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From happy customers
Loved by 49 million+
Trustpilot rating: 4.5 out of 5
P
Priscola C
BahamasGroup
4/5
5 days ago
+4 more
The cruise was a beautiful experience with great views and excellent information. Love the steam boat affect. Its a must see and do.
V
Vespera B
Couple
4/5
Mar 2026
I enjoyed the Jazz band, Dukes of Dixieland. They were very lively, entertaining and talented. The narrator was very knowledgeable.
J
Joy M
United StatesGroup
5/5
Feb 2026
We had a fantastic time! Lunch was better than anticipated. The moderator was very good at describing the area and the sights we were seeing. It was only 35 degrees outside that day so most of our time was spent inside but the staff was very accommodating and pleasant.
N
Nicholas G
United StatesGroup
5/5
Dec 2025
+2 more
We really enjoyed it. I live in Texas now, outside of Dallas...and to come home and give my new wife and my mother a trip that they won't forget was so important. I knew that I was buying a Christmas present for them that would be a memory but I didn't expect it to be a life changing experience. My mother was on clouds in heaven and so was my wife and it was so good to just watch them be like that. Moments where I almost wanted to cry happened. I'm so very grateful. I can type and type about that and just the day in general. Blessed.
K
Kimberly T
United StatesCouple
5/5
Jan 2026
It was my 48th birthday and it was a beautiful day to sail up the Mississippi River as I ate brunch on the Natchez. Looking forward to doing dinner. I recommend this delightful boat ride for anyone.
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All aboard the Steamboat Natchez! Set sail on one of the last authentic steam-powered paddle wheelers in New Orleans for a vibrant cruise on the Mississippi River, featuring live jazz, Creole cuisine, and rich Southern heritage.
Why go on the Steamboat Natchez cruise
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Cruise aboard an authentic paddlewheel steamboat
Journey aboard a New Orleans steam-powered paddlewheel boat for a rare opportunity to see 19th-century maritime technology in action while cruising the historic Mississippi River.
Live jazz performances on every sail
Enjoy the sounds of New Orleans with live jazz music performed by the Grammy-nominated Dukes of Dixieland or Duke Heitger’s Steamboat Stompers Jazz Trio. The open-air decks and river breeze set the perfect stage for classic tunes and local rhythms.
Take in breezy river views
From the French Quarter’s colorful facades to the St. Louis Cathedral and bustling river traffic, the cruise offers front-row views of New Orleans’ most famous landmarks. Watch tugboats, barges, and city skylines drift by as you relax on deck.
Savor Louisiana Creole cuisine
Dinner and brunch cruises include buffet-style meals with regional classics like jambalaya and gumbo. It's a culinary journey through Louisiana's flavors alongside sweeping river views.
Explore the engine room and learn river history
Peek into the working steam engine room, where you can see the massive engines in action and chat with the crew. Narrated commentary throughout the cruise shares stories of New Orleans’ maritime heritage, the legacy of river commerce, and the importance of steamboats in American history.
Book smart: Insider tips for booking your Steamboat Natchez Cruise
Book early, especially for dinner and Sunday brunch cruises which are the most sought-after. These often sell out several days in advance during spring (April–June) and fall (October), which are the most popular times to sail.
The departure point is always Toulouse Street Wharf, conveniently located in the French Quarter near Jackson Square. It’s easily accessible by foot, streetcar, or rideshare from most downtown hotels.
Steamboat Natchez offers something for everyone—relaxed daytime sightseeing cruises with live jazz, romantic evening dinner cruises with buffet dining, and the popular Sunday Jazz Brunch Cruise, which blends Southern brunch classics with mid-morning river views and live music.
Choose your cruise based on time and interest. The Daytime Sightseeing Cruise is perfect for families, first-timers, and photographers. The Dinner Jazz Cruise
adds a full Creole buffet and sunset ambiance. The Sunday Brunch Cruise adds a festive brunch buffet and is ideal for leisurely weekend mornings.
Cruises operate rain or shine, with indoor and open-air decks for comfort in any weather. Severe storms may lead to rescheduling, so check weather updates if you're booking close to your sail date.
Your Mississippi River cruise options explained
Sightseeing cruise
Perfect for: First-time visitors, families, photographers, and history buffs
Why book this: Immerse yourself in the soulful charm of New Orleans as you cruise the Mississippi aboard an authentic paddlewheeler. It features traditional live jazz by the famous calliope, narration on historical landmarks, and access to the working steam engine room.
Recommended cruise:
Steamboat Natchez Sightseeing Jazz Cruise
Sunday Brunch cruise
Perfect for: Leisurely travelers, brunch lovers, and weekend explorers
Why book this: Celebrate New Orleans rhythm and soul in the most classic way—with live jazz, an indulgent Southern brunch buffet, and panoramic river views on a Sunday.
Recommended cruise:
Steamboat Natchez Sunday Jazz Cruise with Brunch
Lunch cruise
Perfect for: Midday cruisers, culinary explorers, and jazz lovers
Why book this: This cruise blends picturesque views with a taste of authentic Louisiana. Enjoy a freshly prepared Creole lunch on board, accompanied by live jazz and steam-powered ambiance.
Recommended cruise:
Steamboat Natchez Sightseeing Jazz Cruise with Lunch
Dinner cruise
Perfect for: Couples, foodies, music lovers, and those looking to experience New Orleans after dark
Why book this: Sail into twilight with a 2-hour steamboat experience featuring a hearty Creole-style buffet and classic New Orleans swing by the Grammy-nominated Dukes of Dixieland.
Recommended cruise:
Steamboat Natchez Evening Cruise with Dinner
What you’ll see from your jazz cruise
French Quarter
The cruise begins near the French Quarter, the heart of New Orleans' historic charm and culture. Colorful Creole townhouses, street performers, and balconies draped in ironwork offer a lively scene along the riverfront.
Set sail with confidence: What to know before your Steamboat Natchez cruise
Cruising the Mississippi River on the Steamboat Natchez is one of New Orleans' most iconic experiences. Here’s everything you need to know to make your journey smooth, scenic, and stress-free.
Know your departure point: All cruises board at the Toulouse Street Wharf in the French Quarter, just steps from Jackson Square. It’s easily walkable and accessible via streetcar or rideshare.
Arrive early: Boarding begins 30 minutes before departure, and arriving early gives you enough time to settle in before the cruise.
Have your confirmation and ID ready: Whether digital or printed, have your ticket handy. A photo ID is required for the purchase of alcohol on board.
Dress for the occasion: Shirts and shoes are required on all cruises. For the Dinner Jazz Cruise, consider "dressy casual"—trade your jeans for dress pants or a skirt and blouse or stylish top. Men can elevate their look with a collared shirt, whether button-down or polo.
Take the weather into consideration: Conditions on the river can change quickly—bring layers for cooler evenings and wear sun protection for midday sightseeing cruises.
Follow crew guidance: From safety instructions to onboard assistance, the friendly crew ensures your cruise runs smoothly. Listen for announcements and ask for help if needed.
Enjoy the ride: Sit back, relax, and let the sounds of live jazz, the sights of the Mississippi, and the flavors of Creole cuisine immerse you in the magic of New Orleans.
Get here to start sailing
Toulouse Street Wharf
Address: 400 Toulouse St, New Orleans, LA 70130, United States | Find on Maps
Famous for: This central location in New Orleans’ historic French Quarter is ideal for sightseeing pre- or post-cruise.
Nearby landmark: Old Man River Statue (1-min walk)
Closest bus stop: Canal and Magazine (10-min walk)
Plan your visit
General Cruise Timings:
Sightseeing Jazz Cruise: Departs daily at 10:30am and 1:45pm
Lunch Jazz Cruise: Departs daily at 11am and 2pm
Evening Jazz Dinner Cruise: Departs daily at 6pm and 7:45pm
Sunday Brunch Cruise: Departs at 10:30am and 1:45pm
Duration: Each cruise lasts approximately 2 to 2.5 hours, including boarding
Evening cruises are ideal if you’re after romance, sunset photography, or cooler temperatures after a warm day in New Orleans. The Dinner Jazz Cruise, in particular, offers an unforgettable mix of live music, Creole dining, and city lights shimmering on the water.
For those focused on sightseeing and daytime photography, a midday or early afternoon cruise provides the best natural lighting.
Weekdays tend to see smaller crowds, making them ideal for those who prefer a quieter cruise with easier access to the best deck seating and photo spots.
The spring (April and May) and early fall (October) are the best times to take the Steamboat Natchez cruise. These months offer mild temperatures, lower humidity, and clearer skies, all of which enhance the scenic river views.
Restrooms are available on both main and upper decks.
You can head over to the onboard shop to take home souvenirs, local crafts, and memorabilia.
All cruises feature live jazz performances.
Indoor seating areas are air-conditioned, while outdoor decks are open-air.
There is a full-service section of beverages available on board for those above 21 years of age to purchase.
All the restrooms have accessible stalls.
The main deck is wheelchair accessible. The upper deck is accessible only via stairs.
Strollers are allowed on the main deck, but must be folded during busy cruises.
You can bring along your service animals as long as you have proper documentation with you.
The use of flash is discouraged during live performances to avoid disturbing other guests. Tripods and drones are not permitted onboard.
You cannot bring large bags and suitcases with you.
Dress code is casual and comfortable for all cruises, but opt for a smart-casual outfit for dinner sailings. Swap your jeans with khakis or dress pants with a polo or button-down shirt, or a skirt or slacks paired with a blouse or stylish top.
Swimwear and bare feet are not permitted at any time.
This is a smoke-free experience.
A full service of beverages can be purchased and consumed only by guests aged 21 years and over with a valid photo ID.
Pets are not allowed onboard.
Frequently asked questions about Steamboat Natchez cruises
You can choose from several ticket options, including the classic sightseeing cruise, the lunch cruise, the dinner cruise, and the Sunday brunch cruise. Each ticket tier offers different inclusions, from basic admission to full Southern-style meals.
The standard ticket covers your cruise on the Steamboat Natchez, live narration about the river’s history, and toe-tapping jazz music performed by the Duke Heitger’s Steamboat Stompers Jazz Trio. Food and drinks are available for purchase onboard.
Yes! You can upgrade to include a meal, or book the Sunday Brunch Jazz Cruise for a more festive atmosphere.
The jazz dinner cruise ticket includes a two-hour evening cruise, a delicious buffet dinner featuring classic Creole and Cajun dishes, and reserved seating. You’ll also enjoy live jazz throughout the evening, making it a perfect choice for a romantic night or special celebration.
Yes, the Steamboat Natchez is wheelchair accessible, with ramps and accessible restrooms.
Absolutely! The Dukes of Dixieland jazz band or Duke Heitger’s Steamboat Stompers Jazz Trio perform on the cruises, creating a lively, authentic New Orleans atmosphere.
Definitely! Kids love the paddlewheel, the music, and the chance to explore the decks. There are child-friendly menu options and plenty of space to roam.
The Steamboat NATCHEZ and the Riverboat CITY of NEW ORLEANS will alternate cruises based on bookings and private charters until March 2026, after which each will follow its own schedule. You’ll still enjoy the same two-hour river journey, complete with traditional live jazz, craft cocktails, and beautiful city views. Don’t forget to head up to the top deck for the best lookout point.
Shirts and shoes are required on all cruises. While casual attire is fine, we recommend you turn up in “dressy casual” for the Dinner Jazz Cruise. Switch your jeans for some dress pants or a skirt and a blouse or a stylish top. Men can zhuzh it up with a collared shirt (button-down or polo).
This vessel is a completely non-smoking environment, including all indoor areas and outer decks.
This experience is accessible to wheelchair and pram/stroller users.
For your convenience, guide dogs are welcome to join you.
Boarding begins 30 minutes before departure. We recommend arriving at least 30 minutes early.
Individuals 21 years of age and older may purchase beverages after presenting a valid photo ID with their birthdate, as required by Louisiana law.
Inclusions
#
2-hour steamboat cruise
Expert guide
Live Calliope jazz concert
Exclusions
#
Beverages (Available for purchase onboard)
Hotel pickup and drop-off
Gratuities
You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
The Steamboat NATCHEZ and Riverboat CITY of NEW ORLEANS will rotate service according to bookings and charters through March 2026, after which each will resume independent operations. Either way, you'll still enjoy two hours of live jazz, cocktails, and Crescent City charm on a steamboat.
Shirts and shoes are a must on all cruises. For the Dinner Jazz Cruise, we recommend going “dressy casual.” Think dress pants, skirts, or a stylish blouse. Guys, a polo or button-down shirt adds a nice touch.
Smoking is prohibited on the entire vessel, including all indoor areas and outdoor decks.
The cruise is fully wheelchair and stroller accessible.
Guide dogs are more than welcome to join you on board.
Cruise doors open at least 30 minutes before departure. Arrive early to make boarding easy and stress-free.
Guests 21 years and over can enjoy beverages from the counter. Bring a valid photo ID with your birthdate, as required by Louisiana law.
Inclusions
#
2-hour steamboat cruise
Expert guide
Live New Orleans swing style concert by Grammy-nominated Dukes of Dixieland Jazz
Buffet dinner as per option selected (see the menu here)
Exclusions
#
Alcoholic Beverages (Available for purchase onboard)
Hotel pickup and drop-off
Gratuities
You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Taste authentic Creole flavours as you lunch aboard an iconic cruise along the Mississippi River with live jazz.
Everything you get: Enjoy a Creole lunch on a 2-hour Mississippi River cruise. Take in New Orleans views from indoor and outdoor decks, and watch a live jazz performance while you sail.
Why choose this: Combine classic New Orleans sightseeing with live jazz, a historic paddlewheeler atmosphere, and a freshly prepared Creole lunch—all in one memorable river cruise experience.
Upgrades: Choose to savor a freshly prepared lunch on either the 11am or 2pm cruise—giving you the flexibility to dine at your preferred time.
Alcoholic Beverages (Available for purchase onboard)
Hotel pickup and drop-off
Gratuities
Cruises aboard the Steamboat NATCHEZ and Riverboat CITY of NEW ORLEANS will be assigned interchangeably through March 2026 based on availability and private event bookings. This won't hinder your experience, though. You'll still enjoy a two-hour cruise that includes live jazz, craft drinks, and views of New Orleans' best seen from the top deck.
Shirts and shoes are required for all cruises. Casual wear is welcome, but for the Dinner Jazz Cruise, we suggest “dressy casual.” Swap jeans for dress pants, a skirt, or a stylish blouse. Men might opt for a polo or button-down shirt for a polished touch.
Smoking is not permitted anywhere on the vessel, including all indoor spaces and outdoor decks.
The cruise is fully accessible for wheelchair and stroller users.
Guide dogs are welcome to accompany guests on board.
Boarding opens at least 30 min before departure. Please arrive early to ensure a smooth check-in.
Guests aged 21+ can purchase beer, wine, and specialty cocktails at the onboard bar with a valid photo ID showing date of birth, in accordance with Louisiana law.
You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Spend your Sunday brunching along the Mississippi River on this iconic cruise.
Everything you get: This two-hour Sunday cruise features a live jazz performance by the Steamboat Stompers, a buffet New Orleans brunch, historic sight narration, access to the Riverboat Gift Shop, and unforgettable river views.
Why choose this: There's no better way to soak up New Orleans' soulful spirit than a Sunday cruise, where the rhythm of live jazz, the charm of the river, and the tradition of leisurely weekends come together.
Inclusions
#
2-hour steamboat daytime cruise on Sunday
Expert guide
Live Jazz performance by Duke Heitger’s Steamboat Stompers Jazz Trio
The Steamboat NATCHEZ and Riverboat CITY of NEW ORLEANS will share cruising duties through March 2026, with assignments based on demand and private event bookings. Savor live jazz, sip on handcrafted cocktails, and take in unforgettable views from all four decks—especially the top.
Make sure to wear a shirt and shoes—those are a must for all cruises. We suggest going “dressy casual.” Think slacks or a skirt with a nice top. Guys, a polo or button-down always looks sharp.
Smoking isn’t allowed anywhere on the boat, including outdoor decks.
The cruise is fully accessible for both wheelchairs and strollers.
Service animals like guide dogs are absolutely welcome on board.
Boarding starts at least 30 minutes before departure, so arrive early for a smooth, relaxed start to your cruise.
If you’re 21 or older, you can purchase your beverage at the counter—just don’t forget to bring a valid photo ID (Louisiana law requires it).
You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Sightseeing Cruises
Steamboat Natchez Sightseeing Jazz Cruise
The Steamboat NATCHEZ and the Riverboat CITY of NEW ORLEANS will alternate cruises based on bookings and private charters until March 2026, after which each will follow its own schedule. You’ll still enjoy the same two-hour river journey, complete with traditional live jazz, craft cocktails, and beautiful city views. Don’t forget to head up to the top deck for the best lookout point.
Shirts and shoes are required on all cruises. While casual attire is fine, we recommend you turn up in “dressy casual” for the Dinner Jazz Cruise. Switch your jeans for some dress pants or a skirt and a blouse or a stylish top. Men can zhuzh it up with a collared shirt (button-down or polo).
This vessel is a completely non-smoking environment, including all indoor areas and outer decks.
This experience is accessible to wheelchair and pram/stroller users.
For your convenience, guide dogs are welcome to join you.
Boarding begins 30 minutes before departure. We recommend arriving at least 30 minutes early.
Individuals 21 years of age and older may purchase beverages after presenting a valid photo ID with their birthdate, as required by Louisiana law.
You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Book now, pay later
Book now without paying anything. Cancel for free if your plans change.
3 hr.
Guided tour
Dinner Cruises
Steamboat Natchez Evening Cruise with Dinner
The Steamboat NATCHEZ and Riverboat CITY of NEW ORLEANS will rotate service according to bookings and charters through March 2026, after which each will resume independent operations. Either way, you'll still enjoy two hours of live jazz, cocktails, and Crescent City charm on a steamboat.
Shirts and shoes are a must on all cruises. For the Dinner Jazz Cruise, we recommend going “dressy casual.” Think dress pants, skirts, or a stylish blouse. Guys, a polo or button-down shirt adds a nice touch.
Smoking is prohibited on the entire vessel, including all indoor areas and outdoor decks.
The cruise is fully wheelchair and stroller accessible.
Guide dogs are more than welcome to join you on board.
Cruise doors open at least 30 minutes before departure. Arrive early to make boarding easy and stress-free.
Guests 21 years and over can enjoy beverages from the counter. Bring a valid photo ID with your birthdate, as required by Louisiana law.
You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Book now, pay later
Book now without paying anything. Cancel for free if your plans change.
3 hr.
Guided tour
Meals included
Lunch Cruises
Steamboat Natchez Sightseeing Jazz Cruise with Lunch
Taste authentic Creole flavours as you lunch aboard an iconic cruise along the Mississippi River with live jazz.
Everything you get: Enjoy a Creole lunch on a 2-hour Mississippi River cruise. Take in New Orleans views from indoor and outdoor decks, and watch a live jazz performance while you sail.
Why choose this: Combine classic New Orleans sightseeing with live jazz, a historic paddlewheeler atmosphere, and a freshly prepared Creole lunch—all in one memorable river cruise experience.
Upgrades: Choose to savor a freshly prepared lunch on either the 11am or 2pm cruise—giving you the flexibility to dine at your preferred time.
You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Book now, pay later
Book now without paying anything. Cancel for free if your plans change.
2 hr.
Guided tour
Meals included
Lunch Cruises
Steamboat Natchez Sunday Jazz Cruise with Brunch
Spend your Sunday brunching along the Mississippi River on this iconic cruise.
Everything you get: This two-hour Sunday cruise features a live jazz performance by the Steamboat Stompers, a buffet New Orleans brunch, historic sight narration, access to the Riverboat Gift Shop, and unforgettable river views.
Why choose this: There's no better way to soak up New Orleans' soulful spirit than a Sunday cruise, where the rhythm of live jazz, the charm of the river, and the tradition of leisurely weekends come together.