New Orleans Steamboat Natchez Jazz Cruise with Dinner Option
Overview
Available languages
3 hours
Mobile ticket
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.
Additional Info
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
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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
Gratuities
Alcoholic drinks (available for purchase)
What To Expect
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.
Mississippi River
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.
Options
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.
Vessel type: Takes place on the Riverboat CITY of NEW ORLEANS
Riverboat CITY - No Meal
Sightseeing Cruise - No Meal
Vessel type: Takes place on the Riverboat CITY of NEW ORLEANS
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
Steamboat NATCHEZ - No Meal
Vessel type: Takes place on the Steamboat NATCHEZ
Sightseeing Cruise - No Meal: Board vessel at 6PM; vessel departs the dock at 7PM.
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.
Vessel type: Takes place on the Riverboat CITY of NEW ORLEANS
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.
Vessel type: Takes place on the Steamboat NATCHEZ
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.
Vessel type: Takes place on the Steamboat NATCHEZ
Reviews
7,373 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Great food spoiled by poor service
Jennifer C,
Nov 13, 2025
- Review from Viator
4.00We had a mixed experience on this cruise. The food itself was very good, and the boat was in great condition. The live music added a really nice touch and made the atmosphere enjoyable. We also appreciated that there was plenty of time to eat and then relax and take in the views. Unfortunately, the service fell short. Our plates were never cleared, and no one checked on our drinks throughout the meal, which was disappointing. With better service, this cruise could have been excellent. Overall, the scenery, music, and food were highlights, but the service definitely needs improvement.
Couples review
Barbara R,
Nov 13, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
4.00Did no meal option, but food smelled amazing. Band was good. Wish 1 or 2 drinks were included. Spent a lot for night cruise. Couldn't see much along the Mississippi. Overall had a good time learning about the history of the boat and area!
Loved It!
Alexandra L,
Nov 13, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00Photo taken before getting on, food was great its a self serve buffet, soda/wine is an extra charge, after dinner your free to walk the steam boat. There is a little bar on the second floor, jazz music playing, and a little bit of history of the steam is being explained as well. Over all great experience and definitely ended our anniversary trip perfectly.
It was good experience!...
Nahomie C,
Nov 11, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00It was good experience! Great jazz musicians Nice vibe Good food Friendly crew We had a great time Thanks
better than expected
A3488KBcynthiah,
Nov 11, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00we paid for the buffet dinner, and apparently there were not enough people for the early dining and so we were served individually by a waiter. It was super nice. It was beautiful, music was excellent. Highly recommend.
Gourmet Buffet Cruise
Margie M,
Nov 11, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00The Music was great enjoyed the precruise organ as well as the Jazz during the ride. Food was phenomenal always love buffet style this was gourmet on a buffet.
Fantastic evening out in...
Damaris C,
Nov 10, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00Fantastic evening out in New Orleans! We opted in for the buffet, I would have rather had food before boarding as it wasn’t anything spectacular and the city offers a better quality of food for the price. Aside from this detail, I think this was a must do for the city! Steamboats are very historic for New Orleans and it was a fun evening full of Jazz and amazing views of the city.
A wonderful evening!
Jill H,
Nov 9, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00We had a fabulous time!! The food was great, staff was friendly and helpful, and the band was a lot of fun!! There were 6 of us and we all thoroughly enjoyed ourselves!!
Fun on the Mississippi
David A,
Nov 9, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00This was an overall exceptional experience. The dinner was great, as was the jazz band, and the cruise on the river was truly enjoyable. We were all glad to have booked this excursion
Overall Pleasant!
K3265WUscotts,
Nov 9, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00It was very pleasant and we started by eating a delicious meal. The servers were less informative and hard to catch, but it was mostly serve yourself. There’s an awesome engine room that me and every other dad quite enjoyed looking at, and the jazz was amazing!! Very talented musicians. Would recommend!
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Operated by Gray Line New Orleans