Steamboat Cruise in New Orleans
Steam, a calliope and the Mississippi harbor from the Toulouse Street Wharf.
Ask About Riverboat CruisesA Steamboat Cruise in New Orleans on the Natchez
The easiest steamboat cruise in New Orleans leaves from the Toulouse Street Wharf at the edge of the French Quarter. The Natchez, built in 1975 and modeled on earlier packet boats, is the ninth steamboat to carry that name, and she runs on steam: you can visit the engine room and watch the pistons drive the stern wheel.
What to Expect
The daytime trip runs along the city’s working harbor, with commentary on the port, the ships you pass and the river’s history. At the top of the boat the steam calliope plays before departure, a sound that carries across the Quarter. Evening cruises add jazz and dinner.
The ride pairs well with a visit to the New Orleans Jazz National Historical Park, a short walk away, and with a riverboat cruise that starts in the city. Our sister site See and Do New Orleans has more ideas for your days ashore, and New Orleans hotels on RoomsCheap list places to stay.
Adding a Lower Mississippi Cruise
Many travelers combine the Natchez with a lower-river cruise from New Orleans to Memphis. Lower Mississippi Riverboat Cruising explains the route, and our cruise advisors at Mister Cruise can book the cruise and suggest when to fit in the steamboat ride. Book the Natchez directly with its operator; we handle the multi-night cruise.
The Steam Calliope
A calliope is an instrument played on steam: a keyboard opens valves that send steam through tuned brass whistles. On the old river packets it announced a boat’s arrival to towns miles away. The Natchez carries one on her top deck and plays it before trips, and the sound across the French Quarter is one of the city’s best free shows. The Belle of Louisville has one too.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the steamboat cruise in New Orleans really steam-powered?
Yes. The Natchez is a steam sternwheeler; her engines were built in 1925 for the sternwheeler Clairton and moved into the new boat when she was built in 1975.
How long is the harbor cruise?
The daytime harbor trip lasts about two hours. Evening jazz dinner cruises are also offered; check the operator for current schedules.
Was the Natchez damaged by fire?
A fire broke out while she was laid up for repairs in May 2022. She was restored and returned to service in 2023.
Pair New Orleans With a River Cruise
Our cruise advisors at Mister Cruise will quote lower Mississippi sailings from New Orleans, leaving time for a steamboat ride.
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