sanchez riverboat new orleans

Steamboat Natchez

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New Orleans Steamboat Natchez Jazz Cruise

Steamboat Natchez Evening Jazz Cruise with Dinner Option

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

Steamboat Natchez Sunday Jazz Brunch Cruise in New Orleans

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

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

Steamboat NATCHEZ - Evening Jazz Cruise with Dinner Option

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

Upgrade your cruise experience with our "Party Package" which includes a two-hour cruise, Dinner Buffet (1st seating option),  three alcoholic beverages from our special drink menu  (unlimited soft drinks and juice for children), a decorated reserved table in an air-conditioned dining room, and a sweet treat.

Nightly Departures

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

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

Cruise Features:

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

View menu  

All menu items are prepared in a common kitchen.  Steps are taken to minimize the likelihood of exposure to airborne gluten elements, but our menu is not recommended for those with gluten-sensitive disorders.  We can recommend items on our menu that are not prepared as gluten inclusive. For vegan or vegetarian guests, we can recommend those items not inclusive of meat ingredients or animal products. We are unable to prepare separate individual meals for these preferences/needs.

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The Heart of Louisiana

Steamboat Natchez

The hot steam warms up the brass whistles of the Calliope on the Steamboat Natchez on a chilly winter morning, signaling the start of a journey steeped in history and tradition. This iconic steamboat is a symbol of New Orleans’ rich maritime heritage.

the calliope calls the curious to the riverfront

The old-time melodies of the calliope greet passengers boarding the Steamboat Natchez for a midday cruise. Played by Debbie Fagnano for over three decades, her rendition of “Blue Skies” serves as a unique weather report. The music echoes throughout the French Quarter and draws people to the riverboat dock.

crew and passengers step back in time

Steve Nicoulin is the captain of the Natchez.  He replaced his father, who has worked on the steamboat since it arrived in New Orleans in 1975.  Nicoulin Senior still takes the controls on some river cruises.  The tug of a brass ring in the pilot house shoots steam through the boat’s loud whistle.  The brass ring is the oldest thing on the boat, Nicoulin tells me, explaining, “This ring actually came off an old steamer back in 1889.”

pieces from the past

The Natchez, nearing its 50th anniversary, is powered by steam engines from a 1925 vessel, the Clairton. Twin diesel-fired boilers generate the 200 pounds of steam that drive the boat’s antique piston engines and large paddle wheel. A World War II era communication system, salvaged from a Navy destroyer, connects the captain to the engine room.

steamboat natchez cruise featured on tv

steamboat natchez survives fire during renovations

The steamer has an “old school feel”, Nicoulin says, noting how rare the vessels are now.  “When I started with the company, there were six remaining steamboats,” he explains.  “Now there are only two left on the whole Mississippi River.” The Natchez resumed taking tourists on daily trips up and down the Mississippi River after a three year absence. A fire broke out in the steamboat’s generator room while the vessel was undergoing renovations.

A slower pace on the steamboat natchez

Matt Dow, the Director of Marine Operations for the New Orleans Steamboat Company , says it was important to get the Natchez back in service.  He describes it as an icon of New Orleans.  When I asked Dow what makes the river cruises so enjoyable, he quotes Mark Twain.  “Twain said it best,” Dow says. “Someday man will figure out how to go 700 miles per hour.  But we’ll still only want to go seven.”

The Natchez takes passengers on several daily cruises that depart from the New Orleans riverfront near Jackson Square.  The paddle wheeler first travels several miles downstream, passing the Chalmette Battlefield where Andrew Jackson fought the Battle of New Orleans.  Then the steamboat heads back upstream, passing by the French Quarter and St. Louis Cathedral.  The Natchez turns around at the Mississippi River Bridge and returns to the dock.  The cruise is a relaxing ride that begins with the calliope and a jazz band, that preserves bits of river history and tradition on the Mississippi River.

getting there

Passengers board the Steamboat Natchez on the New Orleans Riverfront near Jackson Square.

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Steamboat Natchez

Price & Hours

• Facilities 4.0
• Atmosphere 4.5

U.S. News Insider Tip: Book a dinner cruise for sunset views, and bring a light jacket as it gets cool out on the water at night. – Amanda Norcross, Content & SEO Strategist

Steamboat Natchez launched in 1975 and is a traditional sternwheel steamboat that takes visitors on a tour of the Mississippi River. The tours aim to cultivate an atmosphere that transports guests to another era, with the captain shouting through a hand-held megaphone and old-time music lingering in the air. Steamboat Natchez offers a few tour options, including a dinner jazz cruise, a daytime jazz cruise, a Sunday jazz brunch cruise and select special event cruises. The tours last about two hours and include a concert, a narration of historical facts and an optional meal; a gift shop and bar are also available on board. The boat is equipped with indoor and outdoor seating.

Many travelers raved about their experience on the steamboat, saying it was a unique and entertaining way to see the city and the river, and that the staff members were friendly. Passengers say you must be sure to take a tour of the engine room. However, a few warned that the music was loud during boarding and that the tour tends to attract an older crowd.

Reservations are highly recommended and tickets start at $42 per adult and $20 per child. Children ages 2 to 5 are free. Prices vary by cruise and whether or not you'd like a meal included. Boarding begins half an hour before departure and all cruises depart and return to the Steamboat Natchez Lighthouse Ticket Office, at Toulouse Street and the Mississippi River. For additional information, including exact prices and booking information, visit the Steamboat Natchez website .

Tours & Tickets

Steamboat Natchez Evening Jazz Cruise with Dinner Option

(5435 reviews)

from $ 55.00

New Orleans Steamboat Natchez Jazz Cruise

(3723 reviews)

from $ 42.00

Steamboat Natchez Sunday Jazz Brunch Cruise in New Orleans

(734 reviews)

More Best Things To Do in New Orleans

#1 French Quarter

If you want to experience New Orleans properly, it's best to begin your tour here. Recent visitors said the neighborhood is lively, with lots to do and see and offers a one-of-a-kind experience. The neighborhood, also known as Vieux Carré , is the heart and soul of this city, and it's also a National Historic Landmark. As the site of the original New Orleans colony (established by the French in 1718), the French Quarter has held on to its heritage, complete with street names that are still listed in French. Wander the narrow cobblestone streets to find such attractions as Jackson Square , Faulkner House Books and the  Cabildo . While you're strolling, pay attention to the neighborhood's architecture: balconies are designed with baroque ironwork and hanging plants, while leafy courtyards are filled with bubbling fountains. The scene is definitely charming, but it can also be expensive if you choose to stay at any of the French Quarter's  hotels .

Undoubtedly, the French Quarter's main draw is Bourbon Street – New Orleans' infamous party hub. You'll find this street laden with performers and fortune tellers as well as rowdy bars. Although a trip to New Orleans isn't really complete without strolling down Bourbon Street, keep in mind that boisterous evenings on Bourbon are best appreciated by adult travelers. If you're tempted to hang your hat on Bourbon Street, don't. While it's fun to be at the center of the action, there's really no escaping the late-night noise.

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• Mississippi

Steamboat Natchez - New Orleans

Published: Jan 11, 2024 · This post may contain affiliate links

The Steamboat Natchez offers a paddle-wheel boat experience on the Mississippi River. Departing from the French Quarter in New Orleans this boat tour is a must-visit.

The Steamboat Natchez is the last authentic steamboat on the Mississippi River. You depart right from the French Quarter Dock in New Orleans for a great cruise up the Mississippi River.

Make sure and explore the boat during your visit. It was so much fun checking out the different sections of the Steamboat Natchez. We tried to cruise upriver looking to the east and back down looking to the west. That way we got to see as many of the sites as we could.

Steam is the sole means of forward and reverse propulsion for the Steamboat Natchez. During your cruise, you can visit the Steam Engine Room to learn how it works.

The Steamboat Natchez has ample covered area for unexpected showers that you may encounter depending on what time of year you cruise. The gift shop also had rain ponchos which many guests were happy to find during our cruise.

We have taken a cruise on the Steamboat Natchez at least three times if not more often. During rain storms, foggy conditions, and a few nice sunny days we have enjoyed every cruise we have taken.

Even on a rainy foggy day in New Orleans, it was so much fun. We enjoyed some lovely cocktails and watching the shoreline go by from the comfort of one of the lounges onboard.

Boat Tour Options

There is an impressive number of boat cruise options aboard the Steamboat Natchez. Many come with optional meals if you would like to dine while onboard.

They also serve craft cocktails in the bar located onboard.

Daytime Jazz Cruise 

This two-hour cruise on the Mississippi River includes a lunch cruise option if you want to enjoy live music and a great meal at the same time.

Enjoy live narration of historical facts and highlights of the New Orleans Port during your cruise. Duke Heitger's Steamboat Stompers Jazz Trio plays during the cruise.

Buffet lunch options include southern fried fish, red beans and rice, jambalaya, white chocolate bread pudding, community coffee, or iced tea.

There are cocktails and additional drinks available onboard.

Book Tickets HERE

Evening Jazz Cruise

The Dinner Jazz Cruise includes the cruise, buffet dinner, and live entertainment by the Grammy-nominated Dukes of Dixieland Jazz Trio.

Enjoy the lights of New Orleans once the sun goes down.

The dinner buffet options include tossed salad, chicken and sausage gumbo, bayou seafood pasta, Creole vegetarian jambalaya, fingerling potatoes, green beans almondine, paddlewheel primavera, white chocolate bread pudding, bananas foster, and dinner rolls.

Book tickets HERE 

Sunday Jazz Cruise

The Sunday Jazz Cruise is a two-hour Mississippi River cruise that includes live jazz music. You can enjoy a great New Orleans Brunch onboard while soaking in the sites.

Enjoy the live jazz band the Duke Heitger's Steamboat Stompers Jazz Trio plays during the Sunday Brunch cruise.

The brunch menu options includes chicken and sausage gumbo, grillades and grits, crescent city eggs, pain perdu, turkey sausage, O'Brien Potatoes, Creole Creamed spinach, mini croissants, fruit salad, bananas foster, and white chocolate bread pudding.

Holiday Events

Looking to celebrate a holiday with a boat tour check out the Steamboat Natchez under the mistletoe package, New Years Eve Cruise, Mardi Gras Party Package, or Valentine's Weekend Cruises.

Why you will love the Steamboat Natchez

• Located in the heart of the French Quarter
• Enjoy a boat tour of the Mighty Mississippi River
• Daily Calliope Concert
• Authentic experience of a grand paddle wheeler
• Kids will love exploring the boat
• Loved by Locals and Visitors

The entrance to board the Steamboat Natchez is across the cable car tracks. Look for the lighthouse looking building and walk towards it.

Make sure to look for cable cars while crossing! It is an active cable car line.

Things to know when planning a ride on the Steamboat Natchez

Reservations - Book Tickets HERE

Make sure to pick up your tickets at the Lighthouse Ticket Office

Address -  Toulouse Street Wharf behind Jax Brewery in the French Quarter

New Orleans, United States

Phone -  (504) 569-1401

Accessibility - There is a ramp leading up to the boat. Once on the boat the main level is accessible. There are stairs leading to the lower and upper floors.

The bathroom floor was slippery at times so make sure you are aware if you have any mobility restrictions.

Plus Size Seating - The chairs in the indoor dining room do not have arms on them. The outside chairs are super close to each other and do have arms on them.

There are benches available on upper and lower levels. An employee was really nice and brought an indoor chair outside for us to be able to enjoy the views comfortably.

Dress Code/Suggestions - Casual, comfortable with the weather. If you are taking a dinner jazz cruise you may want to go with dressy casual.

Pets - Service Animals are allowed on the boat but they request advance notice.

Parking   - Public parking is available in the French Quarter on Decatur Street and adjacent to the boat dock. You will need to pay an hourly or daily parking fee.

We parked in the Premium Parking Lot P401 right near the walkway to boarding the boat. The lot if pretty large and could fit small RVs and SUVs.

The P401 parking lot allows you to reserve a spot in advance. You can also add time if you decide to wander around the French Quarter or Jackson Square after your boat tour.

Smoking - There is no smoking or vaping allowed on the boat.

The Steamboat Natchez is run by the New Orleans Steamboat Company who also runs the Riverboat City of new Orleans.

Restaurants and Beautiful New Orleans Sites nearby

Cafe du Monde French Quarter - New Orleans bucket list destination with amazing beignets and chicory coffee. A must visit in the Big Easy!

New Orleans Souvenirs  - Check out the best souvenirs to pick up while in town.

Carousel Bar  - Visit this iconic New Orleans Bar where you can sit at the carousel and enjoy a great drink.

Chalmette Battlefield and Cemetery

New Orleans Jazz National Historical Park

Bourbon Street - Learn more about this iconic destination in New Orleans.

Gambino's Bakery - World-famous king cakes and the original Doberge Cake.

