Steamboat Natchez Evening Jazz Cruise with Dinner Option

Experience the Charm of a Historic Paddle-Wheel Steamboat in New Orleans

The Steamboat Natchez Evening Jazz Cruise with Dinner Option offers a captivating journey along the Mississippi River in New Orleans, priced at $58.00 per person. This 3-hour cruise departs from Toulouse Street and features live jazz music performed by the Grammy-nominated Dukes of Dixieland, a Creole-inspired buffet (if you opt for the dinner), and stunning views of the city skyline at dusk. The cruise is highly booked, typically 28 days in advance, making it a popular choice for visitors seeking an authentic river experience.

This tour suits those who want a relaxing evening filled with music, history, and scenic sights. While the dinner adds a flavorful dimension, the cruise itself remains enjoyable without it, offering a combination of informative narration, lively jazz, and picturesque river views. It’s important to note that the cruise operates rain or shine and may be canceled only in severe weather conditions.

Key Points

• Price and Duration: $58.00 per person for a 3-hour cruise from 6:00 pm, including live jazz and scenic views.
• Music and Entertainment: Features performances by the Grammy-nominated Dukes of Dixieland on all decks.
• Scenic Views: Offers unobstructed views of the New Orleans skyline at dusk from the river.
• Dining Options: Includes a Creole-inspired buffet with items like gumbo, pasta, and bread pudding if the dinner option is selected.
• Accessibility and Convenience: The main deck is accessible, with stairs needed for upper and lower decks; restrooms are available on board.
• Weather and Cancellation: Cruises operate rain or shine, with full refunds available if canceled due to severe weather or low bookings.

Board the Historic Paddle-Wheel Steamboat Natchez on Toulouse Street

The cruise begins at Gray Line New Orleans on 400 Toulouse Street, located behind Jax Brewery in the vibrant French Quarter. Boarding starts approximately 30 minutes before departure at 6:00 pm, so arriving early ensures smooth access and seating. The boat’s classic design transports guests back to the 19th century when steam-powered ships ruled the Mississippi. The vessel is handicap accessible on the main deck, although access to the top and bottom decks requires stairs.

Travelers are encouraged to walk to the departure point, as the French Quarter offers parking lots on Decatur Street with hourly or daily rates. The cruise runs regardless of weather, making it a reliable evening activity, with the possibility of dockside dining if weather conditions worsen.

Exploring the Four Decks and Onboard Comfort

The Natchez steamboat features four decks, allowing guests to choose between a climate-controlled indoor area or enjoy the outdoor decks for the best views. The enclosed area provides comfort during cooler or rainy evenings, while the open-air decks are perfect for taking in the sunset and nighttime skyline.

The restrooms onboard are conveniently located, ensuring comfort throughout the cruise. The vessel’s historic charm is evident in its design, and the calliope concert adds an extra nostalgic touch to the experience.

Live Jazz: The Dukes of Dixieland

The Grammy-nominated Dukes of Dixieland deliver lively performances that embody New Orleans jazz traditions. Their music fills the decks, creating an energetic atmosphere that resonates with the spirit of the city. The band’s long-standing reputation guarantees a high-quality musical experience, whether you prefer the indoor ambiance or the outdoor viewing area.

Guests frequently comment on how the music enhances the evening, making it feel both lively and relaxed. The band’s performance is complemented by live narration about the history of New Orleans and the Mississippi River, enriching the cruise with cultural context.

Scenic Views of New Orleans from the Mississippi River

As the boat cruises along the Mississippi, travelers enjoy spectacular views of the New Orleans skyline at sunset. The dusk lighting creates a picturesque backdrop behind historic buildings, bridges, and the vibrant cityscape. The top decks provide an ideal vantage point for photos and sightseeing, especially when the city lights begin to sparkle.

Reviewers highlight how sitting on the left side can improve sightlines for the guide’s commentary, making the most of the narration about the city’s landmarks. The relaxed pace allows ample time for taking in the scenery, snapping photos, and enjoying the jazz sounds.

Creole-Inspired Buffet Dinner (Optional)

The dinner upgrade includes a Creole-inspired buffet featuring classic dishes such as chicken and sausage gumbo, cheesy penne pasta, and signature bread pudding. Vegetarian options like Pasta Primavera, Green Beans Almondine, and Herb-Garlic Fingerling Potatoes are also available. The buffet is praised for its generous portions and flavorful offerings.

The dinner service takes place during the cruise, allowing guests to enjoy their meal while watching the river and cityscape pass by. The food is considered a highlight for many, with some reviewers noting how the staff goes out of their way to accommodate allergies, including offering a special salad for a guest with a bell pepper allergy.

Evening Cruise Atmosphere and Crowd

The 7 pm departure tends to draw a crowd that’s lively yet relaxed, with the average group size reaching up to 500 travelers. The group reservation policy ensures a well-organized experience, though the cruise can get somewhat crowded, especially during peak times. The dress code leans toward dressy casual, matching the elegant yet comfortable ambiance of the boat.

Many reviews mention how the cruise offers a peaceful, relaxing environment with lively music and beautiful scenery. The length of the cruise strikes a good balance—not too long to become tiresome, and long enough to enjoy the sights and music.

Accessibility and Practical Tips

The main deck is accessible for those with mobility issues, but upper and lower decks require stairs. The vessel’s restrooms are not wheelchair wide enough for some accessibility needs, so travelers with special requirements should call ahead to clarify. Service animals are permitted, provided they are recognized as ADA-defined.

Visitors are advised to arrive early, ideally 30 minutes before departure, to settle in comfortably. Parking options are available nearby, and the cruise operates rain or shine. However, if severe weather occurs, the cruise may be canceled, with a full refund or rescheduling offered.

The Cost-Effective Choice for an Authentic New Orleans Experience

At $58.00, this cruise provides good value, especially considering the live jazz, scenic views, and optional creole dinner. The combination of entertainment and sightseeing makes it an appealing option for families, couples, and groups seeking a memorable evening in New Orleans.

The reviews indicate that food quality varies depending on whether you opt for the dinner, but the music, views, and atmosphere consistently impress. The informative narration and historical insights add an educational aspect, making the cruise a well-rounded experience.

The Sum Up: A Classic New Orleans River Experience

The Steamboat Natchez Evening Jazz Cruise with Dinner captures the spirit of the Mississippi and New Orleans with its historic charm, lively jazz, and scenic sunset views. The live performances by the Dukes of Dixieland create a vibrant atmosphere, whether you choose the dinner option or just the cruise.

While the cruise is weather-dependent and can be crowded during peak times, the experience remains highly recommended for those who enjoy music, history, and river scenery. It’s especially suitable for first-time visitors or anyone looking for a relaxing, culturally rich evening in the French Quarter.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where does the Steamboat Natchez Evening Jazz Cruise depart from?
The cruise departs from Gray Line New Orleans at 400 Toulouse Street, behind Jax Brewery in the French Quarter.

Is parking available near the departure point?
Yes, there are parking lots in the French Quarter on Decatur Street with hourly and daily rates.

What time should I arrive for the cruise?
It’s best to arrive about 30 minutes early, as boarding begins at 6:00 pm for the 7 pm departure.

Are vegetarian options available during the buffet?
Yes, vegetarian dishes like Pasta Primavera, Green Beans Almondine, and Herb-Garlic Fingerling Potatoes are included.

Can I bring alcohol onboard?
There are bars onboard offering beer, wine, and specialty drinks for guests 21 and over; alcohol is not included in the ticket price.

Is the cruise accessible for travelers with mobility issues?
The main deck is accessible, but access to top and bottom decks requires stairs. The vessel’s restrooms are not wheelchair wide, so advance inquiry is recommended.

What happens in case of bad weather?
The cruise operates rain or shine. In severe weather, the cruise may be canceled, but a full refund or rescheduling is available.