Private New Orleans 2-Hour Sail Aboard a Luxury Yacht

A private 2-hour sail aboard a luxurious 47-foot Beneteau sailboat offers a unique way to enjoy Lake Pontchartrain in New Orleans. Priced at $225 per person, this experience is perfect for those seeking a relaxed, intimate outing with beautiful sunset views. The tour typically departs from the New Orleans Yacht Experience marina, located in the Lake Shore district, with two convenient departure times to fit your schedule.

Designed for groups of up to 6 passengers, this sail provides a cozy, personalized atmosphere, especially with included craft beer, wine, non-alcoholic beverages, and snacks. The entire trip lasts just over 2 hours, making it an ideal option for a memorable evening without taking up too much time. While most travelers find booking about 9 days in advance ideal, it’s wise to plan ahead given the popularity and limited group size. This tour excels in offering stunning water views, a knowledgeable captain, and a relaxing ambiance, though it’s best suited for those comfortable on a boat and seeking a calm, scenic experience.

Key Points

• Private luxury sailboat for up to 6 guests with a 2-hour duration
• Price of $225 per person, including drinks and snacks
• Departs from New Orleans marina in Lake Shore district, with two departure times
• Enjoy views of Lake Pontchartrain, the Lake Pontchartrain Causeway, and the sunset
• Captain Doug, with over 35 years of sailing experience, leads the tour
• Most travelers book about 9 days in advance due to popularity

The Luxurious 47-Foot Beneteau Sailboat Named Roux Stir

This tour takes place aboard the Roux Stir, a stable and spacious 47-foot Beneteau sailboat. With a luxurious interior and plenty of seating, the boat is designed to maximize comfort and safety. Its size ensures stability on the protected waters of Lake Pontchartrain, making it suitable for guests seeking a smooth sailing experience.

The vessel features a spacious lounge below deck where guests can relax, enjoy drinks, or take shelter if the weather cools. For better views and fresh air, on-deck seating allows everyone to watch the sunset and water ripples. The boat’s size and stability are frequently praised in reviews, contributing to a comfortable and secure ride.

Captain Doug, a U.S. Coast Guard Master Captain with more than 35 years of sailing and racing experience, steers the boat. His passion for sailing, along with his local knowledge, makes this experience more than just a boat ride—it becomes a personalized journey into the beauty of Lake Pontchartrain.

Convenient Departure Points and Scheduling

The meeting point, the New Orleans Yacht Experience marina at 102 N Roadway St, is easy to access in the Lake Shore district. The tour offers two departure times, allowing guests to choose a sunset sail or a daytime excursion, depending on preference.

Participants should arrive a little before the scheduled departure to settle in comfortably. Since this is a private tour, only your group participates, adding to the feeling of exclusivity and intimacy. It’s recommended to book about 9 days ahead to secure your preferred time, especially during peak seasons.

The activity is designed for most travelers, with service animals allowed. As weather can affect the trip, the tour provider offers a full refund or rescheduling if canceled due to poor weather conditions.

The Experience of the 2-Hour Lake Pontchartrain Sunset Sail

Once aboard the Roux Stir, guests are treated to an experience that combines relaxation, scenic beauty, and a touch of luxury. The captain expertly navigates the protected waters, allowing guests to sit back and enjoy the views of the Lake Pontchartrain Causeway, the sky during sunset, and the gentle ripples on the water.

Throughout the cruise, drinks are available—craft beer, wine, and non-alcoholic beverages—complemented by snacks. The blankets provided ensure comfort during cooler weather, while the spacious lounge below offers an inviting space to unwind. Many reviews highlight the stunning sunset, the friendly and knowledgeable captain, and the peaceful ambiance aboard the boat.

Guests can choose to stay on deck for the best outdoor views or relax below in the comfortable lounge. The moderate pace makes this tour accessible to most, and the small group size ensures personalized attention.

Views of Lake Pontchartrain and the Causeway

The tour delivers spectacular scenery, with the long Lake Pontchartrain Causeway visible from the boat. This world’s longest bridge over water is a highlight of the sail, providing a striking backdrop against the sunset sky.

The protected waters ensure calm conditions, allowing for clear, unobstructed views of the lake and surrounding scenery. The water ripples, clouds, and changing sky are appreciated details that add to the visual pleasure. Many guests mention how the water and sky reflections create a surreal atmosphere, perfect for photography or simply soaking in the tranquil environment.

Captain Doug’s Expertise and Warm Hospitality

Captain Doug is central to the tour’s success. With over 35 years of sailing experience, he is described as a great host, combining expertise, friendliness, and local knowledge. His background as a sailor and historian enriches the experience, often sharing interesting insights about the area and the sailboat.

Guests frequently praise his hospitality and passion for sailing, which make the cruise feel more like a personal escape. His ability to make guests feel comfortable is a common theme in reviews, contributing significantly to the positive atmosphere onboard.

Snacks, Beverages, and Onboard Comforts

Included in the tour are craft beer, wine, non-alcoholic drinks, and snacks, ensuring that guests stay refreshed without needing to bring anything extra. The selection of beverages is well-regarded, with many noting the quality of the local craft beer and wine.

Comfort is a priority, with blankets available for cooler weather and ample seating both on deck and below. The spacious lounge area adds to the overall sense of luxury and leisure, making the two hours pass quickly amid beautiful views and good company.

Booking Tips and Considerations

Given the tour’s popularity, it’s wise to reserve at least 9 days in advance. The tour is non-refundable and cannot be changed, so confirming your schedule is advisable.

Since weather impacts the experience, the provider offers full refunds or rescheduling options if poor weather forces cancellation. The private nature of the tour makes it ideal for couples, small groups, or special celebrations seeking a personalized and intimate outing.

Travelers should be comfortable on a boat for this experience, but the stability of the vessel minimizes motion discomfort. This tour is suitable for most physical abilities and is a great choice for celebrating birthdays, romantic evenings, or simple water-loving adventures.

Capturing the Magic: Photos and Memories

Guests often find that the scenic views, especially during sunset, lend themselves well to photos. The calm waters, the long Causeway bridge, and the changing sky create stunning backdrops for pictures.

The crew is accommodating for photo opportunities, and many reviews mention how memorable and beautiful the sunset moments are. This sail provides plenty of chances to capture the quiet beauty of Lake Pontchartrain.

Why Choose This Private Sunset Sail in New Orleans?

This private luxe sail stands out for its personalized service, beautiful scenery, and expert guide—Captain Doug. It offers a relaxed, intimate atmosphere with all the comforts of a luxury yacht, including drinks, snacks, and blankets.

Most importantly, it provides breathtaking views of Lake Pontchartrain, the Causeway, and a spectacular sunset that turns the sky into a canvas of colors. The small group size and friendly captain ensure a cozy, memorable experience that many guests describe as a highlight of their time in New Orleans.

While it’s more expensive than some group tours, the personalized service and luxury justify the price for those seeking a special, relaxed evening on the water.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the sail?
The tour lasts approximately 2 hours and 10 minutes.

What is included in the price?
Guests receive craft beer, wine, non-alcoholic beverages, and snacks as part of the experience.

Where does the tour depart from?
It departs from the New Orleans Yacht Experience marina at 102 N Roadway St.

Are the drinks and snacks provided?
Yes, included in the tour are drinks and snacks.

Is this tour private?
Yes, the experience is private, with only your group participating.

What is the maximum group size?
The boat accommodates up to 6 guests comfortably.

Is it suitable for children or service animals?
Most travelers can participate, and service animals are allowed.

What if the weather is bad?
If canceled due to poor weather, guests are offered a full refund or the option to reschedule.

How far in advance should I book?
Most bookings are made about 9 days in advance due to popularity.

Can I choose between a sunset or daytime sail?
Yes, there are two departure times available to suit your preferences.

Is the tour accessible for all physical abilities?
Yes, it is suitable for most travelers with no specific limitations mentioned.

What makes this sail special compared to other water activities in New Orleans?
The private, intimate setting, luxury yacht, and stunning sunset views make this experience stand apart from larger group cruises and more commercial options.

This Private New Orleans 2-Hour Sail offers a relaxed, luxurious way to enjoy Lake Pontchartrain’s beauty, perfect for celebrating a special occasion or simply enjoying a peaceful evening on the water. The combination of expert guidance, beautiful scenery, and personalized touches ensures a memorable outing that many praise as the highlight of their trip to New Orleans.