New Orleans: Evening Jazz Boat Cruise with Optional Dinner

Imagine cruising along the mighty Mississippi River, with the glow of the city skyline on one side and the historic French Quarter on the other. For just about two hours, you sit back on a classic sternwheeler paddleboat, soaking in the sights, sounds, and flavors of New Orleans. Whether you opt for the dinner or just the cruise, this experience offers a wonderful way to see the city from a different angle, literally. At $60 per person, it’s a reasonable price for a lively, scenic, and culturally rich activity that combines live jazz, delicious Creole food, and breathtaking views.

What we love most about this cruise is how seamlessly it blends entertainment and scenery. The live jazz band, led by Sullivan Dabney Jr. and the Muzik Jazz Band, brings an authentic New Orleans soundtrack to your evening, encouraging dancing and good times. Plus, the Creole dinner is a highlight, offering a variety of flavorful dishes like Cajun Jambalaya and seafood pasta that reflect the local culinary flair. The stunning vistas of Jackson Square and the downtown skyline from the river are equally memorable, especially as the city lights begin to twinkle under a starry sky.

A potential consideration is the weather dependency—since the cruise is outdoors on the promenade deck, rain or strong winds might cause delays or cancellations. Also, while the dinner option adds a layer of richness to the experience, some might find the menu subject to seasonal variations, and outside food or beverages are not permitted onboard. This cruise is best suited for those who appreciate relaxed evenings with live music and scenic views, especially couples, music lovers, and those looking for a romantic or cultural highlight of their trip.

Key Points

• Authentic Atmosphere: Experience the charm of a classic paddlewheeler with live jazz.
• Stunning Views: See the New Orleans skyline, Jackson Square, and the French Quarter from the Mississippi River.
• Culinary Delight: Enjoy a Creole-style dinner, with dishes like gumbo, jambalaya, and seafood pasta.
• Relaxed Entertainment: Dance to lively jazz music in a beautiful setting.
• Affordable Luxury: At $60, it offers good value for a two-hour blend of scenery, music, and food.
• Weather Considerations: Be aware that bad weather can affect the cruise schedule.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the New Orleans Evening Jazz Boat Cruise

Setting the Scene: A Classic Riverboat Experience

This cruise aboard the Paddlewheeler Creole Queen transports you back in time, with its authentic paddle-driven sternwheeler design. The boat’s vintage charm, combined with its comfortable promenade deck, makes for a relaxing environment to unwind after a day of sightseeing. Boarding begins around 6:00 PM, and as you step aboard, the anticipation of a scenic cruise with a touch of jazz-era glamour is palpable.

The setting is perfect for picture-taking—both of the skyline and the river itself. The boat remains docked in some instances during inclement weather, but when sailing, you’ll be treated to panoramic views that are best experienced from the open deck.

The Itinerary: What You Can Expect

The two-hour cruise typically starts in the early evening, providing a calm window to enjoy the city’s lights and sounds. After boarding, you’ll find a welcoming crew and a lively jazz band setting the tone. The live music performance is often highlighted as a major plus—“The band played Moon River for us,” one reviewer fondly recalls—adding a touch of nostalgia and authentic New Orleans flavor.

If you choose the dinner option, you’ll be served a generous Creole buffet featuring dishes like:

• Cajun Caesar Salad
• Chicken & Andouille Sausage Gumbo
• Louisiana Creole Jambalaya
• Cajun Baked Chicken
• Roast Beef Debris
• Garlic Mashed Potatoes
• Cajun Seafood Pasta
• Red Beans & Rice
• Corn Mac Choux
• Fresh Roasted Vegetables
• Bread Rolls and Cornbread
• White Chocolate Bread Pudding with Whiskey Sauce

This menu showcases local flavors and hearty comfort foods, with some reviewers commenting that the food was “incredibly delicious,” and others noting that the potatoes were “so damn good.” The presentation and variety make it a feast worth considering for food lovers.

Live Jazz and Dancing

Post-dinner, the gorgeous dining hall becomes a dance floor, with the jazz band encouraging guests to move to the rhythm. Many reviews praise the “great atmosphere” and “wonderful staff,” noting that the music creates a perfect backdrop for fun and socializing. Some comments mention wishing for a larger dance floor—a sign that many guests are eager to join in.

For those who prefer a more relaxed experience, the promenade deck offers a great spot to sip a New Orleans-style cocktail (available for purchase onboard) and gaze at the city as it passes by.

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The Scenic Route: Passing Iconic Sights

As the boat makes its way back to the dock, you’ll cruise past Jackson Square, with its lively street performers and artists, and see the French Quarter’s historic architecture illuminated at night. The views from the river offer a different perspective of the city—more serene and expansive than the narrow streets of the French Quarter.

Many reviewers highlight how “the skyline views and the city lights under a starry sky” make this an unforgettable experience. The combination of scenic beauty, live jazz, and delicious food creates a memorable evening that perfectly encapsulates New Orleans’ lively yet relaxed spirit.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This cruise is ideal for music lovers, foodies, and those seeking a romantic or family-friendly evening. Many describe it as a “great way to end a trip,” or a “perfect romantic outing”. The affordability and the authentic ambiance make it a popular choice for couples and groups looking to enjoy a special night without overdoing it.

How We See the Value

At $60, this cruise offers considerable value—combining scenic views, live jazz, and hearty Creole cuisine into one seamless experience. The two-hour duration strikes a good balance between a relaxed pace and enough time to enjoy everything without feeling rushed.

The quality of the live music and the delicious buffet contribute significantly to the overall experience. Many reviews mention “wonderful staff” and “top-notch service,” which elevates the experience beyond just scenery and food. For those who want a taste of New Orleans’ musical soul and a different perspective of the city, this cruise is a solid choice.

However, keep in mind potential weather disruptions and that the menu might vary with the season. Also, alcoholic beverages are available for purchase, so you can enhance the experience but should budget accordingly.

FAQs

Is the cruise suitable for children?
Yes, children aged five and younger can join for free. It’s a family-friendly activity with lively music and scenic views, but keep in mind the size of the boat and the seating arrangements.

Does the cruise include hotel pickup?
No, it does not offer hotel pickup or drop-off. You should plan to meet at the Riverwalk on the Poydras Street Dock, near the ticket booth.

What’s the best way to dress?
Casual attire is fine, but consider bringing a light jacket or wrap if the evening gets chilly, especially on the open deck.

Are there vegetarian options?
The menu as listed focuses on Creole dishes with meats and seafood. Vegetarian options may be limited, so it’s worth checking with the operator if you have specific dietary needs.

Can I cancel my booking if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans shift.

Is the cruise wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the boat is wheelchair accessible, making it easier for guests with mobility concerns to enjoy the experience.

How long before boarding should I arrive?
Boarding begins at 6:00 PM, so arriving a bit early helps avoid last-minute rushes.

Is the cruise affected by weather?
Yes, the cruise might be canceled or remain dockside if weather conditions are unsafe, so check the forecast and confirm your booking if weather looks uncertain.

Are outside food and drinks allowed?
No, outside food and beverages are not permitted onboard, but there are plenty of options available for purchase, including cocktails.

Final Thoughts

For lovers of live jazz, scenic river views, and hearty Creole food, this cruise offers a memorable slice of New Orleans culture and ambiance. It’s an especially good choice for those seeking a relaxed, atmospheric evening with a touch of history and music that captures the city’s soul. The combination of authentic music, delicious food, and stunning scenery makes it a worthwhile splurge, especially considering the positive reviews praising its value and ambiance.

If you’re visiting New Orleans and want to see the city from a different vantage point—while soaking in some iconic tunes and flavors—this cruise is worth considering. It’s an authentic experience that balances entertainment, scenery, and local cuisine in a way that will likely leave many guests with warm memories of their trip.

Experience the river, enjoy lively jazz, and taste classic Creole cuisine—all in one relaxing, scenic evening that captures the essence of New Orleans.

You can check availability for your dates here: