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Journey aboard a New Orleans steam-powered paddlewheel boat for a rare opportunity to see 19th-century maritime technology in action while cruising the historic Mississippi River.
Steamboat Natchez Cruise Tickets
Headout is an authorized and trusted partner of the venue, offering curated experiences to enjoy this attraction.
Itinerary
TOTAL DURATION2 hours
1 Boarding point
Sights covered
French Quarter
Chalmette Battlefield
St. Louis Cathedral
Old US Mint
US Custom House
Crescent City Connection
Audubon Aquarium of the Americas
Ernest N. Morial Convention Center
Cruise the mighty Mississippi on an iconic boat with live jazz music.
- Everything you get: Step aboard for a two-hour cruise featuring live jazz, panoramic views from multiple decks, and live narration throughout your trip.
- Why choose this: Experience true New Orleans hospitality on this cruise with lovely views, complete with live jazz and historic charm.
- Upgrades: Choose the daytime cruise for the perfect photo ops. Go for the evening cruise for a magical ambience or opt for the Sunday jazz cruise for a more festive, lively experience.
Cruise the mighty Mississippi on an iconic boat with live jazz music.
- Everything you get: Step aboard for a two-hour cruise featuring live jazz, panoramic views from multiple decks, and live narration throughout your trip.
- Why choose this: Experience true New Orleans hospitality on this cruise with lovely views, complete with live jazz and historic charm.
- Upgrades: Choose the daytime cruise for the perfect photo ops. Go for the evening cruise for a magical ambience or opt for the Sunday jazz cruise for a more festive, lively experience.
Inclusions
- 2-hour steamboat cruise
- Expert guide
- Live Calliope jazz concert
Exclusions
- Beverages (Available for purchase onboard)
- Hotel pickup and drop-off
- Gratuities
- The Steamboat NATCHEZ and the Riverboat CITY of NEW ORLEANS will alternate cruises based on bookings and private charters until March 2026, after which each will follow its own schedule. You’ll still enjoy the same two-hour river journey, complete with traditional live jazz, craft cocktails, and beautiful city views. Don’t forget to head up to the top deck for the best lookout point.
- Shirts and shoes are required on all cruises. While casual attire is fine, we recommend you turn up in “dressy casual” for the Dinner Jazz Cruise. Switch your jeans for some dress pants or a skirt and a blouse or a stylish top. Men can zhuzh it up with a collared shirt (button-down or polo).
- This vessel is a completely non-smoking environment, including all indoor areas and outer decks.
- This experience is accessible to wheelchair and pram/stroller users.
- For your convenience, guide dogs are welcome to join you.
- Boarding begins 30 minutes before departure. We recommend arriving at least 30 minutes early.
- Individuals 21 years of age and older may purchase beverages after presenting a valid photo ID with their birthdate, as required by Louisiana law.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Itinerary
TOTAL DURATION2 hours
1 Boarding point
Sights covered
French Quarter
Chalmette Battlefield
Crescent City Connection
St. Louis Cathedral
Old US Mint
US Custom House
Audubon Aquarium
Ernest N. Morial Convention Center
Experience a dinner cruise on the Mississippi River with live New Orleans swing-style music.
- Everything you get: Enjoy a 2-hour buffet dinner cruise with live swing music by Grammy-nominated Dukes of Dixieland, city views from indoor/outdoor decks, and expert narration.
- Why choose this: Make a night out of your cruise as you blend timeless river tradition with soulful New Orleans jazz heritage and a special dining experience.
- Upgrades: Choose your preferred dinner seating (6pm or 7:45pm) for a flexible dining experience.
Experience a dinner cruise on the Mississippi River with live New Orleans swing-style music.
- Everything you get: Enjoy a 2-hour buffet dinner cruise with live swing music by Grammy-nominated Dukes of Dixieland, city views from indoor/outdoor decks, and expert narration.
- Why choose this: Make a night out of your cruise as you blend timeless river tradition with soulful New Orleans jazz heritage and a special dining experience.
- Upgrades: Choose your preferred dinner seating (6pm or 7:45pm) for a flexible dining experience.
Inclusions
- 2-hour steamboat cruise
- Expert guide
- Live New Orleans swing style concert by Grammy-nominated Dukes of Dixieland Jazz
- Buffet dinner as per option selected (see the menu here)
Exclusions
- Alcoholic Beverages (Available for purchase onboard)
- Hotel pickup and drop-off
- Gratuities
- The Steamboat NATCHEZ and Riverboat CITY of NEW ORLEANS will rotate service according to bookings and charters through March 2026, after which each will resume independent operations. Either way, you'll still enjoy two hours of live jazz, cocktails, and Crescent City charm on a steamboat.