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

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

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

Creole Queen Historic Cruise

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

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

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

Creole Queen Jazz Brunch

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

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

Creole Queen Jazz Cruise

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

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

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

Steamboat Natchez Spring Fling Option

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

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

Steamboat Natchez Dinner Jazz Cruise

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

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

Steamboat Natchez Sunday Jazz Cruise

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

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

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

Steamboat Natchez Daytime Jazz Cruise

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

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

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

Hop aboard the Canal Street Ferry

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

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

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

Booze Cruise on The Cajun Queen

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

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

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The Calliope on Steamboat Natchez

The delightful sounds of the steam organ travel along river neighborhoods.

It happens almost every day around 11 a.m. and again later in the afternoon. Visitors strolling the streets of the Vieux Carré stop dead in their tracks, cock their heads toward the river and wonder, “Where’s that strange music coming from?” The most curious among them follow the loud yet breathless sounds of the whistle to the Toulouse Street Wharf where they can then see bursts of steam erupting from the calliope on the Steamboat Natchez. Synchronized colored lights dance along with each note.

The steam calliope, a steam pipe organ, has been identified with steamboats since 1865. Even small calliopes can be very loud and can be heard for miles. It was once a signal to head for the river: A showboat was ‘a comin’. Now it fills the French Quarter and beyond with its melodious peals reminding visitors and locals that steamboats still ply the Mississippi. So grab a seat on a bench in Woldenberg Park and enjoy the free show. 

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Steamboat Natchez

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Have a dinner unlike any other in New Orleans--and have it on the Mississippi River, aboard the famous Steamboat Natchez! The boat’s Dinner Jazz cruise provides a buffet-style Creole dinner featuring classic dishes like Southern Fried Fish, Creole Creamed Spinach, Roast Steak Loin, and Steamboat Natchez bread pudding with special white chocolate sauce, along with soup and favorites like the Penne Quattro Formaggi.

Diners enjoy jazz by the world-famous Dukes of Dixieland on this two-hour tour. After dinner, the New Orleans skyline and passing riverbanks provide a beautiful backdrop for moonlit dancing! Tour departs from the Toulouse Street Wharf, across from Jackson Square.

Sunday Jazz Brunch is a popular pastime in this European city. On both daytime cruises on Sunday, the option for the cruise PLUS the brunch buffet are frequently sold out - so be sure to reserve a dining room spot early. Brunch includes New Orleans favorites such as House Cured Ham, Creole Shrimp and Pasta Salad, Cheese Grits, Fresh handmade Beignets and more.

Three great New Orleans traditions come together to form the Steamboat Natchez’s cruises: great music, mouthwatering cuisine, and the majesty of the mighty Mississippi. The river’s cool breezes, accompanied by the jazz stylings of New Orleans’ own Dukes of Dixieland or Steamboat Stompers, refresh tourists and locals alike, whether relaxed sightseeing and enjoying cool libations from the bars, or joining us for lunch, brunch or dinner.

Tour Length 2 hours. Departs daily* from the Toulouse Street Wharf across from Jackson Square.

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Steamboat NATCHEZ Jazz Brunch Cruise

Welcome aboard the most unique blend of "real new orleans", combining a two hour cruise on the iconic steamboat natchez, with traditional live jazz from the steamboat stompers, and a mouth-watering new orleans brunch..

On this Sunday brunch cruise, travel along the Mississippi River while enjoying live jazz music and savoring a lovely tableside brunch. This authentic paddle-wheel riverboat will whisk you away to the romance and ambiance of yesteryear. Don't forget your camera, as you'll see amazing panoramas of New Orleans' skyline!

Departs every Sunday at 11:30am. Boarding begins at 11:00am. Please arrive 15 minutes prior to boarding.

What's included?

• Tip or gratuity

Please note

• Wheelchair accessible
• Stroller / pram accessible
• Public transportation nearby
• Infants must sit on your lap
• The riverboat cruises rain or shine
• The riverboat is handicap accessible. However, access to the top & bottom decks are by stairs only. Please call us with any questions before finalizing your plans if you have questions on access or personal equipment.
• Cruise is suitable for wheelchairs, but restrooms stalls are not wide enough to accommodate and there are no elevators on board.
• Infant rates apply provided they do not occupy a seat.
• Infant seats unavailable
• Please note that both the New Orleans Steamboat Company and Gray Line New Orleans share the 'Lighthouse' ticket office - you must go to the 'Gray Line' window to redeem your voucher for tickets. Please make sure that if you intend on participating in the buffet brunch portion of this tour, you must select the option that states it is "with brunch". Owner reserve the right to substitute a similar vessel should the NATCHEZ become unavailable. Periodically, Steamboat NATCHEZ will be out of service for her yearly Coast Guard inspections and general maintenance. All cruises during this time will take place on her sister vessel - the Riverboat CITY of NEW ORLEANS. 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. 

