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Steamboat Natchez

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New Orleans Steamboat Natchez Jazz Cruise

Steamboat Natchez Evening Jazz Cruise with Dinner Option

Steamboat Natchez VIP Jazz Dinner Cruise with Private Tour and Open Bar Option

Steamboat Natchez Sunday Jazz Brunch Cruise in New Orleans

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

Steamboat Natchez - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

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The Best Riverboat Tours To Take On Your Next Visit To New Orleans

Despite New Orleans (NOLA) being largely known for its Mardi Gras parties, Bourbon Street beverages, beignets, and po'boys, there's so much more to this dynamic city. That's especially true if you see it from the perspective of its neighbor, the mighty Mississippi River. The city's proximity to water is part of how it became such a storied metropolis, so visitors should know how vital these waterways are. What better way to experience that history than by traveling on the river itself?

For the most part, the riverboat tours you take in New Orleans will either be on the Steamboat Natchez or the Creole Queen Paddlewheeler. Both of these paddleboat riverboats are esteemed parts of NOLA's tourist culture and provide a wide range of tour options. There are numerous ways to take on and experience the grand, muddy Mississippi, so let's dive in to our list of your best options.

Creole Queen Historic Cruise

Hop on board the Creole Queen Paddlewheeler, and you can learn all about three centuries of history found in New Orleans. Enjoy the sights along the river as a local historian revels in the city's storied past. You'll hear about how NOLA was founded by the LeMoyne brothers, how the French Quarter area came to be and you'll be reminded of all those details you forgot in school about the Louisiana Purchase.

You'll feel like royalty during a ride on the Creole Queen with its bright red paddlewheel and ivory paint. From the deck, you'll get views of the city and the surrounding areas that you'll never forget. You can even get bottomless mimosas for an additional fee for a slightly more upgraded experience.

This tour option also includes a one-hour excursion and tour of Chalmette Battlefield. There, you will hear from a designated park ranger about exactly what happened on that field. You can bring your lunch on the boat or you can choose to include lunch with your ticket, which would feature options like New Orleans-style shrimp pasta, Creole jambalaya and authentic red beans and rice.

Creole Queen Jazz Brunch

There's nothing like brunch with a view, which is exactly what you'll get if you brunch with the Creole Queen. During this jazz brunch experience (brunch is optional), you can greet the midday in style, including with bottomless mimosas or Bloody Marys in hand, if you wish. For NOLA party-goers, the brunch timing is perfect for a late morning after a long night. The boat doesn't board until 10-11 a.m. on Saturday and Sunday mornings with sailing from 11 a.m. to 12:30 pm.

Here, the jazz band is the star of the show. The sounds of trumpets and horns and unsuspecting melodies pair perfectly with the consistent views from the Mississippi River. You can still learn about the history of the town from this tour, too. A historian will be on board to offer stories and answer questions, helping create this picturesque memory of a fun morning in a history-filled part of America.

Creole Queen Jazz Cruise

You couldn't possibly visit New Orleans without enjoying the sounds of the city's jazz culture at night. The Creole Queen has a nighttime jazz option that can come with dinner or not. From on board this riverboat, you can watch the city light up as the sun sets, followed by views of the city lights and the twinkling sky. 

A longer tour than the brunch version, also with a slightly more elevated price point, the nighttime jazz cruise is a romantic exploration of the river. Accompanied by the allure of a jazz band, the cajun seafood pasta will taste like home to even first-time visitors. Like the brunch tour, you do also get some historical narration even with the jazz focus.

This is the tour for the NOLA night owls. Sailing ends at 9 p.m., which means the night is still young enough to explore the city, especially if you plan to bar hop over on Bourbon Street or find some live music to dance the night away.

Steamboat Natchez Spring Fling Option

Technically an add-on to their dinner and lunch cruises, the Spring Fling add-on can elevate a Steamboat Natchez river cruise experience. This package includes the river tour, the lunch or dinner option, a sweet snack, a decorated reserved table, as well as three alcoholic beverages from their special menu. Not to worry, kiddos aren't left out of the fun here — they get unlimited soft drinks or juice.

This deal is only offered, rightly, during the spring to help make spring breaks even more special. Usually, the package is offered by Steamboat Natchez from mid-March through most of May. If you plan on utilizing the cash bar, the package is well worth the price. You can get the Spring Fling option for lunch or dinner cruises as well as the Sunday brunch cruise. Obviously, between the three options the lunch ticket will be the most reasonable price for budget spring breakers while the dinner ticket will be more of a splurge at almost double the cost of lunch.

Steamboat Natchez Dinner Jazz Cruise

Available with or without dinner, this cruise showcases the Mississippi River from dusk until the stars come out to shine. Accompanied by Grammy-nominated Dukes of Dixieland Jazz, guests will also hear the history of NOLA. Like the Creole Queen, the Steamboat Natchez cruises down the river with its vibrant red wheel and charming white paint job. A bright Steamboat Natchez sign is splashed along the side of the boat to ensure you don't accidentally board the wrong paddlewheel boat.

For those who opt for dinner, there are two dinner seatings: the first from 6 p.m. to 7:15 p.m. and the second from 7:45 p.m. to 9 p.m. If you want to watch the sunset glow from the boat's deck, consider doing the second dinner seating. You are welcome to leave your table before the seating time is over. Likewise, if you'd rather see the city shimmering under the stars, you'll want to eat dinner sooner to get back to the deck after sunset.

Steamboat Natchez Sunday Jazz Cruise

For the brunch crowd, the Steamboat Natchez also offers a brunch jazz cruise along the river. Whether or not you indulge in some tasty brunch offerings, you can enjoy the historical narration, a calliope concert, and Duke Heitger's Steamboat Stompers Jazz Trio. A Sunday cruise is a great way to finish a trip to NOLA or start one, especially if you've never been to this fascinating city before.

Some of the tasty brunch foods you can indulge in on this cruise include chicken and sausage gumbo, grits, and pain perdu, which is a sweet treat similar to French toast. There are a wide variety of foods available during brunch to accommodate a range of dietary needs or the pickiest of kiddos.

If you somehow miss live music during a trip to New Orleans, a jazz cruise is an excellent way to fit in some jazz tunes you won't hear in the same way anywhere else. Steamboat Natchez is a great option for music-lovers and first-timers alike. 

Steamboat Natchez Daytime Jazz Cruise

Like the Sunday Jazz Cruise, the Steamboat Natchez brings back its calliope concert as well as Duke Heitger's Steamboat Stompers Jazz Trio for daytime adventurers. The difference is that the lunch cruise is only available from Monday-Saturday each week.

An optional lunch is offered on this sightseeing cruise that also includes a narrated history of the city. Like the dinner cruise, there are two seatings during lunch: the first from 11 a.m. to 12 p.m. and the second from 12:15 p.m. to 1:15 p.m. Either way, do not miss the red beans and rice! It's simple but so very tasty. The menu is referred to as "casual," denoting that there are not a lot of foods on offer during the buffet. Even so, there is plenty to make a meal.

Since these cruises take place during the parts of the day when the sun is highest, be careful of the heat. This is particularly important if you're visiting in the summer months because the sun can be brutal on the decks of the boat. Be sure to pack a hat, wear your sunscreen and stay hydrated!

Hop aboard the Canal Street Ferry

New Orleanians know that the best way to see the Mississippi River is aboard the $2 Canal Street to Algiers Ferry. These rides might not be luxe, though you get to enjoy the same sights as the other river boats at a much cheaper cost. For roughly thirty minutes, ferry riders can enjoy the riverfront and make their way to the other side of NOLA.

The ferry has been part of life in NOLA since 1827, so not only would you be saving a lot of money by taking it instead of a cruise, but you'd be experiencing the views as New Orleanians have for almost two centuries! Find the ferry right off Canal Street next to the Aquarium of the Americas.

The Canal Street Ferry runs every day of the week with varying hours. You could take it to Algiers Point and explore the historic neighborhood, visit the Jazz Walk of Fame, or use it as an excuse to find a new lunch spot. Since the ride is only 30 minutes each way you can easily fit it into the busiest NOLA vacation with ease. It's also a great way to still get that river experience without the cruise price tag.

