riverboat cruise new orleans creole queen

Exploring the Gulf

6 Best Creole Queen and Steamboat Natchez River Cruises in New Orleans in 2024

If you are looking for the best Creole Queen and Steamboat Natchez River Cruises, we have listed the best cruises, recommendations, and tips so you will be prepared and pick the best Creole Queen or Natchez cruise for you.

We loved getting on the authentic paddle-wheeler for a beautiful and relaxing day on the Mississippi River. The live jazz music was the cherry on top!

🏆 Best New Orleans River Cruise

Don’t have time to read the whole article? The hands-down best choice for a great time is the Steamboat Natchez VIP Jazz Dinner Cruise .

The buffet-style dinner cruises are a great way to see New Orleans. While on the cruise you will learn about the river lore and many of the historical landmarks that line the river. Most of the cruises are right next to the French Quarter. This makes it really easy to enjoy the French Quarter before or after your cruise. We enjoyed the sights and shops in the French Quarter after our cruise. 

We loved our riverboat cruise and had a great time, even with our little kids. However, our cruise could have been a little better had we had a little more information. We have everything you will want to know to make sure you have a fun and successful time on your boat ride in New Orleans.

Quick Guide: Creole Queen and Steamboat Natchez River Cruises

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Steamboat Natchez VIP Jazz Dinner Cruise ✔️ Highest Rated ✔️ Great Atmosphere and Views

Paddlewheeler Creole Queen Historic Mississippi River Cruise ✔️ Great Creole Queen Reviews ✔️ Economical Option

Steamboat Natchez Jazz Brunch Cruise in New Orleans ✔️ Great Sunday Brunch Cruise ✔️ Great Sightseeing Cruise

6 Best Creole Queen River Cruises 

1. paddlewheeler creole queen jazz cruise  .

⭐ Rating : 4 out of 5 Stars ⎸🕑 Tour Length : 2.5 hours ⎸ Check Rates and Availability  

The Paddlewheeler Creole Queen Jazz Cruise is an amazing river cruise based in New Orleans, Louisiana. Enjoy a unique experience aboard the historic steamboat as it takes you through the mighty Mississippi River while you listen to jazz music from the onboard band.

You can soak up the atmosphere as you take in the views of New Orleans and its iconic sights. If possible, we would recommend you select the lavish Creole Buffet option as part of your cruise. You will enjoy the buffet in the plush Victorian-style seating and romantic lighting.

Food was fabulous. Watching the sunset while listening to great music was terrific. Wonderful experience. – Patricia (read more reviews )

The Creole Queen buffet menu will include popular local dishes like Jambalaya, Cajun Seafood Pasta, Cajun Braised Beef Brisket, Chicken & Sausage Gumbo, and their signature White Chocolate Bread Pudding with Whiskey Sauce.

You will start boarding the Creole Queen jazz cruise at 6:30 p.m., and then the boat leaves at 7:00 pm. This New Orleans boat ride lasts approximately 2 hours, and children are allowed on the cruise. Children 5 years old and younger are free.

▶ BOOK Paddlewheeler Creole Queen Jazz Cruise

2. Paddlewheeler Creole Queen Historic Mississippi River Cruise  

⭐ Rating : 4.5 out of 5 Stars ⎸🕑 Tour Length : 3 hours ⎸ Check Rates and Availability  

The Paddlewheeler Creole Queen Historic Mississippi River Cruise is a unique and unforgettable experience for those looking to explore the Mississippi River.

This cruise takes passengers on an entertaining journey through the Mississippi River, giving them the opportunity to take in some of the most iconic sights while also having the chance to listen to live music from the onboard band.

As one of the most popular river cruises in New Orleans, it offers guests a plethora of amenities and sightseeing opportunities that will ensure they have a memorable time. 

Enjoy illuminating narration from a licensed historian narrator and stop part-way through the trip to learn about the Battle of New Orleans. Then, get back aboard the vessel and enjoy a cash bar while admiring the views.

Great experience, history about the battles was amazing great to hear all of the facts about the ownership of New Orleans, coming back listening to the sorrowing story about Hurricane Katana. Great experience that will stay with me for the rest of my life. – Richard (Read more reviews )

Guests will be able to indulge their taste buds with a delicious Creole Buffet. The cruise lasts two hours, and It is suitable for all ages, as children aged 5 years old and younger can board for free.

