New Orleans Tickets

Steamboat Natchez Cruise Tickets

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Steamboat Natchez sailing on the Mississippi River with the city in the background.






Top things to do in New Orleans

All aboard the Steamboat Natchez! Set sail on one of the last authentic steam-powered paddle wheelers in New Orleans for a vibrant cruise on the Mississippi River, featuring live jazz, Creole cuisine, and rich Southern heritage.

Why go on the Steamboat Natchez cruise

People walking upto Steamboat Natchez docked in the French Quarter, New Orleans
People sitting and eating on Steamboat Natches with a view
New Orleans city skyline view from Steamboat Natchez on Mississipi river
Red beans and rice served as part of Steamboat Natchez cruise
Engine room in the Steamboat Natchez
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Cruise aboard an authentic paddlewheel steamboat

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.

Live jazz performances on every sail

Enjoy the sounds of New Orleans with live jazz music performed by the Grammy-nominated Dukes of Dixieland or Duke Heitger’s Steamboat Stompers Jazz Trio. The open-air decks and river breeze set the perfect stage for classic tunes and local rhythms.

Take in breezy river views

From the French Quarter’s colorful facades to the St. Louis Cathedral and bustling river traffic, the cruise offers front-row views of New Orleans’ most famous landmarks. Watch tugboats, barges, and city skylines drift by as you relax on deck.

Savor Louisiana Creole cuisine

Dinner and brunch cruises include buffet-style meals with regional classics like jambalaya and gumbo. It's a culinary journey through Louisiana's flavors alongside sweeping river views.

Explore the engine room and learn river history

Peek into the working steam engine room, where you can see the massive engines in action and chat with the crew. Narrated commentary throughout the cruise shares stories of New Orleans’ maritime heritage, the legacy of river commerce, and the importance of steamboats in American history.

Book smart: Insider tips for booking your Steamboat Natchez Cruise

  • Book early, especially for dinner and Sunday brunch cruises which are the most sought-after. These often sell out several days in advance during spring (April–June) and fall (October), which are the most popular times to sail.
  • The departure point is always Toulouse Street Wharf, conveniently located in the French Quarter near Jackson Square. It’s easily accessible by foot, streetcar, or rideshare from most downtown hotels.
  • Steamboat Natchez offers something for everyone—relaxed daytime sightseeing cruises with live jazz, romantic evening dinner cruises with buffet dining, and the popular Sunday Jazz Brunch Cruise, which blends Southern brunch classics with mid-morning river views and live music.
  • Choose your cruise based on time and interest. The Daytime Sightseeing Cruise is perfect for families, first-timers, and photographers. The Dinner Jazz Cruise
  • adds a full Creole buffet and sunset ambiance. The Sunday Brunch Cruise adds a festive brunch buffet and is ideal for leisurely weekend mornings.
  • Cruises operate rain or shine, with indoor and open-air decks for comfort in any weather. Severe storms may lead to rescheduling, so check weather updates if you're booking close to your sail date.

Your Mississippi River cruise options explained

Steamboat Natchez on the Mississippi River in New Orleans, USA

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
Guests sitting for brunch in the Steamboat Natchez

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
Creole Creamed Spinach served on Steamboat Natchez Dinner Cruise in New Orleans.

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
New Orleans sunset with Natchez Dinner cruise

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

Aerial view of Mississippi river and French quarterin New Orleans, LA

French Quarter

The cruise begins near the French Quarter, the heart of New Orleans' historic charm and culture. Colorful Creole townhouses, street performers, and balconies draped in ironwork offer a lively scene along the riverfront.

Engine room steamboat. Steam boiler, sensors and pipes of a steam engine.
St. Louis Cathedral seen from river Mississippi in early morning light, New Orleans
Crescent City Connection Bridge over the Mississippi River in New Orleans, Louisiana
USS Kidd warship and downtown and the Mississippi River port, Louisiana, USA

Set sail with confidence: What to know before your Steamboat Natchez cruise

Cruising the Mississippi River on the Steamboat Natchez is one of New Orleans' most iconic experiences. Here’s everything you need to know to make your journey smooth, scenic, and stress-free.

  • Know your departure point: All cruises board at the Toulouse Street Wharf in the French Quarter, just steps from Jackson Square. It’s easily walkable and accessible via streetcar or rideshare.
  • Arrive early: Boarding begins 30 minutes before departure, and arriving early gives you enough time to settle in before the cruise.
  • Have your confirmation and ID ready: Whether digital or printed, have your ticket handy. A photo ID is required for the purchase of alcohol on board.
  • Dress for the occasion: Shirts and shoes are required on all cruises. For the Dinner Jazz Cruise, consider "dressy casual"—trade your jeans for dress pants or a skirt and blouse or stylish top. Men can elevate their look with a collared shirt, whether button-down or polo.
  • Take the weather into consideration: Conditions on the river can change quickly—bring layers for cooler evenings and wear sun protection for midday sightseeing cruises.
  • Follow crew guidance: From safety instructions to onboard assistance, the friendly crew ensures your cruise runs smoothly. Listen for announcements and ask for help if needed.
  • Enjoy the ride: Sit back, relax, and let the sounds of live jazz, the sights of the Mississippi, and the flavors of Creole cuisine immerse you in the magic of New Orleans.

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

Steamboat Natchez during Sunset in front of the Crescent Bridge on the Mississippi River

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

Steamboat Natchez cruising on Mississipi river in New Orleans, United States
  • 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.
Restroom Sign
  • 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.
Accessibility signs for restroom.
  • 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.
No-flash Photography sign
  • 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.

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