Paddlewheeler Creole Queen Jazz Dinner Cruise in New Orleans

Planning a night out in New Orleans and looking for something that combines scenic views, live music, and delicious food? The Paddlewheeler Creole Queen Jazz Dinner Cruise might just fit the bill. While we haven’t personally taken this cruise, we’ve looked into what it offers and what past travelers say to help you decide if it’s right for you.

One of the things we like about this experience is how it blends the charm of a Mississippi River boat ride with authentic jazz tunes. Plus, the optional Creole buffet promises a taste of local flavors, making it a well-rounded evening activity. On the downside, some folks have voiced frustrations over customer service or logistical hiccups, so knowing what to expect can help you plan better.

This cruise feels most suited for those who want a relaxed, scenic outing with a bit of local culture thrown in—perfect for couples, groups of friends, or anyone wanting a mellow evening with good music and views. If you’re after a lively party or a highly interactive experience, this might not be the best fit. However, if you enjoy a calm, atmospheric cruise with tasty bites, it could be just the ticket.

Key Points

• Scenic Mississippi River Views: Cruise along the river while enjoying the twilight and nightfall, with city lights sparkling in the distance.
• Live Jazz Entertainment: A band plays throughout the cruise, creating a great soundtrack for the experience.
• Optional Creole Buffet: Savor a variety of Creole dishes, with menus that include jambalaya, gumbo, seafood pasta, and more.
• Relaxing Atmosphere: The boat’s Victorian-style interiors and promenade deck make for a cozy, romantic vibe.
• Value for Money: At about $60 per person, the experience offers a good mix of sights, sounds, and flavors—especially if you enjoy jazz and scenic cruises.
• Weather-Dependent: The cruise is subject to weather conditions; poor weather could lead to a dockside experience or cancellation.

The Itinerary: What You Can Expect

The cruise begins with boarding at 6:30 p.m. at 1 Poydras St, with departure promptly at 7:00 p.m. and lasts about 2 hours 30 minutes, ending around **9:00 p.m. The first impression is the boat itself—a classic paddlewheeler reminiscent of old-school riverboats, complete with Victorian touches and brass accents that set a nostalgic tone.

Boarding and Departure

As you step aboard, you’ll likely be struck by the vessel’s charm. The check-in process is straightforward, but make sure to print your confirmation and arrive on time, as the cruise leaves promptly. Some reviews mention long lines at the bar or limited customer service, so it’s good to be prepared to get your drinks early if you want them.

During the Cruise

Once cruising along the Mississippi, you’ll be treated to live jazz music that plays throughout the journey, setting a laid-back mood. Multiple travelers commented on the quality of the music—”the band was great” and “very good jazz” came up frequently. This makes it an ideal experience for music lovers or those wanting to soak in the authentic sounds of New Orleans.

The Creole Dinner Buffet

If you selected the buffet option when booking, you’ll enjoy a smorgasbord of Creole staples. The menu often features dishes like red beans and rice, jambalaya, Cajun seafood pasta, and chicken & sausage gumbo. Past reviews describe the food as “delicious,” with some noting the gumbo as particularly good, and one reviewer mentioned that the buffet provided a “lot of choices.”

The buffet is served in a plush Victorian dining room, adorned with period lighting and draperies, creating a warm, inviting environment. This setup invites lingering over your plate — perfect for enjoying the flavors while taking in the river views.

Views and Atmosphere

As the sun dips below the horizon, the sky turns into a canvas of sunset hues, and the city lights start twinkling. Passengers often comment on how beautiful and magical the scenery is, especially with the stars beginning to appear. The promenade deck offers an open-air spot to breathe in the fresh river air and get some great photos.

Post-Dinner and End of the Cruise

After the main part of the cruise, there’s usually an opportunity to take a little stroll or perhaps dance if there’s enough room and mood. Many reviews mention the “relaxing” atmosphere, suitable for unwinding at the end of a busy day.

What Past Travelers Say

The reviews paint a mostly positive picture, with an average rating of 4.1 out of 5 from over 1,300 travelers. Many folks highlight the wonderful music, beautiful sunset, and delicious buffet as high points. One traveler described it as a “beautiful cruise with life music and the sun setting behind us,” emphasizing how relaxing and picturesque the experience was.

However, not all reviews are glowing. A handful mention long lines at the bar, poor customer service, or cancellation due to mechanical issues like a broken paddle wheel. One reviewer was concerned about safety, noting the river can be dangerous to children and needing to keep a close eye on the little ones.

Price-wise, at $60 per person, the experience is a reasonable value, especially considering the scenic backdrop and live entertainment. For those who opt for the buffet, it’s a chance to indulge in authentic Creole flavors without leaving the boat.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This cruise is best suited for those who want a relaxed, scenic, and culture-rich evening. It’s perfect for couples celebrating a special occasion or anyone looking to enjoy some smooth jazz under the stars. If you’re traveling with friends and enjoy good food and music, you’ll find plenty to love here.

That said, it might not be the best choice if you’re looking for a lively party scene or detailed guided commentary. Also, if you or your kids are sensitive to safety hazards near water, be cautious and supervise children carefully.

Practical Details and Tips

• Timing: Boarding is at 6:30 p.m., with departure at 7:00 p.m. Arrive early to avoid missing the boat.
• Duration: About 2 hours 30 minutes, so plan your evening accordingly.
• Price: $60 per person, with the buffet included if selected at checkout.
• Inclusions: Jazz entertainment, Mississippi River cruise, optional Creole buffet.
• Extras: Alcoholic beverages, coffee, tea, and soda are available for purchase onboard.
• Accessibility: The boat has a Victorian style interior; be mindful if mobility is an issue.
• Weather: The experience is weather-dependent. Poor weather might result in a dockside experience or cancellation.
• Booking: Book about 3 weeks in advance since it’s popular and limited to 150 people.
• Cancellation: Free if canceled at least 24 hours in advance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is parking available near the departure point?
Yes, discounted parking is available at the nearby World Trade Center parking lot on weekdays. Just present your parking ticket at the ticket booth for validation. On weekends, parking isn’t discounted, so public transportation or rideshare might be more convenient.

Can I use public transportation to get to the start point?
Absolutely. The boat departs near Canal St. Station, and there are several bus stops and hop-on-hop-off options close by, making it easy to reach without a car.

Where do I redeem my ticket?
You’ll want to go to the ticket booth next to the Creole Queen to get your boarding passes. Further instructions will be on your confirmation email.

What’s included in the dinner?
The buffet usually features classic Creole dishes like gumbo, jambalaya, seafood pasta, baked chicken, and bread pudding. Menus can change, but generally, it’s a hearty mix of local favorites.

Can I bring my own food or drink?
No, outside food or beverages aren’t allowed onboard. There’s a cash bar and food available for purchase if you want a drink or snack during the cruise.

What will I see during the cruise?
Expect to enjoy beautiful views of the Mississippi River, especially at sunset and under starry skies. The city skyline, stars, and gentle river breezes make for a memorable backdrop.

Are pets allowed on board?
Pets aren’t permitted, but service animals are welcome. If you’re bringing one, please specify on your booking and contact the operator if needed.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The cruise may be canceled or rescheduled depending on conditions. If canceled, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Is this experience suitable for children?
While the cruise is generally family-friendly, it’s wise to supervise children closely near the water and stairs. Past reviews mention kids being safe but also note the river can be dangerous.

Final Thoughts

The Paddlewheeler Creole Queen Jazz Dinner Cruise offers a relaxed way to soak in the sights and sounds of New Orleans from the Mississippi River. It’s a solid choice if you’re after an atmospheric, scenic experience complemented by good jazz and tasty Creole dishes. The boat’s vintage charm and the peaceful ambiance make it a memorable evening, especially if you’re a fan of live music and river views.

While it’s not a high-energy, party-focused tour, it appeals to travelers wanting a gentle, cultural outing with plenty of opportunities for relaxation and picturesque moments. Be mindful of the weather and arrive early to make the most of it. If you’re looking for a peaceful, visually stunning way to spend part of your night in NOLA, this cruise could be a peaceful highlight of your trip.

This cruise offers good value, delightful scenery, and lively jazz. It’s best for those who appreciate a relaxed vibe and authentic local flavors, rather than high-octane nightlife or guided commentary.