What to bring

  contact info, (504) 569-1401, [email protected], gray line new orleans, 400 toulouse st new orleans, la 70130 usa, useful links, let's connect.

The 7 Best Mississippi River Cruises for 2024

T he more than 2,300-mile Mississippi River invites travelers to discover its multifaceted heritage, with a vast range of deeply rooted culture, music and history. A cruise is a fantastic way to discover many of the riverfront cities on a single trip, from the comfort of your modern riverboat or traditional paddle-wheeler.

The following Mississippi River cruise itineraries can help you choose from cruises of various lengths and options for the Lower and Upper Mississippi. Note that all fares are listed as double occupancy (based on two people per cabin), and that they might not reflect taxes, port fees or gratuities. The itinerary availability listed is also subject to change.

American Cruise Lines

American Cruise Lines operates small ships accommodating between 90 and 180 passengers that are built, flagged and crewed in the U.S. – and it's the only company in the world operating a 100% U.S.-flagged fleet of riverboats and cruise ships. ACL's itineraries traverse waterways across 35 states, with 11 itineraries dedicated to the Mississippi River. Cruisers can choose to sail on modern riverboats with a sleek interior design or while away their time aboard classic paddle-wheelers reminiscent of days gone by.

ACL offers variety as well as versatility: This line boasts both the longest and shortest sailings on this list with cruises ranging from eight to 60 days in length, including The Great United States. This inaugural 60-day voyage spans four major rivers and 20 states, making it the longest U.S. river cruise in history.

Complimentary hotel and transportation packages are available from every departure city before your cruise. You can book certain premium packages for added perks, such as two nights spent next door to Graceland in Memphis – with VIP tickets and a city tour included in the price.

Music Cities Cruise

Length: Eight days

Price: Starts at $3,610 per person

Spend a week getting lost in the sounds of the Memphis blues, rock 'n' roll and country music legends on the seven-night Music Cities Cruise. A hotel stay the night before your sailing is included, but embarking in Memphis means you also have the chance to splurge on a two-night pre-cruise package near Elvis' former home Graceland .

Ports of call include Paducah, Kentucky; Dover, Tennessee; and Clarksville, Tennessee, with an overnight in Nashville and an included excursion to a show at the Grand Ole Opry. Two scenic sailing days feature picturesque views of America's Heartland along the Mississippi, Ohio and Cumberland rivers as well as Lake Barkley.

2024 dates: In 2024, there are two available itineraries in September and November.

Grand Heartland Cruise: St. Paul to New Orleans

Length: 15 days

Price: Starts at $9,455 per person

This 15-day voyage allows you to explore America's rich history in towns along the Upper and Lower Mississippi River. The immersive voyage covers six states and 12 cities including St. Paul, Minnesota ; Dubuque, Iowa; St. Louis, Missouri ; Memphis, Tennessee; Natchez, Mississippi; Baton Rouge, Louisiana ; and more.

Take a step back in time while visiting Mark Twain's boyhood home in Hannibal, exploring stately historic estates in Natchez and Civil War sites in Vicksburg. At the end of a busy day ashore, you'll have plenty to chat about with fellow passengers during the evening cocktail hour.

2024 dates: American Heritage – ACL's traditional paddle-wheeler – and three modern riverboats set off on this journey from August to October in 2024.

Complete Mississippi River Cruise: New Orleans to St. Paul

Length: 22 days

Price: Starts at $14,935 per person

If you want to see the entire Mississippi in one shot, check out this multiweek sailing that begins in New Orleans and ends in St. Paul, Minnesota. Along the way, you'll sail 1,393 miles, visit 10 states and experience a staggering 20 ports of call as you tour Louisiana and then head northbound to Minnesota.

In the South, walk the battlefields of the Civil War and sample delicious Southern barbecue before listening to the rhythms of jazz, the blues and rock 'n' roll. Then, explore the small and larger cities along the upper parts of the river. Remember to take time to gaze out at the picturesque scenery and the rolling farmlands of America's Midwest before disembarking in St. Paul.

2024 dates: Three of ACL's modern riverboats sail this itinerary in May, June and August in 2024.

The Great United States

Length: 60 days

Price: Starts at $51,000

This two-month long journey – the longest domestic itinerary ever created – will check all the boxes for U.S. history and Civil War buffs, music and nature lovers, culinary enthusiasts, and beer and distilled spirits aficionados alike as the ship traverses America's iconic waterways through 20 states and 50 ports of call.

This epic journey showcases the natural beauty and living history of the U.S. from sea to shining sea. The sailing embarks in Portland, Oregon , on the Pacific Coast before traveling east to the Atlantic shore along four major rivers that highlight some of the country's most stunning coastlines. Upon arrival in New York Harbor, guests will have an unforgettable view of one of the most iconic landmarks in the U.S.: the Statue of Liberty .

Passengers can follow in the footsteps of Lewis and Clark along the Snake and Columbia rivers; cruise along Ol' Man River in search of Mark Twain and Elvis; see the vibrant colors of fall during peak season on the Hudson River; and take in the coastal breezes (and fresh seafood) along New England's rocky coastline.

This curated adventure also includes two flights: Jackson, Wyoming , to New Orleans as well as St. Paul to Portland, Maine , plus a land package through Glacier , Yellowstone and Grand Teton national parks. All-inclusive pricing covers the pre-cruise hotel stay, all flights and hotels between cruise segments, an ACL jacket and gear pack, daily excursions, all meals and beverages, gratuities and port charges, entertainment, and Wi-Fi.

2024 dates: The inaugural cruise sets sail on August 16, 2024.

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Viking River Cruises

Viking is no stranger to sailing Europe's rivers; the brand is synonymous with river cruising worldwide aboard its dozens of ships. However, Viking River Cruises is a newcomer to U.S. rivers, with its purpose-built ship: the 386-passenger Viking Mississippi. Looking to carve out its own niche in the American river cruising category, Viking claims it has the region's "first truly modern cruise ship" with its distinct Scandinavian design and expansive top sun deck with an infinity plunge pool.

Viking's mostly all-inclusive fares include a complimentary excursion in each port, destination lectures and performances, beer and wine at meals, free Wi-Fi, specialty coffees and teas, and more. The line offers five itineraries ranging in length from eight to 22 days along the Mighty Mississippi. Pre- and post-cruise extensions can be added to all voyages for an additional expense.

New Orleans & Southern Charms: Round-trip from New Orleans

Price: Starts at $3,999 per person

If you don't know which Viking Mississippi itinerary to choose, start here. A round-trip voyage from New Orleans is convenient for booking flights and offers an excellent opportunity to extend your stay in NOLA. Six guided tours are included across eight days, from the historic estates of Natchez to Vicksburg National Military Park. A stop in St. Francisville gives you the chance to marvel at some of the 140-plus buildings it has on the National Register of Historic Places.

If you extend your stay in New Orleans, plan to sample the local Creole cuisine and take in some of the city's nightly jazz entertainment. In the morning, grab a beignet and a steaming cup of chicory coffee au lait at the original Café du Monde in the French Market.

2024 dates: This itinerary is available on select dates in February, November and December.

Heart of the Delta: New Orleans to Memphis

Length: Nine days

Price: Starts at $4,299 per person

Similar to its round-trip New Orleans Southern Charms itinerary, the Heart of the Delta cruise begins in New Orleans and calls on the same five ports, before sailing through the Lower Mississippi and disembarking in Memphis. Enjoy scenic views of the serpentine river route – perhaps with expert commentary or a local cooking demonstration – and then take time to explore the birthplace of the Memphis blues, which is also a center of civil rights history.

2024 dates: In 2024, this cruise is available in February, March, April, May, June and November.

America's Great River: St. Paul to New Orleans

Price: Starts at $12,999 per person

This Viking voyage sails from St. Paul to New Orleans on a two-week trip that calls on 13 ports with one day of scenic sailing. This itinerary combines the best of Viking's other Mississippi sailings for an all-encompassing Midwestern and Southern experience with 12 guided tours.

Included in the fare is a tour of Graceland; a stroll through small-town Burlington, Iowa, to see Snake Alley, deemed the most crooked street in the world; and a visit to the National Eagle Center of Red Wing, among others. For an additional fee, hop on an airboat ride through the Atchafalaya Swamp in Baton Rouge or tour the Anheuser-Busch Brewery of St. Louis.

