Whitney Plantation and Airboat Tour from New Orleans

Key Points

• Full-day experience combining a self-guided visit to Whitney Plantation with a swamp airboat adventure.
• Price of $152 per person includes admission, transport, and guided commentary.
• Tour duration is approximately 8 hours, with convenient hotel pick-up and drop-off in small groups.
• Whitney Plantation offers a powerful, educational tour focusing on enslaved people’s stories, complemented by an independent museum exploration.
• The airboat ride provides close-up encounters with alligators and other swamp wildlife, led by enthusiastic captains.
• The tour includes stops at Destrehan, site of a significant 1811 slave revolt, and passes by Evergreen Plantation, filming location for Django Unchained.

Whitney Plantation: A Moving Education on Slavery

The tour begins with a visit to the Whitney Plantation, where a 1 hour and 30-minute audio-guided tour leads through the grounds and showcases exhibits dedicated to the history of slavery. This site is renowned for its focus on telling the stories of enslaved people, making it a powerful and somber experience.

Visitors have additional time for self-guided exploration of the museum, allowing for reflection and a personal look at the exhibits. The admission ticket is included in the tour price, ensuring no extra cost for this impactful visit. The grounds are widely praised for their beauty and the respectful way the history is presented, making this stop a highlight for those interested in history and social justice.

Passing by Evergreen Plantation: Filming Location for Django Unchained

Next, the tour offers a drive-by visit of the Evergreen Plantation, a site famous for being a filming location for Django Unchained and the TV series Queen Sugar. While there is no detailed stop for tours here, the passing view provides a chance to see this historic sugar plantation and learn about its significance in film and local history.

Destrehan: The Site of the 1811 Slave Revolt

A key part of the day is passing through Destrehan, where one of the largest slave revolts in American history took place in 1811. Known as the German Coast uprising, this event involved enslaved people fighting for freedom in the territory of New Orleans. The tour highlights this event as a poignant reminder of resistance and the struggles faced by enslaved communities.

The Thrilling Swamp Airboat Experience

After the historical stops, the tour shifts gears with a high-speed airboat ride through local marshes and swamps. The airboat captains are noted for their enthusiasm and knowledge, quickly creating an engaging experience.

Guests can expect to see alligators up close, sometimes even being fed, along with raccoons and other swamp wildlife. Several reviews mention close encounters with alligators, including holding an 8-week-old alligator. The ride is described as fun and exciting, with captains like Dylan or Ray making sure everyone has a memorable time, despite the sometimes cold weather conditions.

Convenient Small-Group Transfers from New Orleans Hotels

The tour includes small-group transportation, with pickups from most New Orleans hotels. The pick-up begins at 8:00 am, with a driver like Christina or Larry providing engaging commentary on the city en route to the first stop.

The group size is limited to 48 travelers, ensuring a more personal and comfortable experience. Timing is well-managed, although some reviews note that pickups may be slightly later than 8:00 am, which is typical for tours covering multiple hotels.

The Tour Schedule and Key Stops

The initial stop is at Whitney Plantation, where you spend about 2 hours exploring both the guided and self-guided areas. This flexible schedule allows visitors to absorb the history at their own pace.

Afterward, the tour passes by Evergreen Plantation for a sighting, then proceeds to Destrehan, emphasizing its historic significance. The swamp airboat ride is the final major activity, usually lasting around 30 to 45 minutes, with opportunities to see wildlife and enjoy the adrenaline rush of a high-speed ride.

Experience Quality and Reviews Highlights

Reviewers consistently rate this tour 5 out of 5, citing knowledgeable guides like BamBam and Larry who keep the group entertained and well-informed. The Whitney Plantation is praised for its beautiful grounds and educational value, while the airboat ride receives compliments for its excitement and wildlife encounters.

Many note the emotional impact of the Whitney tour, describing it as moving and respectful. The captains are appreciated for their enthusiasm, especially when feeding alligators or sharing stories about swamp wildlife. The driver guides are also commended for their local knowledge and engaging storytelling.

Practical Tips and Considerations

It is recommended to eat breakfast before the tour since there is no lunch included, and the day can be long. The pickup times are around 8:00 am, but may vary slightly depending on hotel locations, so flexibility is advised.

Weather conditions can affect the experience, especially for the swamp tour, which may be canceled or rescheduled if the weather is poor. Comfortable clothing is suggested for the outdoor activities, and silence during transport is appreciated out of respect for fellow travelers.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most?

This full-day experience suits those interested in American history, social justice, and wildlife. It appeals to adults and families alike, especially those wanting an educational perspective on slavery combined with a thrilling swamp adventure.

Since the tour is approximate 8 hours, it is ideal for travelers prepared for a long but well-paced day with small-group transport ensuring comfort and personalized service. The high reviews reflect its consistent quality and meaningful content.

Whitney Plantation and Airboat Tour from New Orleans: Final Thoughts

This tour offers a thoughtful combination of history and adventure, with a powerful visit to Whitney Plantation and an exciting swamp airboat ride. The small-group transfers make it comfortable, while the guides’ expertise enhances the experience.

It is an excellent choice for those who want to learn about Louisiana’s dark past while also enjoying the natural beauty of its wetlands. The $152 price point includes admission, transport, and guided commentary, making it a good value for a comprehensive day out.

This tour stands out for its balance of education and fun, and its top-rated reviews confirm its reliability and quality. It’s particularly suitable for history buffs, wildlife enthusiasts, and curious travelers seeking a memorable way to explore the story and scenery of Louisiana.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The $152 fee covers admission to Whitney Plantation, small-group transportation, guided audio tour, and the airboat ride.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience lasts approximately 8 hours, starting with hotel pickup around 8:00 am.

Is lunch included?
No, the tour does not include lunch, so it’s best to eat breakfast before departure.

Are there any physical requirements?
The activities involve outdoor walking and riding on an airboat, so comfortable attire is recommended. There are no specific accessibility details provided.

Can I cancel if I change my mind?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What makes this tour special?
Its blend of historical education at Whitney Plantation and thrilling swamp wildlife encounters makes it a distinctive choice for visitors seeking both learning and adventure.