From breathtaking views of traditional architecture to stunning scenery along the Mississippi River, this is an experience we enjoyed. Overall, the Creole Queen in New Orleans historic cruise reviews are very positive. 

▶ BOOK Paddlewheeler Creole Queen Historic Riverboat Cruise

3. Steamboat Natchez Harbor Cruise 

⭐ Rating : 4 out of 5 Stars ⎸🕑 Tour Length : 2 hours ⎸ Check Rates and Availability  

The Steamboat Natchez Harbor Cruise is a unique experience in the city of New Orleans that allows visitors to explore the Mississippi River in style. This two-hour cruise provides an unforgettable journey, taking passengers past some of the most iconic and vibrant scenes along this famous waterway.

During the cruise, guests are treated to live jazz music, narrated tours of many local landmarks, and spectacular views of the surrounding area. The Steamboat Natchez is a steam paddle boat in New Orleans, and its deck provides plenty of space for sightseeing and soaking up the beauty of New Orleans from an entirely new perspective.

We had a blast. The food was good and the staff was awesome ! We are already planning to go back with more friends. – Nina (read more reviews )

Passengers can enjoy learning about the culture and history of the region while also savoring delicious southern cuisine, cocktails, and great conversation with their fellow travelers. The harbor cruise brings together music, fun, food, and culture for one truly memorable experience.

▶ BOOK Steamboat Natchez Harbor Cruise

4. Steamboat Natchez Jazz Brunch Cruise

The Steamboat Natchez Jazz Brunch Cruise is very similar to the other Natchez and Creole Queen cruises. The main difference is going to be the time of day you leave and a slight variation in the food that is going to be served during your time on the cruise.

Brunch was awesome Everyone was so nice Boat was very clean Narrator was very knowledgeable Our pictures were great – Michelle (Read more reviews )

Your cruise will still be two hours long, and the whole family is still welcome on board, but you will be leaving earlier in the morning for your cruise. You will get a very similar narration, and you will get to see and hear about the same great sights as you would from the other Natchez boat cruise experiences. 

If you’re looking for another opportunity in New Orleans, be sure to check out the New Orleans food tours !

▶ BOOK Steamboat Natchez Jazz Brunch Cruise

5. Steamboat Natchez Evening Jazz Cruise with Dinner Option

⭐ Rating : 4 out of 5 Stars ⎸🕑 Tour Length : 3 hours ⎸ Check Rates and Availability  

The Steamboat Natchez Evening Jazz Cruise with Dinner Option is a great experience. Being able to tour the steam engine room, dine on a delicious dinner and paddle down the Mississippi at sunset is a fantastic experience. Many people really enjoy this cruise at night, often bringing a little more dancing and a little more excitement to the cruise. 

We spent five days in New Orleans, and this cruise was our absolute highlight! The entire evening with multiple dinner seatings on various decks was handled seamlessly. Then ending the night with jazz on the top deck was the icing on the cake. The food and drinks were delicious! – Andrew (read more reviews )

One thing to understand is that many people really enjoy eating dinner on the cruise. We are big fans of the dinner option not only because the food is decent but because it is so nice to relax on a historic boat floating down the Mississippi on a full stomach.

▶ BOOK Steamboat Natchez Evening Jazz Cruise

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

⭐ Rating : 5 out of 5 Stars ⎸🕑 Tour Length : 3 hours ⎸ Check Rates and Availability  

The Steamboat Natchez VIP Jazz Dinner Cruise with Private Tour and Open Bar Option is going to be your best cruise option. The skyline at night is such a great experience, and the atmosphere and live jazz band are fantastic on this cruise. This dinner cruise is the highest-rated cruise with 500 reviews and the majority giving the cruise a 5-star rating. 

We opted for the VIP experience since it was our anniversary and could not be happier with the experience. Gina was fun, attentive and made sure we had an incredible cruise. The captain tour was a blast! Highly recommend for any special occasion! – sal (Read more reviews )

The cruise is a go for all types of weather, which means it will not be canceled for rain. Make sure you come prepared for the rain if there is rain in the forecast. If there is extremely severe weather or the river is closed will be the only time the cruise is canceled. 

▶ BOOK Steamboat Natchez VIP Jazz Dinner Cruise

Creole Queen vs Steamboat Natchez 

There are a few small differences between the Steamboat Natchez and the Creole Queen. From an outside look, you might think they are the same, but they are not. Both are great boat rides in New Orleans with dinner options, but the boats themselves are different.

The Creole Queen is powered by a diesel-electric motor and made its maiden voyage in 1983. This motor is used to operate the paddle wheel at the back of the boat. The Natchez is a steamboat. This means that a steam engine powers the paddle wheel at the rear of the boat.

The Nanchez is one of only a few boats that is still powered by steam. The Nanchez was built in 1975 and has transported famous musicians and important political figures. You can even find a small museum aboard the Natchez. 

Both the Creole Queen and the Steamboat Natchez are boats with great history and insight. The two boats have much more in common than they do in differences. You will learn a lot and can eat great food on either boat.

The differences between the two should not cause any disappointment if you happen to ride on one and not the other. No matter what New Orleans river cruise you find yourself on, you will have a blast.

Creole Queen Parking 

There is no designated parking for any of the Riverboats in New Orleans. This does not mean there is no parking; it means you will have to pay for parking at some of the paid parking or street parking options at or near the French Quarter.

We parked in the parking lot that is next to the aquarium, and it is only a short walk from there. The parking lot by the aquarium is also a great place to park if you are going to spend time after your short Mississippi River cruise.

Tips for Your Creole Queen Boat Tours in New Orleans 

1. Get in Line Early: We were there about 35 minutes early for our tour, and it was not early enough. There was a huge line. It is recommended to be in line 30 minutes before the scheduled boarding time. This means you should be at the boat 1 hour before departure. 

2. Be in Line First: There is not enough outdoor seating for everyone. If you are at the front of the line for boarding, you will have more options for outdoor seating. If you want to hear the jazz music, you will want to grab some chairs on the top deck. There is only one band on the top deck. Some people had expectations of a band on each deck, and this is not an option. The band plays on the top deck, and the music can be heard on the lower decks from the speakers. 

3. There is no outside food or drink allowed on the boat, even if you don’t have a reservation for the Creole Queen brunch, lunch, or dinner. Get the Creole Queen dinner Cruise option if it is available. It is worth it. 

4. If you are going on the tour with kids, bring a couple of little toys to entertain them while on the river boat tour. The tour can feel a little long if you do not eat on the boat. It is a relaxing cruise, and kids don’t often like to just relax.

5. The upper deck is where most of the action is if you want to relax less. It can also be a bit more crowded. This is because the live band is on the upper deck, and they have an upper deck bar close by. 

FAQ: Creole Queen 

How old is the creole queen .

The Creole Queen had its first voyage in 1983. This means at the time of writing, the Creole Queen is almost 40 years old. 

How Much Does It Cost to Ride the Steamboat in New Orleans? 

If you are taking the steamboat cruise and not adding on any of the dining or VIP options, it will cost $39 dollars. Most of the cruises are this ticket price. Evening cruises are more expensive. Adult tickets are $55 with no dinner. 

Where Does Creole Queen Leave From? 

The Creole Queen leaves from the Gray Line Lighthouse Ticket Office, and the address is 400 Toulouse St, New Orleans, LA 70130, USA.

Who Owns the Creole Queen? 

The Creole Queen is owned by Jean Pierre Pigeon and New Orleans Paddlewheels, Inc.

Conclusion: Creole Queen Boat Tour 

You are going to have a great time on your traditional riverboat ride. The boats are amazing and very fun to experience. The United States and New Orleans are full of great sights and experiences.

If you are also interested in another great boating experience in New Orleans in September , make sure you check out a nearby plantation tour . It was another great experience and one of our favorite things to do with kids in New Orleans .

New Orleans cemetery tours and airboat tours in New Orleans are other fun ways to explore the city too! Happy exploring the port of New Orleans.

Candice Steele is the owner of Exploring the Gulf, a blog that helps travelers explore the Gulf Coast Region in the United States. Since 2015, she and her family have been providing valuable insider tips about travel experiences suitable for families traveling to the Gulf Coast. They love exploring the beaches and small coastal towns in this area.

