New Orleans

15 Best New Orleans Jazz Cruises

The jazz cruises: a paddlewheeler, a live brass band and the Mississippi doing the steering. The Natchez and Creole Queen split the trade; dinner sailings add Creole buffets to the set list.

2.New Orleans Steamboat Natchez Jazz Cruise

Experience a scenic Mississippi river cruise with live jazz, Creole-inspired lunch options, and historic sights, all aboard the iconic Steamboat Natchez in New Orleans.

★ 4.5

“It didn’t depart right away but it was noted in the description. Otherwise it was a fun and relaxing trip.”

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3.New Orleans: Evening Steamboat Jazz Cruise + Optional Dinner

Experience New Orleans on a 2-hour Mississippi River cruise with live jazz, scenic views, and optional Creole dinner — a relaxing way to soak in the Big Easy vibe.

★ 4.3

“Food was excellent and the guide in the background telling us the history of the port of New Orleans and the Mississippi River was informative. Jazz was nice, it was a vibe. Lots of people there on date nights. Would definitely recommend!”

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5.Paddlewheeler Creole Queen Historic Mississippi River Cruise

Experience New Orleans' history and scenery with a scenic Mississippi River cruise aboard a historic paddlewheeler, including battlefield stops and lively narration.

★ 4.5

“Amazing commentary from a knowledgeable Oxford educated man (forgot his name)while cruising down the river. Went to the battlefield and had amazing historical info from a park ranger. Both were truly captivating. We left saying it was the best excusion ever!”

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6.Paddlewheeler Creole Queen Jazz Dinner Cruise in New Orleans

Experience New Orleans on a scenic Mississippi River cruise with live jazz, Creole buffet options, and stunning sunset views aboard the paddlewheeler Creole Queen.

★ 4.0

“If you do the night cruise, make sure to bring a sweater or jacket. The jazz music is wonderful . The food smells amazing. We didn’t book with the dinner , but wished we had.”

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9.Steamboat Natchez Sunday Jazz Brunch Cruise in New Orleans

Experience New Orleans' soul with a Sunday jazz brunch aboard a historic paddlewheeler, offering scenic river views, live jazz, and Louisiana favorites for $43.50.

★ 4.0

“Loved the buffet, the jazz trio, walking around the ship…so fun! I wish I would have taken a picture of the musician playing the unique whistles? As we were boarding the ship.”

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10.Steamboat Natchez VIP Jazz Dinner Cruise with Private Tour and Open Bar Option

Experience a luxurious jazz dinner cruise on the Mississippi with VIP treatment, private tour, and open bar options—perfect for a memorable New Orleans night.

★ 4.5

“The overall experience was awesome. The staff that took care of us was amazing. They had the whole night planned out for us.”

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11.New Orleans Jazz Tour: History and Live Jazz

Discover New Orleans' jazz roots with a guided tour visiting Louis Armstrong Park, French Quarter, and live music venues, plus a drink included.

★ 4.5

“Kristi was an awesome guide! We learned so much about New Orleans and she took us to some authentic fun jazz clubs. It is a definite must when visiting New Orleans a highlight of our trip!”

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13.New Orleans City Tour and Steamboat Natchez Harbor Jazz Cruise

Discover New Orleans with this combined city tour and Mississippi River steamboat cruise, offering historic sights, live jazz, and Creole cuisine at a fair price.

“Really enjoyed both the bus tour. Harris did a great job and was very knowledgeable. On return, the roads to get back were blocked (for the game) but they got us as close as they could. The cruise was also great. We didn't do the…”

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14.New Orleans: ‘Court of Two Sisters’ Jazz Brunch Buffet

Experience flavorful Louisiana cuisine with live jazz at the 'Court of Two Sisters' brunch in New Orleans. Guaranteed courtyard seating, great value, and authentic atmosphere.

★ 4.5

“If you have time for only 1 activity while in New Orleans, choose this one. The atmosphere, the staff, the background music but most of all the food...OMG it was the best I have had in a very long time. The duck a l'orange was…”

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15.Court of Two Sisters Live Jazz Brunch Buffet with Mimosa

Experience a delicious Creole buffet and live jazz at New Orleans’ Court of Two Sisters. Includes mimosas, courtyard views, and soulful tunes.

“The whole experience was wonderful. The food was excellent and our server was the best. Sitting in the court yard with soft live jazz band just made you forget you were sitting in the middle of a major city.”

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More New Orleans Jazz Cruises