New Orleans, French Quarter: Pirate History Walking Tour

New Orleans’ French Quarter is rife with captivating tales of piracy. Set out on a walking tour that delves into the city’s notorious history, uncovering the deeds of the Laffite brothers and their smuggling operations. With engaging storytelling and interactive sword fight reenactments, you will discover the unique customs of these seafaring adventurers. For just $30 per person, this wheelchair-accessible experience promises an immersive exploration of the French Quarter’s rich pirate legacy. But the full story is yet to be revealed.

This experience made our article of Which New Orleans Historical Tours To Choose? Our Best 16 Picks.

Key Points

• A 2-hour walking tour that explores the rich history of piracy in the French Quarter of New Orleans.
• Highlights the lives and notorious deeds of the Laffite brothers, infamous pirates and smugglers in the region.
• Offers an interactive experience with reenactments of pirate customs, sword fights, and rum-fueled exploits.
• Provides insight into the unique traditions and codes of conduct adopted by the pirate community.
• Features captivating storytelling by energetic guides, creating an engaging and historically accurate tour experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The New Orleans, French Quarter: Pirate History Walking Tour is a 2-hour experience that takes visitors on a journey through the city’s rich pirate history.

Priced from $30 per person, the tour departs from the Pirates of the Quarter Shop, where guests should arrive 15 minutes early.

The English-language tour is wheelchair accessible and offers a full refund if canceled up to 24 hours in advance.

Highlights include learning about the Laffite brothers, pirates involved in the Battle of New Orleans, and experiencing the historic French Quarter backdrop.

Exploring Pirate History in the French Quarter

Though the French Quarter of New Orleans is renowned for its vibrant culture and architecture, it also holds a rich history of piracy.

On this walking tour, guests explore the Quarter’s cobblestone streets and learn about infamous pirates who roamed the area centuries ago.

The tour highlights the lives of the notorious Laffite brothers, Jean and Pierre, who operated a smuggling ring from a local tavern.

Participants discover real pirate customs, witness reenactments of sword fights, and gain insight into the rum-fueled exploits that unfolded in the Quarter’s historic backdrop.

The Laffite Brothers and Their Notorious Deeds

Although the Laffite brothers, Jean and Pierre, were notorious for their involvement in piracy and smuggling, they also played a significant role in the history of New Orleans.

The brothers were known for their cunning and resourcefulness, engaging in a variety of illicit activities, including:

• Smuggling goods and contraband into the city

• Organizing privateer operations during the War of 1812

• Providing crucial intelligence and support to the American forces during the Battle of New Orleans

Despite their criminal activities, the Laffite brothers ultimately became legendary figures, celebrated for their influence on the city’s development and their defiance of authority.

Pirate Customs and Traditions

As the Laffite brothers immersed themselves in the pirate lifestyle, they adopted a unique set of customs and traditions that set them apart from the average merchant or sailor.

From wearing distinctive outfits with bandanas and gold jewelry to engaging in elaborate rituals like the "crossing the line" ceremony, pirates developed a strong sense of identity and camaraderie.

They also had their own codes of conduct, with strict rules about sharing plunder and protecting their fellow crewmates.

These practices not only reinforced their pirate identity but also fostered a strong sense of unity and loyalty within the crew.

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The Battle of New Orleans and Its Pirate Connections

The Battle of New Orleans in 1815 holds a significant connection to the city’s pirate history. During the clash, the infamous Laffite brothers, Jean and Pierre, and their pirate crew fought alongside General Andrew Jackson against the British.

The pirates’ involvement was crucial, as they provided valuable intelligence and manpower. The battle marked a pivotal moment in the city’s history, solidifying New Orleans’ reputation as a refuge for pirates and outlaws.

Some key pirate connections from the battle include:

• The Laffite brothers and their pirate crew fighting alongside General Jackson

• Pirate intelligence and resources aiding the American victory

• The battle cementing New Orleans as a haven for maritime outlaws

Engaging Storytelling and Interactive Experience

Captivating storytelling and an interactive experience define the Pirate History Walking Tour in New Orleans.

The energetic and entertaining guides, referred to as "the Captain and crew," engage participants with historically accurate information about pirate life in early 1800s New Orleans.

Visitors walk in the footsteps of the famous Laffite brothers, learning about sword fights, smuggling, and rum.

The tour incorporates a bathroom/drink break halfway through, allowing participants to fully enjoy the historic French Quarter backdrop.

Engaging storytelling and an interactive format make this tour a standout experience, as evidenced by its exceptional customer reviews.

Practical Information and Logistics

To experience the Pirate History Walking Tour in New Orleans, visitors meet at the Pirates of the Quarter Shop on Dumaine Street, arriving 15 minutes prior to the scheduled 2-hour tour.

Conducted in English, the wheelchair-accessible tour explores the French Quarter’s pirate history. The tour is priced at $30 per person, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Guests should bring:

• Driver’s license

• Comfortable shoes

• Weather-appropriate clothing

The immersive and informative tour offers an engaging look at the city’s 19th-century pirate culture, complete with sword fights, smuggling, and rum.

Customer Reviews and Testimonials

| Overall Rating | Guide Rating | Value for Money |

|—————-|————–|—————–|

| 5/5 | 4.9/5 | 4.9/5 |

Frequently Asked Questions

What Types of Pirate-Themed Souvenirs Are Available?

The tour likely offers a variety of pirate-themed souvenirs, such as t-shirts, hats, mugs, and keychains featuring iconic pirate imagery and slogans. These items allow visitors to commemorate their journey into the world of New Orleans’ pirate history.

Can I Bring My Own Alcoholic Beverages on the Tour?

No, bringing your own alcoholic beverages on the tour is generally not allowed. The tour may include a scheduled bathroom/drink break, but consuming alcohol during the tour is typically prohibited for safety and logistical reasons.

Is Photography Allowed During the Tour?

Photography is generally allowed during walking tours, though participants should be mindful not to disrupt the guide or distract other guests. It’s best to check with the tour operator in advance for any specific photography policies.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tour?

The tour doesn’t have any age restrictions. Children are welcome to join, though parents should consider the content may not be suitable for young kids. The tour is accessible for wheelchair users.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

There doesn’t appear to be an option to extend the tour duration. The tour is fixed at 2 hours, as stated in the tour overview. However, guests can inquire with the tour operator about any available add-ons or extensions during booking.

The Sum Up

This captivating walking tour offers a unique glimpse into New Orleans’ rich pirate history. Delving into the exploits of the Laffite brothers, you will discover the city’s notorious smuggling operations and experience interactive sword fight reenactments. With engaging storytelling and a drink break, this immersive 2-hour adventure is a must-do for anyone interested in uncovering the French Quarter’s pirate past.

You can check availability for your dates here: