New Orleans Large Airboat Swamp Tour

Experience the New Orleans Large Airboat Swamp Tour for $65

The New Orleans Large Airboat Swamp Tour offers an exciting way to explore Louisiana’s iconic wetlands. Priced at $65 per person, this approximately 1 hour 40-minute adventure departs from Louisiana Tour Company’s Swamp Dock in Marrero, LA. It combines a swamp exploration with an exhilarating airboat ride, led by professional guides who share their knowledge and keep the atmosphere lively.

This tour features a large-capacity vessel with stadium-style seating, accommodating up to 16 passengers. The speed can reach up to 25 miles per hour, allowing for high-speed bursts across the waterways, punctuated by slower, scenic stops. While the adventure promises gator sightings and wildlife encounters, travelers should note that hotel pickup and drinks are not included, and all bookings must be made with all passengers together to ensure seating on the same boat.

Key Points

• Duration: About 1 hour 40 minutes of swamp and airboat exploration
• Price: Only $65 per person, with most bookings made 24 days in advance
• Highlights: Gator sightings, expert guides, and scenic stops for photos
• Boat Features: Capacity of 16 guests, stadium-style seating, driven by a 454 Chevy Engine
• Meeting Point: Louisiana Tour Company – Swamp Dock in Marrero, LA
• Booking: Mobile tickets, free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance

Starting Point at Louisiana Tour Company’s Swamp Dock

The tour begins at the Louisiana Tour Company’s Swamp Dock, located at 9706 Barataria Blvd, Marrero, LA. Travelers meet at this designated spot to board the large airboat for their adventure into the Louisiana wetlands. The location is approximately 45 minutes from the center of New Orleans, so planning transportation is advisable if not arranged previously.

This meeting point is the hub for the tour, where guests are welcomed and briefed before heading into the swamp environment. The large airboat is notable for its capacity and stadium-style seating, ensuring everyone has an unobstructed view of the scenery and wildlife.

The Unique Combination of Swamp and Airboat Ride

This tour is a blend of both swamp exploration and high-speed airboat cruising. The route includes an overland drive along the Mississippi River to reach the swamp area, with photo stops and alligator encounters along the way. The main focus is on navigating areas inaccessible to normal boats or vehicles, thanks to the airboat’s ability to glide over shallow waters and reed beds.

During the ride, travelers experience a mix of fast-paced bursts and gentle cruising, making it suitable for those seeking both thrills and scenic tranquility. The guide’s commentary enriches the experience, providing insights into the flora and fauna of the swamp, including alligators, crocodiles, and other wildlife.

Expert Guides and Their Engaging Style

Each tour is led by a professional guide, renowned in reviews for being knowledgeable and entertaining. Guides like Dewey, Rocky, and Captain Duey earn praise for their fun storytelling, safety consciousness, and ability to keep guests laughing. Some guides are even recognized for their ability to spot wildlife, such as alligators of various sizes, bald eagles, and coyotes.

The guides’ friendly personalities and informative commentary make this tour accessible and engaging, even for first-time boat riders. Many reviews highlight guides’ patience and willingness to share wildlife facts, which adds a layer of enjoyment beyond the scenic views.

What You Can Expect During the Tour Stops

The first stop at the Barataria Preserve allows guests to photograph scenic views and encounter alligators up close. The guide may pause here to point out notable wildlife and answer questions. The airboat itself is equipped with stadium-style seating for unobstructed views, creating a comfortable experience for all.

Throughout the tour, regular stops provide opportunities to capture photos of the swamp’s unique environment and wildlife. Expect to see alligators, in addition to potential sightings of coyotes and bald eagles, especially during the early morning or late afternoon. These stops enhance the scenic value and allow guests to appreciate the beauty of Louisiana’s wetlands.

The Speed and Accessibility of the Airboat

The airboat’s speed of up to 25 miles per hour creates an adrenaline rush for thrill-seekers, especially during high-speed bursts across open waterways. The vessel is propelled by a large fan, driven by a 454 Chevy Engine, providing both power and stability.

Despite the fast pace, the guided narration ensures safety and offers learning moments about the ecosystem. The stadium seating ensures clear views even at top speed, making this experience suitable for those who enjoy exciting outdoor activities.

Wildlife Encounters: Alligators and More

A major highlight of this tour is the chance to see numerous alligators of different sizes, from tiny hatchlings to large adults. Guides often feed marshmallows to the gators, which is a favorite photo opportunity and adds a fun element to wildlife viewing.

Apart from alligators, guests may also spot bald eagles, coyotes, and other native wildlife in their natural environment. The abundance of wildlife is a testament to the health of Louisiana’s wetlands, and guides take pride in pointing out these signs of healthy habitat.

Practical Details: Booking, Group Size, and Safety

Most bookings are made 24 days in advance, reflecting high interest in this popular tour. The group size is limited to 16 guests, ensuring a personalized experience. It’s crucial to book with all passengers together to guarantee seating on the same airboat.

Safety precautions are strictly observed, and pregnant women are not allowed on this tour. Children must be at least 48 inches tall to participate, making it suitable for families with older kids. The meeting point is the Louisiana Tour Company in Marrero, LA, and hotel pickup is not included—plan ahead for transportation.

The Value and Booking Flexibility

At $65 per person, the tour offers competitive value considering the length, wildlife sightings, and guidance. The mobile ticket system makes booking straightforward, and the free cancellation policy allows for flexibility—full refunds are available if canceled more than 24 hours in advance.

Guests appreciate the informative guides, stunning scenery, and the thrilling ride, making this tour a well-reviewed choice for adventure and nature lovers visiting New Orleans.

Why This Tour Stands Out from Others

What differentiates this airboat swamp tour is the combination of wildlife viewing, high-speed excitement, and personalized guide narration. The large vessel offers ample space and clear views, making it ideal for groups and families. The wildlife encounters, especially with alligators, are frequently praised as spectacular.

Unlike some tours that focus solely on scenery or wildlife, this experience balances both, with plenty of opportunities to capture photos and learn from knowledgeable guides. The value for money and positive reviews underscore its popularity.

Final Thoughts on the New Orleans Large Airboat Swamp Tour

This tour caters to those seeking adventure, wildlife viewing, and scenic exploration of Louisiana’s wetlands. The speedy airboat ride combined with informative guides creates an engaging experience that is highly rated for its entertainment and educational value.

While the 45-minute drive from New Orleans might require some planning, the wildlife sightings and thrilling ride make it well worth the effort. Suitable for families, wildlife enthusiasts, and adventure seekers, this tour promises memorable moments in the heart of Louisiana’s natural beauty.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 1 hour 40 minutes, including the swamp drive and airboat ride.

What is the price?
The cost is $65 per person, with most bookings made 24 days in advance.

Where does the tour start?
It departs from Louisiana Tour Company – Swamp Dock at 9706 Barataria Blvd, Marrero, LA.

Are food and drinks included?
No, food and drinks are not included. Guests should arrange their own refreshments if desired.

Is there a limit on group size?
Yes, the maximum group size is 16 travelers per boat.

Are children allowed?
Children must be at least 48 inches tall to participate; pregnant women are not permitted for safety reasons.

What wildlife can I expect to see?
Most often, alligators of various sizes are seen, along with bald eagles and coyotes.

Is there a cancellation policy?
Yes, free cancellation is available if canceled more than 24 hours before the tour.

What makes this tour special?
Its combination of wildlife sightings, thrilling high-speed rides, and guides’ engaging commentary make it a standout experience in Louisiana.

Can I book this tour online?
Yes, tickets are available as mobile tickets, with easy online booking and flexible cancellation options.