New Orleans: Daytime Steamboat Jazz Cruise + Optional Lunch

If you’re looking to add a touch of historic charm and soulful jazz to your New Orleans visit, a daytime steamboat jazz cruise might just be the perfect activity. This experience, offered by Gray Line New Orleans, promises a relaxing two-hour journey on the Mississippi River aboard an authentic paddle steamer, complete with live jazz, picturesque views, and an optional Creole lunch.

What we love about this cruise is how it combines historic ambiance with modern comfort, creating a genuine sense of old-time river travel. The live jazz by the Steamboat Stompers sets a lively, upbeat mood, while the stunning river vistas provide plenty of photo opportunities. Plus, the optional onboard Creole meal elevates the experience, giving you a taste of local flavors right on the water.

One aspect to consider is that the cruise’s views can be somewhat industrial and less scenic than some might expect, especially along the less picturesque parts of the river. Also, alcoholic drinks are extra, which can add to the cost if you’re looking to indulge. Still, this cruise is best suited for those who want a relaxed, culturally rich outing that marries history, music, and scenic beauty in a manageable two-hour window.

This tour is ideal for visitors who appreciate authentic experiences, lively music, and a taste of local cuisine. It’s also a good choice for travelers with limited time or those seeking an easy, family-friendly activity in the vibrant French Quarter.

Key Points

• Authentic Paddle Steamer: Experience a genuine steam-powered Mississippi riverboat, not a modern replica.
• Live Jazz: Enjoy spirited performances by the Steamboat Stompers, adding soul and rhythm to your cruise.
• Scenic Views & Photo Ops: Capture memorable moments from all four decks, especially the top viewing platform.
• Informative Narration: Learn about New Orleans’ history through engaging commentary from the captain.
• Optional Creole Lunch: Savor a freshly prepared Creole meal, including favorites like Gulf Coast Catfish, Red Beans & Rice, and Jambalaya.
• Value for Money: For $33, the combination of scenery, music, and culture offers a worthwhile experience, especially with the added lunch option.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Setting the Scene: Boarding the Authentic Paddle Steamer

Your journey begins at the Steamboat NATCHEZ dock on Toulouse Street, tucked behind the JAX Brewery in the heart of the French Quarter. While the NATCHEZ itself is taking a break, the sister vessel, the Riverboat CITY of NEW ORLEANS, offers the same classic paddle steamer experience. Boarding typically starts about 30 minutes before departure, so arriving early is a good idea to find your spot and get settled.

The scene on deck is part of the charm: a bustling, lively atmosphere with the calliope music welcoming you aboard. The boat is designed with four decks—inside and outside—giving you ample space to find your preferred view. The top deck is the highlight for panoramic shots of the river and city skyline. Many reviews mention how much they appreciated exploring all four levels, especially the top, which offers the best vantage points.

The Itinerary: What to Expect During Your Cruise

Once aboard, the experience kicks into gear with a live calliope concert, setting a nostalgic tone that harks back to the golden age of river travel. After the musical intro, the boat gently pulls away from the dock, giving you a leisurely ride along the Mississippi.

Throughout the two hours, the captain offers engaging narration about the city’s history, the river’s significance, and the sights passing by. Reviewers often praise the guides for their knowledgeable, friendly explanations, adding depth to the visual spectacle. Expect to see a mix of industrial docks, historic warehouses, and glimpses of the city skyline, which might not all be picture-perfect but are certainly authentic.

The cruise features live jazz performances by the Steamboat Stompers, whose spirited playing infuses the atmosphere with lively energy. Most reviews agree that the music is a highlight, with many describing the band as “really good” and adding to the overall enjoyment.

The Optional Creole Lunch: A Taste of Local Flavors

One of the main attractions of this cruise is the Creole lunch served onboard. Prepared fresh, the plated sampler includes classics like Gulf Coast Catfish—crisp, flavorful, and seasoned with Cajun spices—plus Red Beans & Rice, Jambalaya, Southern Spoon Bread, and Bread Pudding.

While some reviewers suggest the meal is “well worth the money” and a fun way to enjoy Louisiana cuisine on the water, others note that menu options may vary depending on the season and availability. The food is served when the boat is docked, so some travelers wish it could be enjoyed while cruising.

The meal adds a layer of value, especially for those keen on experiencing local food without leaving the boat. Beer, wine, and cocktails are available for purchase, but they’re not included in the ticket price.

