New Orleans: Evening Steamboat Jazz Cruise + Optional Dinner

Trying to capture the soul of New Orleans? A Mississippi River cruise might be one of the best ways to do it. This evening jazz cruise offers a slow-paced, scenic journey along the river with live music, iconic city views, and the chance to enjoy a savory Creole buffet. While we haven’t personally taken this trip, the mountain of reviews, a solid 4.4-star rating from over 4,100 guests, suggests it’s a consistently enjoyable experience.

What really catches the eye is the live jazz performance by the Grammy-nominated Dukes of Dixieland — a band known for their energetic and authentic swing style. Add to that the stunning sunset views, the opportunity to explore the renovated riverboat, and the chance to learn some local history through captain’s narration, and you have a recipe for a memorable cultural night out. The optional dinner salad and seafood dishes receive praise for their quality, though some mention the buffet could be more varied.

A potential consideration? The bars on each deck can get crowded, especially on busy nights, and alcoholic drinks are not included in the ticket price. This cruise is best suited for those seeking relaxation, jazz lovers, or anyone wanting an immersive view of New Orleans at night — without the hustle of busy city streets.

Good To Know

• Authentic Mississippi River experience with live jazz and city views
• Well-rated for atmosphere, food, and entertainment
• Flexible options including a dinner buffet and full bar service
• Informative narration adds context to the sights
• Ideal for sunset lovers, jazz fans, and those seeking a relaxed evening
• Consideration: Bars can get crowded, and drinks are purchased separately

You can check if your dates are available here:

Setting Sail on the Mississippi

The cruise departs from the heart of the French Quarter, giving you the perfect start to your evening with views of the iconic skyline. The boat, a beautifully restored sternwheeler, boasts four decks — each offering unique perspectives. The top deck, with open-air seating, is especially popular for sunset photos, as one reviewer described it as a “sight to see” during dusk.

While the Steamboat NATCHEZ is currently on a break, its sister vessel, the Riverboat CITY of New Orleans, provides the same classic experience. Guests praise the authenticity of the boat, noting its well-maintained condition and the chance to explore the engine room, which adds a fascinating layer to the experience.

A Cruise of Sights and Sounds

From the moment you step aboard, the live narration by the captain sets the tone. Expect stories about the city’s historic buildings, bridges, and the mighty river itself. Reviewers highlight that the narration is quite informative, giving context to the sights passing by, which turns a scenic cruise into a little educational adventure.

The live jazz from the Dukes of Dixieland is a highlight, with many mentioning how engaging and talented the band is. They play swing, jazz, and blues, creating a lively atmosphere that pulls you into the spirit of New Orleans. We’ve seen comments like “the band was super, the music was fun,” and “the jazz band was excellent,” confirming that the entertainment really enhances the trip.

The Views and Photo Ops

One of the core pleasures of this cruise is the stunning scenery. As the boat glides along the river, you’ll pass by illuminated buildings, bridges, and the glowing cityscape. Several reviews mention that the night views of New Orleans are “breathtaking,” especially after sunset when the city lights come alive.

The top deck provides ample opportunity for photos, with panoramic views and a gentle breeze. Guests often note that the best time for photos is near sunset, when the sky shifts from daylight to night, making for perfect shots of the river and skyline.

Dining and Drinks

The optional Creole Dinner Buffet is a popular feature, with reviewers generally pleased with the quality of the food. The menu includes classics like chicken and sausage gumbo, bayou seafood pasta, and Louisiana fried chicken. Some mention that the buffet is hearty and flavorful, though a few wished for more variety or an option to choose from a menu, as one reviewer suggested.

Drinks are available for purchase, with seasonal cocktails, beer, and wine on full-service bars across the decks. Guests appreciate the full bar service, though some noted that lines can get long, especially on busy nights. The prices are reasonable, but if you’re a big drinker, it’s worth budgeting for extra.

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Atmosphere and Crowd

The cruise offers a relaxed, social vibe, with many guests describing it as “fun” and “romantic.” It’s suitable for couples, families, or anyone wanting a peaceful evening with a touch of entertainment. The boat tends to fill up quickly, especially in the summer or during peak seasons, so early arrival is recommended to get good seats.

Many reviews rave about the friendly staff and helpful guides, with some mentioning staff members going out of their way to answer questions about the boat or the city. One review highlights a staff member named Michael, who made the experience even more memorable.

Duration and Timing

The cruise lasts approximately 2 hours, often scheduled in the early evening, allowing travelers to combine it with dinner or other nightlife options afterward. Boarding begins about an hour before departure, so arriving early is advised to settle in comfortably and find a good spot.

Some reviewers suggest that choosing the later dinner seating might offer a darker, more atmospheric cruise, while the earlier one provides better visibility for photos and scenery. It’s a flexible experience that can fit into various evening plans.

Price and Value

At $44 per person, this cruise offers good value considering the live entertainment, scenic views, and optional dinner. Guests consistently mention that the quality of the food exceeded expectations for a buffet, and the entertainment made it more than just a sightseeing trip.

While drinks are extra, many reviewers say the overall price is reasonable for what you get — especially if you enjoy jazz and scenic views. For those looking for a memorable, relaxed way to experience New Orleans by night, this cruise hits the right note.

This cruise is best suited for music lovers and those wanting a calm evening on the water with a dose of culture. It’s ideal for couples seeking a romantic night, families wanting a relaxed outing, or anyone interested in seeing New Orleans from a different perspective.

If you’re after a lively party scene, you might find the atmosphere a bit subdued; but if a peaceful, music-filled cruise with stunning views sounds appealing, this could be your perfect evening.

The New Orleans Evening Steamboat Jazz Cruise offers a well-rounded experience that combines scenic beauty, lively jazz, and authentic southern hospitality. The quality of the entertainment, paired with beautiful views and delicious food, makes it an excellent value for a relaxing night out. The cruise’s informative narration enhances the experience, adding a layer of understanding about the city’s waterways and landmarks.

This experience is especially appealing for those who appreciate live jazz, breathtaking sunsets, and long-lasting memories on the river. While the bars can get busy, and drinks are purchased separately, most guests agree that the overall atmosphere, good food, and scenic views make this cruise a worthwhile addition to any New Orleans itinerary.

If you want an evening that blends culture, scenery, and entertainment in a laid-back setting, this cruise is definitely worth considering.

Is there hotel pickup included?
No, this cruise does not include hotel pickup or drop-off. Travelers need to make their own arrangements to arrive at the meeting point.

How long is the cruise?
The cruise lasts approximately 2 hours and usually takes place in the evening.

Are drinks included in the ticket price?
No, alcoholic beverages are available for purchase onboard. Soft drinks or water might be included, but alcohol costs extra.

Where is the meeting point?
The meeting point varies depending on the option booked. Guests are advised to check their confirmation for specific details.

Can I cancel the reservation?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is seating indoor or outdoor?
The cruise offers both indoor and outdoor seating options, so you can enjoy the views regardless of the weather.

Is the buffet dinner included?
The dinner buffet is optional and must be purchased separately. It features Louisiana favorites like gumbo, seafood pasta, and fried chicken.

This detailed review aims to give you a clear picture of what to expect from the New Orleans Evening Steamboat Jazz Cruise. From live jazz to scenic river views, it’s a delightful way to spend an evening in the Big Easy — especially if you love music and history served with a side of stunning sunset scenery.

You can check if your dates are available here: