The 4 Best Cruises And Boat Tours in Mississippi
Mississippi’s waterways are a treasure trove of stories, wildlife, and mystery. Whether it’s the ghostly tales drifting through the misty bayous or the chance to spot alligators and herons from a comfortable boat, this state offers some truly memorable water-based adventures. If you’re looking to spice up your trip with a mix of history, nature, and a touch of the supernatural, Mississippi has plenty to offer.
In this guide, we’ll explore four of the best cruises and boat tours available. From haunted bayou cruises led by Mystic Molly to eco-friendly swamp explorations, each experience offers a different flavor. We’ll cover what makes each tour unique, who they suit best, and how to get the most out of your time on the water. Expect ghost stories, wildlife sightings, seasonal themes, and opportunities for authentic Mississippi encounters.
1. Historical Haunted Bayou Cruise
Starting at $79.00 per person, this 1-hour haunted bayou cruise takes you into the eerie marshes around Bay St. Louis. The tour, rated 5.0/5 from 28 reviews, is guided by the colorful Mystic Molly who spins tales of old spirits lingering in the mist. As you glide through Bayou Caddy, you’ll hear chilling stories rooted in local history, with a musical twist that adds ambiance to the spooky hour.
What sets this tour apart is the blend of ghost stories with wildlife sightings, including herons and possibly alligators, all set against the haunting backdrop of cypress trees. After the cruise, guests can enjoy hot chocolate and s’mores at the “creepy camp,” adding a fun, communal finish. The tour is intimate, with small groups ensuring everyone gets attention and the stories are delivered firsthand.
This experience is perfect for history buffs who appreciate a good ghost story, families looking for seasonal fun, or anyone wanting an atmospheric adventure. The price reflects the personalized experience and storytelling, making it a good value. A standout review states, “Mystic Molly was amazing. The landscapes were beautiful, and the stories were entertaining.”
Bottom Line: A lively, spooky cruise that combines wildlife, local legend, and a friendly guide—great for curious travelers wanting a taste of Mississippi’s haunted past.
2. Pearlington, MS: The Haunted Bayou Cruise
At $84 per person, this haunted bayou cruise offers a similarly eerie experience, with a focus on disturbing legends and local ghost stories. Rated 5/5 from 4 reviews, it promises an intimate encounter with the supernatural and the marshes’ natural beauty. It’s a flexible option, with availability checked closer to your desired date, perfect for planning your Mississippi trip.
Led by the same mysterious Mystic Molly, the cruise takes you through back bayous filled with fog and legend. The stories are a highlight and keep you on the edge of your seat, while the scenery of marshlands and wildlife provides a tranquil counterpoint. This tour is suitable for those who enjoy storytelling, history, and a touch of the unsettling.
While this tour emphasizes the spooky side of the bayou, the price is justified by the small group size and the storytelling quality. It’s well suited for travelers who want a personalized, eerie experience without the crowds. Reviewers comment, “Had a great time, hear some excellent spooky stories, highly recommended.”
Bottom Line: An intimate and eerie adventure, perfect for ghost story lovers and those interested in Mississippi’s mysterious past with a focus on storytelling.
3. Santa and The Rougarou’s Creepy Christmas Cruise & Haunted Trail
For a holiday twist, this creepy Christmas cruise, priced at $79.00 per person, runs approximately 1 hour and combines spooky storytelling with seasonal fun. The tour features Mystic Molly narrating a Krampus-style Christmas tale while you glide through the bayou. Then, for those brave enough, the tour transitions into a haunted trail in the swamp, where the spooky atmosphere continues.
What makes this tour special is its blend of holiday cheer and creepy storytelling, perfect for families or groups looking for a themed experience. The live narration adds a theatrical touch, making it more than just a boat ride. The haunted trail provides an immersive ending, with the swamp serving as a naturally spooky setting.
Ideal for those who love holiday lore with a dark twist, this tour isn’t very long but offers a memorable mix of storytelling and outdoor adventure. The value comes from the combination of boat and trail, plus the festive yet creepy ambiance. A reviewer noted, “We loved the spooky Christmas stories and the eerie swamp walk—it was a unique holiday experience.”
Bottom Line: Perfect for holiday enthusiasts and families wanting a different kind of Christmas celebration filled with stories, surprises, and a dash of fright.
4. Swamp – Eco – Cruise and Walking Tour
This $79.00, 2-hour eco-tour offers a more nature-focused experience, combining a riverboat cruise into Honey Island Swamp with a walking tour. Starting from Gulf Coast Eco Tour, you’ll glide through Mississippi waters on a pontoon boat, likely spotting alligators, herons, and other wildlife. After the boat ride, you will have the chance to walk along a safe boardwalk trail to learn about the flora and fauna of the swamp and visit remnants of an old logging mill.
What makes this tour stand out is the emphasis on ecology and wildlife. It’s ideal for nature lovers, families, or anyone interested in learning about the environment and conservation efforts in Mississippi’s wetlands. The walking portion adds an active element, and the demonstration of water-generated energy provides an educational twist.
While it’s not a ghost story or spooky adventure, it offers a more relaxed, educational experience with plenty of opportunities for wildlife photography and nature observation. Practical for travelers who want a deeper connection to Mississippi’s swamp ecosystems. Reviewers have yet to rate it, but the value lies in the combination of boat and walking tours, with a knowledgeable guide.
Bottom Line: An educational and scenic trip perfect for eco-conscious travelers and those keen on wildlife and swamp ecology.
How to Choose the Best Mississippi Boat Tour for You
When deciding between these options, think about your interests and priorities. For spooky stories and a sense of mystery, the Haunted Bayou Cruises are your best bet, especially if you enjoy storytelling and ghost lore. If holiday-themed fun sounds more your style, the Creepy Christmas Cruise offers a seasonal twist. For a more nature-centric experience, the Eco Cruise provides wildlife sightings and educational value.
Budget and time are also important. The tours range from $79 to $84, with durations from 1 to 2 hours. Small groups and personalized storytelling make the haunted tours particularly engaging, while the eco-tour’s longer duration suits travelers wanting a more leisurely, in-depth experience. Booking early is advised, especially during peak seasons or holidays.
Consider the weather too — outdoor tours are weather-dependent, so check availability and flexibility when planning. If wildlife viewing is your focus, mornings often provide better sightings. For a spooky night adventure, evening cruises are ideal.
Final Thoughts
Mississippi’s waterways are a rich playground for history, wildlife, and ghost stories. For a spooky adventure, the Historical Haunted Bayou Cruise offers an engaging, story-rich experience for a reasonable price. If you prefer a more eco-friendly approach, the Swamp Eco-Cruise combines wildlife with education, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.
Travelers looking for seasonal fun will find the Creepy Christmas Cruise a memorable holiday outing, with storytelling and swamp walks in one package. Whichever you choose, booking early ensures you secure your spot and can plan around the best weather conditions.
These tours showcase Mississippi’s unique character, blending natural beauty, local legends, and adventure. Get set for a water-based journey that’s as fascinating as it is fun.