New Orleans: Evening Jazz Cruise on the Steamboat Natchez

Exploring the rich history and vibrant culture of New Orleans from the comfort of a classic steamboat is a delightful way to spend an evening. The Steamboat Natchez’s Evening Jazz Cruise offers passengers a chance to witness the city’s iconic landmarks while enjoying the lively sounds of Dixieland jazz. With both indoor and outdoor seating, guests can choose to enjoy the music or simply take in the breathtaking views of the Mississippi River. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, this cruise promises an unforgettable experience that will leave you eager to discover more about the Crescent City.

This experience made our list of the 25 Best Cruises And Boat Tours In New Orleans.

Key Points

• The Steamboat Natchez offers a 2-hour evening jazz cruise on the Mississippi River, providing scenic views of New Orleans from the water.
• The cruise features live music from the Dukes of Dixieland and informative narration by the captain, enhancing the authentic New Orleans experience.
• Reservations are highly recommended due to high demand, with pricing starting at €49.28 per person and a "reserve now & pay later" option available.
• Passengers can choose from indoor and outdoor seating across four decks, with an optional buffet dinner featuring New Orleans specialties.
• During maintenance periods, the Steamboat Natchez may operate on the Riverboat City of New Orleans, which offers a similar jazz cruise experience.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Cruise Overview

The steamboat cruise on the Natchez offers passengers a unique opportunity to experience the rich history and vibrant culture of New Orleans from the picturesque vantage point of the Mississippi River.

During the 2-hour journey, guests will enjoy live narration by the ship’s captain and lively music from the acclaimed Dukes of Dixieland.

The cruise features indoor and outdoor seating across four decks, allowing passengers to take in the stunning views from multiple perspectives.

With its departure from the French Quarter, this cruise provides an immersive and entertaining way to explore the heart of New Orleans and its iconic waterfront.

Pricing and Reservations

Given the popularity of this steamboat cruise, reservations are highly recommended, as it’s likely to sell out.

The cruise is priced from €49.28 per person. Visitors can take advantage of the "reserve now & pay later" option.

Plus, there’s a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. This provides guests with flexibility and peace of mind when planning their evening on the Mississippi River.

Those interested in this unique New Orleans experience should book their tickets well in advance to secure their spots on this in-demand cruise.

Dining Options

An optional buffet dinner is available for guests seeking to further enrich their steamboat experience.

The dinner menu includes a variety of New Orleans specialties:

1. Salad Du Jour
2. Chicken and Sausage Gumbo
3. Louisiana Fried Chicken Thighs
4. Bayou Seafood Pasta

Two seating times are offered, from 6:00 PM to 7:15 PM and 7:45 PM to 9:00 PM.

Children under 6 can enjoy the cruise for free, but will be charged for the food.

Please note that gluten-free meal requests can’t be accommodated, and menu items are subject to seasonal changes.

Maintenance and Accommodations

Occasionally, the Steamboat Natchez may be out of service for necessary maintenance, during which cruises will operate on the alternate Riverboat City of New Orleans. This is to ensure the safety and comfort of all passengers.

While the Natchez is undergoing repairs, the City of New Orleans will provide the same Jazz cruise experience, with live music, historical narration, and scenic views of the Mississippi River.

However, it’s important to note that the cruise line can’t accommodate gluten-free meal requests. Visitors should keep this in mind when planning their dinner options.

The menu items are also subject to seasonal changes, so guests should check for updates prior to their cruise.

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Customer Feedback Highlights

Based on over 2,900 customer reviews, the Evening Jazz Cruise on the Steamboat Natchez has an impressive overall rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars.

Customers have praised the experience, highlighting several standout aspects:

1. The guided tour by the captain received a 4.2/5 rating, with many noting the informative and engaging historical narration.

2. The transportation (the steamboat itself) was highly rated at 4.6/5, thanks to the vessel’s charm and comfort.

3. Service on the cruise was well-received, earning a 4.4/5 score from reviewers.

4. Overall organization of the event was also praised, with a 4.4/5 rating.

While the vast majority of feedback was positive, some customers noted the need for clearer boarding time information and more transparent pricing for the optional dinner.

Explore the Mississippi River

The Mississippi River, stretching from Minnesota to the Gulf of Mexico, offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore the heart of America’s waterways. From the bustling port of New Orleans, the Steamboat Natchez provides an enchanting journey along this iconic river. As passengers glide past the historic French Quarter and take in the stunning city skyline, they can enjoy the rich cultural heritage of the region. The cruise’s three-deck design allows for both indoor and outdoor seating, providing unobstructed views of the passing landscapes. Whether it’s the lively jazz music or the captivating narration, the Steamboat Natchez cruise promises an unforgettable experience on the mighty Mississippi.

River Feature	Description
Length	2,320 miles
Watershed	40% of the continental United States
Major Cities	Minneapolis, St. Louis, Memphis, Baton Rouge, New Orleans
Ecosystem	Diverse aquatic life and important migratory bird flyway

Live Music and Narration

As passengers board the Steamboat Natchez, they’re welcomed by the lively sounds of the Dukes of Dixieland, a renowned jazz ensemble that sets the tone for the evening’s festivities.

The live music transports guests back in time, as the band’s authentic New Orleans jazz style fills the air. The captain’s engaging narration provides insights into the history and landmarks along the Mississippi River, enhancing the overall experience.

Passengers can enjoy the music and commentary from:

1. The indoor saloon, with its cozy, vintage ambiance.
2. The open-air observation decks, offering panoramic views of the city skyline.
3. The climate-controlled dining areas, where they can savor the optional Creole-inspired buffet.
4. The shaded outdoor seating, perfect for taking in the sights and sounds of the river.

Outdoor and Indoor Seating

Across the Steamboat Natchez’s four decks, passengers can choose from a variety of seating options to suit their preferences.

Those seeking an open-air experience can relax on the top deck, enjoying panoramic views of the Mississippi River as well as the live music and narration.

For a more sheltered setting, the second and third decks offer an indoor lounge with climate-controlled comfort and large windows.

On the main deck, guests can dine at the optional buffet while taking in the sights and sounds of the riverboat journey.

Whether indoors or out, the multiple seating areas provide ample opportunities to take in the ambiance of the New Orleans cruise.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Alcoholic Beverages Available for Purchase on the Cruise?

Yes, alcoholic beverages are available for purchase on the cruise. The cruise offers a full-service bar with a variety of cocktails, wine, and beer options for guests to enjoy during the 2-hour journey.

How Accessible Is the Steamboat for Guests With Mobility Issues?

The steamboat has accessibility features like ramps and elevators to assist guests with mobility issues. However, some areas may be tight or uneven, so those with significant mobility challenges should inquire about specific accommodations before booking.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks Onto the Cruise?

The cruise does not allow guests to bring their own food or drinks on board. All dining options must be purchased through the cruise operator. Outside food and beverages are prohibited for safety and operational reasons.

Are There Any Dress Code Requirements for the Evening Cruise?

There is no formal dress code for the evening cruise. Passengers can wear casual, comfortable attire. However, it’s suggested to dress up a bit to enjoy the evening ambiance and live music experience.

Are Restrooms Available on the Steamboat During the 2-Hour Tour?

Yes, there are restrooms available on the steamboat during the 2-hour tour. The cruise offers indoor and outdoor seating across four decks, and passengers can access restrooms throughout the vessel as needed during the duration of the experience.

Recap

The Evening Jazz Cruise on the Steamboat Natchez offers a unique opportunity to experience New Orleans’ rich cultural heritage. Guests can enjoy live jazz music, captivating narration, and stunning views of the city’s iconic landmarks from the comfort of the historic steamboat. With diverse dining options and both indoor and outdoor seating, the cruise provides a memorable and immersive way to explore the beauty of the Mississippi River.

You can check if your dates are available here: