Skip to main content
Beyond New Orleans

VIP Jazz Dinner Cruise with Private Tour and Open Bar Option

Recommended by 94% of travelers
Badge of Excellence
New Orleans, USA
High interest
Booked 4 times today.
  • 3 hours (approx.)
  • Mobile ticket
  • Offered in: English

Why travelers loved this

4.8
·
· Trena_C ·
Sep 2026
The Jazz Cruise was fantastic, great music, great food, and just a great atmosphere. We had the VIP experience and it was well worth. Marlon our guide was truly the highlight of the voyage...He was awesome on so many levels. He was attentive, knowledgeable, organized, and prepared. This a wonderful time!!!
· DerekD_D ·
Sep 2026
Explore the boat, a lot of history. I would recommend the VIP, make that someone special know just how special they are. Marlon does an outstanding job making the evening yours. The band was also GREAT!

Overview

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.
  • Early boarding with front-row seating for the livve entertainment
  • Enjoy a gourmet Louisiana-style buffet dinner with local favorites
  • Upgrade for an open bar featuring cocktails, beer, and wine
  • Receive a commemorative gift bag, including a photo and jazz CD

Why Travelers Choose This Tour

This tour takes you on a private tour to the engine room to see the inner workings of the vessel.

What's Included

  • 2-hour paddle-wheel boat cruise with live jazz entertainment
  • Early boarding, reserved seating, private tour of the boat.
  • Louisiana-style dinner
  • Complimentary champagne cocktail and shrimp cocktail after boarding
  • VIP gift bag including boarding photo and Jazz CD
  • Call brand open bar (if option chosen)
  • Restroom on board
  • Enclosed Climate Controlled areas

    Meeting and Pickup

    Meeting point

    • Steamboat NATCHEZ
      400 Toulouse St, New Orleans, LA 70130, USA

      Please meet your host at the Steamboat NATCHEZ dock @ 5:40PM in order to board prior to the general public.

    End point

    This activity ends back at the meeting point.

    Start time
    .6:00 pm

    Itinerary

    Head to Toulouse Street in the French Quarter to board the beautiful riverboat. When you step on board, you'll also step back in time as calliope music fills the air and the captain’s voice pours through an antique megaphone.

    Ship staff will greet you with a complimentary Champagne cocktail. Pose for a photo op to capture the moment; you’ll take home a print to mark the special occasion.

    After, you’ll be escorted to your reserved seat, where you’ll get unobstructed views of the striking New Orleans shoreline at dusk, and a performance by the Grammy‐nominated jazz group Dukes of Dixieland. Whet your palate with a fresh shrimp cocktail. Dinner includes everything from Bayou seafood pasta to chicken and sausage gumbo.

    Once you have wined and dined, take a stroll across the deck or sit back in your seat and enjoy live jazz. You can even follow your host on an insider tour of the vessel to see all the workings of the ship, including the engine room and the enormous paddlewheel.

    The music plays on until the evening cruise ends back at the departure point in the French Quarter. Take home a complimentary souvenir Dukes of Dixieland CD as a token of your magical night.

    Upgrade to receive all the luxuries of the original tour, but include an open bar (call‐brand select cocktails, beer, and house wine) for the entire duration of the cruise.
    1

    Steamboat NATCHEZ

    1 hour Admission Ticket Included

    2

    Mississippi River

    2 hours Admission Ticket Free

    Additional Info

    • Confirmation will be received within 48 hours of booking, subject to availability
    • Infants must sit on laps
    • Wheelchair accessible
    • Stroller accessible
    • Near public transportation
    • Most travelers can participate
    • Guests should arrive by no later than 5:45pm to get the full VIP experience.
    • The riverboat is accessible for guests who use mobility devices. However, access to the top & bottom decks are by stairs only. Please call us with any questions before finalizing your plans if you have questions on access or personal equipment.
    • If you have more than 14 guests in your party please contact local operator directly
    • This tour/activity will have a maximum of 20 travelers

    Frequently Asked Questions (12)

    Q:Where is the departure point for the VIP: Steamboat Natchez Dinner Cruise with Private Boat and Engine Room Tour?

    A:The evening jazz cruise departs from Toulouse Street Wharf behind Jax Brewery in the heart of the French Quarter (400 Toulouse Street.)

    Jun 2021

    The answers provided are based on answers previously given by the tour provider to customers’ questions.

    Cancellation Policy

    You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.

    Traveler Photos

    Gallery picture 1 (from a traveler's review)
    Gallery picture 2 (from a traveler's review)
    Gallery picture 3 (from a traveler's review)
    Gallery picture 4 (from a traveler's review)
    Gallery picture 5 (from a traveler's review)

    Reviews

    4.8
    based on 902 reviews
    Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
    Sort by: Most insightful

    Great time on the Mississippi River

    Trena_C, Sep 2026
    The Jazz Cruise was fantastic, great music, great food, and just a great atmosphere. We had the VIP experience and it was well worth. Marlon our guide was truly the highlight of the voyage...He was awesome on so many levels. He was attentive, knowledgeable, organized, and prepared. This a wonderful time!!!

    Wow! What an experience!

    Ian_G, Sep 2026
    It's very hard to put into words how amazing this experience was. From the history, to the staff, the jazz band, the hospitality, I could go on! Captain Robbie, what an amazing man, 51 years service and so glad I got to meet him, not only that a private tour from engine room, to stern, to bow with so much knowledge! And not to forget, my man Marlon! Without him there is no VIP! This guy knows how to host! From leading us around the boat, to seating area, to keeping us updated. And just when you think I need a drink, he just shows up! Like magic! He really takes that extra mile and makes the whole evening special. To all the staff behind the scenes, I thank you aswell. Such a magical evening, me and my wife enjoyed every minute

    Response from Host, Sep 2026

    What an amazing review Ian! From our all aspects you made us thankful to have been your host on your VIP experience.

    Excellent service

    Cecelia_H, Sep 2026
    I personally enjoyed the VIP service due to my disability and being able to safely get on the ship in a timely manner without the crowd, our small group felt special and well taken care of.

    Response from Host, Sep 2026

    We met our goal is your group felt as special as we meant them to be. Thank you.

    It was fun and amazing....

    Gabriel_M, Sep 2026
    It was fun and amazing. Our concierge Marlon was exciting and made it worthwhile. The food was also amazing.

    Response from Host, Sep 2026

    Gabriel, we are always delighted to hear from our VIP Guests. Marlon is a gentleman and a professional and we know he will take care of you.

    Do this trip you won’t be disappointed

    Paul_L, Sep 2026
    Go VIP the service is excellent. Our 2 hosts were very attentive and made our trip very memorable. The captain was very nice and gave us an interesting tour of the steamboat.

    Response from Host, Sep 2026

    We are delighted that you were so pleased that you highly recommend this to others. Thank you so much Paul.

    Good Time!

    DerekD_D, Sep 2026
    Explore the boat, a lot of history. I would recommend the VIP, make that someone special know just how special they are. Marlon does an outstanding job making the evening yours. The band was also GREAT!

    Response from Host, Sep 2026

    Marlon loves our guests. He wants each person to have a GREAT experience.

    Great service top to bottom

    Art_W, Aug 2026
    Marlon gave us super service top to bottom. This was a pure VIP event. He is an asset to the company

    Response from Host, Aug 2026

    An evening with Marlon is a true VIP event. Thank you for selecting that upgrade

    Jazz cruise

    lmjoiner, Aug 2026
    VIP package worth every penny. Marlon was great very helpful and attending. The cruise was very nice and comfortable. But we won’t ever do this with our vip package.

    Response from Host, Aug 2026

    We loved the review and Marlon was delighted to have made it extra special. We think you meant that you would not do it again without the VIP Package, and please know we will delighted to see you again.

    Amazing!

    Brandy_T, Jul 2026
    Excellent experience! Marlon was amazing! He made this trip above and beyond. If you’re able to pay the extra for the VIP ticket, I guarantee you will not regret it!

    Response from Host, Jul 2026

    Marlon never fails to provide a true VIP Experience as he certainly did with you. Thanks so much.

    Once in a lifetime

    Stephen_H, Jul 2026
    As VIP guests, we were truly impressed by the outstanding hospitality and first-class experience. It was unlike any other. The meal was outstanding compliments to the cooks for preparing such a delicious feast. The Captain's Tour was personal, engaging, educational, and incredibly informative. Our waiter, Marlon Brown, provided exceptional five-star service and made us feel genuinely welcome. Captain Steve Villere made the tour both fun and fascinating, sharing his knowledge in a way that made the experience unforgettable. We highly recommend this experience to anyone looking for a memorable and first-class adventure!

    Response from Host, Jul 2026

    Your recommendation of the VIP Experience and our staff was all that we set as goals. Thank you so much.

    Amazing magical VIP trip!

    Emma_R, Jul 2026
    VIP Experience was truly magical and amazing!!!! Marlon looked after us from arrival to departure and made everything so extra special for us. Welcome drinks - fab seats for the Jazz Band and delicious food plus really lovely wine with dinner. VIP the whole evening and spoilt rotten!!! All drinks included and very generous indeed. Such a special trip to be on the Steamboat on the Mississippi River - amazing and highly recommend this!!!

    Response from Host, Jul 2026

    The Vip Experience is designed to make you feel every bit the "spoiled" person you deserve to be. Thank you for joining us.

    What a won derful lifetime experience which goes beyond measure! Breathtaking, exciting very accommodating.

    Robert_M, Jul 2026
    It will go beyond their expecting. It is a very enjoyable experience! An experience you'll never forget!

    Unforgettable atmosphere with friendly staff

    Edward_L, Jul 2026
    Great had the best VIP treatment ever. Our host Marlon did an unbelievable job catering to our every wish

    Response from Host, Jul 2026

    Marlon and the entire crew strive to make your time aboard a memorable one.

    Manny was a great server...

    Troy_T, Jul 2026
    Manny was a great server would recommend him to anyone, and Captain Robin Mitchell was very informative and great person.

    Response from Host, Jul 2026

    Our staff is thrilled to know that they added to your enjoyment!

    Fantastic Dinner on the Mississippi River!

    Sandra_N, Jun 2026
    This was the best VIP service, the whole cruise was exceptional! Our concierge Marlon made sure our experience exceeded any expectations. The food was delicious, the music award worthy and the highlight was the private tour of the ship with Captain Steve. The steamboat dinner cruise was phenomenal and we definitely recommend this activity.

    VIP is the way!

    Jason_O, Jun 2026
    Buy the VIP package You get a personal concierge and some behind the scenes tours of the boat. We had Marlon as our concierge. He was fantastic! Over and above on the service. He made sure we had everything we wanted and gave us some tips on the boat and how to avoid the mass exit madness! Thank you Marlon.

    Response from Host, Jun 2026

    We are grateful that you decided to book the VIP Experience. Marlon is a true southern gentleman and puts his heart into making your experience exceptional.

    What an experience!

    Charlie_S, Jun 2026
    Our cruise experience was absolutely fantastic, and a big part of that was thanks to Marlon, our concierge. From the moment we met him at embarkation until the very end of our trip, he provided exceptional service and made us feel like true VIPs. Marlon always made sure we had everything we needed and went above and beyond to ensure our vacation was enjoyable and stress-free. His attention to detail, professionalism, and genuine care for our comfort made a lasting impression on us. He consistently checked in to make sure everything was perfect and treated us with kindness and respect throughout the entire cruise. The VIP experience was well worth it because of the outstanding service Marlon provided. He truly made us feel important and valued, and he played a huge role in making this cruise one of our most memorable vacations. Thank you, Marlon, for making our trip such a wonderful experience!

    Response from Host, Jun 2026

    Thank you so much for your 5 star review! We’re absolutely thrilled to hear that your VIP experience was so meaningful.Marlon will be delighted to know that his performance had such a positive impact on your visit. Our entire team takes pride in creating an educational and enjoyable environment, and we’re so grateful for your kind words. We can’t wait to welcome you back to our city and our company!

    1st time cruise experience for a graduate

    Jenay_P, May 2026
    Brittany our tour guide was ABSOLUTELY amazing I was running late stuck in traffic she made it her duty that I still got our v.i.p dinner she checked on me and NEVER left our side not ever along side her was Zachary he was TOP TIER polite and funny he will be amazing It was my first time coming and experience and also his first day there I hope it wont be his last he was great our Captain Steve was great vry informative and just overall amazing only take away is that when it was time for us to board when we left the captain we had at the end DID NOT make sure we boarded first big disappointment but overall experience was a 10/10 highly recommend

    10 out of 10

    Aurora_W, May 2026
    We did the VIP experience, our host Marlon was amazing and Greyson was the best server. They seemed more like friends than staff. Definitely would recommend

    A fantastic experience

    Penelope_B, May 2026
    A fantastic experience not to be missed go for the VIP it’s superb value and the service is outstanding. The jazz band were fabulous.

    Response from Host, May 2026

    This is a fantastic review and we are thrilled to know how much the VIP Experience meant to you.

    Great tour!!

    MaryKay_B, May 2026
    We did the private VIP dinner and tour and it was worth it! Marlon was our concierge and he was wonderful. We got to board first, champagne and appetizers, dinner and a tour of the ship and it's history from the captain!

    Response from Host, May 2026

    Thank you so much for your 5 star review! We’re absolutely thrilled to hear that your VIP experience was so meaningful. Marlon will be delighted to know that his performance had such a positive impact on your visit. Our entire team takes pride in creating an educational and enjoyable environment, and we’re so grateful for your kind words. We can’t wait to welcome you back to our city and our company!

    Dinner Cruise

    Tracy_T, May 2026
    Fantastic experience the VIP package is well worth the money. Marlon was a star so helpful and nothing was a problem for him. He not only looked after us well he was also helping other customers an asset to the boat

    Response from Host, May 2026

    Thank you for joining us for the VIP EXperience. Marlon understands hospitality and enjoys all his guests aboard the Riverboat.

    A New Orleans Must

    Christopher_V, May 2026
    THE VIP EXPERIENCE IS AN ABSOLUTE MUST WHEN VISITING NOLA! Ramon, our concierge was an absolute gem. He made our experience unforgettable! From the moment we arrived until we departed he went above and beyond to make us feel special. He also assured that others that didn’t get the VIP package were attended to. Pilot Akeyo took us on a private tour of the riverboat and it was so interesting. We’ll do this every time we come to NOLA.

    Response from Host, May 2026

    We would be thrilled to have you return to us on your next visit to our city.

    Exceptional service

    Mark_W, May 2026
    Marlon and Kristina were the best on the boat. They exceeded our expectations . They went above and beyond what we expected for this acticity

    Response from Host, May 2026

    Your review as exceptional and Marlon and Kristina will be delighted to know that their service added so much.

    Great VIP experience

    nigel_f, Apr 2026
    Absolutely worth every amount of money on this VIP trip. Kevin who looked after us all throughout the evening was the perfect host. The captains tour of the ship was very interesting and worthwhile. Go for the all in option Great evening great trip great service and a lot of fun Well done Kevin and captain Rabie

    Marlon and Joseph did an...

    anne_t, Apr 2026
    Marlon and Joseph did an amazing job guiding us through the VIP experience. They set us up with front row seats for the live music, brought us drinks and appetizers. The dinner was delicious and we enjoyed the Captains tour.

    The best romantic riverboat cruise.ever

    Scott_O, Apr 2026
    What an excellent time we had doing this riverboat tour. From the jazz hour cocktails with sazeracs, to sunset views while we depart the dock, dinner with beef and delicious fried chicken. The Cesar salad with anchovies were the crown piece of the dinner. Joseph and Marlon were excellent hosts, so attentive and friendly. The captain also took us for a tour below deck. Massive generators and steam turbines! We also had a close up view of the massive steel and wood rear paddle. Amazing!

    Experience exceeds expectations

    COREY_T, Apr 2026
    It was better then expected.. the VIP was the way to go ! Marlon was phenomenal. From the moment we got there until we got off the boat. Marlon treated us like royalty

    Awesome VIP night with Marlon as our concierge!

    Karen_W, Apr 2026
    The VIP experience was the absolute best! And if its possible to request Marlon, absolutely do so! He made the experience the best from beginning to end! He was so attentive and just made our night by going above and beyond.

    Wonderful. Highly recommend

    Jenny_W, Apr 2026
    Excellent! We did the VIP and it was worth it. Staff all excellent, friendly. Joseph was the BEST. Music fabulous

    Response from Host, Apr 2026

    Jenny, thanks so much for sharing your VIP Experience. Joseph will also be thrilled to know that he served you well.
    Member Pricing
    From

    $180.97

    per person
    Was $190.50(-5%)

    up to 24 hours before the experience starts (local time)

    Book ahead!
    On average, this is booked 51 days in advance.

    Compare Similar Experiences

    1 / 3
    Current
    Member Pricing
    VIP Jazz Dinner Cruise with Private Tour and Open Bar Option


    3 hours
    Free Cancellation
    From
    $190.50
    $180.97
    5% savings
    New Orleans VIP Jazz Club Crawl


    3 hours
    Free Cancellation
    From
    $225.00
    $213.75
    5% savings
    New Orleans City Tour and Steamboat Natchez Harbor Jazz Cruise


    6 hours 30 minutes
    Free Cancellation
    From
    $88.00
    $74.80