The Steamboat Natchez Sunday Jazz Brunch Cruise offers a unique opportunity to experience the vibrant culture of New Orleans. Theres some good a delectable buffet-style brunch while enjoying the soothing sounds of live jazz music. With stunning views of the iconic Mississippi River and the city’s skyline, this family-friendly cruise promises a memorable outing. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, this experience is sure to leave a lasting impression.
Key Points

- The Steamboat Natchez offers a 2-hour paddle-wheel cruise along the Mississippi River with scenic views of the New Orleans skyline.
- The cruise features live jazz music from a local trio and an optional buffet-style brunch showcasing Louisiana cuisine.
- The cruise operates rain or shine and is wheelchair and stroller accessible, with accommodations for travelers with accessibility needs.
- The cruise departs from the Gray Line New Orleans office in the French Quarter, with arrival 15 minutes before the scheduled boarding time recommended.
- The cruise has an overall rating of 4.1 out of 811 reviews, with positive feedback on the food quality, service, and live entertainment.
Overview of the Steamboat Natchez Sunday Jazz Brunch Cruise

The Steamboat Natchez Sunday Jazz Brunch Cruise offers a family-friendly excursion aboard a historic paddle-wheel riverboat on the iconic Mississippi River in New Orleans.
Guests can enjoy scenic views of the city’s skyline from the boat’s spacious decks or indoor climate-controlled cabin while being entertained by live jazz music from a local trio.
The cruise provides an opportunity to savor Louisiana cuisine with an optional buffet-style brunch featuring regional favorites like gumbo, shrimp and grits, and fresh-baked cinnamon rolls.
Complimentary coffee and tea are included, with alcohol available for purchase during the 2-hour journey.
Like being on the water? We've looked at these other boat experiences in New Orleans
Exploring the Cruise Details

A 2-hour paddle-wheel boat cruise transports guests along the Mississippi River, providing ample time to take in the scenic views of the New Orleans skyline from the Steamboat Natchez’s spacious decks or indoor climate-controlled cabin.
The cruise offers an optional buffet-style brunch featuring Louisiana favorites like gumbo, shrimp and grits, smoked salmon, and fresh baked cinnamon rolls.
The experience includes:
- Coffee and tea included, with alcohol available for purchase.
- Restroom facilities on board.
- Tour operates rain or shine, with possible cancellations due to severe weather.
- Wheelchair and stroller accessible, with service animals allowed and infants sitting on laps.
Meeting Point and Departure Information

Guests meet at the Gray Line New Orleans office, located at 400 Toulouse St in the French Quarter, to board the Steamboat Natchez.
The departure point is the Gray Line Lighthouse Ticket Office, one block from Jackson Square.
Travelers should arrive 15 minutes before the scheduled boarding time.
The jazz brunch cruise lasts approximately 2 hours, with the boat returning to the original meeting point at the end of the excursion.
Accessibility is provided, with wheelchair and stroller access, and service animals allowed onboard.
Infants must sit on laps during the cruise.
Accessibility and Additional Considerations

Although the Steamboat Natchez jazz brunch cruise is a family-friendly excursion, it does accommodate travelers with accessibility needs. The cruise is wheelchair and stroller accessible, and service animals are allowed onboard.
Infants must sit on laps, and the maximum capacity is 500 travelers. Group bookings of 15 or more require direct contact for different rates, and a ‘Cruise with No Brunch’ option is available for those not interested in the full dining experience.
With these considerations in mind, the Steamboat Natchez cruise give you an inclusive and enjoyable outing for all guests.
A Glimpse Into Guest Reviews and Feedback

What do the guest reviews and feedback reveal about the Steamboat Natchez jazz brunch cruise experience?
The cruise receives an overall rating of 4.1 out of 811 reviews. Guests praise the food quality, service, and live jazz entertainment.
However, some suggest menu variety could be improved and clearer narration would enhance the experience.
Feedback is mixed on the brunch, with some finding it excellent while others feel it lacks variety.
The cruise appeals to both families and couples, offering an enjoyable outing on the Mississippi River with scenic views of the New Orleans skyline.
- Swamp Boat Ride and Oak Alley Plantation Tour From New Orleans
- New Orleans Adults-Only Ghost, Voodoo and Vampire Tour
- St. Louis Cemetery No. 1 Official Walking Tour
- New Orleans Self-Transport Swamp and Bayou Boat Tour
- New Orleans Demonstration Cooking Class With Meal
- New Orleans Garden District History Walking Tour
Highlights of the Jazz Music Experience

The jazz music experience aboard the Steamboat Natchez is a highlight of the Sunday brunch cruise. Guests are treated to live performances by a local trio, setting the perfect mood for a leisurely journey along the Mississippi River.
The musical entertainment features:
- Lively renditions of classic New Orleans jazz standards.
- Improvised solos that showcase the musicians’ technical prowess.
- Audience-engaging call-and-response interactions.
- A diverse repertoire that blends traditional and contemporary jazz styles.
The cruise’s soundtrack seamlessly complements the stunning views of the New Orleans skyline, creating an immersive and memorable experience for all.
Discovering the Buffet-Style Brunch Menu

The buffet-style brunch menu aboard the Steamboat Natchez offers a delectable spread of Louisiana culinary specialties. Guests can savor classic gumbo, shrimp and grits, and smoked salmon.
For a sweet indulgence, the cinnamon rolls are freshly baked. Coffee and tea are included, while alcoholic beverages are available for purchase.
The brunch is served in the climate-controlled dining area, ensuring a comfortable dining experience as the paddle-wheeler cruises along the Mississippi River.
While feedback on the brunch quality is mixed, many guests find the variety and flavors to be an enjoyable part of the overall jazz cruise experience.
Preparing for the Scenic Mississippi River Cruise

How can travelers best prepare for their scenic Mississippi River cruise aboard the historic Steamboat Natchez?
First, arrive at the Gray Line Lighthouse Ticket Office in the French Quarter 15 minutes before boarding to ensure timely departure.
Second, bring a light jacket or sweater, as the onboard climate-controlled areas can be chilly.
Third, wear comfortable, non-slip shoes to navigate the boat’s decks.
Finally, consider bringing a camera to capture the stunning views of the New Orleans skyline and the mighty Mississippi River.
With a little preparation, guests can fully enjoy this unique riverboat experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Dress Code for the Cruise?
The cruise does not have a strict dress code. Casual and comfortable attire is recommended, as passengers will be boarding a boat and enjoying an outdoor cruise. No formal wear is required for this family-friendly excursion.
Is There a Minimum Age Requirement for Children?
The cruise does not have a minimum age requirement for children. Infants are permitted to sit on laps during the cruise. The experience is family-friendly, welcoming travelers of all ages.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Beverages Onboard?
Outside food and drinks are generally not permitted on vessels, to maintain the experience and operations. Passengers are advised to consult with the cruise operator for any special accommodations or policies regarding bringing personal items onboard.
Is There a Discount for Seniors or Military Personnel?
A discount for seniors or military personnel is not explicitly mentioned in the provided information. Cruise pricing and policies may vary, so interested travelers should inquire directly with the tour operator about any available discounts or special rates.
How Early Should I Arrive to Secure the Best Seating?
To secure the best seating, it is recommended to arrive at least 15 minutes before the scheduled boarding time. This will ensure you have ample time to find your preferred spot on the vessel.
The Sum Up
The Steamboat Natchez Sunday Jazz Brunch Cruise in New Orleans offers a delightful 2-hour experience aboard a historic paddle-wheel riverboat. Guests can enjoy stunning views, a buffet-style brunch, and live jazz music while cruising along the iconic Mississippi River. With accessible facilities and a welcoming atmosphere, this cruise promises a memorable outing for families and couples alike.
More Evening Experiences in New Orleans
- New Orleans: 5 in 1 Ghost & Mystery Evening Tour
- New Orleans: 1.5-Hour Voodoo History Evening Tour
- New Orleans Sunset City and Swamp Tour
- From New Orleans: Destrehan Plantation Haunted Night Tour
- New Orleans: Evening Jazz Boat Cruise With Optional Dinner
- New Orleans: Evening Jazz Cruise on the Steamboat Natchez
More Tours in New Orleans
More Tour Reviews in New Orleans
Still browsing? Here are more New Orleans experiences we've covered recently
- New Orleans’s 5 Best Drinking Tours: Which To Choose?
- 14 Best Walking Tours In New Orleans (With Reviews & Prices)
- The 14 Best Tours In New Orleans
- Our 14 Favorite New Orleans Tours & Experiences
- 7 Most Highly Rated Historical Tours In New Orleans
- Caesars Superdome: Transportation to New Orleans
- New Orleans: French Quarter Ghost and Haunted House Tour
- New Orleans: Ghosts of French Quarter Nighttime Walking Tour
- French Quarter Ghost Walk
- Garden District Walking Tour
- Ghost Tour with ghost hunting gear
- Ghosts of the French Quarter Walking Tour