2024 dates: Viking has availability for this itinerary in July, September and October.

Want to cruise the Mississippi River? See the top cruises on GoToSea , a service of U.S. News.

FAQ Module : Travel - Top Mississippi River Cruises FAQs

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Gwen Pratesi has been an avid cruiser since her early 20s. She has sailed on nearly every type of cruise ship built, including the newest megaships, paddle-wheelers on America's waterways, and an 18-stateroom river ship on the Mekong River in Vietnam and Cambodia. Most recently, she traveled on a small luxury expedition vessel in Antarctica and crossed the notorious Drake Passage twice. She covers the travel and culinary industries, specializing in cruises, for major publications including U.S. News & World Report.

You might also be interested in:

• The Top River Cruise Lines
• The Top All-Inclusive Cruises
• Cruise Packing List Essentials
• The Top Cruise Insurance Plans

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7 of the best river cruises around the world for 2024

Take a tour of the world’s most famous waterways on your next holiday, article bookmarked.

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A cruise holiday isn’t always about setting sail across vast oceans. For an alternative type of break on the water, winding your way inland might sound similar but it’s a vastly different experience.

From crossing deep into the untouched areas of the Amazon rainforest to exploring some of Europe ’s finest cities, the river cruise experience is one that allows tourists to get to grips with the history, culture and tradition of a destination in a slow, immersive fashion.

This could be in the form of sampling Creole cuisine in Mississippi or discovering historic sites in Vietnam , but whatever it is, there’s plenty of choice across Europe , Asia , South America and North America .

Read on for a selection of the best cruises, from the Mississippi to the Mekong.

Europe’s second longest river – and arguably its most famous – river takes you through amazing capital cities and host of charming towns, as well as plenty of scenic countryside in Austria , Hungary , Slovakia and Romania. Cruises along the Danube can vary from a handful of days to almost three weeks, giving you time to explore the elegance of cities like Vienna , Budapest, Bratislava or Belgrade.

Emerald Cruises lets you see the best of the Danube with the addition of a hefty dose of traditional German culture in Munich. Leaving the Bavarian capital, you’ll travel to Passau before a quick cross-border trip to the Unesco-listed Czech city of Cesky Krumlov. Vienna is the next city, replete with opulent architecture, before a quick overnight stay in Bratislava on the sixth night. Guided tours and hikes around the castle are included, before you get three nights to explore Budapest, the Hungarian capital that is blessed with picturesque buildings, relaxed thermal baths and a buzzing nightlife scene. 

From £1,999pp, including nine nights’ accommodation, full board, tours of Vienna, Bratislava and Budapest and airport transfers. Departing 7 May 2024 to 20 October 2024.

Read more on Europe travel :

• The lesser-known Croatia destinations you may not have considered
• The best spas in Eastern Europe for an affordable, yet luxurious, break
• Lisbon travel guide: Where to eat, drink, shop and stay in Portugal’s vivacious capital

This famous river runs for over 4,000 miles throughout South America and is a major part of the eponymous rainforest, one of the most biodiverse and important natural areas on the planet. A river cruise remains the best way to reach deeper into the jungle, with many cruises beginning in the northern Brazilian city of Manaus or in the Peruvian city of Lima.

Start in Peru’s enchanting capital with the Peruvian Rivers and Rainforest Discovery cruise from Uniworld. You’ll fly to Iquitos, the largest city in the Amazon as your next stop, before delving into some of the most remote areas in the world as you take to the waters. From here, nature takes centre stage, with a variety of experiences – including jungle walks and kayaking on a lake – added to the enjoyment of natural features such as giant lilies, towering barrigona trees and around 10 per cent of the world’s known animal species.

From £8,799pp, including 10 nights’ accommodation, full board, return flights from London, domestic flights and various excursions. Departing regularly from 17 January until 6 November 2024.

Start in  Cairo  and make your way down to Aswan over a few days (though many shorter routes operate between  Aswan and Luxor  only). For a relaxing way to take in riverside scenery and some of Egypt’s most important historical sites, a river cruise is the ideal choice.

AP Touring’s  Egypt Discovery  trip takes you on a round trip from Cairo. You’ll cross thousands of years of history, starting with West Bank the Valley of the Kings, before a short flight to Aswan to explore Abu Simbel and a sighting of the landmark Pyramids of Giza near the Egyptian capital. The scenery along the route is exceptional, too, with palm trees, green spaces and mini oases dotted in between the yellow-hued rock.

From £6,995pp, including 12 nights’ accommodation, 30 meals (including unlimited local beer and wine) return flights from London Heathrow, domestic flights within Egypt and activities in each of the 10 destinations. Departing regularly from September 2024 to April 2025.

Exploring this land of castles and fairytales is a worthwhile European trip, with tours often starting in the pretty Dutch capital of Amsterdam and weaving across the German and French countryside, with the route broken up by cities such as Cologne, Dusseldorf and Strasbourg. Many of the towns located on the banks of the Rhine, such as Koblenz, are incredibly picturesque, with a range of medieval castles and natural sites like the Black Forest also featuring.

Ama Waterways provide a seven-night cruise that runs from Basel to Amsterdam. Get your cultural fix at either end of your trip in either of these two cities, before admiring the vistas around the Rhine Valley, the medieval castles that loom over towns like Heidelberg and the timber-framed buildings that line the streets of Riquewihr and Strasbourg. Stops in both Freiburg and Dusseldorf are also included, as well as an optional excursion to Cologne.

From £2,399pp, including seven nights’ accommodation, full board and tours in each destination. Departing regularly between 18 February and 28 December 2024.

The views around the Douro Valley are some of the best in Portugal , whether you’re sitting by the banks in Porto or admiring the verdant hills and vineyards around Pinhao. This region, well-known for its port production, has cruises lasting roughly one week that usually begin and end in Porto – where the river meets the Atlantic Ocean – with a brief crossing over into Spain and Salamanca.

The Riviera Travel package offers an affordable eight-day Douro option starting and ending in Porto , with two nights to explore Portugal’s magnificent second city (and to go on a guided tour of a well-known port producer). Days three and four take you to sleepy Castelo de Rodrigo and the historic Spanish city of Salamanca (with guided tours and time to explore at your leisure) before traversing the cascading vineyards of the valley on your way back to Porto via the beautiful Peso de Regua (and a local wine tasting).

From £1,599pp, including seven nights’ accommodation, full board, flights from a London airport, one excursion one each day and airport transfers. Departing regularly from 7 April 2024.

The Mississippi

Discovering the Deep South is often done by car, but with new routes recently from Viking Cruises, exploring Louisiana, Mississippi, Minnesota and Tennessee has never been more idyllic. The famed cities of New Orleans and Memphis can bookend your tour, with lesser-known locations such as Baton Rouge, Natchez and Darrow making up the other stops.

Opt for Viking’s ‘Heart of the Delta’ cruise to if you really want to immerse yourself in the Deep South. The cruise begins with a few days exploring the French influences and Creole cuisine of New Orleans , before moving on to Baton Rouge – a haven of Creole and Cajun culture – and then onto Natchez, the oldest city on the river. You’ll travel through other towns on the Mississippi – complete with walking tours or excursions to the Atchafalaya Swamp basin – before reaching Memphis, the atmospheric home of blues music.

From £6,545pp, including 12 nights’ accommodation, full board, return flights from London and one excursion per destination. Departing weekly from March 7 until 13 June, with additional departures on 7 November and 13 November.

The Mekong flows through a host of Asia’s most fascinating countries, including Vietnam , Thailand , China and Cambodia. Most cruises only take in parts of Vietnam and Cambodia , though this mix of floating fishing villages, traditional markets and the two capitals of Ho Chi Minh City and Phnom Penh will be enough for most travellers. With Avalon Waterways , you’ll combine energetic, modern cities with some of the most vibrant culture in Asia and a history that is equal parts sobering and fascinating.

It starts in Siem Reap, site of the Angkor Wat temple, before moving on to the Cambodian capital, where you can learn about the dictatorship of Pol Pot and visit several must-see landmarks. After this, Vietnam beckons, with a visit to the dizzying Ho Chi Minh City to see its admirable architecture. Visits to markets, old Vietnam War tunnels, temples and cooking classes are dotted in between these city trips for good measure, with stops at characterful towns like Vinh Long, too.

From £4,229pp, including seven nights’ accommodation, full board and activities on each day of the trip. Departing regularly from 15 January to 11 March and from 12 August to 2 December 2024.

Read more: Best hotels in Europe: Where to stay for a city, beach or retreat break

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