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Journey aboard a New Orleans steam-powered paddlewheel boat for a rare opportunity to see 19th-century maritime technology in action while cruising the historic Mississippi River.
Steamboat Natchez Cruise Tickets
Headout is an authorized and trusted partner of the venue, offering curated experiences to enjoy this attraction.
Cruise the mighty Mississippi on an authentic steamboat with live jazz music.
- Everything you get: Step aboard the Steamboat NATCHEZ for a two-hour cruise featuring live jazz, panoramic views from multiple decks, and a visit to the steam engine room with live narration throughout your trip.
- Why choose this: Experience true New Orleans hospitality on the city’s only authentic steamboat, complete with live jazz and historic charm.
- Upgrades: Choose the daytime cruise for the perfect photo ops. Go for the evening cruise for a magical ambience or opt for the Sunday jazz cruise for a more festive, lively experience.
Cruise the mighty Mississippi on an authentic steamboat with live jazz music.
- Everything you get: Step aboard the Steamboat NATCHEZ for a two-hour cruise featuring live jazz, panoramic views from multiple decks, and a visit to the steam engine room with live narration throughout your trip.
- Why choose this: Experience true New Orleans hospitality on the city’s only authentic steamboat, complete with live jazz and historic charm.
- Upgrades: Choose the daytime cruise for the perfect photo ops. Go for the evening cruise for a magical ambience or opt for the Sunday jazz cruise for a more festive, lively experience.
Inclusions
- 2-hour steamboat cruise
- Expert guide
- Live Calliope jazz concert
Exclusions
- Beverages (Available for purchase onboard)
- Hotel pickup and drop-off
- Gratuities
- Shirts and shoes are required on all cruises. While casual attire is fine, we recommend you turn up in “dressy casual” for the Dinner Jazz Cruise. Switch your jeans for some dress pants or a skirt and a blouse or a stylish top. Men can zhuzh it up with a collared shirt (button-down or polo).
- This vessel is completely non-smoking, including all indoor areas and outer decks.
- This experience is accessible to wheelchair and pram/stroller users.
- For your convenience, guide dogs are welcome to join you.
- Boarding begins 30 min before departure. We recommend arriving at least 30 min early.
- Those 21 years and older may purchase beverages after presenting a valid photo ID with birthdate as per Louisiana law.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Taste authentic Creole flavours as you lunch aboard a steamboat cruising along Mississippi River with live jazz.
- Everything you get: Enjoy a Creole lunch on a 2-hour Mississippi River cruise aboard the Steamboat NATCHEZ . Take in New Orleans views from indoor and outdoor decks, hear a live jazz performance while you sail, and explore the vintage steam engine room with historical narration.
- Why choose this: Combine classic New Orleans sightseeing with live jazz, a historic paddlewheeler atmosphere, and a freshly prepared Creole lunch—all in one memorable river cruise experience.
- Upgrades: Choose to savor a freshly prepared lunch on either the 11am or 2pm cruise—giving you the flexibility to dine at your preferred time.
Taste authentic Creole flavours as you lunch aboard a steamboat cruising along Mississippi River with live jazz.
- Everything you get: Enjoy a Creole lunch on a 2-hour Mississippi River cruise aboard the Steamboat NATCHEZ . Take in New Orleans views from indoor and outdoor decks, hear a live jazz performance while you sail, and explore the vintage steam engine room with historical narration.
- Why choose this: Combine classic New Orleans sightseeing with live jazz, a historic paddlewheeler atmosphere, and a freshly prepared Creole lunch—all in one memorable river cruise experience.
- Upgrades: Choose to savor a freshly prepared lunch on either the 11am or 2pm cruise—giving you the flexibility to dine at your preferred time.
Inclusions
- 2-hour steamboat cruise
- Expert guide
- Live Calliope jazz concert
- Creole lunch (see the menu here)
Exclusions
- Alcoholic Beverages (Available for purchase onboard)
- Hotel pickup and drop-off
- Gratuities
- Shirts and shoes are required for all cruises. Casual wear is welcome, but for the Dinner Jazz Cruise, we suggest “dressy casual.” Swap jeans for dress pants, a skirt, or a stylish blouse. Men might opt for a polo or button-down shirt for a polished touch.
- Smoking is not permitted anywhere on the vessel, including all indoor spaces and outdoor decks.
- The cruise is fully accessible for wheelchair and stroller users.
- Guide dogs are welcome to accompany guests on board.
- Boarding opens at least 30 minutes before departure. Please arrive early to ensure a smooth check-in.
- Guests aged 21+ can purchase beer, wine, and specialty cocktails at the onboard bar with a valid photo ID showing date of birth, in accordance with Louisiana law.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Spend your Sunday brunching on an authentic steamboat along the Mississippi River.
- Everything you get: This two-hour Sunday cruise on the iconic Steamboat NATCHEZ comes with a live jazz performance by the Steamboat Stompers before you sail, a buffet-style New Orleans brunch, live narration of historic sights, access to the Riverboat Gift Shop, and river views you will not forget.