Views, Photos, and Atmosphere: What You’ll Take Away

The scenery along the Mississippi is a mix of industrial and historic sights, which some find less picturesque but still fascinating. The top deck is prime for photos, offering sweeping views of the river and city. Many reviewers rave about the “photo ops galore” and mention that the “views from the top deck are worth the price alone.”

The lively jazz, combined with the gentle rocking of the boat, creates a relaxed but lively atmosphere. Several reviewers mention the “good music” and how it’s a perfect soundtrack to your river journey.

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The Value of the Experience

At $33 per person, this cruise offers a lot of bang for your buck. The combination of scenic views, historical narration, authentic jazz, and optional Creole lunch is hard to beat for a two-hour activity in the heart of New Orleans. Many guests comment on how it’s a “great value” and a “nice relaxing break from the busy streets.”

The optional lunch especially appeals to foodies wanting a taste of Louisiana cuisine without additional logistics. The full-service bars available on all decks mean you can enjoy a cocktail while watching the river pass by.

Practical Considerations

While the cruise is generally praised for its well-organized boarding process and friendly staff, some reviews mention that service can be slow at the bar, and that the views along the river can sometimes be industrial and less scenic. Also, alcoholic beverages are not included in the base price, so budget accordingly if you plan to indulge.

The cruise is wheelchair accessible, and options for small groups or private bookings are available, making it flexible for different travelers’ needs. However, parking and hotel pickup are not included, so plan transportation to the dock in advance.

Authenticity and Overall Experience

Many travelers highlight the authenticity of this experience, especially because the vessel is steam-powered—a rarity today. This historic aspect, combined with live jazz and a scenic river route, makes for a memorable snapshot of New Orleans’ cultural fabric.

The reviews are consistently positive, with over 3,800 ratings averaging 4.4 stars, and many mention that it’s a “must-do activity” for first-time visitors who want a relaxed but immersive taste of the city’s river life and music.

If you’re someone who appreciates live jazz, historic vessels, and scenic, if industrial, river views, this cruise will hit the spot. It’s ideal for families, couples, and solo travelers looking for a relaxing activity with a touch of local flavor. Food lovers will enjoy the Creole lunch, and history buffs will appreciate the engaging narration.

However, if you’re seeking pristine natural scenery or a more upscale dining experience, this might not satisfy that craving. It’s also a good choice for those with limited time, as the entire experience fits into just two hours, including the optional meal.

Is the cruise suitable for children?
Most reviews indicate it’s family-friendly, especially with the lively jazz and engaging narration, but check specific policies if traveling with very young kids.

Do I need to print my ticket?
No, you can simply have your QR code ready on your device for scanning at the dock.

What should I wear?
Casual, comfortable clothing is perfectly fine. Layer if you’re sensitive to the breeze or sun, especially on the outdoor decks.

Can I get a refund if I cancel?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours before the cruise for a full refund, making it flexible for changing plans.

Are drinks included?
No, alcoholic beverages and cocktails are available for purchase onboard; the base ticket includes just the cruise, narration, and optional lunch.

Is the boat accessible for wheelchairs?
Yes, the cruise is wheelchair accessible.

How long is the cruise?
It lasts approximately two hours, usually available in the morning and afternoon.

Can I join the cruise without the meal?
Absolutely, the cruise itself is available without the Creole lunch, at a lower price.

This daytime steamboat jazz cruise on the Mississippi is a delightful way to experience New Orleans from a different angle. Its authentic paddle steamer offers a nostalgic journey with lively music, historic insights, and scenic views, all wrapped into a comfortable two-hour package.

The live jazz performance is a highlight, often praised as “really good”, while the optional Creole lunch adds a flavorful touch to your trip. The boat’s four decks, especially the top, provide ample opportunity for photography and relaxing while soaking in the river atmosphere.

While the views along the river can sometimes be industrial rather than scenic, the overall experience is authentic and engaging. It appeals most to travelers who want an affordable, cultural, and leisurely activity that captures the essence of New Orleans’ river life and music scene.

If you’re looking for a family-friendly, historically rich, and musically lively activity in the heart of the French Quarter, this cruise hits the mark. Just be prepared for the occasional wait at the bar and the possibility of less picturesque river scenery. For many, it’s a charming, memorable way to spend part of your visit—one that offers a genuine taste of what makes New Orleans unique.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby