New Orleans Steamboat Natchez Jazz Cruise with Dinner Option
Active
3h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Ready for the ultimate New Orleans night out? Step aboard a classic riverboat for a dinner jazz cruise on the mighty Mississippi River — one of the most iconic things to do in New Orleans!
The legendary Steamboat NATCHEZ and her sister vessel Riverboat CITY of NEW ORLEANS will sail interchangeably, depending on bookings and private events.
Regardless of which vessel you board, savor a Creole-inspired buffet, sip handcrafted cocktails, and sway to live New Orleans jazz as the skyline sparkles around you. Whether it’s date night, a group outing, or your first trip to the Crescent City, this two-hour cruise brings all the NOLA magic — food, music, and views included. Book together to sit together! Don’t just visit New Orleans — cruise through it in style.
Available options
Riverboat CITY - 6:00 Dinner
6pm Dinner Seating Included: Board vessel at 5:45PM. Please enter the dining room at 6PM for dinner. Vessel departs the dock at 7PM and returns at 9PM.<br/>Vessel type: Takes place on the Riverboat CITY of NEW ORLEANS
Riverboat CITY - 7:45 Dinner
7:45pm Dinner Seating Included: Board vessel at 6PM; vessel departs the dock at 7PM and returns at 9PM. Please enter the dining room at 7:45PM for dinner.<br/>Vessel type: Takes place on the Riverboat CITY of NEW ORLEANS
Steamboat NATCHEZ - No Meal
Vessel type: Takes place on the Steamboat NATCHEZ<br/>Sightseeing Cruise - No Meal: Board vessel at 6PM; vessel departs the dock at 7PM.
Steamboat NATCHEZ-7:45 Dinner
7:45PM Dinner Seating Included: Board vessel at 6PM; vessel departs the dock at 7PM and returns @ 9PM. Please enter the dining room at 7:45PM for dinner.<br/>Vessel type: Takes place on the Steamboat NATCHEZ
Steamboat NATCHEZ - 6pm Dinner
6pm Dinner Seating Included: Board vessel at 5:45PM. Please enter the dining room at 6PM for dinner. Vessel departs the dock at 7PM. <br/>Vessel type: Takes place on the Steamboat NATCHEZ
9:30pm Fest After Dark Concert
Fest After Dark Concert Cruise: A one-of-a-kind jam session and cruise, hosted in partnership with the French Quarter Festival
Riverboat CITY - No Meal
Sightseeing Cruise - No Meal<br/>Vessel type: Takes place on the Riverboat CITY of NEW ORLEANS
What's included
Enclosed climate-controlled area
Live narration of the history of New Orleans and the Mississippi River
Calliope Concert
Entertainment by the Grammy Nominated Dukes of Dixieland or New Orleans Jazz - Schedule Varies
Southern style dinner buffet (if option selected)
Restroom on board
Detailed itinerary
1
Not just a boat, the Steamboat NATCHEZ is a time machine that fills its passengers with the romance and marvel of yesteryear! Enjoy 1 hour dockside before the riverboat begins her 2-hour cruise down the Mississippi River. Relax with a cocktail at the bar and soak in the views as well as the sounds of the Calliope.
2
Stop 2
Cruise along the Mississippi River and let the Steamboat NATCHEZ whisk you away with its atmosphere and ambiance, with everything from a museum- quality Engine Room to the ship's orders being called over an old-time megaphone. This evening jazz cruise is a great way to experience New Orleans' beauty and culture.
As you steam ahead, soak in breathtaking views of the city skyline while enjoying a New Orleans cultural experience – a live jazz performance performed by the New Orleans band Dukes of Dixieland, a Grammy nominee.
Enjoy dining inside or outside on a delectable Louisiana-style buffet dinner including prime rib, chicken, pasta and salad. Two separate dining times give you the flexibility to enjoy the evening at your own pace.
Please Note: The price displayed is based on the cruise only option. Cruise with dinner option must be selected in order to confirm that your cruise includes the meal.
What's not included
Gratuities
Alcoholic drinks (available for purchase)
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.2
5,393 reviews
5★
2978
4★
1148
3★
675
2★
294
1★
298
Tripadvisor
4.0
2,013 reviews
5★
1010
4★
451
3★
296
2★
129
1★
127
Important information
Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
In order to help preserve the French Quarter from vehicular traffic, it is requested that you please walk, if possible, to the convenient tour departure point - just a short stroll from most downtown hotels.
The riverboat is handicap accessible. However, access to the top & bottom decks are by stairs only. Please call before finalizing your plans if you have questions on access or personal equipment.
Infant rates apply provided they do not occupy a seat.
The tour cruises rain or shine, however the cruise may be cancelled due to severe or dangerous weather conditions.
Contact local operator for groups of 15 or more. Different rates apply.