- Why choose this: There's no better way to soak up New Orleans' soulful spirit than a Sunday cruise—where the rhythm of live jazz, the charm of the river, and the tradition of leisurely weekends come together aboard an authentic steamboat.
Spend your Sunday brunching on an authentic steamboat along the Mississippi River.
- Everything you get: This two-hour Sunday cruise on the iconic Steamboat NATCHEZ comes with a live jazz performance by the Steamboat Stompers before you sail, a buffet-style New Orleans brunch, live narration of historic sights, access to the Riverboat Gift Shop, and river views you will not forget.
- Why choose this: There's no better way to soak up New Orleans' soulful spirit than a Sunday cruise—where the rhythm of live jazz, the charm of the river, and the tradition of leisurely weekends come together aboard an authentic steamboat.
Inclusions
- 2-hour steamboat daytime cruise on Sunday
- Expert guide
- Live Jazz performance by Duke Heitger’s Steamboat Stompers Jazz Trio
- Buffet brunch (see the menu here)
Exclusions
- 21+ beverages (Available for purchase onboard)
- Hotel pickup and drop-off
- Gratuities
- Make sure to wear a shirt and shoes—those are a must for all cruises. We suggest going “dressy casual.” Think slacks or a skirt with a nice top. Guys, a polo or button-down always looks sharp.
- Smoking isn’t allowed anywhere on the boat, including outdoor decks.
- The cruise is fully accessible for both wheelchairs and strollers.
- Service animals like guide dogs are absolutely welcome on board.
- Boarding starts at least 30 minutes before departure, so arrive early for a smooth, relaxed start to your cruise.
- If you’re 21 or older, you can purchase your beverage at the counter—just don’t forget to bring a valid photo ID (Louisiana law requires it).
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Experience a steamboat dinner cruise on the Mississippi River with live New Orleans swing-style music.
- Everything you get: Savor a buffet dinner on a 2-hour evening cruise aboard Steamboat NATCHEZ. You get to listen to live swing-style music by Grammy-nominated Dukes of Dixieland, enjoy cityscape views from both indoor/outdoor decks, & visit the engine room with an engaging narration by an expert guide.
- Why choose this: Make a night out of your steamboat cruise as you blend timeless river tradition with soulful New Orleans jazz heritage and a special dining experience.
- Upgrades: Choose your preferred dinner seating (6pm or 7:45pm) for a flexible dining experience.
Experience a steamboat dinner cruise on the Mississippi River with live New Orleans swing-style music.
- Everything you get: Savor a buffet dinner on a 2-hour evening cruise aboard Steamboat NATCHEZ. You get to listen to live swing-style music by Grammy-nominated Dukes of Dixieland, enjoy cityscape views from both indoor/outdoor decks, & visit the engine room with an engaging narration by an expert guide.
- Why choose this: Make a night out of your steamboat cruise as you blend timeless river tradition with soulful New Orleans jazz heritage and a special dining experience.
- Upgrades: Choose your preferred dinner seating (6pm or 7:45pm) for a flexible dining experience.
Inclusions
- 2-hour steamboat cruise
- Expert guide
- Live New Orleans swing style concert by Grammy-nominated Dukes of Dixieland Jazz
- Buffet dinner as per option selected (see the menu here)
Exclusions
- Alcoholic Beverages (Available for purchase onboard)
- Hotel pickup and drop-off
- Gratuities
- Shirts and shoes are a must on all cruises. For the Dinner Jazz Cruise, we recommend going “dressy casual.” Think dress pants, skirts, or a stylish blouse. Guys, a polo or button-down shirt adds a nice touch.
- Smoking is prohibited on the entire vessel, including all indoor areas and outdoor decks.
- The cruise is fully wheelchair and stroller accessible.
- Guide dogs are more than welcome to join you on board.
- Cruise doors open at least 30 minutes before departure. Arrive early to make boarding easy and stress-free.
- Guests 21 years and over can enjoy beverages from the counter. Bring a valid photo ID with your birthdate, as required by Louisiana law.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
New OrleansSteamboat Natchez Tours
Why go on the Steamboat Natchez cruise
Cruise aboard an authentic paddlewheel steamboat
Your Mississippi River cruise options explained
Sightseeing cruise
Perfect for: First-time visitors, families, photographers, and history buffs
Why book this: Immerse yourself in the soulful charm of New Orleans as you cruise the Mississippi aboard an authentic paddlewheeler. It features traditional live jazz by the famous calliope, narration on historical landmarks, and access to the working steam engine room.
Recommended cruise:
Steamboat Natchez Sightseeing Jazz Cruise
Sunday Brunch cruise
Perfect for: Leisurely travelers, brunch lovers, and weekend explorers
Why book this: Celebrate New Orleans rhythm and soul in the most classic way—with live jazz, an indulgent Southern brunch buffet, and panoramic river views on a Sunday.
Recommended cruise:
Steamboat Natchez Sunday Jazz Cruise with Brunch
Lunch cruise
Perfect for: Midday cruisers, culinary explorers, and jazz lovers
Why book this: This cruise blends picturesque views with a taste of authentic Louisiana. Enjoy a freshly prepared Creole lunch on board, accompanied by live jazz and steam-powered ambiance.
