How long is the airboat tour?

Each airboat tour lasts approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes.

What wildlife might I see on the tour?

Expect to see alligators, migratory birds, nutrias, and sometimes raccoons or river otters.

Can the tour be customized?

Yes, the tour can be tailored to focus on wildlife viewing, photography, or sightseeing landmarks like the Lake Borgne Surge Barrier.

Is the tour suitable for children?

The tour accommodates a variety of ages, but please contact the company for specific age guidelines or concerns.

What should I bring on the tour?

Wear comfortable clothing and shoes, bring sun protection, insect repellent, and a rain jacket just in case.

What happens if weather cancels the tour?

Cancellations due to severe weather are rescheduled without penalty; for other cancellations within 24 hours, refunds are not available.

Airboat Adventures with St. Bernard Eco Tourism in Louisiana | Guided Tour | Boat Tour

Venture into the heart of Louisiana’s coastal wetlands on a Private Airboat Tour offered by St. Bernard Eco Tourism. Based in Chalmette, just outside New Orleans, this experience puts you in the driver’s seat — or comfortably alongside an expert guide — as you skim across the bayous that have shaped the region. The Louisiana wetlands here are a living, breathing ecosystem; moss-draped cypress trees, swaying grasses, and twisting waterways form a rare habitat that's home to a diverse range of wildlife.

With a maximum group size of 15, these private tours offer plenty of room to customize your ride, whether you’re focused on birdwatching, catching glimpses of alligators, or simply cruising the water toward the imposing Lake Borgne Surge Barrier — often called "The Great Wall of Louisiana." This man-made surge barrier is a stark reminder of the region’s battle against hurricanes and rising tides and adds a compelling engineering contrast to the natural surroundings.

The airboat itself is a uniquely southern mode of transportation, powered by a top-mounted fan propelling you swiftly and noisily across the shallow waters and marshes inaccessible to conventional boats. As the propeller tosses spray and the boat hums over lily pads and hidden channels, expect to encounter nutrias, herons, egrets, and sometimes the elusive raccoon or river otter.

St. Bernard Eco Tourism emphasizes education and sustainability, offering not just a ride but a window into the fragile health of Louisiana’s wetlands — one of the most ecologically significant coastal areas in the U.S. This trip provides a rare chance to understand the balance between human intervention and natural resilience. Whether you’re a local or visiting New Orleans, this airboat tour offers a refreshing, thrilling perspective of a landscape often overshadowed by the city’s vibrancy.

For outdoor enthusiasts looking to experience Louisiana beyond its famed jazz and cuisine, St. Bernard Eco Tourism delivers an authentically wild and intimate encounter with these iconic bayous.