New Orleans: Swamp Boat Ride and Historic Plantation Tour

Explore the captivating blend of history and nature in New Orleans with the "Swamp Boat Ride and Historic Plantation Tour." This immersive experience takes you on a journey through the region’s rich cultural heritage, from the majestic Oak Alley and Destrehan Plantations to the serene Manchac Swamp. Witness the diverse wildlife and learn about local legends as you glide along the tranquil waters. Flexible reservation options and round-trip transportation make this tour a convenient and unforgettable way to discover the unique charm of Louisiana. Dive deeper into this captivating adventure and uncover the stories that have shaped the region for generations.

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

Key Points

• A 5.5 to 7.5 hour tour visiting two historic plantations (Oak Alley and Destrehan) and including a thrilling swamp boat ride.
• Guided tours and transportation provided, suitable for ages 6 and up, and offered year-round.
• Explore the quarter-mile alley of 250-year-old oak trees at Oak Alley Plantation and the oldest French Colonial-style house in the lower Mississippi Valley at Destrehan Plantation.
• Enjoy a serene boat cruise through the Manchac Swamp, where you can observe diverse wildlife and learn about local legends and cultural traditions.
• Wheelchair storage available, with arrangements for scooters and mobility devices, ensuring an inclusive experience for a wide range of ages and abilities.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

This tour offers visitors a chance to experience the rich history and natural beauty of Louisiana’s plantations and swamps.

Over 5.5 to 7.5 hours, guests visit two historic plantations and take a swamp boat ride. The tour includes transportation, guided plantation tours, and the swamp boat cruise.

Participants can explore the grand Oak Alley Plantation and the Destrehan Plantation, the oldest documented French Colonial-style house in the lower Mississippi Valley.

The swamp boat ride allows visitors to see local wildlife and hear legends like the Rougarou werewolf.

Offered year-round, this tour is suitable for adults and children aged 6 and up.

Plantation Visits

The tour’s plantation visits allow visitors to step back in time and explore the grand estates that shaped the history of Louisiana.

Guests have the opportunity to see Oak Alley Plantation, boasting a quarter-mile-long alley of 250-year-old oak trees, and Destrehan Plantation, the oldest documented French Colonial-style house in the lower Mississippi Valley.

At Destrehan, visitors can gain insights into the Destrehan family’s sugar dynasty and witness daily trade demonstrations by costumed artisans.

The tours provide a unique glimpse into the opulence and complex past of these historic plantations, offering a captivating window into Louisiana’s rich cultural heritage.

• Oak Alley Plantation
• Destrehan Plantation
• Quarter-mile oak tree alley
• Oldest French Colonial-style house
• Destrehan family sugar dynasty

Swamp Boat Ride

While exploring the Manchac Swamp on the boat cruise, visitors can enjoy the serene natural beauty and learn about the region’s rich history and folklore.

The knowledgeable guides share legends like the Rougarou, a werewolf-like creature rooted in Cajun culture.

Gliding through the tranquil waters, guests have the chance to observe diverse wildlife, including the iconic alligators that call the swamp home.

The tour offers a unique opportunity to experience Louisiana’s captivating wetlands and gain insights into the local ecosystem and traditions that have shaped the area for generations.

Inclusions

The tour includes round-trip transportation by bus, providing convenient and comfortable travel between the key destinations.

Participants will also gain entry and a guided tour of either the Oak Alley or Destrehan plantation, allowing them to enjoy the rich history and architectural beauty of these historic sites.

Plus, the tour features:

• A thrilling Manchac Swamp boat cruise, where travelers can observe local wildlife and hear legends like the Rougarou werewolf
• Access to food and drinks available for purchase at the swamp
• Wheelchair storage, though special arrangements are needed for scooters, and second-floor access is limited to stairs.

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Age Requirements

Adults between the ages of 13 and 99 are welcome to join this tour. Children aged 6-12 are also invited, while infants 5 and younger can participate for free without requiring a ticket.

The tour offers an inclusive experience, catering to a wide range of ages. Accessibility is a priority, with wheelchair storage available, although special arrangements may be necessary for guests using scooters.

Please note that access to the second floor of the plantation homes is only available via stairs. The tour aims to accommodate all participants, ensuring a memorable experience for visitors of all ages.

Accessibility

Wheelchair storage is available for those requiring it, ensuring participants with mobility needs can join the tour.

While the plantation homes feature stairs only for access to the second floor, arrangements can be made to accommodate scooters and other mobility devices.

The tour experience aims to be inclusive, catering to a wide range of visitors:

• Accessible transportation provided to and from the tour sites
• Guided assistance available for those who need extra help
• Designated quiet areas for guests seeking a more peaceful experience
• Sensory-friendly options for individuals with certain needs
• Multilingual guides to support diverse language requirements

Customer Reviews

Travelers have overwhelmingly praised the New Orleans: Swamp Boat Ride and Historic Plantation Tour, as evidenced by its impressive 4.7/5 rating based on 205 reviews.

Guests lauded the tour’s organization, the breathtaking beauty of the plantations, and the thrilling swamp experiences.

Guides received a perfect 5/5 rating for their extensive knowledge and entertaining commentary.

The tour’s value for money was also highly commended at 4.7/5.

While the service rating was a solid 4/5, the overall consensus among visitors is that this tour is a must-do for first-time New Orleans travelers.

Reservation and Cancellation

Although the tour’s availability is limited and likely to sell out, customers can reserve their spot without upfront payment by booking now and paying later.

The tour offers a flexible cancellation policy, allowing free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Some key details about reserving and cancelling the tour include:

• No upfront payment required to book your spot
• Reservation can be made now and paid for later
• Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour
• Full refund available for cancellations within 24 hours
• Check availability for starting times as slots may sell out quickly

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Dress Code for This Tour?

The tour doesn’t specify a dress code, but comfortable clothing and closed-toe shoes are recommended. Visitors should dress for the weather and be prepared for the possibility of getting wet during the swamp boat ride.

Are Photos/Videos Allowed During the Plantation Tours?

Photos and videos are generally allowed during plantation tours, though visitors should be respectful and follow any guidelines set by the tour guides. Some plantations may have restrictions in certain areas to preserve the historic sites.

Are There Any Dietary Restrictions for the Food at the Swamp?

The tour doesn’t provide any meals at the swamp, but visitors can purchase food and drinks onsite. There are no specific dietary restrictions, and the available options should accommodate most dietary needs.

Can We Bring Our Own Snacks and Drinks on the Tour?

Guests are permitted to bring their own snacks and non-alcoholic drinks on the tour. However, food and drinks are also available for purchase at the swamp location. Bringing a small cooler is allowed, though alcohol is not permitted.

Is There Any Special Equipment Needed for the Swamp Boat Ride?

No special equipment is needed for the swamp boat ride. Visitors should wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and closed-toe shoes. Life jackets are provided by the tour operator for safety during the boat excursion.

Recap

The "New Orleans: Swamp Boat Ride and Historic Plantation Tour" offers a captivating blend of history, nature, and Southern charm. Visitors can explore the grand Oak Alley and Destrehan Plantations, gain insights into Louisiana’s cultural heritage, and embark on a thrilling boat ride through the Manchac Swamp. With inclusive features and flexible booking options, this tour provides an immersive and memorable experience for guests of all ages.

You can check if your dates are available here: