New Orleans Steamboat Natchez Jazz Cruise
New Orleans, United States

New Orleans Steamboat Natchez Jazz Cruise

Outty Ranking 72 4.3 · 6,116 traveler reviews2 hoursFrom $44
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Outty Ranking

72/100

Strongly Recommended. Our proprietary evaluation. How we score

Traveler rating

4.3/5

Based on 6,116 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.

Quick answer

Is New Orleans Steamboat Natchez Jazz Cruise worth booking?

New Orleans Steamboat Natchez Jazz Cruise is a 2-hour experience in New Orleans, United States, from $44 per person. It scores 72 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Strongly Recommended”, based on a 4.3/5 rating across 6,116 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.

Outty Ranking
72 / 100
Rating
4.3/5 (6,116)
Duration
2 hours
From
$44 per person

Board your riverboat to the delightful tunes of the Steam Calliope. Experience the sights and sounds of river life that enchanted characters of history and literature - like Mark Twain's Huck Finn and Tom Sawyer - and see the bustling activity of America's second-largest port! This authentic riverboat experience of a leisurely, two-hour cruise on the mighty Mississippi, features traditional live jazz, craft cocktails, and all the beautiful New Orleans sites. Make sure you check out the Steam Engine Room on the bottom deck! Lunch option available Monday - Saturday. Brunch option available Sunday only. The boat boards at 11:00am and 2:00pm and departs promptly at 11:30am and 2:30pm. We recommend arriving 15 minutes prior to boarding.

What you get

    About this experience

    Board your riverboat to the delightful tunes of the Steam Calliope. Experience the sights and sounds of river life that enchanted characters of history and literature - like Mark Twain's Huck Finn and Tom Sawyer - and see the bustling activity of America's second-largest port! This authentic riverboat experience of a leisurely, two-hour cruise on the mighty Mississippi, features traditional live jazz, craft cocktails, and all the beautiful New Orleans sites. Make sure you check out the Steam Engine Room on the bottom deck! Lunch option available Monday - Saturday. Brunch option available Sunday only. The boat boards at 11:00am and 2:00pm and departs promptly at 11:30am and 2:30pm. We recommend arriving 15 minutes prior to boarding.

    What's included

    Included

    • Creole-Inspired Brunch on Sunday (if option selected)
    • Live Commentary Onboard
    • Climate controlled areas
    • Creole-Inspired Lunch Monday-Saturday (if option selected)
    • 2-Hour Paddlewheel Cruise
    • On-board restrooms
    • Live Jazz by the Steamboat Stompers

    Not included

    • Gratuities
    • Alcoholic Beverages (Available for Purchase)

    What you'll see and do

    1. View the ever-changing skyline of 'The Crescent City' from the sunny decks or climate-controlled comfort of the majestic Steamer Natchez.

      Admission included

    2. Mississippi River

      Cruise past the Chalmette Battlefield, where the legendary Jean Lafitte and his buccaneers joined forces with Andrew Jackson to defend the city against the British in the Battle of New Orleans. You also have the option to add on a delicious buffet lunch.

    Where it starts and ends

    Meeting point

    New Orleans

    The Riverboat CITY of NEW ORLEANS dock is just two blocks from Jackson Square in the French Quarter. Boarding begins 30 minute prior to your departure time. The band begins at boarding time, so be sure to arrive early!

    Meeting point

    New Orleans

    The Steamboat NATCHEZ dock is just one block from Jackson Square in the French Quarter. Boarding begins 30 minute prior to your departure time. The band begins at boarding time, so be sure to arrive early!

    Hotel pickup

    No pickup: everyone meets at the start point.

    Ends at

    The Riverboat CITY of NEW ORLEANS dock is just two blocks from Jackson Square in the French Quarter. Boarding begins 30 minute prior to your departure time. The band begins at boarding time, so be sure to arrive early!

    Ends at

    The Steamboat NATCHEZ dock is just one block from Jackson Square in the French Quarter. Boarding begins 30 minute prior to your departure time. The band begins at boarding time, so be sure to arrive early!

    Options you can book

    • Steamboat NATCHEZ 2:00 Lunch

      1st Lunch Seating: Boarding: 2PM Cruising: 2:30PM - 4:30PM Lunch Time: 2PM - 3:15PM Starting point: Steamboat NATCHEZ, 400 Toulouse St, New Orleans, LA 70130, USA

    • Steamboat NATCHEZ- No Meal

      No Meal Starting point: Steamboat NATCHEZ, 400 Toulouse St, New Orleans, LA 70130, USA

    • CITY of NEW ORLEANS - No Meal

      Sightseeing Cruise - No Meal: This cruise is aboard the Riverboat CITY of NEW ORLEANS (sister vessel to the Steamboat NATCHEZ). Brunch not included. Riverboat CITY of NEW ORLEANS Boards at 11:00am: Cruises 11:30am - 1:30pm Starting point: Riverboat CITY of NEW ORLEANS, 101 St Louis St, New Orleans, LA 70130, USA

    • Steamboat NATCHEZ 12:15 Lunch

      Second Lunch Seating: Boarding: 11AM Cruising: 11:30AM - 1:30PM Lunch Time: 12:15PM - 1:15PM Starting point: Steamboat NATCHEZ, 400 Toulouse St, New Orleans, LA 70130, USA

    • Steamboat NATCHEZ 11:00 Lunch

      First Lunch Seating: Boarding: 11AM Cruising: 11:30AM - 1:30PM Lunch Time: 11AM - 12PM Starting point: Steamboat NATCHEZ, 400 Toulouse St, New Orleans, LA 70130, USA

    • Steamboat NATCHEZ - No Meal

      Steamboat NATCHEZ: Sightseeing Cruise - No Meal: This option does not include the brunch. Board the vessel at 11AM or 2PM Starting point: Steamboat NATCHEZ, 400 Toulouse St, New Orleans, LA 70130, USA

    • CITY of NEW ORLEANS - Brunch

      75¢ Saturday Mimosa Special: 75¢ Mimosa Special thru Sept. 30, 2026: Dining guests 21+ with valid ID can enjoy 75¢ mimosas on Saturday Brunch Cruises Price includes Creole Brunch: This cruise is aboard the Riverboat CITY of NEW ORLEANS (sister vessel to the Steamboat NATCHEZ). Riverboat CITY of NEW ORLEANS Boards at 11:00am: Cruises 11:30am - 1:30pm Starting point: Riverboat CITY of NEW ORLEANS, 101 St Louis St, New Orleans, LA 70130, USA

    • Steamboat NATCHEZ - Brunch

      Includes Sunday Jazz Brunch: Sample Menu: Chicken and Sausage Gumbo, Creamy French Eggs, Top Round Beef, Shrimp & Grits, and Fresh Cinnamon Rolls Starting point: Steamboat NATCHEZ, 400 Toulouse St, New Orleans, LA 70130, USA

    • Steamboat NATCHEZ 3:15 Lunch

      2nd Lunch Seating: Boarding: 2PM Cruising: 2:30PM - 4:30PM Lunch Time: 3:15PM - 4:15PM Starting point: Steamboat NATCHEZ, 400 Toulouse St, New Orleans, LA 70130, USA

    Before you book

    Cancellation
    For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
    Languages
    en
    Ticket
    Mobile Only
    Runs on
    Every day
    Group size
    Up to 30 travelers per booking
    Operated by
    Gray Line New Orleans

    Know before you go

    • Wheelchair accessible
    • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
    • Service animals allowed
    • Public transportation options are available nearby
    • Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
    • Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
    • All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
    • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
    • In order to help preserve the French Quarter from vehicular traffic, it is requested that you please walk, if possible, to the convenient tour departure point - just a short stroll from most downtown hotels.
    • The Steamboat NATCHEZ is handclapped accessible to the main deck and restrooms only.
    • Infant rates apply provided they do not occupy a seat.
    • The tour cruises rain or shine, however the cruise may be cancelled due to severe or dangerous weather conditions.
    • Anyone looking to book a group of 9 or more should contact the booking site directly. Different rates apply.
    • **Important for Groups of 10+** Parties of 10 or more guests require physical tickets for boarding. Please check in with our Lighthouse Ticket Office prior to boarding to receive your tickets. Please allow extra time for check-in.

    Photos

    Lunch buffet, if option selected, New Orleans Steamboat Natchez Jazz CruiseNew Orleans Steamboat Natchez Jazz Cruise, photo 3New Orleans Steamboat Natchez Jazz Cruise, photo 4Authentic Paddlewheel - 26 tons of white oak, New Orleans Steamboat Natchez Jazz CruiseNew Orleans Steamboat Natchez Jazz Cruise, photo 6New Orleans Steamboat Natchez Jazz Cruise, photo 7

    What travelers are saying

    Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 6,079 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.

    Food and drink

    6 mentions

    The tastings and food stops are a highlight for most reviewers.

    Knowledge and storytelling

    3 mentions

    Reviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.

    Value for money

    2 mentions

    Travelers feel they got more than they paid for.

    Traveler reviews

    6,079 verified traveler reviews for New Orleans Steamboat Natchez Jazz Cruise. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.

    5 star
    3,599
    4 star
    1,302
    3 star
    655
    2 star
    241
    1 star
    282
    Sort
    denisedL1360AF · October 2026

    Well worth it

    It was a pretty cool thing to see. The engine is absolutely insane!

    via Tripadvisor

    Vicki_W · October 2026

    Mississippi trip was well worth it.

    Fantastic. Everyone had so much fun good food. Amazing trip music was great to. We had a real lot of fun!!

    via Viator

    Heather_S · October 2026

    Great time!

    Food was great! Band on board was really good also. Fast and friendly service with good commentary while we ate.

    via Viator

    X8969ZGmichellep · October 2026

    Jazz Cruise

    Very Relaxing and Enjoyable Experience!!

    via Tripadvisor

    702amandam · October 2026

    Enjoyable couple of hours

    Despite the weather conspiring against them, this was a very well run trip. We chose the Sunday brunch option and whilst it won’t earn any Michelin stars, there was plenty of good food to be had by all, although they did run out of pastries early on during the trip. Food and drink was available on all levels of the boat, and there was a small gift shop on board. Photos taken before boarding were available to purchase at a reasonable price ( and included digital versions)

    via Tripadvisor

    Good to know

    Duration
    2 hours
    Free cancellation
    Up to 24h before
    Minimum age to book
    All ages
    Availability
    Bookable today
    Runs on
    Every day
    Price range
    $44 to $83
    Hotel pickup
    No pickup, meet at start point
    Booked in 30 days
    2,141
    Verdict
    Strongly Recommended

    Who runs this experience

    Operated by Gray Line New Orleans, who run 21 experiences we rank across 1 city, with an average Outty Ranking of 66.1.

    See everything Gray Line New Orleans runs

    Why this scores 72

    The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.

    Traveler sentiment (30% weight)50
    Review evidence (18% weight)100
    Booking momentum (14% weight)100
    Value for money (12% weight)71
    Listing quality (10% weight)84
    Local standing (8% weight)1
    Booking flexibility (8% weight)100

    New Orleans Steamboat Natchez Jazz Cruise: questions travelers ask

    Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for New Orleans.

    How much does New Orleans Steamboat Natchez Jazz Cruise cost?

    +

    Prices start at $44 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in New Orleans usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.

    How long does New Orleans Steamboat Natchez Jazz Cruise take?

    +

    Plan for about 2 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in New Orleans is not rushed.

    Is New Orleans Steamboat Natchez Jazz Cruise worth it?

    +

    It holds an Outty Ranking of 72 out of 100, which we label "Strongly Recommended". That score blends traveler sentiment (4.3/5 across 6,116 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable most popular in New Orleans, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.