Booze Cruise on The Cajun Queen

This mega-peddle boat can host up to 22 guests. Think of it like a river cruise meets street peddle-bar, the Booze Cruise is an excellent smaller option for folks looking for a good time on the river. Cruising on the Cajun Queen can either be a public or private experience, depending on what you're looking for. Guests also don't have to be 21 to enjoy the ride either, the boat can accommodate riders aged eight and up.

In addition to the peddle boat, you can also rent a pontoon boat for up to a dozen people for a different kind of cruise experience. The pontoon allows guests to bring their drinks as well as snacks and comes with a sound system and coolers with ice for all your BYOB needs. You may not get a full-on narrated history experience, though you could always hire a captain that offers narration. Or maybe you could invite a longtime New Orleanian who likes to spin a good yarn. Either way, you get some much-needed river time and get to experience NOLA from the Mississippi.

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New Orleans Steamboat Cruises

This post compares the various different riverboat tours, paddleboat tours, and cruises available to you in New Orleans to help you choose the right one from you. 

• Meet the Boats
• Daytime/Lunch Cruises
• Evening/Dinner Cruises
• Public $2 Ferries

Combination Packages

• Swamp + Airboat Tours
• Things to Do in New Orleans

Disclosure:  While our recommendations are always unbiased, we may receive a small share of sales through some of the links below at no cost to you. See the  full text .

If you are considering purchasing tourist discount packages, keep in mind that some of these cruises are included at no additional cost in several New Orleans tourist attraction discount passes . 

The two most popular cruises are aboard the Creole Queen Paddlewheeler and Steamboat Natchez (details below), but you can hop on a ferry for just a few dollars.

Each offers a variety of cruises to choose from.

We narrowed down our favorites and compiled a list that describes each trip based on experience type, ticket price, and duration.

NATCHEZ STEAMBOAT

The Natchez Steamboat is the ninth boat with the name.

The current boat boasts modern safety mechanisms within a classic, exquisite oak exterior.

It was recently rennovated and is back to cruising down the Mississippi River on a daily basis!

Take part in her adventure with daily two-hour jazz cruises, including a daytime cruise or an evening cruise . You can cruise with or without lunch or dinner.

Listen to the Captain and crew, some of whom have been with the ship since the 1975 maiden voyage, operate like the seamen of a time gone by. 

This company has received a  4 out of 5 stars  average rating on TripAdvisor and Get Your Guide ( read the reviews ). 

RIVERBOAT CITY OF NEW ORLEANS

This is the newest addition to the New Orleans Steamboat Company, and it took over for the Steamboat Natchez while that vessel was under repair.

Just like the Steamboat Natchez, this boat is also a paddlewheeler, so functionally, very little will change.

The Riverboat City of New Orleans operated all the sightseeing, lunch, brunch, and dinner Jazz cruises for the New Orleans Steamboat Company during the last few years while the Steamboat Natches was undergoing repairs.

Rest assured that even aboard this new vessel there is plenty of room across its multiple decks to accommodate plenty of guests and fill in for its sister boat.

CREOLE QUEEN PADDLEWHEELER

Built in 1983 with the esteem and allure of the late 1850s paddlewheelers, the Creole Queen features an enormous 24-foot paddlewheel and modern amenities for elegance and safety.

Browse the list of tours below to pick which experience is best for you; gather on the 1,000-passenger deck for live music, dancing, a history lesson, or maybe enjoy lunch or dinner.

This vessel's review profile is a tad lower than its competitor's but still good with an overall average rating of 4 out of 5 stars on TripAdvisor and Get Your Guide ( read the reviews ).

DAYTIME CRUISES WITH OPTIONAL LUNCH

There are basically two different cruises to choose from, one from each company.  

The main differences seem to be that the Creole Queen includes a stop at Chalmette Battlefield at the Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve.

It is also included at no extra charge with the purchase of either the New Orleans Sightseeing Pass or the Go City New Orleans Pass .

The Steamboat Natchez offers jazz music on the lunch cruise during the high season. 

Steamboat Natchez Harbor Jazz Cruise

An overwhelming majority of reviews for this jazz cruise are very positive ( read the reviews ).

Some reviewers have even described their band as “magnificent,” suggesting that the music played onboard was absolutely wonderful.

Some customers feel that the experience is a bit too touristy, but they are definitely in the minority.

Most guests leave excellent feedback stating that they loved this musical trip on the Natchez. This activity is particularly popular among couples.

NOTE: After a year or two in repairs, the newly rennovated Steamboat Natchez is finally offering cruises in New Orleans as of November 2023.

What You’ll Experience:

• Live narration of the history of the area
• Live jazz concert
• Steam Engine room open to visitors
• Lunch (optional) in the dining area onboard

Duration: 3 hours total, 2-hour cruise

• Departs at 11:30 am and 2:30 am
• Adult - $39    $55 with lunch
• Child - $16     $25 with lunch
• Child (2-5) Free    $11 with lunch
• More information or to book .

Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Creole Queen -  Historical River Cruise

This vessel has a daytime destination, Chalmette Battlefield at the Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve.

• Highly Recommended for history buffs!
• Battle of New Orleans
• 1,000-passenger paddlewheeler on the Mississippi River, with a 24-foot paddlewheel
• Costumed re-enactor recounting history/stories of Louisiana's most historical places and events
• Disembark for a guided tour of Chalmette Battlefield by National Park Rangers from the Battle of New Orleans

Duration: 3 hours

• Departs at 10 am and 2 pm daily.

Lunch is only purchasable onboard.

• Adult $39   $59 with lunch 
• Child (6-12) $15   $24 with lunch
• Child (3-5) Free   $5 with lunch
• Infant (2 and under) Free   $10 with lunch
• Get more information or purchase tickets .

TIP: It is also included at no extra charge with the purchase of either the New Orleans Sightseeing Pass or the Go City New Orleans Pass .

Evening Jazz Cruises with Optional Dinner

Below is a brief comparison of the two paddlewheel boats that cruise the Mississippi River every evening. 

For a more in-depth look, including what's on the menu, read our post on NOLA dinner cruises . 

Steamboat Natchez - Mississippi River Jazz Cruise (optional Dinner)

Unlike their harbor cruise, this boat trip will take you down the Mississippi River.

Ratings for this excursion are similarly excellent, but it’s worth noting that not everyone was thrilled with the food selection ( read the reviews ). 

NOTE: Although this cruise was being offered on the Riverboat City of New Orleans for the last year or two, the newly rennovated Steamboat Natchez is once again the vessel you'll be riding during this outing!

What You’ll Experience

• Ride on the Creole Queen paddle wheeler
• Live jazz music
• Lavish buffet-style dinner | cash bar cocktails
• New Orleans skyline along the French Quarter
• Boards nightly at 6 pm and sails from 7-9 pm.
• $95 with dinner
• $41 with dinner
• $20.25 with dinner

Included free with the New Orleans Sightseeing Pass  (dinner is extra).

Creole Queen Evening Cruise (optional Dinner)

Just like their other services, the evening cruise offered by this company is also highly rated.

There are a few negative reviews, but they are overshadowed by positive comments (read the reviews).

• Ride on the Creole Queen paddlewheeler.

Cost (does not include dinner):

• $52 - Adult
• $26 - Child (6-12)
• Kids under 6 are FREE

Cost (includes dinner):

• $95 - Adult 
• $40 - Child (6-12) 
• $15 - Child under 5
• Kids 2 and under are FREE

Get more information or to book . 

CANAL STREET/ALGIERS POINT FERRY

In operation since 1827, this ferry travels across the Mississippi River along Canal Street and ends at the second oldest neighborhood of New Orleans; Algiers Point. 

Unlike the paddlewheeler or steamboat, the ferry offers a cheap trip across the river from Canal Street. Just ask the locals who use this as their commute!

Once you arrive, consider taking our self-guided walking tour of Algiers Point .

This company has received a 4 out of 5 stars  rating on TripAdvisor. 

There are a few negative reviews, but most of them seem to come from customers who were expecting the typical tourist experience.

Although they don’t offer the same range of services as a boat tour or cruise, it’s clear that a lot of their customers are more than pleased with the transportation they provide.

Cost (cash only):

• Pedestrian $2 each way
• Senior (65+) $1
• Children (2 & under) Free
• Sunday - Thursday | 6:15 am - 8:45 pm
• Friday - Saturday | 6:15 am - 10:45 pm

Get more details on their website .

