Destrehan Plantation and Large Airboat Tour From New Orleans

Destrehan Plantation and the large airboat tour offer a captivating blend of Louisiana’s storied past and thrilling natural landscapes. Visitors can explore the grandeur of the South’s oldest documented plantation, then embark on a thrilling ride through the lush swamplands, where they’ll spot alligators and a diverse array of wildlife. This immersive experience not only delves into the region’s history, but also provides a unique glimpse into the lives of those who once called this land home. As the tour unfolds, one can’t help but wonder what other remarkable stories these wetlands hold, just waiting to be discovered.

Good To Know

• Combine swamp adventure and plantation history with a 16-passenger airboat tour and visit to the historic Destrehan Plantation in Louisiana.
• Explore the Slave Revolt Museum on the plantation grounds to learn about the significant 1811 German Coast Uprising.
• Spot alligators and other wildlife during the approximately 1 hour and 40 minute airboat journey through the lush Louisiana bayou.
• Enjoy a guided tour of Destrehan Plantation followed by free time for self-exploration, enhancing the educational and historical experience.
• Tour is highly recommended by previous travelers, with 4.8 stars and 98% traveler recommendation, offering a comprehensive and immersive experience.

Tour Overview

The tour offers a combination of a swamp and plantation experience via a 16-passenger airboat.

Highlights include visiting Destrehan Plantation, the oldest documented plantation in the Mississippi Valley, and touring the Slave Revolt Museum on the plantation grounds.

Guests will enjoy a guided exploration of the plantation, followed by free time to explore on their own.

The airboat tour lasts approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes, providing thrilling views and the opportunity to see alligators up close in their natural habitat.

Highlights of the Experience

Visitors embark on a thrilling airboat journey through the lush Louisiana swamplands, where they’ve the chance to spot alligators and other wildlife in their natural habitat.

The tour also includes a visit to the historic Destrehan Plantation, the oldest documented plantation in the Mississippi Valley. Guests explore the plantation grounds and tour the Slave Revolt Museum, which offers a poignant look at the plantation’s dark past.

The guided exploration provides an immersive educational experience, and visitors are then free to wander the grounds at their leisure, soaking in the rich history and ambiance of this iconic Louisiana landmark.

Plantation and Slave Revolt Museum

Destrehan Plantation stands as the oldest documented plantation in the Mississippi Valley, offering visitors an immersive glimpse into the region’s rich and complex history.

On this tour, guests have the opportunity to visit the Slave Revolt Museum located on the plantation grounds. The museum provides a sobering and educational experience, detailing the 1811 German Coast Uprising – one of the largest slave rebellions in U.S. history.

Through interactive exhibits and expert guides, visitors learn about the lives and struggles of the enslaved individuals who fought for their freedom. This powerful and thought-provoking component of the tour complements the plantation’s historical narrative, creating a well-rounded and impactful experience.

Airboat and Guided Exploration

Soaring across the serene wetlands on a 16-passenger airboat, visitors embark on a thrilling journey through the Louisiana bayou.

The expert guide navigates the airboat, pointing out the native wildlife, including alligators lounging in the water. Guests have the opportunity to see these majestic creatures up close, capturing unforgettable memories.

The airboat tour lasts approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes, providing ample time to take in the unique ecosystem.

Afterward, the guided exploration of the Destrehan Plantation grounds allows visitors to learn about the plantation’s history and the Slave Revolt Museum, delivering a comprehensive and captivating experience.

Tour Logistics and Inclusions

The tour boasts an impressive 4.8-star rating based on 56 reviews, with 98% of travelers recommending this experience.

Inclusions cover all entrance fees, hotel pickup and drop-off from major downtown New Orleans hotels, and knowledgeable driver/guide services. Infant seats are available, and service animals are allowed.

The tour starts at 8:15 AM, with a 30-minute pickup window.

Highlights include:

• Guided exploration of the Destrehan Plantation, the oldest documented plantation in the Mississippi Valley.
• Tour of the Slave Revolt Museum located on the plantation grounds.
• Free time to explore the plantation after the guided tour.

Traveler Recommendations and Ratings

With an impressive 4.8-star rating based on 56 reviews, this tour comes highly recommended, as 98% of travelers enthusiastically endorse the experience.

Guests consistently praise the knowledgeable and passionate guides, who bring the history and culture of the region to life. The thrilling airboat ride and up-close encounters with alligators are often highlighted as the tour’s standout features, while the plantation visit is described as informative and moving, with engaging storytelling.

While some feedback mentions concerns about the bus driver’s safety and behavior, the overall experience is widely regarded as a must-do for families and first-time visitors to Louisiana.

Participant Accessibility and Policies

This tour has some limitations in terms of participant accessibility. It isn’t recommended for pregnant travelers or those with back problems, as the airboat ride can be physically demanding.

Plus, the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, though it’s stroller accessible.

Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the experience starts, providing flexibility for travelers.

• Not recommended for pregnant travelers or those with back problems
• Not wheelchair accessible, but stroller accessible
• Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience

Packing Tips and Must-Do Experiences

When taking this tour, guests should remember to pack snacks for lunch, as the experience lasts around 1 hour and 40 minutes.

It’s also recommended to dress warmly for the airboat ride due to the cold wind. Despite the chilly conditions, the thrilling airboat experience and close-up views of alligators make this tour a must-do, especially for first-time visitors to Louisiana.

The combination of the historical Destrehan Plantation and the adventurous airboat ride provides a memorable and educational experience that comes highly recommended by 98% of travelers.

Guests can expect engaging storytelling and knowledgeable guides throughout the tour.

Things To Known

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

Yes, you can bring your own food and drinks on the tour. The overview states that snacks for lunch are recommended, allowing guests to enjoy a picnic during the experience.

Are Cameras and Other Photography Equipment Allowed?

Cameras and photography equipment are generally allowed on the tour. Guests can capture the scenic swamp landscapes and historic plantation grounds throughout the experience to document their memorable adventure.

Is the Airboat Ride Suitable for Those With Motion Sickness?

The airboat ride may not be suitable for those prone to motion sickness. The fast-paced, bumpy ride can be uncomfortable for some. However, it’s an exhilarating experience for those who don’t suffer from motion sickness.

Can I Explore the Plantation on My Own After the Guided Tour?

Yes, guests can explore the Destrehan Plantation on their own after the guided tour. The tour includes free time for visitors to wander the grounds and exhibits at their own pace.

Are There Any Age or Height Restrictions for the Airboat Ride?

There are no age or height restrictions for the airboat ride. Children of all ages are welcome, and the boats can accommodate passengers of various sizes. However, the tour may not be suitable for those with mobility issues or back problems.

Sum Up

The Destrehan Plantation and Large Airboat Tour from New Orleans offers a captivating blend of thrilling adventure and immersive historical exploration. Guests can spot alligators and diverse wildlife on a 1-hour 40-minute airboat ride, then step back in time at the oldest plantation in the region and the Slave Revolt Museum, gaining insight into the lives of the enslaved. This unique combination makes for an unforgettable Louisiana experience.