MADISONVILLE BOAT TOUR FIELD GUIDE
Two Hours on the Tchefuncte: Moss‑draped cypress, river towns and a local captain’s eye
A private, two‑hour charter from Madisonville led by Capt Mike that takes small groups through cypress swamps, bayous and river‑town shoreline.
Two Hours on the Tchefuncte: Moss‑draped cypress, river towns and a local captain’s eye.
Explore the Tchefuncte River with Capt Mike aboard a fully covered 24‑ft Bentley pontoon, threading passageways of cypress draped in Spanish moss, detouring through bayous and stopping where wildlife hides — all on a private, two‑hour charter out of Madisonville.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Alligators, river otter and an expert guide
Capt Mike knows the river’s secret spots and will bring you to where alligators, turtles, fish eagles, deer and river otter are most often seen along the Tchefuncte.
A shaded, comfortable Bentley pontoon set up for a private group
Groups board a fully covered 24‑ft Bentley pontoon with comfortable seating, shade and onboard conveniences that make short charters feel effortless.
Brady Island and upriver or downriver choice
Two‑hour trips include a Brady Island stop; guests choose upriver for cypress swamps and stately homes or downriver for the historic Madisonville waterfront and the Tchefuncte River Lighthouse/Lake Pontchartrain approach.
What the day feels like
What it feels like
The trip is compact and deliberate: a local captain reads the river, steers through mossy cypress corridors, eases into wide-water views and times short stops (bathroom stops are available about every 40 minutes). Guests choose the direction — upriver into bayous and stately homes or downriver past Madisonville toward the lighthouse and Lake Pontchartrain — all aboard a private charter for up to six people.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this charter works for — and when to consider a longer trip.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Standard private charter runs 2 hours.
Bring food and drinks, sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat and a towel.
The boat comes with life jackets, phone charging stations, shade, comfortable seating and a 162‑quart ice chest for your food and drinks.
The trip operates out of Madisonville; this is a private charter limited to up to six people at the stated rate.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the trip?
The standard private charter is 2 hours.
How much does a private charter cost and how many people can ride?
Private charters start at $225 and accommodate up to six people of all ages.
Are there restroom facilities?
Optional bathroom stops are available approximately every 40 minutes.
Can we bring food and alcohol?
Food and drinks are welcomed on board.
What if we want to swim or spend more time ashore?
Boat Days include a swim ladder, large floating mat and water toys, but two‑hour trips only allow the Brady Island stop — upgrade to a three‑hour trip or combine trips for more stops.
What kind of boat is used?
The operator uses a fully covered 24‑ft Bentley pontoon equipped with shade, seating and onboard charging.