As we have stated above, the Go City New Orleans Pass  and the Sightseeing Pass, are all-inclusive tourist attraction passes, including one free daytime ride on the Creole Queen.  

Included in the cost of the pass is free entry into 25 other popular New Orleans attractions including:

• National World War 2 Museum
• City Bus Tour
• Swamp Tour Plantation House Tour
• New Orleans School of Cooking
• Audubon Zoo
• Audubon Aquarium
• Mardi Gras World Museum
• New Orleans Museum of Art
• + 18 other attractions and tours

Paddle and Wheel Combo by Gray Line

This combo package is a great buy, and with a total of about 4 hours, you can see the city and take a cruise full of historical information.

You save $7/adult with the combo ticket.  

This combination pairs the daytime historical cruise aboard the Steamboat Natchez and the  Super City Bus Tour  (video below).

With an overall rating of 4 ½ stars on TripAdvisor, Gray Line New Orleans is very well received.

In particular, both of the services offered through this combo ticket are positively reviewed by their customers.

Much like the Steamboat Natchez, the Super City Bus Tour also enjoys mostly positive ratings.

Although there are a few negative reviews for both tours, they aren’t indicative of any significant problems. This combo deal is most popular among couples.

You’ll Experience…

• French Quarter
• Jackson Square
• Cabildo and Presbytere Museum
• Historic Cemeteries
• Bayou St. John
• Besthoff Sculpture Garden
• Tulane and Loyola University
• 2-hour cruise with a guided history of the region
• Adult $78 
• Child (6-12) $35.50
• Child (5 and under) Free 
• You save $7-$11/adult by purchasing together.  You don't appear to save anything for a child ages 6-12.

Get more information and purchase tickets .

NEW ORLEANS KAYAK TOURS

Want a more intimate excursion on the water? Try kayaking!

Explore the swamps of New Orleans, or paddle down the Bayou St. John neighborhood inside the city with the safety of a guide at a beginner-level pace.

Ratings for this kayak tour company are very impressive. New Orleans Kayak Swamp Tours has received an overall score of 5 out of 5 stars on TripAdvisor.

Only a half dozen customers have seen fit to give them a negative review, and their comments don’t represent the typical experience with this service.

An overwhelming majority of reviews for this service are incredibly positive, recommending this trip to anyone who wants to stay active while discovering the swamps of Louisiana.

Although couples are the most likely audience to leave great reviews, guests who bring their friends along for the journey also enjoy these tours.

Tours Offered

• Bayou St. John Tour (Beginner)

Located inside the city, Bayou St. John is one of the oldest neighborhoods in New Orleans.

Learn the history of the homes and landmarks, originally settled by Native Americans, and later used for French trading routes.

• Honey Island Swamp Tour (Beginner)

This is the crowd favorite!

Located 40 minutes outside the city, this tour takes you deep into the swamp bayous to see an abundance of wildlife amongst abandoned boat homes.

• Manchac Mystic Kayak Tour (Beginner)

This tour is popular for its serene setting and Instagram-worthy photo opportunities.

You’ll weave through cypress trees and experience wildlife on this wetlands kayaking trip.

Never Kayaked?

No problem! The extent of physical skill needed is the ability to paddle, and a lesson is provided at the beginning of the tour.

The company provides all of the necessary equipment for your trip, but since you will be on the water for 2 to 2 ½ hours, you will want to be sure to bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and maybe even a hat for shade on the water.

• Bayou St. John Tour  $49 per person
• Honey Island Tour  $59 per person without transportation
• Manchac Mystic Tour - $59 per person without transportation
• Extra $20 for transportation from French Quarter only for Honey Island and Manchac Mystic Tours

Tours last 2 to 2 ½ hours

Transportation adds 40 minutes each way outside New Orleans via car/shuttle for Honey Island Swamp and Manchac Mystic tours.

KAYAK-ITI-YAT TOURS

The categories (beginner, intermediate & intermediate to advanced) are based on distance, the necessary level of athleticism and exposure to variables/natural elements.

None of the tours require previous kayaking experience.

There are no shuttle transportation costs as all of their tours launch from the city and are reachable by public transportation, bike or a cheap cab ride.

• Big Easy Bayou (Beginner, 2 hours) $49 per person

Best for first-timers and non-athletic travelers.

This two-hour tour of Bayou St. John is a great way to see the neighborhood and see some wildlife in a relaxed atmosphere.

This is a history-based tour with culture, current events, ecology, and all things relevant to Bayou St. John, its surrounding neighborhoods, and New Orleans.

• Pontchartrain (Intermediate, 4 hours) $84

Looking for something more active? Check out this four-hour lake tour that runs the length of Bayou St. John and back!

Bonus, you’ll exit the kayak to stretch and walk over to Pontchartrain Lake, and maybe even take a quick swim!

Like the Big Easy Bayou above, expect to learn about the history and culture of the area.

The Big Easy Bayou is your best option for this company, and the only one recommended for beginners.

Looking for more options? Consider looking at New Orleans Kayak Tours (above) for more newcomer-friendly trips.

Before you book...

WARNING: There is NO exiting these tours halfway through and the Bayou Bienvenue 3 hour tour has no bathroom breaks. Be sure you are committed before you buy your tickets.

This tour company is featured in several top travel recommendations for New Orleans, and explorers wishing to see more than Bourbon Street have given it rave reviews!

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Mississippi River Dinner Jazz Cruise

Step on board and cruise with us into the night where the sleepless activity of America's busiest port buzzes. The sounds of a lively jazz band fill the air as you enjoy a lavish Creole buffet in elegantly appointed dining rooms. See details

Historical River Cruise

View the French Quarter, the Port of New Orleans, and Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve and be entertained by a historian narrator with a detailed description of New Orleans landmarks, history, vessel information, and river lore. See details

Weekend Jazz Brunch

Enjoy delicious brunch delicacies as you cruise down the Mighty Mississippi River while listening to the lively sounds of a traditional New Orleans Jazz band See details

Valentine's Day River Cruise

Mother's Day Bubbly Brunch

Fourth of July Celebration Cruise

SEE DETAILS

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New Orleans Steamboat Company

Steamboat NATCHEZ - Evening Jazz Cruise with Dinner Option

Savor the beauty and romance of the New Orleans skyline aboard the Dinner Jazz Cruise. The Steamboat NATCHEZ decks, engine room, and bars will be open for your enjoyment either before or after dinner depending upon your seating time. Included in the Dinner Jazz ticket price is the cruise, buffet dinner, and entertainment by the Dukes of Dixieland Jazz trio.  Gratuities and alcoholic beverages are not included in the ticket price.

Upgrade your cruise experience with our "Party Package" which includes a two-hour cruise, Dinner 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.

Nightly Departures

Boarding Time:  6:00pm Dockside:  6:00pm - 7:00pm Cruising:  7:00pm - 9:00pm

Please note, we have two dinner seatings - First Dinner Seating: 6:00pm - 7:15pm Second Dinner Seating: 7:45pm - 9:00pm

Cruise Features:

• Group Rates  available for 10 or more adults
• Detailed narration of the rich history of New Orleans
• Optional Dinner buffet, meals prepared fresh onboard ( menu subject to change due to availability )
• Optional upgrade to a "party package experience" - includes a meal, a reserved and decorated dining table, three alcoholic beverages for adults (unlimited soda & juice for anyone under 21), lanigappe items, and a special sweet treat!
• Captivating views of the city and the Mighty Mississippi River
• Indoor and outdoor seating
• Featuring live New Orleans swing style music by the Grammy-nominated Dukes of Dixieland Jazz band
• Children under 6 cruise free with paid adult. Food & Beverage costs apply
• Departs daily from the Toulouse Street Wharf behind Jax Brewery in the heart of the historic French Quarter
• Cocktail, beer, and wine options are available for purchase onboard
• Reservations strongly recommended for all meal functions
• Decks may be closed to public access due to private functions on any given night

View menu  

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.

Riverboat CITY of NEW ORLEANS

Take your kids back to the days of Tom Sawyer and Huck Finn on an adventure aboard the Riverboat CITY of NEW ORLEANS, a sister vessel of the Steamboat NATCHEZ. The newest addition to the New Orleans Steamboat Company's fleet operates sightseeing, lunch, Sunday Brunch, and Dinner Cruises on the Mississippi River. Take your family back in time to have the time of your lives.