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Paddlewheeler Creole Queen

Hours updated 1 month ago

Review Highlights

“ He has a voice the reverberates with passion and his personal recounting of hurricane Katrina was enthralling. ” in 92 reviews

“ We had a wonderful time on the Creole Queen morning tour and trip to the War of 1812 Chalmette Battlefield . ” in 62 reviews

“ the narrator charles was absolutely fantastic he knew his history very well and made it enjoyable for us... ” in 79 reviews

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1 Poydras St

New Orleans, LA 70130

Central Business District

Serving New Orleans Area

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About the Business

When night falls, the Paddlewheeler Creole Queen rises to the occasion. 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. The Creole Queen features outer decks with authentically patterned wrought iron trims inviting guests to stroll back in time as they settle into the mood of a bygone era. The interiors are richly appointed with plush Victorian style draperies, soft period lighting, wooden parquet dance floors, and Louisiana Cypress bars accented with brass railing for a warm and welcoming setting. …

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When you book the jazz tour, is the price that is given include the dinner? Or is that just to book it?

Hi, I would strongly advise calling. Their tours often have several price points that differ by what is included. This way, there are no surprises and you can just enjoy rolling down the Mississippi.

Does the dinner jazz cruise have music everyday or only the weekends? Also, Is the dinner jazz cruise for all ages or does it usually cater to middle-age/older crowds?

I went on a Sunday and there was a live band. Call beforehand to double check. The crowd was mixed, I along with other groups had teens & younger children. There aren't kids activities though -- just the food (you have to buy that ticket in… more

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Overall rating

858 reviews

If I could give them more than 5 stars, I would. Definitely a 10 out of 5! The whole experience was amazing! (Not to mention, we had good weather on our side.) Onboard, we were treated as esteemed guests from start to finish. And the food!!! Honestly, the food aboard the boat was some of the best we had throughout our 5-day stay in New Orleans. My favorite was the Red Beans and Rice, the Smoked Brisket, and the Gumbo. Seriously! Many thanks to the chef who prepared such a delicious buffet! After my fill of amazing New Orleans flavors, we strolled around the deck to enjoy the sights of the cityscape while a live band completed the experience with some jazz classics that this area is so famous for. Definitely a must-do-again the next time we visit.

Needs to focus on individual experiences rather than packing people on the boat. This was supposed to be one of the highlights of my wife's and my trip to New Orleans. We purchased our tickets online a week ahead, and it indicated that we should arrive at 6:15 for our 7:00 PM Jazz Dinner cruise. We opted not to do the dinner. We were in line at 6:15 and there was the usual "take your picture" stop before boarding. About this time two full busses of kids arrived behind us in line. As we approached the point in line for pictures, the man announced "if you bought your tickets online, you need to go to the ticket booth first". That ticket booth is about 75 ft. away. I was mad. What is the point of an online ticket, if I need to go get a paper one anyway? Suffice it to say, we lost our place in line. Once on the boat, the only seat left was next to the ladies room door (more on that later). The jazz music is average at best. The singer spends most of his time making small talk with people who tip heavily wanting certain music played. They also do not play for the whole cruise, most of the time it is recorded jazz music. I am trained in music, and performed on stage, and I know good quality music when I hear it. The jazz was improvisations of the same riffs rather than changing the feel from song to song. The boat is showing its age, with cracking paint and mold in places. The tables on the level we were at consisted of knicked formica tops with lots of chips. As the cruise progressed we noted why this is popular, as the line to the bar was never ending throughout the cruise. That seems to be why people go. The table of younger women next to us had a table of empties by the end. Nature does take its course, and we spent the cruise watching women go to the restroom. As for the sights, you have to remember the city is pretty at night, but you pretty much go down river for 30 minutes, and the city is out of sight in about half that. The Mississipi is all business at this juncture, and there is just old docks, and tons of shipping to watch. Going back up river is against the current and takes the other 90 minutes of the cruise. I expect more out of a $100 boat ride (two tix). It is worth maybe $25 a person in its current form, if you aren't a drinker who won't notice redundant and repetitive jazz music.

We really enjoyed this guided paddleboat tour of the Mississippi River and nearby Chalmette Battlefield stop. The narrator was extremely knowledgeable and kept us entertained and informed throughout the journey. Time at the battlefield site was just about right for a walkabout and climbing of the tower before heading back to the port. We did not eat or drink on this cruise, so I cannot comment on those aspects.

See all photos from Evan F. for Paddlewheeler Creole Queen

We went on afternoon cruise to the fort and back. We were given an hour at fort. They did have lunch options although we didn't eat. The bartenders were very friendly and the lines moved fast. Boat was clean and you could hear the guide well over speakers.

