Destrehan Plantation + Swamp Boat Tour by Louisiana Tour Co.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
6–7 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for all ages and fitness levels; expect mostly walking on flat plantation grounds and a relaxed boat ride.
Overview
Combine history and nature on a day trip from New Orleans with Louisiana Tour Company's journey to Destrehan Plantation and a covered swamp boat tour. Discover centuries-old oaks, historic plantation grounds, and Louisiana’s thriving wetlands.
Destrehan Plantation + Covered Boat Swamp Tour
We pick you up from downtown! • All Ages • 40 passenger boats • Approx. 6.5 hours w drive
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About This Adventure
Book now - we sell out!
Duration
About 6.5 hours
About
Part I: Destrehan Plantation Tour
Pick-up begins at 8:15am with a short 30 minute ride to Destrehan Plantation. Transportation is provided by our sister company “Alert Transportation.” The driver goes hotel to hotel for the pick-up service. We ask that you allow us up to 30 minutes for the pick-up which will be curbside of your hotel. While taking the Destrehan Plantation tour, you will be viewing the oldest standing Plantation in the Mississippi Valley that is surrounded by majestic, 300 year old Oak Trees. The house has been beautifully restored to its original glory. The Destrehan Plantation house tour is approximately 1 hour and is given by professional tour guides that will enlighten and entertain you on this trip through history. A Slave Quarter museum is a part of your tour of the plantation grounds. That will give you 20 minutes after the tour to walk around the grounds and take some pictures. Then its off for a Cajun Blast!!!
Part II: Swamp Boat Tour
The Swamp Tour by Tour Boat leaves the dock at about 12:10pm and returns about 1:50pm. On this tour, you will enjoy a fully narrated swamp tour by one of our local captains in the comfort of a covered swamp tour boat. Our tour boats feature a roof, cushioned seats, windows that can be raised or lowered for the weather, restroom, and plenty of standing and walking room. You will enjoy close encounters with the indigenous swamp life as you learn about what it is like to live in the Louisiana swamps. You will return to your hotel around 2:45pm depending on traffic.
What to bring
Don't forget a camera!
Adventure Tips
Bring a reliable camera
Capture the historic architecture of the plantation and the rare wildlife glimpsed in the swamp.
Wear insect repellent
Swamp areas can have mosquitoes and biting insects, especially in warmer months.
Dress in layers
The boat's covered seating helps with weather, but temperatures can shift quickly on the water.
Arrive on time for pickup
Hotel pickup may span up to 30 minutes; punctuality helps keep your day on schedule.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- American alligator
- Great blue heron
History
Destrehan Plantation dates back to 1787 and is the oldest documented plantation home in the Mississippi River Valley, reflecting early colonial and antebellum history.
Conservation
The swamp tours promote respectful wildlife viewing and raise awareness for preserving Louisiana’s wetlands amid environmental pressures.
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Adventure Hotspots in New Orleans
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Camera or smartphone with good zoom
To capture detailed images of wildlife and historic architecture.
Insect repellent
Protects against mosquitoes and other biting insects common near swamps.
spring|summer|fall specific
Lightweight rain jacket
Useful for sudden showers during warmer months.
spring|summer|fall specific
Comfortable walking shoes
Ideal for the plantation tour’s paved and dirt paths.