- Shirts and shoes are a must on all cruises. For the Dinner Jazz Cruise, we recommend going “dressy casual.” Think dress pants, skirts, or a stylish blouse. Guys, a polo or button-down shirt adds a nice touch.
- Smoking is prohibited on the entire vessel, including all indoor areas and outdoor decks.
- The cruise is fully wheelchair and stroller accessible.
- Guide dogs are more than welcome to join you on board.
- Cruise doors open at least 30 minutes before departure. Arrive early to make boarding easy and stress-free.
- Guests 21 years and over can enjoy beverages from the counter. Bring a valid photo ID with your birthdate, as required by Louisiana law.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Itinerary
TOTAL DURATION2 hours
1 Boarding point
Sights covered
French Quarter
St. Louis Cathedral
Chalmette Battlefield
Old US Mint
Crescent City Connection
US Custom House
Audubon Aquarium
Ernest N. Morial Convention Center
Taste authentic Creole flavours as you lunch aboard an iconic cruise along the Mississippi River with live jazz.
- Everything you get: Enjoy a Creole lunch on a 2-hour Mississippi River cruise. Take in New Orleans views from indoor and outdoor decks, and watch a live jazz performance while you sail.
- Why choose this: Combine classic New Orleans sightseeing with live jazz, a historic paddlewheeler atmosphere, and a freshly prepared Creole lunch—all in one memorable river cruise experience.
- Upgrades: Choose to savor a freshly prepared lunch on either the 11am or 2pm cruise—giving you the flexibility to dine at your preferred time.
Taste authentic Creole flavours as you lunch aboard an iconic cruise along the Mississippi River with live jazz.
- Everything you get: Enjoy a Creole lunch on a 2-hour Mississippi River cruise. Take in New Orleans views from indoor and outdoor decks, and watch a live jazz performance while you sail.
- Why choose this: Combine classic New Orleans sightseeing with live jazz, a historic paddlewheeler atmosphere, and a freshly prepared Creole lunch—all in one memorable river cruise experience.
- Upgrades: Choose to savor a freshly prepared lunch on either the 11am or 2pm cruise—giving you the flexibility to dine at your preferred time.
Inclusions
- 2-hour steamboat cruise
- Expert guide
- Live Calliope jazz concert
- Creole lunch (see the menu here)
Exclusions
- Alcoholic Beverages (Available for purchase onboard)
- Hotel pickup and drop-off
- Gratuities
- Cruises aboard the Steamboat NATCHEZ and Riverboat CITY of NEW ORLEANS will be assigned interchangeably through March 2026 based on availability and private event bookings. This won't hinder your experience, though. You'll still enjoy a two-hour cruise that includes live jazz, craft drinks, and views of New Orleans' best seen from the top deck.
- Shirts and shoes are required for all cruises. Casual wear is welcome, but for the Dinner Jazz Cruise, we suggest “dressy casual.” Swap jeans for dress pants, a skirt, or a stylish blouse. Men might opt for a polo or button-down shirt for a polished touch.
- Smoking is not permitted anywhere on the vessel, including all indoor spaces and outdoor decks.
- The cruise is fully accessible for wheelchair and stroller users.
- Guide dogs are welcome to accompany guests on board.
- Boarding opens at least 30 min before departure. Please arrive early to ensure a smooth check-in.
- Guests aged 21+ can purchase beer, wine, and specialty cocktails at the onboard bar with a valid photo ID showing date of birth, in accordance with Louisiana law.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Itinerary
TOTAL DURATION2 hours
1 Boarding point
Sights covered
French Quarter
Crescent City Connection
St. Louis Cathedral
Chalmette Battlefield
Old US Mint
US Custom House
Audubon Aquarium
Ernest N. Morial Convention Center
Spend your Sunday brunching along the Mississippi River on this iconic cruise.
- Everything you get: This two-hour Sunday cruise features a live jazz performance by the Steamboat Stompers, a buffet New Orleans brunch, historic sight narration, access to the Riverboat Gift Shop, and unforgettable river views.
- Why choose this: There's no better way to soak up New Orleans' soulful spirit than a Sunday cruise, where the rhythm of live jazz, the charm of the river, and the tradition of leisurely weekends come together.
Spend your Sunday brunching along the Mississippi River on this iconic cruise.
- Everything you get: This two-hour Sunday cruise features a live jazz performance by the Steamboat Stompers, a buffet New Orleans brunch, historic sight narration, access to the Riverboat Gift Shop, and unforgettable river views.
- Why choose this: There's no better way to soak up New Orleans' soulful spirit than a Sunday cruise, where the rhythm of live jazz, the charm of the river, and the tradition of leisurely weekends come together.