Recommended cruise:
Steamboat Natchez Sightseeing Jazz Cruise with Lunch
Dinner cruise
Perfect for: Couples, foodies, music lovers, and those looking to experience New Orleans after dark
Why book this: Sail into twilight with a 2-hour steamboat experience featuring a hearty Creole-style buffet and classic New Orleans swing by the Grammy-nominated Dukes of Dixieland.
Recommended cruise:
Steamboat Natchez Evening Cruise with Dinner
What you’ll see from your jazz cruise
See all photos
Get here to start sailing
Toulouse Street Wharf
Address: 400 Toulouse St, New Orleans, LA 70130, United States | Find on Maps
Famous for: This central location in New Orleans’ historic French Quarter is ideal for sightseeing pre- or post-cruise.
Nearby landmark: Old Man River Statue (1-min walk)
Closest tram stop: Toulouse (1-min walk)
Closest bus stop: Canal and Magazine (10-min walk)
Plan your visit
Timings
Best time to visit
Facilities
Accessibility
Rules
General Cruise Timings:
- Sightseeing Jazz Cruise: Departs daily at 10:30am and 1:45pm
- Lunch Jazz Cruise: Departs daily at 11am and 2pm
- Evening Jazz Dinner Cruise: Departs daily at 6pm and 7:45pm
- Sunday Brunch Cruise: Departs at 10:30am and 1:45pm
Duration: Each cruise lasts approximately 2 to 2.5 hours, including boarding
- Evening cruises are ideal if you’re after romance, sunset photography, or cooler temperatures after a warm day in New Orleans. The Dinner Jazz Cruise, in particular, offers an unforgettable mix of live music, Creole dining, and city lights shimmering on the water.
- For those focused on sightseeing and daytime photography, a midday or early afternoon cruise provides the best natural lighting.
- Weekdays tend to see smaller crowds, making them ideal for those who prefer a quieter cruise with easier access to the best deck seating and photo spots.
- The spring (April and May) and early fall (October) are the best times to take the Steamboat Natchez cruise. These months offer mild temperatures, lower humidity, and clearer skies, all of which enhance the scenic river views.
- Restrooms are available on both main and upper decks.
- You can head over to the onboard shop to take home souvenirs, local crafts, and memorabilia.
- All cruises feature live jazz performances.
- Indoor seating areas are air-conditioned, while outdoor decks are open-air.
- There is a full-service section of beverages available on board for those above 21 years of age to purchase.
- All the restrooms have accessible stalls.
- The main deck is wheelchair accessible. The upper deck is accessible only via stairs.
- Strollers are allowed on the main deck, but must be folded during busy cruises.
- You can bring along your service animals as long as you have proper documentation with you.
- The use of flash is discouraged during live performances to avoid disturbing other guests. Tripods and drones are not permitted onboard.
- You cannot bring large bags and suitcases with you.
- Dress code is casual and comfortable for all cruises, but opt for a smart-casual outfit for dinner sailings. Swap your jeans with khakis or dress pants with a polo or button-down shirt, or a skirt or slacks paired with a blouse or stylish top.
- Swimwear and bare feet are not permitted at any time.
- This is a smoke-free experience.
- A full service of beverages can be purchased and consumed only by guests aged 21 years and over with a valid photo ID.
- Pets are not allowed onboard.
Frequently asked questions about Steamboat Natchez cruises
What types of tickets are available for the Steamboat Natchez Cruise?
You can choose from several ticket options, including the classic sightseeing cruise, the lunch cruise, the dinner cruise, and the Sunday brunch cruise. Each ticket tier offers different inclusions, from basic admission to full Southern-style meals.
What’s included in the standard sightseeing cruise ticket?
The standard ticket covers your cruise on the Steamboat Natchez, live narration about the river’s history, and toe-tapping jazz music performed by the Duke Heitger’s Steamboat Stompers Jazz Trio. Food and drinks are available for purchase onboard.
Are there any special experiences or upgrades available?
Yes! You can upgrade to include a meal, or book the Sunday Brunch Jazz Cruise for a more festive atmosphere.
What’s special about the jazz dinner cruise?
The jazz dinner cruise ticket includes a two-hour evening cruise, a delicious buffet dinner featuring classic Creole and Cajun dishes, and reserved seating. You’ll also enjoy live jazz throughout the evening, making it a perfect choice for a romantic night or special celebration.
Is the Steamboat Natchez accessible for guests with disabilities?
Yes, the Steamboat Natchez is wheelchair accessible, with ramps and accessible restrooms.
Is there live entertainment on every cruise?
Absolutely! The Dukes of Dixieland jazz band or Duke Heitger’s Steamboat Stompers Jazz Trio perform on the cruises, creating a lively, authentic New Orleans atmosphere.
Is the Steamboat Natchez suitable for families with children?
Definitely! Kids love the paddlewheel, the music, and the chance to explore the decks. There are child-friendly menu options and plenty of space to roam.