New Orleans: Daytime Steamboat Jazz Cruise + Optional Lunch

Imagine gliding along the Mississippi River aboard a real steam-powered paddle boat, jazz music filling the air, and the city’s skyline slowly unfolding around you. That’s exactly what this 2-hour daytime steamboat jazz cruise offers — a taste of authentic New Orleans, with the bonus of optional Creole cuisine. The tour is run by Gray Line New Orleans and has garnered an impressive average rating of 4.4 from thousands of reviews.

What we love about this experience are the stunning river views that make for perfect photo ops, and the live jazz performances by local musicians that add genuine soul to the journey. A potential drawback? The experience does not include gratuities or alcoholic beverages in the ticket price, which could add to the overall cost if you’re planning to indulge.

This cruise suits anyone eager to see New Orleans from an unusual perspective—on the mighty Mississippi—while enjoying some good music, history, and, if you choose, a delicious Creole lunch. It’s especially ideal for those who appreciate a relaxed pace, scenic views, and a touch of historical ambiance.

Key Points

• Authentic river experience: Cruise on a real steam-powered paddle boat with indoor and outdoor seating.
• Live jazz: Performances by the Steamboat Stompers add vibrance and local flavor.
• Informative narration: Learn about New Orleans and the Mississippi River from a knowledgeable captain.
• Optional Creole lunch: Savor classic Louisiana dishes, freshly prepared onboard.
• Stunning photo opportunities: Multiple decks, especially the top, offer fantastic views.
• Flexible options: Morning or afternoon departures with free cancellation if needed.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Setting the Scene: What to Expect on the Cruise

From the moment you arrive at the 400 Toulouse St. dock—just behind the JAX Brewery—you’re stepping into a scene of old-world charm. The boardings begin 30 minutes before departure, giving you plenty of time to soak in the atmosphere. When the calliope plays, it signals the start of your journey, and before you even leave the dock, you’ll feel an authentic sense of history in the air.

The Riverboat CITY of NEW ORLEANS is a beautifully renovated vessel, with four decks to explore. Its design echoes the grandeur of 19th-century riverboats, and the top deck offers spectacular views of the city skyline and the Mississippi River. The boat’s interior combines historic charm with comfort, offering both indoor and outdoor seating options. Many reviews highlight how easy it is to find a good vantage point, whether inside with air conditioning or outside to feel the breeze.

The Itinerary: A Leisurely Journey with a Focus on Atmosphere

Once on board, your experience begins with a live calliope concert—a historical musical instrument typical of old steamboats—setting the tone for a nostalgic ride. Then, the boat slowly departs, providing a gentle cruise along the river. The captain’s narration is one of the highlights, offering insights into New Orleans’ history, notable landmarks, and the significance of the Mississippi River.

The views along the route may include industrial docks, passing ships, and glimpses of the surrounding landscape. While some reviews mention passing “dilapidated old industrial harbors,” others appreciate that this is part of the authenticity—an unvarnished look at the river’s working side. The cruise doesn’t aim for picture-perfect postcard scenery but rather offers an honest depiction of the river’s life.

Jazz and Live Entertainment: Captivating and Authentic

The live jazz by the Steamboat Stompers is a major draw. It’s spirited, authentic New Orleans jazz that enhances the relaxed, festive mood. Many reviews mention how the music contributes to the atmosphere, with some noting the band’s proficiency and lively tunes. As one reviewer said, “The jazz musicians were great,” and others appreciated how the music added to the overall enjoyment.

A Culinary Highlight: The Creole Lunch Option

For those opting for the Creole Lunch Sampler, the onboard meal is a highlight. The menu features Gulf Coast Catfish, Red Beans and Rice, Jambalaya, Southern Spoon Bread, and Bread Pudding—all classic Louisiana dishes. Based on reviews, the food is freshly prepared onboard and offers good value for the price, especially since it’s included in the cruise ticket.

Reviewers have praised the food, describing it as delicious and a perfect accompaniment to the scenic cruise. One review pointed out that the lunch is well worth the money, especially when compared to other options. Be aware that the menu can vary based on the season and availability, and the timing of the lunch might mean eating while the boat is docked or moving.

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The View from All Four Decks

One of the most appreciated features is the opportunity to explore all four decks. The top deck provides the best panoramic views, ideal for photos of the city and river. Many reviewers have shared that taking photos from the upper decks yields some of the best memories of their trip.

Practical Details: Pricing, Duration, and Accessibility

At $33 per person, this cruise offers solid value for a two-hour journey that combines scenery, history, music, and optional food. The cruise runs typically in the morning or afternoon, giving you flexibility to fit it into your schedule.

The small group setting and wheelchair accessibility make it a comfortable experience for most travelers. It’s worth noting that gratuities and alcoholic beverages are not included, so budget accordingly if you plan on ordering drinks on board.

What Do the Reviews Say?

Feedback from thousands of travelers paints a largely positive picture. Many mention how informative the narration is, with some highlighting the knowledgeable guides and engaging stories about New Orleans and the Mississippi River. Several reviews—like “The crew and staff were very professional and knowledgeable”—affirm the high quality of service.

The entertainment is consistently praised, with comments like “the jazz was really nice,” and numerous guests remark on the delightful atmosphere. Food receives mixed reviews—most agree it’s good, with some noting it’s “really nice,” though a few mention that the bar drinks are more expensive, and some found the photo prices a bit steep.

A few reviews also mention the passage through industrial docks, which might not be the most picturesque part of the trip but is accepted as part of the authentic river experience. The overall consensus is that it’s a relaxing, educational, and enjoyable way to see New Orleans from a different angle.

Final Impressions: Who Should Consider This Tour?

This cruise is an excellent choice for history buffs, music lovers, and those seeking a relaxed, scenic break from walking or modern sightseeing. It offers a taste of old New Orleans, both visually and sonically, with the added bonus of good food and drinks if you opt for the meal package.

For travelers on a budget, the value proposition is clear: you get a two-hour cruise, live jazz, informative narration, and a delicious Creole lunch—all for just over thirty dollars, not including drinks or gratuities. It’s a perfect fit for families, couples, or solo travelers wanting a taste of the river’s historic charm.

However, if you’re looking for stunning scenery or a luxury dining experience, you might find this cruise a bit understated. Still, the authenticity and atmosphere make it a memorable part of any New Orleans visit.

FAQs

Is the cruise wheelchair accessible?
Yes, it is wheelchair accessible, making it suitable for guests with mobility needs.

How long is the cruise?
The cruise lasts approximately 2 hours, including time for boarding and disembarking.

Does the ticket include drinks?
No, the ticket price does not include alcoholic beverages, but they are available for purchase on board.

Can I cancel the reservation?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What should I wear?
Casual, comfortable clothing is fine. If you plan to sit outside, bring sunscreen or a hat depending on the weather.

Is the food served while the boat is moving?
The lunch can be served while the boat is docked or moving, but many reviews suggest that having the meal while the boat is in motion enhances the experience.

Do children enjoy this cruise?
While primarily appealing to adults, children who enjoy music and scenic views often find it enjoyable. Check with the provider if you have young children.

Wrapping It Up

The New Orleans daytime steamboat jazz cruise offers a wonderful blend of history, music, scenery, and cuisine. It’s a nostalgic journey that feels both relaxed and lively—an excellent way to see the city from a different perspective. The live jazz, authentic vessel, and delicious Creole meal make it stand out as a memorable, value-packed experience.

Ideal for those seeking a laid-back cruise with a touch of local flavor, it’s particularly suited for music enthusiasts, history buffs, or anyone wanting a scenic break. The consistent positive reviews and high ratings suggest it’s a trusted choice for visitors wanting a genuine slice of New Orleans on the river.

Whether you’re in town for a few days or just passing through, this cruise is a charming way to spend a couple of hours, soaking in the sights and sounds that make New Orleans so unique.

You can check availability for your dates here: