage to life, creating an atmosphere that’s both immersive and festive.

This experience stands out for its seamless blend of culture, history, and cuisine—offering a unique way to see and taste New Orleans from the water. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned visitor, the cruise provides intimate insights into the city’s riverine past, all while enjoying top-notch music and food. It’s a quintessential Southern outing that appeals to anyone looking to connect more deeply with the soul of Louisiana and the Mississippi River’s enduring allure.

About New Orleans Steamboat Company

New Orleans Steamboat Company operates historic riverboat cruises and guided excursions based in New Orleans, Louisiana. The company offers a range of Mississippi River sightseeing and jazz cruises aboard the Riverboat CITY of NEW ORLEANS and seasonal sailings on the Steamboat NATCHEZ, plus swamp, plantation, walking, and specialty small-group tours.

Cruise experiences include daytime and evening sightseeing jazz cruises with live music performed by the Dukes of Dixieland, multiple dinner seating options with Creole buffets or plated lunches, brunch sailings, seasonal party packages, and holiday-themed departures such as Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve events. Land-based offerings include swamp and airboat adventures, guided tours to Oak Alley and Whitney plantations, craft cocktail and cooking walking tours, cemetery and Garden District strolls, and interactive ghost and spirits walks in the French Quarter.

Each trip description lists duration, meal options when applicable, live music or narration, and onboard amenities such as full-service bars and multiple observation decks. Local guides provide historical context about New Orleans, the Mississippi River, Jean Lafitte, and regional wetlands and wildlife on swamp and plantation tours. Many cruises feature live jazz and family-friendly programming; several airboat and swamp tours emphasize wildlife viewing opportunities.

Bookings are arranged per listed trip schedules and seating times. As a long-established New Orleans operator featured by tour aggregators and known for narrated riverboat cruises, the company combines maritime tradition with local culture to deliver interpretive sightseeing and entertainment on and off the water. Public and private group bookings are available for many departures.