If you'd like to experience the Big Easy beyond Bourbon Street, you may want to consider taking New Orleans river dinner cruises. These sailings will allow you to enjoy the city from a bit of a different perspective. You have a couple of options if you are looking to take a dinner cruise of New Orleans - the Steamboat Natchez and the Creole Queen.
Steamboat Natchez
This authentic steamboat cruise includes a buffet of fresh food and live jazz performances by the Dukes of Dixieland. The cuisine is Louisiana influenced and features entrees, such as roasted red potatoes and cinnamon bread pudding.
This cruise is available seven days a week, year-round. The steamboat departs from the Toulouse Street Wharf at 7 p.m. You have the option of sitting either outside on the ship's deck or in one of the interior dining rooms. Don't forget to check out the engine room, which will give you an idea of how a historic steamboat works.
If you'd like to make a reservation for this dinner cruise of New Orleans, the easiest way is to book online. In addition to the dinner cruise, you can opt for the following:
- A daytime cruise without a meal
- A daytime cruise with lunch
- A nighttime cruise without a meal
If you bring a child younger than six, you do not have to pay for the meal portion of his or her ticket. In addition, you may be able to get a reduced rate if you bring a group of 10 or more persons.
Creole Queen
Another option is to head out on a paddlewheeler. Take a New Orleans river dinner voyage on the Creole Queen and you'll feel like you stepped back in time to the 1920s. The historic vessel has parquet floors, brass railings, wrought iron trim and intricate plush draperies.
While onboard you will enjoy a three-hour cruise featuring a buffet of authentic Creole cuisine, live jazz and a variety of beverages. Creole dishes include jambalaya, crawfish and red beans and rice. Alcoholic beverages are also available for an extra charge. Cruises depart from the Canal Street Dock at 8 p.m.
You can save money on your ticket if you decide not to order dinner. Discounted tickets are also available for kids 12 and under. If you have a large group, call 1-800-445-4109. Online booking is available at the Big Easy Store. The Creole Queen sets sail five days a week, including Fridays and Saturdays.
What to Expect
New Orleans river dinner cruises tend to be fairly casual in nature. You do not have to dress to the nines. Instead, you can wear comfortable clothes and just sit back and enjoy. You'll be able to view the Port of New Orleans, the French Quarter, historic Jackson Square and more, under the light of the moon. If you cruise during winter or spring, it's a good idea to dress in layers, as it can get cool at night.
Also, be sure to bring your dancing shoes as most dinner cruises feature live music by energetic bands. Many passengers enjoy taking to the dance floor after a hearty meal while others prefer to sit back and enjoy the sights and sounds of the Big Easy while gliding effortlessly along the Mighty Mississippi.