Food was ok. View and Jazz was nice but the dining bartender lady was very rude. When I found a straw wrapper in my drink but I didn't use a straw she accused me and putting that in there. I did not ask for a refund or anything free I just wanted her to remake it with a clean cup. She refused to give me garnish and dropped the cup in front of me intentionally

Paddlewheeler Creole Queen was one of the attractions offered with the Go City Pass. There were so many raving reviews, we made it one of the priority reservations for our visit. In retrospect, it was one of the more less exciting tours of our visit and one that I could have done without. From a processing point of view, most place would allow you to show your email confirmation as a ticket, but they make you go to their kiosk and check in for physical tickets before boarding. This adds an unnecessary part to the process, where we had to stand in the hot humid sun in an extra line, before getting into another line to board the ship. Outside food and drinks not allowed on board. There is a photo opportunity while boarding the ship with one of those floaty thingys. My poor boyfriend is always a victim to these photo traps. They have them ready and available for purchase during the second half of the trip back down the river. Seating is on a first come first serve basis. Normally when I go on these ship trips I like the top deck at the front of the boat with the wind in my face, but it was too hot and humid for that. There was also benches on the lower level exterior, or an indoor space that has a bar and air conditioned. For the indoor space, try to get a table against the window on the dock side. The other side does not have as great of a view. There are also tables farther out from the window, in which you lose the value of the view and this trip completely. If it wasn't obvious, I got a window seat in the indoor AC area by the bar where I enjoyed a few Makers and Ginger Ale. It's nice to say I was able to experience the Mississippi River and all of its' wonder. On the route there, we got some historical and cultural fun facts. I think the reason why I was less impressed is because I already heard two superior versions of the similar stories from other tour companies and the other experience was more upbeat and funny. The facts were on point but the energy level couldn't compare. To my surprise, they actually let us off the ship halfway through to walk around the Chalmette Battlefield for a bit under an hour to explore the grounds and the visitor's center. The National Cemetery was also nearby, but they told us we would not have time to travel that far. There was also the option to leave the tour and figure out a way to get back on your own. Just let them know. Try to get back a little earlier to secure a good seat once again. On the way back, the tour guide was to tell the story of Hurricane Katrina. What I don't get is that the audio was only available to those in the outdoor space, and not the indoor space. There were so many people who were interested who piled outside to listen to the story in the now overly crowded exterior HOT HUMID SUNNY area. Probably my least favorite tour during my visit to New Orleans, and in general my least favorite water tour in all of the country to date. Not impressed.

We had a great time on our dinner jazz cruise on the Creole Queen. I bought tickets online for a Saturday evening. We boarded around 6:15 to leave around 7 pm. We went straight to the kiosk and they handed us our boarding passes. The kiosk is near the Riverwalk Outlets and next to the aquarium. We boarded right after picking up our boarding passes. The photographer took our photo before boarding. We ended up purchasing the printed copy for $24 once we were on board. They take card or cash. We boarded and went to a bar on the second floor and then headed to the first floor where they serve a buffet dinner. They checked our boarding passes to see that we purchased dinner and seated us at a table next to the window. The buffet was hot and ready before we even left the dock. We loaded a plate and tried everything. Plenty of cajun/creole staples. You can check the menu on the website. All the gumbo your heart desires. There were three proteins including chicken, beef and a fish. I was just happy to see some vegetables including a heavily dressed caesar salad. When we had our fill for dinner, we headed up to the top deck to enjoy the views and our ride along the Mississippi. The jazz band on board is great. They play for most of the 2 hour ride with a short break. Everyone looked like they were having a good time. 2 hours was a perfect amount of time. Recommend a jazz cruise if you're looking for something romantic and fun to do in NOLA.

I'm a big fan of riverboats and couldn't pass up the opportunity for a brunch cruise in New Orleans. While the food is standard buffet food, it's good enough and very filling. After stuffing myself with French toast, scrambled eggs and potatoes, I enjoyed the scenic views from the Mississippi. It's a fun way to spend a morning in New Orleans!