    Can I cancel or reschedule New Orleans Steamboat Natchez Jazz Cruise?

    +

    Yes. Cancel free up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Inside that window the booking is non-refundable, and no-shows are not refunded.

    Is New Orleans Steamboat Natchez Jazz Cruise suitable for kids and families?

    +

    Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 2-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.

    How far in advance should I book New Orleans Steamboat Natchez Jazz Cruise?

    +

    Around 2,141 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in New Orleans can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.

    What should I bring or wear?

    +

    Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in New Orleans and add a light layer if any part of the 2-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.

    Where does New Orleans Steamboat Natchez Jazz Cruise start and how do I get there?

    +

    The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central New Orleans within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.

    What are the best things to do in New Orleans?

    +

    New Orleans runs on licensed guides, and it shows: the city requires certification for tour guides, so the floor is higher here than most US cities. Ghost and cemetery walks, French Quarter food crawls, plantation history day trips and swamp boat runs make up the bulk. We rank on whether the operator handles cemetery access properly, since St. Louis No. 1 needs an authorised guide. On Outty we rank every New Orleans experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include New Orleans Swamp and Bayou Boat Tour with Transportation, New Orleans Adults-Only True Crime and Ghost Walking Tour, New Orleans Garden District History Walking Tour. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.

    When is the best time to visit New Orleans?

    +

    February to May and October to November. August is heat and storm season. Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.

    How many days do you need in New Orleans?

    +

    Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.

    Do I book through Outty or through the operator?

    +

    Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.

    What is included in New Orleans Steamboat Natchez Jazz Cruise?

    +

    Included: Creole-Inspired Brunch on Sunday (if option selected); Live Commentary Onboard; Climate controlled areas; Creole-Inspired Lunch Monday-Saturday (if option selected); and 2-Hour Paddlewheel Cruise. Not included: Gratuities; and Alcoholic Beverages (Available for Purchase). Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.

    Where is the meeting point for New Orleans Steamboat Natchez Jazz Cruise?

    +

    The Riverboat CITY of NEW ORLEANS dock is just two blocks from Jackson Square in the French Quarter. Boarding begins 30 minute prior to your departure time. The band begins at boarding time, so be sure to arrive early! Hotel pickup is not included, so plan your own transport and arrive 15 minutes early.

    What languages is New Orleans Steamboat Natchez Jazz Cruise offered in?

    +

    It runs in English. Pick your language when choosing a date and time, as not every departure runs in every language.

    Will I get instant confirmation and a mobile ticket for New Orleans Steamboat Natchez Jazz Cruise?

    +

    Confirmation is sent by the operator after booking, usually within 48 hours; if it is not confirmed you are not charged. Mobile tickets are accepted, so you can show the voucher on your phone.

    Is New Orleans Steamboat Natchez Jazz Cruise wheelchair or stroller accessible?

    +

    The operator notes: Wheelchair accessible; Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller; Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap; and Transportation options are wheelchair accessible. If accessibility is critical, contact the operator after booking to confirm arrangements for your date.

    What happens to New Orleans Steamboat Natchez Jazz Cruise if the weather is bad?

    +

    This experience depends on good weather. If it is canceled because of poor weather, you are offered a different date or a full refund.

    What do travelers say about New Orleans Steamboat Natchez Jazz Cruise?

    +

    Across 6,116 reviews averaging 4.3 out of 5, recurring themes include food and drink, knowledge and storytelling, value for money. The tastings and food stops are a highlight for most reviewers.

    What booking options are available for New Orleans Steamboat Natchez Jazz Cruise?

    +

    There are 9 options to choose from, including Steamboat NATCHEZ 2:00 Lunch, Steamboat NATCHEZ- No Meal, CITY of NEW ORLEANS - No Meal, Steamboat NATCHEZ 12:15 Lunch. Prices and start times differ by option, so compare them on the booking screen.

    Ready to lock in your spot?

    Pick a date, choose your group, and see the exact price for New Orleans Steamboat Natchez Jazz Cruise.

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