Top New Orleans Water Tours - page 2

Swamp Boat Ride and Oak Alley Plantation Tour from New Orleans

7 hours 45 minutesFree Cancellation

Discover the fragile landscapes of southeast Louisiana on this immersive nature and wildlife boat tour. Led by knowledgeable guides, delve into the coastal restoration efforts vital for the survival of wetlands, while observing alligators basking, egrets wading, and songbirds migrating. This tour offers a unique opportunity to understand the intersection of nature and policy, making it perfect for curious travelers seeking more than just scenic views. When on site, upgrade your experience to include an authentic Cajun seafood boil (groups of 3 or more, 4pm tour time only.)

New Orleans Nature and Wildlife Boat Tour

2 to 3 hoursFree Cancellation

Experience the highlights of New Orleans in one comprehensive half-day tour. This itinerary combines a guided walk through the historic French Quarter, time to grab lunch at the famous French Market, a 75-minute cruise along the Mississippi River aboard the Riverboat City of New Orleans, and a narrated bus tour showcasing the city’s top sights. Along the bus tour, you’ll pass by some of New Orleans’ most well-known landmarks, including the National WWII Museum, the charming Garden District, New Orleans City Park, Mardi Gras World, and the Audubon Aquarium. Beginning at Café Beignet, this well-balanced experience is designed to be easy and enjoyable, blending guided exploration with free time. It’s a great option for first-time visitors or anyone looking to see a wide range of the city’s highlights in a single outing.

from $60

Special Offer

New Orleans in a Day: Includes 75-Minute Riverboat Cruise

New Orleans in a Day: Includes 75-Minute Riverboat Cruise

6 hours 45 minutesFree Cancellation

Welcome aboard the Riverboat CITY of NEW ORLEANS! Enjoy a relaxing, family-friendly Jazz Brunch Cruise on the Mississippi River. Listen to live New Orleans jazz music followed by Captain's narration as you cruise past iconic French Quarter landmarks, historic riverfront sites, and beautiful city views that bring more than 300 years of New Orleans history to life. Indulge in a Creole-inspired brunch while sipping cocktails or other beverages from one of our full-service onboard bars, including the popular City Skyline Bar on Deck 4, featuring panoramic views of the river and downtown New Orleans. A snack bar is also available with popcorn, sodas, and other casual favorites. Perfect for families, couples, and groups, this New Orleans Jazz Brunch Cruise is one of the best ways to experience the city’s live music, local cuisine, and scenic river views all in one unforgettable experience.

New Orleans Riverboat Jazz Brunch Cruise

2 hours 30 minutesFree Cancellation

(1)

from $44

Step aboard the Riverboat CITY of NEW ORLEANS for a fun 2-hour Dinner Jazz Cruise on the Mississippi River! Enjoy live jazz music and signature cocktails as you cruise past iconic French Quarter landmarks, historic riverfront sites, and stunning city views. Savor a Creole-inspired dinner menu while enjoying beverages from one of the full-service bars onboard, including the City Skyline Bar on Deck 4, offering panoramic views of the river and downtown New Orleans. A snack bar is also available with popcorn, sodas, and other casual favorites. Perfect for couples, friends, groups, and special occasions, our Dinner Jazz Cruise delivers an unforgettable evening of New Orleans sights, cuisine, and music all in one experience!

Jazz Dinner Cruise aboard the Riverboat City of New Orleans

Jazz Dinner Cruise aboard the Riverboat City of New Orleans

3 hoursFree Cancellation

New Orleans Guided Kayak Swamp Tour

(2)

from $60

1 hour 30 minutesFree Cancellation

(9)

from $49

Experience Louisiana’s wild bayou country on an exciting, family-friendly airboat tour. This tour includes a ride on a small airboat (maximum 13 passengers) that zips through the tree‐lined marshes at speeds up to 45 mph (72 kph). While onboard, enjoy lively commentary from your guide as you view lush scenery and local wildlife, including alligators, nutria, and native birds. Pickup and drop-off from downtown New Orleans and French Quarter hotels included.

Small-Group Bayou Airboat Ride with Transport from New Orleans

Small-Group Bayou Airboat Ride with Transport from New Orleans

4 hoursFree Cancellation

A trip to New Orleans isn't complete without experiencing Louisiana's local wildlife. This group boat ride takes you to the swamps and bayous, where you learn about alligators, snakes, turtles, local birds, and more—while looking out for them. Your guide knows the best areas for spotting wildlife, improving your chances of seeing various species up close. Also learn about local Cajun culture through your guide’s stories.

(533)

from $130

Special Offer

Local captains grew up in these wetlands.

New Orleans Swamp and Bayou Alligator Tour

1 hour 15 minutes to 4 hoursFree Cancellation

Visit a former plantation and ride through the swamp during this two-in-one tour. Start with a visit to Oak Alley Plantation for a tour of the antebellum mansion. Follow the oak-shaded paths to the blacksmith shop during your free time. Lunch is available to purchase at the restaurant on-site. Next, head to the dock for your swamp tour. Search for alligators and other wildlife and stop for photo ops while aboard an airboat. Round-trip hotel transport provided from New Orleans.

Oak Alley Plantation and Large Airboat Swamp Tour from New Orleans

Create memories that will last a lifetime on the mighty Mississippi River and experience the royal treatment about the Steamboat Natchez. Your experience begins with a complimentary Champagne cocktail and front-row access to the night’s entertainment, the Dukes of Dixieland. For dinner, indulge in a buffet dinner as you listen to live jazz performance. Take the chance to tour the historic vessel after dinner.

4.7

(740)

from $160

VIP Jazz Dinner Cruise with Private Tour and Open Bar Option

3 hoursFree Cancellation

Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of New Orleans with a delightful Jazz Brunch aboard the Creole Queen Riverboat. Enjoy live music as you cruise down the Mighty Mississippi River, savoring a mouthwatering brunch featuring classic dishes like Chicken & Andouille Gumbo and New Orleans Barbecued Shrimp. Choose to indulge in bottomless mimosas or Cajun Bloody Marys while soaking in stunning views of the New Orleans skyline. - Enjoy a 1.5-hour cruise with live jazz music on weekends - Brunch options available, featuring delicious Southern cuisine - Optional bottomless cocktails for an additional charge - Board from 10:00 AM, cruise departs at 11:00 AM and returns at 12:30 PM

(883)

from $191

Creole Queen Weekend Jazz Brunch Cruise on the Mississippi River

Creole Queen Weekend Jazz Brunch Cruise on the Mississippi River

2 hours 30 minutesFree Cancellation

4.0

(11)

from $80

Whitney Plantation and Manchac Swamp Kayak Tour Combo

(44)

from $199

Explore the serene beauty of Bayou Bienvenue on a two-hour #MardiGras cocktail cruise that offers a chic escape from the bustling French Quarter but the party continues. Enjoy cocktails as you glide through winding bayou, keeping an eye out for local wildlife like alligators, raptors and Rougarou's. This open-deck experience is perfect for social gatherings or milestone celebrations, all while soaking in the lush scenery of Louisiana’s wetlands. With a laid-back atmosphere and chances to mingle, this cruise is an ideal choice for those seeking an authentic New Orleans experience beyond the usual tourist spots.

New Orleans Evening Cocktail Cruise

2 to 3 hoursFree Cancellation

Experience the rich history and vibrant culture of New Orleans from two perspectives on a city tour and steamboat cruise that lets you escape the land-based crowds. Enjoy a narrated coach tour of historic landmarks, including the French Quarter, Jackson Square, and the Garden District. Then, step aboard Steamboat NATCHEZ (or its sister vessel) for a journey along the mighty Mississippi River, complete with live jazz and optional Creole dining.

(1)

from $65

New Orleans City Tour and Steamboat Natchez Harbor Jazz Cruise

New Orleans City Tour and Steamboat Natchez Harbor Jazz Cruise

6 hours 30 minutesFree Cancellation

4.2

(473)

from $88

Oak Alley Plantation and Swamp Boat Tour from New Orleans

Soak up the atmosphere of the bayou on this 8-hour cultural tour from New Orleans. Visit the Oak Alley Plantation House, dating from 1837, and view the stately row of 28 evenly spaced mature oaks that line the driveway. Follow your guide, dressed in period costume, through the mansion, the blacksmith shop and the onsite restaurant. You'll also learn about life in the bayou's waterways aboard a swamp and wetlands boat tour. See the amazing variety of flora and fauna native to the area and hear about life in the Barataria Swamps from your native guides. Round-trip transportation from New Orleans is included.

Oak Alley Plantation and Swamp Boat Tour from New Orleans

4.4

(402)

from $130

Explore Louisiana’s bayou landscape–and avoid a basic, beginner-friendly itinerary–on this kayaking tour of Manchac Swamp, designed for experienced paddlers and including round-trip transfers from a central meeting point in New Orleans. Spend four hours on the water with a local naturalist guide, keep a lookout for wildlife, and learn about the local wetland ecosystem along the way.

Manchac Swamp Extended 4-Hour Kayak Tour with Pickup

Manchac Swamp Extended 4-Hour Kayak Tour with Pickup

6 hoursFree Cancellation

Travel through Cajun Country on this full-day New Orleans city tour and swamp adventure. Journey with your professional guide in a comfortable air-conditioned minibus as you learn about the history, culture and highlights of southern Creoles. You'll see major city highlights, areas affected by Hurricane Katrina, and tour the inside of a cemetery to see the above-ground tombs. Afterward, you'll head to the bayou for your choice of a leisurely pontoon boat ride or thrilling airboat ride.

(39)

from $175

New Orleans City, Cemetery and Swamp Full-Day Tour

New Orleans City, Cemetery and Swamp Full-Day Tour

7 hours 30 minutesFree Cancellation

4.7

(197)

from $110

New Orleans Wings of the Wetlands Guided Birding Expedition

Discover the hidden marshes of Bayou Bienvenue on a guided birding boat tour that lasts 1 hour and 45 minutes. Led by a licensed captain and an experienced bird guide, this tour offers an exceptional chance to observe various wading and water birds, including iconic species such as great blue herons and roseate spoonbills. As you navigate through tranquil waterways, your guide will share insights on natural history and conservation. Bring your binoculars for prime viewing and receive a complimentary bird guide booklet to track your sightings. Perfect for both novice birders and seasoned enthusiasts. - Guided birding tour through the scenic Bayou Bienvenue - Spot iconic Louisiana birds like great blue herons and bald eagles - Includes water and a souvenir bird guide booklet for tracking sightings - Accommodates up to 28 guests with restroom facilities available on board

New Orleans Wings of the Wetlands Guided Birding Expedition

2 hoursFree Cancellation

An easy day trip to take when in New Orleans, this tour takes you for a small airboat experience and Oak Alley Plantation tour. The exclusive tour site is the closest to the plantation, minimizing travel time. Ride in our small boat that accommodates up to nine passengers, ensuring an intimate experience away from idle zones and noise ordinances. No other boats are allowed in the private swamp, guaranteeing a serene and uninterrupted journey.

(1)

from $60

Small Airboat and Oak Alley Plantation Tour from New Orleans

Small Airboat and Oak Alley Plantation Tour from New Orleans

7 hoursFree Cancellation

4.6

(25)

from $179

Oak Alley Plantation and Small Airboat Tour from New Orleans

4.6

(189)

from $185

Embark on a private kayak and canoe small-group tour through Louisiana's historic Manchac Swamp. A local naturalist guides you, providing explanations of historical information and the native ecosystem. Paddle through this slow-moving bayou, once home to the ghost town of Ruddock, and a passage for historic New Orleans explorers. Discover the swamp's rich history and diverse wildlife, creating an immersive and educational outdoor experience.

Small-Group Manchac Swamp Kayak Tour with Local Guide

Small-Group Manchac Swamp Kayak Tour with Local Guide

2 to 3 hoursFree Cancellation

(501)

from $93

Airboat and Plantations Tour with Gourmet Lunch from New Orleans

9 hoursFree Cancellation

4.7

(1,254)

from $279

Airboat Swamp and Destrehan Plantation Tour from New Orleans

Small-Group Airboat Ride and Plantation Tour from New Orleans

5 hours 30 minutesFree Cancellation

Explore New Orleans’ diverse ecosystem with an escape from the city to the Louisiana swamp. You’ll be picked up from your New Orleans hotel with all logistics taken care of on this private excursion for up to six people. Board a small and agile air boat for a memorable only-in-New-Orleans nature experience. Your guide and boat captain will take you through the swampy waterways as you search for various bird species, nutria, and wild alligators.

(262)

from $179

Private Airboat Swamp Tour

from $965

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What are people saying about New Orleans

Oak Alley Plantation and Swamp Boat Tour from New Orleans

Vanessa_G, Apr 2026

Great combo! Convenient tour!

Take the tour! So convenient- hotel pick up and driven to both locations, plantation and swamp tour. The muffuletta and mint julep at the plantation was great. The plantation tour and exhibits were educational. Captain Bobby, our swamp tour guide, was awesome! He pointed out the eagle’s nest, a yellow footed egret, and lured alligators with marshmallows. Got to hold a tiny baby alligator. Great experience!

Small-Group Manchac Swamp Kayak Tour with Local Guide

Katharine_N, Mar 2026

Tour was cancelled but still giving 5 stars

Odd leaving a review because we got thunder/lightening stormed out and it was cancelled. I can not say enough about the communication and thought for our wellbeing that went into the decision to cancel. I highly respect the people running this tour. Our money was returned within an hour. We will try again next time in NOLA.

Guided Boat Tour of New Orleans Bayou

Chris_M, Mar 2026

Don't ride the big lizards.

Had a great time! Driver called us at our pickup as he pulled up, made it very easy, and we didn't have to worry whether we had the right bus. Drive was comfortable and cool. Pontoon boat was in good shape. The captain was knowledgeable, funny, and knew what he was doing. We saw gators, birds, and turtles, would've liked to see more, but that's how it goes. It was a bigger operation than I expected with so few reviews on Viator. They had a gift shop, but shaded waiting deck, a bar with canned beer, mix drinks (canned) , and slushies, clean bathrooms, and an albino alligator. Would definitely recommend.

New Orleans Self-Transport Swamp and Bayou Boat Tour

Sid_P, Jan 2026

Fantastic experience with Captain Jody

One of the most entertaining tours I have taken in years. We saw the usual wildlife - alligators, turtles, a raccoon, a snake, some pigs and quite a few birds - limpkins, Great Blue Heron, anhingas. Captain Jody kept us entertained the whole time with great information woven through stories and jokes.

Airboat and Plantations Tour with Gourmet Lunch from New Orleans

Carolyn_T, Nov 2025

Fantastic Day out!!

We really enjoyed this tour. Giselle was our tour guide and was fantastic. She was very informative all through the tour even we while we were travelling between locations she continued to tell us about the history of New Orleans. We started the day with an airboat ride where we met many of the alligators inhabiting the swamp and our operator was very entertaining and informative. We learnt a lot about the swamp and experienced a fun ride as well. We then headed to Laura plantation where we had a lovely guide who was extremely knowledgeable, and we learnt a lot about Lauras family history and their life on the plantation as well as some of the known history of the slaves who lived there. Houmas house was our next destination where we had a lovely buffet lunch where I (who is usually a bit fussy) was pleasantly surprised with how nice it was. The tour of the house was great which is full of antiques and interesting pieces from a bygone era. The tour guide took us through the home explaining life in this house and we then explored the beautiful gardens complete with beautiful old Oak Trees hundreds of years old and fantastic sculptures throughout to be discovered as you walk through. We even encountered peacocks, swans and turkeys along the way. The van was comfortable and the small group who were lovely was a great way to do this type of tour. We would highly recommend this tour.

Freaky Tiki Bayou Boat Tour: Near New Orleans with Bathrooms

Wilhemina_D, Aug 2025

Fun boat

I had a really awsome time. Our captain made my experience very fun and enjoyable. We saw some alligators, and we fed them marshmallows. The music was very good. Everyone was dancing and drinking and we had alot of fun. If u want to have fun or celebrate your birthday this is the boat for you

Airboat Swamp and Destrehan Plantation Tour from New Orleans

Yvette_B, Jul 2025

An exhilarating experience!

A must do! The airboat/swamp experience was well worth it! Isabelle was right on time to pick me up at my hotel, she's very pleasanr, friendly and have a world of knowledge to share, as we made our way through town and to the swamp. Grant is very knowledgeable and the added humor is a plus! We were able to see a few alligators and some raccoons, and Grant gave us sufficient time to absorb the views and the experience. The Destrehan Plantation tour was informative and worthwhile if you value history of course. Beverly was energetic, knowledgeable and had a great sense of humor! All proceeds for this Plantation goes directly back into upkeeping its maintenence and employee salary, which I loved. Definitely bring your sunglasses, wear comfy clothing and shoes, and wear sunscreen!