THE ADVENTURE COLLECTIVE® · Independent discovery and booking for outdoor travel
Immerse yourself in lively jazz and Creole flavors on a two-hour evening cruise along the Mississippi. Experience the New Orleans skyline from the authentic Riverboat CITY of NEW ORLEANS with live music by the Dukes of Dixieland.
Immerse yourself in lively jazz and Creole flavors on a two-hour evening cruise along the Mississippi. Experience the New Orleans skyline from the authentic Riverboat CITY of NEW ORLEANS with live music by the Dukes of Dixieland.
Book with New Orleans Steamboat Company
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by New Orleans Steamboat Company · New Orleans, Louisiana
Settle into the rhythms of the Mississippi River with the New Orleans Steamboat Company's Evening Jazz Cruise aboard the Riverboat CITY of NEW ORLEANS. Departing from the heart of the French Quarter, this journey unfolds as twilight descends over New Orleans, showcasing iconic cityscapes framed by the mighty river’s flow. This isn't just a cruise—it’s an invitation to experience the city's soul through live jazz, Creole cuisine, and captivating history.
The two-hour cruise (7:00pm to 9:00pm) begins after an early dinner seating at 6:00pm. Guests are treated to an authentic Creole buffet, including regional favorites like chicken and sausage gumbo, crawfish étouffée over rice, Louisiana fried chicken, and New Orleans bread pudding for dessert. Meals are prepared fresh onboard, spotlighting local flavors that complement the surroundings. Indoor and outdoor seating across four decks lets riders tailor their atmosphere—whether soaking in river views on the top deck or enjoying the lively dance floor and bars below.
Adding to the ambiance, the Dukes of Dixieland, a Grammy-nominated jazz trio, deliver smooth swing styles that echo through the vessel, embodying the city’s musical heritage. Between sets, the captain shares narrated tales of New Orleans’ vibrant past, from French colonial roots to the steamboat era, enriching the voyage with context and character.
The CITY of NEW ORLEANS, a steam-powered sternwheeler, carries on a long tradition of river cruising in this region, offering a tangible link to the city’s storied transport and commerce history. The experience marries relaxation and engagement, making it an essential outing for visitors seeking a deeper connection to New Orleans’ outdoor river scene.
Whether you're winding down after a day exploring the French Quarter or looking for an atmospheric way to celebrate, this dinner jazz cruise captures the essence of New Orleans. The seamless blend of live music, culinary delights, and scenic views on the Mississippi creates a unique adventure that leaves lasting impressions long after the last note fades.
easy.
2 hours.
No physical exertion required; suitable for all ages and fitness levels.
Yes, all meal functions including the 6pm dinner seating require advance reservations.
The vessel is wheelchair accessible; however, the top deck can only be accessed by stairs.
No, gratuities and alcoholic beverages are not included in the ticket price.
Children under six cruise free with a paid adult, but food and beverage costs still apply.
Dress is casual to dressy casual, so guests may choose how formally they wish to dress.
The New Orleans Steamboat Company reserves the right to substitute a similar vessel.
New Orleans’ riverboat culture dates back to the 19th century when steam-powered vessels were essential for commerce and travel along the Mississippi.
The New Orleans Steamboat Company practices sustainable tourism by minimizing emissions and supporting riverbank preservation to protect this iconic waterway.
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.
Book with New Orleans Steamboat Company