Decent experience, but I definitely was hoping for a bit more. I am from NC, but visited NOLA for a friend's birthday trip in a group of 8 people. We purchased the Groupon for the Jazz Brunch Cruise. We all purchased the Groupon individually, but my friend was able to call and ensure that we were all able to be seated at the same table so that was convenient and good. Make sure you have your tickets when you go to present prior to boarding the boat. Although the line forms, seating is fine so no need to rush to the be in the front because you'll just be standing in the sun. When you board, there are some individuals who are just on the boat to ride while others are there for the brunch cruise so be aware of that. Those boarding for the brunch will go down the stairs and will be lead to their tables once entering the doors after checking in with the host. If you have a large group and you bought tickets separately, call to ensure that you're able to sit together and make sure you all come together to be sat quickly. Once you come on, you can go ahead and head to the bar or the buffet. They offer $20 unlimited mimosas if you'd like to purchase that on board as well as other drinks at the bar, including sodas since they aren't included in the brunch price. The food was was ok. Don't have high expectations for the food, especially because it is a buffet and they are pumping out mass amounts of food quickly. I know that NOLA is known for food, so I must say I was a bit disappointed, but in all honesty when it comes to buffets the quality may lack some. Once brunch was on it's way, the ship started moving, and about 30-45 minutes into the ride, they informed us we could go upstairs for the jazz band. You could also hear the bad playing throughout the ship through the speaker systems. I didn't really love the band. It was slow and not what that great. Most of the songs played were slow and just didn't work well for my liking. I was not impressed. They weren't bad, it just wasn't my style or what I wanted to hear. The ride was nice to spend time with my friends, but I wouldn't do this again on my next trip. I'd prefer to just grab brunch and explore the city on my own.

Brunch plate

Gumbo at brunch

The tour guide was great, but did talk a little fast. The tour of the Chalmette battlefield was rushed. The buffet was underwhelming, and the drinks were overpriced.

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Paddlewheeler Creole Queen

The outlet collection at the riverwalk.

• Spanish Plaza Wharf, 1 Poydras Street, New Orleans, LA 70130 ( Directions ) | P: (504) 529-4567 | F: (504) 524-6265
• Spanish Plaza Wharf, 1 Poydras Street, New Orleans, LA 70130 ( Directions ) P: (504) 529-4567 F: (504) 524-6265
• Spanish Plaza Wharf, 1 Poydras Street New Orleans, LA 70130 ( Directions ) P: (504) 529-4567 F: (504) 524-6265
• Neighborhood: Central Business District/Downtown

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Cruise the mighty Mississippi aboard our award-winning, authentic paddlewheeler. Enjoy our leisurely dinner cruise with classic Creole cuisine or embark on a day trip to historic Chalmette Battlefield in Jean Lafitte National Park.

• Facility Buyout: Yes
• Max Banquet: 450
• Max Classroom: 225
• Max Facility Banquet: 450
• Max Facility Reception: 850
• Max Reception: 850
• Max Theatre: 550
• Number of Private Rooms: 3
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Creole Queen Historic Cruise

Start your booking, will you be joining another guest.

More Photos From This Tour

New Orleans' only Historic River Cruise! Focusing on 300 years of New Orleans history, this cruise offered twice daily is narrated by a local historian who takes guests on a journey through the story of the city as we sail downriver to the Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and the historic Chalmette Battlefield. Highlights of the tour include the founding of the city by the LeMoyne brothers, the expansion of the city into the “French Quarters” of the Treme and Marigny, the Louisiana Purchase, and the critical Battle of New Orleans. A one-hour shore excursion at the battlefield features a guided tour and talk by National Park Rangers.

Enjoy bottomless mimosas on our Battlefield Cruise for an additional $20!

 Note:Due to limited capacity, refund requests made less than 24 hours prior to the cruise departure will **NOT** be considered. This includes missing the cruise for any reason. However, your ticket is transferable and valid for up to one year.

Tour Information:

Historic Cruise - 10 am ( Call For Availability) 

9:30am - 10:00am: Boarding

10:00am - 10:30am: Sails to Chalmette Battlefield

10:30am - 11:30am: Battlefield Tour

11:30am - 12:30pm: Return to Spanish Plaza 

Historic Cruise - 2 pm

1:30pm - 2:00pm: Boarding

2:00pm - 2:30pm: Sails to Chalmette Battlefield

2:30pm - 3:30pm: Battlefield Tour

3:30pm - 4:30pm: Return to Spanish Plaza

*Inclusions: Narrated cruise, tour of the battlefield Bar specials: Cash bar, $20 bottomless Mimosas

Price: 

• Adult with Lunch: $62
• Adult no Lunch: $42
• Child (6-12) with Lunch: $26
• Child (6-12) no Lunch:$17
• Child (0-5) with Lunch: $12
• Child (0-5) no Lunch: Free

Bar specials and Add-Ons: Cash bar, $20 bottomless Mimosas, Packaged lunch available for a la carte purchase on board for an additional cost onboard.

Buffet Menu:

• Caesar Salad
• Crawfish Etouffee
• New Orleans Style Chicken Pasta
• Creole Jambalaya
• Red Beans & Rice (V)
• Bread Pudding

A La Carte Menu:

• Caesar Salad $10
• Crawfish Etouffee $10
• New Orleans Style Chicken Pasta $10
• Creole Jambalaya $10
• Red Beans & Rice (V) $10
• Bread Pudding $10
• Zapp's Potato Chips $3

Discounted parking is available at the World Trade Center (WTC) Parking Lot on the corner of Poydras Street and Convention Center Boulevard (100 Poydras Street) on week days ONLY. Your printed parking ticket must be presented to the Creole Queen ticket booth . Discounted parking on weekends is not available.

Reservation & Cancellation Policies:

• Due to limited capacity, refund requests made less than 24 hours prior to the cruise departure will NOT be considered. This includes missing the boat for any reason. However, your ticket is transferable and valid for up to one year.
• Cruise times may be altered or canceled due to weather and safety concerns.
• Cruise may remain dockside in the event of unfavorable sailing conditions.
• All reservations must be prepaid by credit card and are subject to availability.

Miscellaneous:

• Visit the ticket booth adjacent to the Creole Queen to receive your boarding passes.
• Call 504.529.4567 for discounted group rates.
• PET POLICY: We do not allow pets onboard. However, Service Animals as defined by the ADA are always welcome. Although it is not required, as a courtesy we recommend notifying us at least 24-hours in advance that you will be bringing a Service Animal aboard.
• No outside food or beverages are allowed onboard.
• For specific food allergies questions or requests please call at least 24-hours ahead of your cruise.

More Things To Do

Get ready for an exciting adventure! Take a thrilling ride through the swamps and bayous of Louisiana, accessible only by airboat.

Step on board and cruise with us into the night where the sleepless activity of America's busiest port buzzes.

Choose a swamp tour, airboat ride, or cruise aboard the Creole Queen!

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Paddlewheeler Creole Queen Evening Jazz Cruise

Riverboat Cruises are a must-do when visiting New Orleans.  Step back into the glamour and romance of the riverboat era with a two-hour river cruise aboard the award-winning, authentic Paddlewheeler Creole Queen!  Whether you’re a jazz enthusiast, looking for a romantic evening with your partner, or a group of friends seeking a unique experience, this Evening Jazz Cruise promises to be an unforgettable journey.  Experience the lively sounds of traditional New Orleans jazz music while enjoying a classic cocktail and sweet Mississippi River breezes on the promenade deck as the city skyline slips by under a canopy of stars. This evening Mississippi River cruise is pure New Orleans – welcome aboard!

This option does not include dinner.

Exclusions Gratuities, food, and beverages are not included. Please contact the Supplier (Paddlewheeler Creole Queen) to inquire about upgrading to the meal.

• 1 Poydras St, Riverwalk Spanish Plaza, New Orleans, Louisiana 70130-1662

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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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Creole Queen Historic Cruise

Start your booking.

We're back!!!

We are so happy to announce that after 4 long months, the Creole Queen is returning to the River for a once daily cruise Friday, Saturday, and Sunday! We are taking the COVID-19 situation very seriously and will actively monitor the updates from the CDC, City, State, and Federal governments accordingly. The health and safety of our guests and staff is of the utmost importance to us. To mitigate the impact of the coronavirus, we are taking the following extra steps in addition to adhering to our stringent health standards, as recommended by and in accordance with the Passenger Vessel Association.

To learn more about our Social Distancing Protocol, please click here .

Until at least August 31st, we will only operate one Historic Cruise on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday from 12:00pm-2:30pm for the time being. Please stay tuned to our social media pages and our website for updates.

Focusing on 300 years of New Orleans history, this cruise is narrated by a local historian who takes guests on a journey through the story of the city as we sail downriver to the Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and the historic Chalmette Battlefield. Highlights of the tour include the founding of the city by the LeMoyne brothers, the expansion of the city into the “French Quarters” of the Treme and Marigny, the Louisiana Purchase, and the critical Battle of New Orleans. A one-hour shore excursion at the battlefield features a guided tour of the Historic Chalmette Battlefield where the Battle of New Orleans was fought.

Enjoy bottomless mimosas on our Historic Cruise for an additional $15!

Please note, the Chalmette Battlefield grounds are open and available for tours, but the facilities (bathroom, gift shop, and visitors center) are not open.

MID-DAY CRUISE

• 11:30am – 12:00pm Boarding
• 12:00pm – 12:30pm Sails to Chalmette Battlefield
• 12:30pm – 1:30pm Battlefield Tour
• 1:30pm – 2:30pm Return to Spanish Plaza

Inclusions: Narrated cruise, tour of the battlefield

Bar specials and Add-Ons : Cash bar, $15 bottomless Mimosas, Packaged lunch available for a la carte purchase on board for an additional cost.*

• Child (12 and under): FREE through August

Option of Grilled Chicken Caesar Salad, Jambalaya, Red Beans, or a Hot Roast Beef Po-Boy – a la carte, purchased on board at the bar.

Discounted parking is available at the World Trade Center (WTC) Parking Lot on the corner of Poydras Street and Convention Center Boulevard (100 Poydras Street). Your printed parking ticket must be presented to the Creole Queen ticket booth in order to receive the Creole Queen discount for up to 5 hours of parking.

Miscellaneous:.

• Print out your receipt/confirmation email as your ticket for the tour.
• Call 504.529.4567 for discounted group rates.
• PET POLICY: We do not allow pets onboard. However, Service Animals as defined by the ADA are always welcome. Although it is not required, as a courtesy we recommend notifying us at least 24-hours in advance that you will be bringing a Service Animal aboard.
• No outside food or beverages are allowed onboard. For specific food allergies questions or requests please call at least 24-hours ahead of your cruise.

Reservation & Cancellation Policies:

• Cruise times may be altered or canceled due to weather and safety concerns.
• Cruise may remain dockside in the event of unfavorable sailing conditions.
• All reservations must be prepaid by credit card, are nontransferable, and are subject to availability.
• Any cancellation requires 24 hours notice for full refund.

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New orleans paddlewheels, inc..

Phone 504.529.4567 or 1.800.445.4109 Corporate Office: 4220 Howard Ave. New Orleans , LA 70125 Departure Location: 1 Poydras St. New Orleans , LA 70130

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New Orleans Visitors Guide

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Dinner Jazz Cruises

Cruise with dinner USD $102.50

Sightseeing option USD $55.00

Holiday Party Package USD $132.50

Daytime Jazz Cruises

Cruise with lunch USD $60.00

Sightseeing option USD $42.00

Holiday Party Package USD $85.00

Sunday Jazz Cruises

Cruise with brunch USD $75.00

Holiday Party Package USD $92.50

Groups of 10 or More

Customers booking groups of 10 or more , please use the code "WEBGROUP" during your checkout process to receive a 10% per person discount .

Daytime Jazz Cruise

Code: Webgroup

Sunday Jazz Cruise

Evening jazz cruise, new orleans tours, plantation tours, swamp tours, holiday & special events, mardi gras party package, spring fling party package, mother's day cruise, summer sips, easter bunny brunch cruise, new orleans steamboat company.

The New Orleans Steamboat Company is no newcomer to the Mississippi River or American's steamboat heritage.  Our parent company has been operating steamboats longer than any company in the world.  In fact, we've been part of the history of steam transport since 1817, just five years after the first steamboat docked in New Orleans. We're now in our fourth decade of life on the Mississippi.  We've given literally millions of people the experience of one of our country's oldest and richest traditions.

Come aboard and enjoy New Orleans hospitality ...Steamboat Style!

The newest addition to the New Orleans Riverfront & sister vessel of the Steamboat NATCHEZ

SAIL WITH SANTA ON THE STEAMBOAT NATCHEZ

SAIL WITH SANTA ON THE STEAMBOAT NATCHEZ: Celebrate the holiday season, and the return of the Steamboat NATCHEZ, at our Sailing with Santa Event! On Saturday, November 25th, our annual Sailing with Santa Cruise will be taking place on the newly renovated Steamboat NATCHEZ. The c…

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the dress code? How far in advance should I make reservations? Can we bring pets on board the boat? Is there any entertainment on your cruises? Where can we park?...