Inclusions
- 2-hour steamboat daytime cruise on Sunday
- Expert guide
- Live Jazz performance by Duke Heitger’s Steamboat Stompers Jazz Trio
- Buffet brunch (see the menu here)
Exclusions
- 21+ beverages (Available for purchase onboard)
- Hotel pickup and drop-off
- Gratuities
- The Steamboat NATCHEZ and Riverboat CITY of NEW ORLEANS will share cruising duties through March 2026, with assignments based on demand and private event bookings. Savor live jazz, sip on handcrafted cocktails, and take in unforgettable views from all four decks—especially the top.
- Make sure to wear a shirt and shoes—those are a must for all cruises. We suggest going “dressy casual.” Think slacks or a skirt with a nice top. Guys, a polo or button-down always looks sharp.
- Smoking isn’t allowed anywhere on the boat, including outdoor decks.
- The cruise is fully accessible for both wheelchairs and strollers.
- Service animals like guide dogs are absolutely welcome on board.
- Boarding starts at least 30 minutes before departure, so arrive early for a smooth, relaxed start to your cruise.
- If you’re 21 or older, you can purchase your beverage at the counter—just don’t forget to bring a valid photo ID (Louisiana law requires it).
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
New OrleansSteamboat Natchez Tours
Why go on the Steamboat Natchez cruise
Cruise aboard an authentic paddlewheel steamboat
Your Mississippi River cruise options explained
Sightseeing cruise
Perfect for: First-time visitors, families, photographers, and history buffs
Why book this: Immerse yourself in the soulful charm of New Orleans as you cruise the Mississippi aboard an authentic paddlewheeler. It features traditional live jazz by the famous calliope, narration on historical landmarks, and access to the working steam engine room.
Recommended cruise:
Steamboat Natchez Sightseeing Jazz Cruise
Sunday Brunch cruise
Perfect for: Leisurely travelers, brunch lovers, and weekend explorers
Why book this: Celebrate New Orleans rhythm and soul in the most classic way—with live jazz, an indulgent Southern brunch buffet, and panoramic river views on a Sunday.
Recommended cruise:
Steamboat Natchez Sunday Jazz Cruise with Brunch
Lunch cruise
Perfect for: Midday cruisers, culinary explorers, and jazz lovers
Why book this: This cruise blends picturesque views with a taste of authentic Louisiana. Enjoy a freshly prepared Creole lunch on board, accompanied by live jazz and steam-powered ambiance.
Recommended cruise:
Steamboat Natchez Sightseeing Jazz Cruise with Lunch
Dinner cruise
Perfect for: Couples, foodies, music lovers, and those looking to experience New Orleans after dark
Why book this: Sail into twilight with a 2-hour steamboat experience featuring a hearty Creole-style buffet and classic New Orleans swing by the Grammy-nominated Dukes of Dixieland.
Recommended cruise:
Steamboat Natchez Evening Cruise with Dinner
What you’ll see from your jazz cruise
See all photos
Get here to start sailing
Toulouse Street Wharf
Address: 400 Toulouse St, New Orleans, LA 70130, United States | Find on Maps
Famous for: This central location in New Orleans’ historic French Quarter is ideal for sightseeing pre- or post-cruise.
Nearby landmark: Old Man River Statue (1-min walk)
Closest tram stop: Toulouse (1-min walk)
Closest bus stop: Canal and Magazine (10-min walk)
Plan your visit
Timings
Best time to visit
Facilities
Accessibility
Rules
General Cruise Timings:
- Sightseeing Jazz Cruise: Departs daily at 10:30am and 1:45pm
- Lunch Jazz Cruise: Departs daily at 11am and 2pm
- Evening Jazz Dinner Cruise: Departs daily at 6pm and 7:45pm
- Sunday Brunch Cruise: Departs at 10:30am and 1:45pm
Duration: Each cruise lasts approximately 2 to 2.5 hours, including boarding
- Evening cruises are ideal if you’re after romance, sunset photography, or cooler temperatures after a warm day in New Orleans. The Dinner Jazz Cruise, in particular, offers an unforgettable mix of live music, Creole dining, and city lights shimmering on the water.
- For those focused on sightseeing and daytime photography, a midday or early afternoon cruise provides the best natural lighting.
- Weekdays tend to see smaller crowds, making them ideal for those who prefer a quieter cruise with easier access to the best deck seating and photo spots.
- The spring (April and May) and early fall (October) are the best times to take the Steamboat Natchez cruise. These months offer mild temperatures, lower humidity, and clearer skies, all of which enhance the scenic river views.
- Restrooms are available on both main and upper decks.
- You can head over to the onboard shop to take home souvenirs, local crafts, and memorabilia.
- All cruises feature live jazz performances.
- Indoor seating areas are air-conditioned, while outdoor decks are open-air.
- There is a full-service section of beverages available on board for those above 21 years of age to purchase.
- All the restrooms have accessible stalls.
- The main deck is wheelchair accessible. The upper deck is accessible only via stairs.
- Strollers are allowed on the main deck, but must be folded during busy cruises.
- You can bring along your service animals as long as you have proper documentation with you.
- The use of flash is discouraged during live performances to avoid disturbing other guests. Tripods and drones are not permitted onboard.
- You cannot bring large bags and suitcases with you.
- Dress code is casual and comfortable for all cruises, but opt for a smart-casual outfit for dinner sailings. Swap your jeans with khakis or dress pants with a polo or button-down shirt, or a skirt or slacks paired with a blouse or stylish top.
- Swimwear and bare feet are not permitted at any time.
- This is a smoke-free experience.
- A full service of beverages can be purchased and consumed only by guests aged 21 years and over with a valid photo ID.
- Pets are not allowed onboard.
Frequently asked questions about Steamboat Natchez cruises
What types of tickets are available for the Steamboat Natchez Cruise?
You can choose from several ticket options, including the classic sightseeing cruise, the lunch cruise, the dinner cruise, and the Sunday brunch cruise. Each ticket tier offers different inclusions, from basic admission to full Southern-style meals.
What’s included in the standard sightseeing cruise ticket?
The standard ticket covers your cruise on the Steamboat Natchez, live narration about the river’s history, and toe-tapping jazz music performed by the Duke Heitger’s Steamboat Stompers Jazz Trio. Food and drinks are available for purchase onboard.
Are there any special experiences or upgrades available?
Yes! You can upgrade to include a meal, or book the Sunday Brunch Jazz Cruise for a more festive atmosphere.
What’s special about the jazz dinner cruise?
The jazz dinner cruise ticket includes a two-hour evening cruise, a delicious buffet dinner featuring classic Creole and Cajun dishes, and reserved seating. You’ll also enjoy live jazz throughout the evening, making it a perfect choice for a romantic night or special celebration.
Is the Steamboat Natchez accessible for guests with disabilities?
Yes, the Steamboat Natchez is wheelchair accessible, with ramps and accessible restrooms.
Is there live entertainment on every cruise?
Absolutely! The Dukes of Dixieland jazz band or Duke Heitger’s Steamboat Stompers Jazz Trio perform on the cruises, creating a lively, authentic New Orleans atmosphere.
Is the Steamboat Natchez suitable for families with children?
Definitely! Kids love the paddlewheel, the music, and the chance to explore the decks. There are child-friendly menu options and plenty of space to roam.
From happy customers
Vespera
mar, 2026
I enjoyed the Jazz band, Dukes of Dixieland. They were very lively, entertaining and talented. The narrator was very knowledgeable.
Steamboat Natchez Evening Cruise with Dinner
Joy
United Statesfeb, 2026
We had a fantastic time! Lunch was better than anticipated. The moderator was very good at describing the area and the sights we were seeing. It was only 35 degrees outside that day so most of our time was spent inside but the staff was very accommodating and pleasant.
Steamboat Natchez Sightseeing Jazz Cruise with Lunch
Nicholas
United Statesdic, 2025
+ 2 more
We really enjoyed it. I live in Texas now, outside of Dallas...and to come home and give my new wife and my mother a trip that they won't forget was so important. I knew that I was buying a Christmas present for them that would be a memory but I didn't expect it to be a life changing experience. My mother was on clouds in heaven and so was my wife and it was so good to just watch them be like that. Moments where I almost wanted to cry happened. I'm so very grateful. I can type and type about that and just the day in general. Blessed.
Steamboat Natchez Sightseeing Jazz Cruise with Lunch
Kimberly
United Statesene, 2026
It was my 48th birthday and it was a beautiful day to sail up the Mississippi River as I ate brunch on the Natchez. Looking forward to doing dinner. I recommend this delightful boat ride for anyone.
Steamboat Natchez Sunday Jazz Cruise with Brunch
Eva
Canadaabr, 2026
I enjoyed the riverfront view, the steamboat was beautiful, dining options was available, nice gift store, musicians were entertaining, I liked to see the paddle wheel.
Steamboat Natchez Sightseeing Jazz Cruise
Lindsey
United Statesmar, 2026
The cruise was so fun! The perfect amount of time with kids as well. Enjoyed the atmosphere and music. The views as you travel the Mississippi River are so unique and the captain/crew were amazing! Would highly recommend!
Steamboat Natchez Sightseeing Jazz Cruise