The Whitney Plantation and Airboat Tour from New Orleans offers visitors a captivating blend of history and adventure. Guests can explore the plantation’s profound insights into slavery’s legacy, then embark on an exhilarating airboat ride through the stunning Louisiana marshes. This full-day excursion promises an educational and thrilling experience, leaving participants with a deeper understanding of the region’s complex past and natural wonders. Whether you’re a history buff or adventure seeker, this tour provides a unique opportunity to take in the rich cultural tapestry of New Orleans.
Good To Know
- This full-day excursion from New Orleans explores the history of slavery at the Whitney Plantation and offers an exhilarating airboat ride through Louisiana marshes.
- The self-guided tour of the Whitney Plantation provides profound historical context and educational insights into the experiences of enslaved people.
- The tour also features a pass-by of Evergreen Plantation, which was used in the filming of Django Unchained, and a visit to Destrehan to learn about the 1811 Revolt of enslaved people.
- The tour utilizes air-conditioned small-group transfers for comfort and is not recommended for travelers with certain physical limitations.
- Visitor feedback highlights the tour’s ability to evoke powerful emotions and foster a greater understanding of the past through engaging storytelling.
Tour Overview
The "Whitney Plantation and Airboat Tour from New Orleans" is a full-day excursion that allows visitors to explore the history of slavery at the Whitney Plantation and embark on an exhilarating airboat ride through the Louisiana marshes and swamps.
This highly-rated tour boasts 145 reviews with a 96% recommendation rate and a 4.8/5 rating. Priced from $152 per person, the tour features a self-guided exploration of the Whitney Plantation, a pass-by of the Evergreen Plantation, and a thrilling airboat adventure.
The tour’s maximum group size is 24 travelers, and transportation is provided via air-conditioned, small-group transfers.
Find more activities and experiences we've covered in New Orleans.
Highlights of the Itinerary
The Whitney Plantation and Airboat Tour takes visitors on a comprehensive historical journey, beginning with a self-guided exploration of the Whitney Plantation.
This immersive experience focuses on the history of slavery, providing profound educational insights.
The tour then takes guests past the Evergreen Plantation, famous for its appearance in the film Django Unchained.
The highlight of the day is an exhilarating airboat ride through the marshes and swamps, where alligator sightings are common.
Throughout the tour, participants learn about the significance of Destrehan and its role in the 1811 Revolt of enslaved people.
Transportation and Logistics
Although pickup is available at most New Orleans hotels, travelers must select the nearest pickup point if their hotel isn’t listed.
The tour utilizes air-conditioned, small-group transfers to provide comfortable transportation.
The experience is:
- Not wheelchair accessible
- Stroller accessible
- Not recommended for travelers with back problems, pregnant travelers, or those with heart issues
Educational Impact
Visitor Feedback | Good To Know |
---|---|
"Incredibly informative and eye-opening." | Provides deep historical context on slavery. |
"Highly recommended for anyone interested in learning more." | Transforms understanding of the past. |
"An educational experience that leaves a lasting impression." | Evokes powerful emotions and reflection. |
Fun Factor
Beyond the educational impact, the Whitney Plantation and Airboat Tour offers an exhilarating and memorable experience for visitors.
The highlight is undoubtedly the high-speed airboat ride through the marshes and swamps. Travelers are thrilled by the:
- Adrenaline-pumping speeds
- Up-close encounters with alligators and other wildlife
- Breathtaking views of the lush, cypress-studded landscape
- Informative commentary from experienced guides
- Sense of adventure and exploration
While the plantation tour provides profound historical insights, the airboat excursion injects an element of excitement, allowing visitors to enjoy the natural beauty of Louisiana’s waterways.
Tour Guides
Tour guides are consistently praised for their exceptional knowledge and engaging commentary throughout the Whitney Plantation and Airboat Tour.
Reviewers highlight the guides’ ability to bring the plantation’s complex history to life, providing insightful and thought-provoking narratives that deeply resonate with visitors.
With an unwavering commitment to education, the guides skillfully navigate guests through the sobering realities of slavery, fostering a greater understanding of the past.
Their entertaining storytelling and passion for the subject matter elevate the overall tour experience, leaving a lasting impression on those who embark on this powerful and illuminating journey.
Food and Refreshments
Although the Whitney Plantation and Airboat Tour doesn’t include a formal lunch, the experience provides a brief stop at the Oak Plantation, where visitors can purchase food and refreshments.
This allows guests to fuel up before or after the tour’s activities. The on-site options include:
- Café-style sandwiches and salads
- Local Creole and Cajun specialties
- Freshly brewed coffee and Louisiana iced tea
- Snacks and pastries
- Alcoholic beverages, including beer and wine
While not a full-service dining experience, this stop ensures travelers can refuel and recharge during the day’s educational and adventurous activities.
Booking Flexibility and Visitor Advice
The Whitney Plantation and Airboat Tour offers booking flexibility, allowing travelers to reserve their spot now and pay later.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience, it’s easy to adjust plans as needed.
Many reviews highlight the tour’s educational value, with visitors praising the profound historical significance of the Whitney Plantation.
While self-guided tours are available, some suggest opting for guided tours for a deeper understanding of the plantation’s history.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?
The tour doesn’t have a strict dress code, but comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and closed-toe shoes are recommended. Visitors should dress for an outdoor tour and potential wetness from the airboat ride.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks?
The tour doesn’t include lunch, but visitors can purchase food at a brief stop. Bringing your own food and drinks is allowed, though you’ll have limited opportunities to consume them during the tour’s packed schedule.
Are There Any Discounts or Packages Available?
The tour operator offers discounts for select groups, such as students and seniors. Plus, they may have seasonal or holiday packages that provide savings. Visitors should check the website or inquire about any current promotions when booking the tour.
Is the Tour Suitable for Children?
The tour is suitable for children, though it may not be recommended for very young kids. The plantation tour and airboat ride involve themes and activities that may not be engaging or appropriate for smaller children.
Can I Take Photographs During the Tour?
Visitors are generally allowed to take photographs during the tour, though photography may be restricted in certain areas for preservation or privacy reasons. It’s best to check with the tour guides for specific guidelines.
The Sum Up
The Whitney Plantation and Airboat Tour combines an educational exploration of slavery’s history with an exhilarating swamp adventure. Visitors gain profound insights at the plantation before seeing Louisiana’s natural beauty on an airboat ride. This captivating blend of history and adventure makes for an unforgettable day trip from New Orleans.
More Tour Reviews in New Orleans
- New Orleans : Private Custom Walking Tour with A Guide (Private)
- Private Luxury Transfer in New Orleans
- Self Guided Walking Tour of New Orleans’ Historic Garden District
- Round-Trip Transportation|LSU Football Games from New Orleans
- Murder by Jackson Square Interactive Scavenger Hunt
- Wicked Women of New Orleans Walking Tour
Looking for something different? Other New Orleans activities we've written about
- New Orleans : Private Custom Walking Tour with A Guide (Private)
- Private Luxury Transfer in New Orleans
- Self Guided Walking Tour of New Orleans’ Historic Garden District
- Round-Trip Transportation|LSU Football Games from New Orleans
- Murder by Jackson Square Interactive Scavenger Hunt
- Wicked Women of New Orleans Walking Tour
- Till Death Do Us Part: Haunted Pub Crawl Where Love Meets Death
- Private New Orleans City and Cemetery Bus Tour Up to 24 People
- New Orleans Signature Tastes : A Cool Culinary Experience
- New Orleans to New Orleans L.Armstrong Airport(MSY) – Departure Private Transfer
- Oak Alley Plantation and NOLA Culture City Tour Combo
- Pirate Pub Crawl in New Orleans