Destrehan Plantation and Large Airboat Tour From New Orleans

Destrehan Plantation and the Atchafalaya Basin offer a unique opportunity to explore Louisiana’s rich history and natural beauty. This guided tour takes visitors through the antebellum-era mansion, where they’ll uncover the complex past of the plantation and the Slave Revolt Museum. The highlight, however, is the 16-passenger airboat ride through the lush cypress swamps, where one can encounter native wildlife and enjoy the Cajun and Creole cultural heritage. With complimentary hotel pickup and drop-off, this tour provides a comprehensive experience. But what exactly awaits those who embark on this journey through Louisiana’s captivating landscape?

Key Points

• The tour combines a visit to the historic Destrehan Plantation and an exploration of the surrounding swamps via a 16-passenger airboat.
• Highlights of the Destrehan Plantation include the antebellum-era mansion, the Slave Revolt Museum, and the beautifully manicured gardens.
• The airboat tour offers an immersive experience in the Atchafalaya Basin, one of the largest river swamps in the U.S.
• Visitors have the opportunity to enjoy local Cajun and Creole cuisine during the free time at the plantation.
• The tour provides complimentary hotel pickup and drop-off from major downtown New Orleans hotels, accommodating up to 32 travelers.

Overview of the Tour

The tour combines a visit to the historic Destrehan Plantation with an exploration of the surrounding swamps via a 16-passenger airboat.

Participants will have the opportunity to explore the oldest documented plantation in the Mississippi Valley, including its slave revolt museum located on the grounds. The guided tour of the plantation is followed by time to explore the grounds on your own.

Lunch can be enjoyed at your own expense if time permits.

The tour includes entrance fees and free hotel pickup and drop-off from any major downtown New Orleans hotel within a 30-minute window between 8:15 AM and 8:45 AM, with the tour starting at 8:15 AM.

The maximum number of travelers is 32.

Destrehan Plantation Highlights

Destrehan Plantation boasts a rich history as the oldest documented plantation in the Mississippi Valley, with its roots dating back to the 1780s.

Visitors can explore the grandeur of the antebellum-era mansion, which has been meticulously preserved and offers a glimpse into the lives of its former residents.

The plantation grounds also house the Slave Revolt Museum, which provides a poignant and thought-provoking look at the struggles and resilience of the enslaved people who lived and worked on the property.

Guests can wander the beautifully manicured gardens, marvel at the centuries-old live oak trees, and gain a deeper understanding of the complex history that has shaped this important cultural landmark.

Exploring the Slave Revolt Museum

Located on the grounds of Destrehan Plantation, the Slave Revolt Museum offers visitors a poignant and thought-provoking exploration of the struggles and resilience of the enslaved people who lived and worked on the property. The museum delves into the details of the 1811 German Coast Uprising, the largest slave rebellion in American history. Visitors can enjoy interactive exhibits that humanize the enslaved individuals, highlighting their stories, contributions, and the inhumane treatment they endured. The museum also explores the broader context of slavery in the antebellum South, fostering a deeper understanding of this complex and troubling chapter of American history.

Exhibit	Description
Portraits of the Enslaved	Intimate portraits and biographies of individuals who participated in the 1811 revolt.
Interactive Timeline	Chronicling the events leading up to and during the uprising.
Slave Quarters Reconstruction	Recreating the living conditions of the enslaved population.
Resistance and Resilience	Exploring the agency and humanity of the enslaved people.

Large Airboat Swamp Exploration

After exploring the Slave Revolt Museum, visitors can look forward to an exhilarating large airboat tour through the swampy Louisiana wetlands surrounding Destrehan Plantation.

This thrilling excursion aboard a 16-passenger airboat allows guests to enjoy the unique and captivating ecosystem of the Atchafalaya Basin, one of the largest river swamps in the United States.

The airboat tour provides an up-close encounter with:

• Native wildlife like alligators, turtles, and a variety of bird species
• Lush, verdant cypress trees draped in Spanish moss
• Tranquil waterways and marshes teeming with aquatic life
• The region’s rich Cajun and Creole cultural heritage

This large airboat adventure offers a one-of-a-kind perspective on the natural wonders of Louisiana’s swamplands.

Lunch and Free Time

Following the plantation tour, visitors have the opportunity to enjoy lunch (at their own expense) if time permits. This provides a chance to sample the local Cajun and Creole cuisine that the region is renowned for, further immersing guests in the cultural experience. Afterwards, travelers are free to explore the plantation grounds on their own, discovering hidden historical gems and soaking in the serene ambiance of the property.

Location	Food Specialties	Price Range
Plantation Cafe	Gumbo, jambalaya, po’ boys	$10-$20
Nearby Restaurants	Crawfish étouffée, shrimp remoulade, beignets	$15-$30
Food Trucks	Oyster po’ boys, red beans and rice	$8-$15
Local Markets	Pralines, chicory coffee, Andouille sausage	$5-$20
Riverside Cafes	Seafood platters, Creole cocktails	$20-$40

Pickup and Drop-off Details

The tour provides complimentary hotel pickup and drop-off service, with a 30-minute window between 8:15 AM and 8:45 AM for pickup from any major downtown New Orleans hotel.

The tour itself starts promptly at 8:15 AM, ensuring an efficient and punctual start to the day’s activities.

The tour accommodates a maximum of 32 travelers, allowing for a more personalized and intimate experience.

Key logistical details include:

• Pickup from any major downtown New Orleans hotel
• Tour starts at 8:15 AM
• Maximum of 32 travelers
• Free hotel pickup and drop-off included

This streamlined and convenient transportation arrangement ensures a hassle-free start to the Destrehan Plantation and Large Airboat Tour from New Orleans.

Tour Restrictions and Accessibility

This tour isn’t recommended for certain travelers due to specific accessibility considerations. Pregnant individuals and those with back problems should avoid this experience, as the airboat ride may be uncomfortable or inadvisable for their condition.

Plus, the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, though strollers and service animals are permitted. Infant seats are available for families traveling with young children.

The tour may not be suitable for those with limited mobility or special needs. Prospective travelers should carefully consider their physical abilities and health status before booking this excursion.

The host company strives to accommodate all guests, but certain restrictions are in place to ensure the safety and comfort of participants.

Cancellation and Refund Policy

Travelers can receive a full refund if they cancel their tour reservation up to 24 hours before the scheduled start time.

No refund is available for cancellations made less than 24 hours prior to the experience’s commencement.

The tour operator reserves the right to cancel the tour due to poor weather conditions, in which case a different date or a full refund will be offered.

Some key points about the cancellation and refund policy include:

• Full refund for cancellations up to 24 hours before the tour
• No refund for cancellations less than 24 hours before the tour
• Possible tour cancellation due to inclement weather, with alternative date or full refund offered
• Refunds processed promptly and efficiently

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Yes, visitors are generally allowed to bring their own food and drinks on the tour. However, they should check with the tour operator beforehand to confirm any specific policies regarding outside food and beverages.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Airboat Ride?

The airboat tour doesn’t have any age restrictions, but it’s not recommended for young children as the ride can be bumpy and loud. Parents should consider their child’s comfort and ability to sit still during the tour.

How Many People Can Fit on the Airboat at a Time?

The airboat can accommodate up to 16 passengers at a time. This maximum capacity ensures a comfortable and safe experience for all travelers during the swamp tour portion of the Destrehan Plantation and Large Airboat Tour from New Orleans.

Is There a Dress Code or Recommended Attire for the Tour?

There’s no formal dress code, but comfortable, weather-appropriate attire is recommended. Closed-toe shoes are advised for safety, as the tour involves walking on uneven terrain. Light layers are suggested to accommodate changing weather conditions.

Can I Take Photographs or Videos During the Tour?

Visitors are generally allowed to take photographs and record videos during the tour, as long as they do not disrupt the experience or interfere with the guide’s instructions. However, some areas may have restrictions, so it’s best to check with the tour operator beforehand.

Recap

The Destrehan Plantation and Large Airboat Tour from New Orleans offers a captivating blend of historical and natural wonders.

Visitors can explore the plantation’s complex past, explore the Slave Revolt Museum, and enjoy the lush Cajun and Creole-influenced swamplands.

With convenient transportation and a comprehensive itinerary, this tour provides an exceptional opportunity to discover Louisiana’s rich cultural and ecological heritage.