The legendary Steamboat NATCHEZ and her sister vessel Riverboat CITY of NEW ORLEANS will sail interchangeably, depending on bookings and private events
Meeting point
The Gray Line 'Lighthouse' ticket office is located at Toulouse St and the Mississippi River (Steamboat Natchez Dock), just one block from Jackson Square in the French Quarter. Boarding begins at 6pm and departs at 7pm. The boat will return at 9pm. The band begins at 6pm, so be sure to arrive early!
Important notes
Please note that both the New Orleans Steamboat Company and Gray Line New Orleans share the 'Lighthouse' ticket office @ 400 Toulouse Street.
We recommend you arrive at 5:45pm for the 6pm boarding.
From November 2025 - March 2026, the Steamboat NATCHEZ will operate all Daytime Jazz Cruises and the Riverboat CITY of NEW ORLEANS will operate all Evening Dinner and Sunday Brunch Jazz Cruises.
In order to help preserve the French Quarter from vehicular traffic, it is requested that you please walk, if possible, to the convenient tour departure point - just a short stroll from most downtown hotels.
About New Orleans
New Orleans is a vibrant city known for its rich cultural heritage, vibrant music scene, and unique Creole and Cajun cuisine. It's famous for its annual Mardi Gras festival, historic French Quarter, and the lively atmosphere of Bourbon Street.
Top Attractions
French Quarter
The heart of New Orleans, the French Quarter is known for its vibrant nightlife, historic architecture, and cultural landmarks.
Historical
Half day to full day
Free to explore, attractions vary
Garden District
A picturesque neighborhood known for its antebellum mansions, oak-lined streets, and historic cemeteries.
Historical
Half day
Free to explore, tours available
National WWII Museum
A world-class museum dedicated to the history of World War II, featuring immersive exhibits and personal stories.
Museum
2-3 hours
Moderate to expensive
City Park
A vast urban park featuring lush gardens, walking paths, and cultural attractions.
Nature
Half day
Free to enter, attractions vary
Frenchmen Street
A lively street known for its live music venues, art galleries, and vibrant nightlife.
Entertainment
Evening
Varies by venue
Must-Try Local Dishes
Gumbo
A rich and flavorful stew made with a dark roux, meat or seafood, and the 'holy trinity' of vegetables (onions, bell peppers, and celery).
Main Course
Can be made with chicken, sausage, or seafood, and may contain gluten and dairy.
Jambalaya
A one-pot dish made with rice, meat or seafood, and the 'holy trinity' of vegetables, seasoned with a variety of spices.
Main Course
Can be made with chicken, sausage, or seafood, and may contain gluten and dairy.
Beignets
A deep-fried pastry dusted with powdered sugar, often served with café au lait.
Dessert
Contains gluten and dairy.
Po' Boy
A classic New Orleans sandwich made with French bread, filled with fried seafood, meat, or vegetables, and topped with lettuce, tomatoes, and mayo.
Sandwich
Can be made with various fillings, and may contain gluten and dairy.
Popular Activities
Swamp tours
Kayaking
Biking
Spa treatments
Park picnics
Café hopping
Museum visits
Historic site tours
Best Time to Visit
February to April
This is the best time to visit New Orleans, with pleasant weather and major events like Mardi Gras. The city is lively, but also more crowded and expensive.
15-25°C
60-77°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: English
- Widely spoken: French, Spanish, Vietnamese
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
United States Dollar (USD)
Time Zone
Central Time Zone (CT) (GMT-6)
Electricity
120VV, 60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Exercise caution
New Orleans is generally safe for tourists, but visitors should be aware of their surroundings and take precautions to avoid theft and other crimes.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight
- • Use licensed taxis and rideshare services
- • Be cautious of strangers offering services or assistance
Getting there
By air
- Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport • 15 miles (24 km) from downtown
By train
New Orleans Union Passenger Terminal
By bus
Greyhound Bus Station, Megabus Stop
Getting around
Public transport
The bus system is affordable and covers most of the city, but can be slow due to traffic.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
French Quarter
Garden District
Warehouse District
Faubourg Marigny
Mid-City
Day trips
Plantation Country
30-40 miles (48-64 km) • Full day
Explore the historic plantations of Louisiana, with tours and exhibits showcasing the region's complex history.
Swamp and Bayou Tours
30-50 miles (48-80 km) • Half day to full day
Take a boat tour through the Louisiana swamps and bayous, with opportunities to see alligators, birds, and other wildlife.
Baton Rouge
80 miles (129 km) • Full day
Explore the capital of Louisiana, with its historic sites, museums, and universities.
Festivals
Mardi Gras • February or March (varies by year)
Jazz & Heritage Festival • Late April to early May (two weekends)
French Quarter Festival • April (four days)
Pro tips
- Visit during the off-peak season for fewer crowds and lower prices
- Explore the city's diverse neighborhoods, each with its own unique character and attractions
- Try local cuisine and support local businesses and restaurants
- Use public transportation, such as buses and streetcars, to get around the city and save money
- Be cautious of your surroundings and take precautions to avoid theft and other crimes
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