See New Orleans like you've never seen her before from the decks of our floating wedding cake. Stroll our opulent decks, learn fun facts about the city and river travel, listen to the calliope play, and take in panoramic views. Most cruises feature live jazz entertainment and a menu that rivals the best New Orleans restaurants. Adults will also enjoy our bar which offers up the libations New Orleans is famous for, including the NATCHEZ Jazz Punch.

Show your kids time travel exists on the Riverboat CITY of NEW ORLEANS.  Learn more .

Coming Soon! River Cruise & City Tour Bundle

Save 10% on a RIVERBOAT CITY of NEW ORLEANS cruise and a New Orleans City & Cemetery Tour Bundle. You can enjoy an authentic Creole lunch Monday through Saturday for an additional $16 per adult with advance purchase. The tour and the cruise may be taken on the same day or on a separate day. Learn more .

The Riverboat CITY of NEW ORLEANS is also available for dockside weddings and other special events .

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Things to Do: New Orleans Riverboat

A ride on the mississippi offers great views and a relaxing time.

Mark Twain said that the Mississippi River was a wonderful book with a new story to tell every day. Mississippi, a Chippewa Indian word that means “large river” is the life force that has shaped New Orleans history forever, defining and literally shaping the city into its famous Crescent outline. The best way to see what Mark Twain was talking about is to take a paddleboat tour along the hard working river, and travel back to the days when steam-driven river paddle wheelers were the main source of both transportation and commerce. Boat tours leave regularly from the riverfront area adjacent to Woldenberg Park, some offering music and meals, all offering cocktails and narration. So hop aboard one of these. 

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Russell Crowe Announces His First U.S. Tour Dates in a Dozen Years

F or anyone who saw the news about Russell Crowe and his Indoor Garden Party playing the Acoustic Stage of this year's Glastonbury Festival and shook your fist at the sky about the injustice of Crowe not playing anywhere in the States, well, it's time to stop with the fist-shaking and make with the ticket-buying.

Crowe has announced a series of tour dates for August that will take him and the aforementioned Indoor Garden Party on a bit of a zig-zagging path, but it's a path that'll find him popping up on both coasts and elsewhere, playing in six different cities.

When Crowe announced his Glastonbury appearance earlier this month, he did so by saying, “For those of you watching and waiting for tour dates, we will be adding more soon," and he's proven to be a man of his word.

The tour, while perhaps shorter than many of his fans would prefer, is his first time playing around America in 12 years. The brief jaunt will start in Newark, New Jersey and then hit New York City before heading to Los Angeles. From there, it's off to Tulsa, Oklahoma, which is followed by Austin, Texas, and then the whole shebang comes to a conclusion in New Orleans.

Here's the full list of dates, with venues included:

08/11 – Newark, NJ @ NJPAC

08/12 – New York, NY @ Sony Hall

08/14 – Los Angeles, CA @ Whisky A Go Go

08/17 – Tulsa, OK @ River Spirit Casino

08/19 – Austin, TX @ Stubb’s

08/21 – New Orleans, LA @ Tipitina’s

In a recent interview with Smooth Radio , Crowe explained the origins of his so-called Indoor Garden Party, giving credit to chat show host Michael Parkinson, of all people.

"I was mates with Michael Parkinson, and he had this pub, and I was shooting the movie Robin Hood , "explained Crowe. "We brought together these guys as the Merry Men. And just because it's naturally our band, we were just singing a lot of songs and everything. So we just decided to put on a little show for Michael at his pub. Ended up like hundreds of people turned out, the cast from Master and Commander and stuff like that. And it just went around the room, this idea that you have a central act on stage, but from any point in the room, something special can happen. And that's basically the idea for Indoor Garden Party." As it stands at present, Indoor Garden Party have only released one studio album, 2017’s The Musical , but that hasn’t stopped them from continuing to tour the world and elsewhere whenever Crowe and his cronies are of a mind to do so. Just as a sidebar, it's perhaps worth mentioning that one of those cronies is Crowe's fellow actor Scott Grimes, who also has a fascinating bit of '80s history in his closet as well: he recorded an album with Richard Carpenter. (Yes, the one who was in the Carpenters.)

Yes, we know we mentioned this last time as well. But you can't deny that it's a fascinating piece of information.

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