NEW ORLEANS BOAT TOUR FIELD GUIDE
Morning Jazz on the Mississippi: Two Hours Aboard the Riverboat CITY of NEW ORLEANS
A 2-hour sightseeing jazz cruise with live local music, captain’s narration, panoramic French Quarter and skyline views, and full-service bars — this guide covers what to expect, how to board, and who it’s best for.
Morning Jazz on the Mississippi: Two Hours Aboard the Riverboat CITY of NEW ORLEANS.
Board the Riverboat CITY of NEW ORLEANS for a relaxed, family-friendly jazz cruise along the Mississippi. The outing pairs live New Orleans jazz with captain’s narration as the paddlewheel-steeped vessel slips past French Quarter landmarks and the downtown skyline, while on-deck bars and a snack counter keep things casual and convivial.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Live New Orleans Jazz on the River
Local musicians perform live jazz throughout the cruise, creating the soundtrack for a scenic sweep of the city and punctuating the captain’s narration of New Orleans history.
Panoramic French Quarter & Skyline Views
The route offers plentiful photo ops as the riverboat glides past riverfront sites and city skylines, framed by the boat’s multiple decks and open sightlines.
Bars, Snacks, and Deckside Comfort
A full-service bar on every deck — including the City Skyline Bar on Deck 4 — and a casual snack bar keep refreshments within reach during the two-hour cruise.
What the day feels like
How the Cruise Feels
The pace is unhurried: passengers board in the late morning, settle onto open decks or indoor seating, and spend about two hours drifting along the Mississippi while live jazz and the captain’s narration alternate with wide river views. Casual snacks and drinks are available from onboard service points, keeping the mood social and easygoing for families, couples, and city explorers.
THE MUSIC
Live New Orleans Jazz on the River
Local musicians perform live jazz throughout the cruise, creating the soundtrack for a scenic sweep of the city and punctuating the captain’s narration of New Orleans history.
THE VISTA
Panoramic French Quarter & Skyline Views
The route offers plentiful photo ops as the riverboat glides past riverfront sites and city skylines, framed by the boat’s multiple decks and open sightlines.
THE ONBOARD SCENE
Bars, Snacks, and Deckside Comfort
A full-service bar on every deck — including the City Skyline Bar on Deck 4 — and a casual snack bar keep refreshments within reach during the two-hour cruise.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this cruise suits — and who should check details first.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
This is a two-hour sightseeing cruise: boarding begins at 11:00am, with a dockside window from 11:00am–11:30am and cruising from about 11:30am–1:30pm.
Dress is casual. No meal is included with the Sightseeing Only experience; a snack bar and full-service beverage bars (including the City Skyline Bar on Deck 4) are available onboard for purchases.
Meet at 400 Toulouse St in New Orleans for embarkation; ensure you arrive during the dockside boarding window to avoid missing departure.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
Is there a dress code?
Dress code is casual, though guests are welcome to dress up if they prefer.
Are group rates available?
Yes — group rates are available for parties of 10 or more adults.
Do children ride free?
Children under 6 cruise free when accompanied by a paid adult.
Is the riverboat smoking-friendly?
No — the vessel is non-smoking both indoors and on the outside decks.
Is the ship accessible for guests with mobility issues?
The riverboat is handicap accessible; however, access to the top deck is by stairs only. Guests should call with any questions about access or personal equipment before finalizing plans.
Are alcoholic beverages available onboard?
Yes — cocktail, beer, and wine options are available for purchase onboard.