New Orleans: High Speed 16 Passenger Airboat Ride

If you’re planning a trip to New Orleans and craving something a little different from the usual city sights, a high-speed airboat tour through Louisiana’s wetlands could be just what you’re looking for. These tours are known for their exhilarating speeds, close encounters with wildlife, and the chance to see the unique landscape that surrounds the city.

We’ve seen plenty of reviews from travelers who rave about the experience, and it’s easy to see why. Two things that stand out are the expert guides who make the tour both fun and informative, and the up-close wildlife sightings, from alligators to bald eagles. That said, it’s worth noting that this adventure is performed in an open boat, so a bit of rain might mean getting wet—something to keep in mind if you’re sensitive to weather.

This tour isn’t for everyone, especially if you’re uncomfortable in fast-moving boats or have health concerns like back or neck issues. But for those seeking a splash of adventure, a taste of wildlife, and some memorable scenery, this tour often hits the mark. It’s especially ideal for travelers who want a lively experience with knowledgeable guides and a dash of Louisiana’s wild side.

Key Points

• Speed and excitement: Reach speeds of up to 35 mph for an adrenaline rush.
• Wildlife sightings: Alligators, raccoons, wild pigs, and a variety of birds are common sights.
• Expert guides: Guides like Captain Bebop are praised for their knowledge and humor.
• Unobstructed views: Stadium-style seating means everyone gets a good look without obstruction.
• Access to hidden areas: The airboat can go into shallow water and places traditional boats can’t reach.
• Weather considerations: Tours are in open boats, so rain might mean getting a bit wet.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect on Your Airboat Adventure

The tour kicks off with a convenient pickup option from your hotel if you choose that add-on. If not, you can easily reach the docking area, roughly 35 minutes from New Orleans downtown. Once aboard the 16-passenger airboat, you’ll notice the stadium-style seating—an important feature that ensures everyone has a clear view of the wetlands and wildlife.

The airboat itself is a marvel of engineering—shallow, fast, and capable of maneuvering into areas other boats simply can’t access. Expect the boat to reach speeds of up to 35 mph, propelled by a powerful fan that blows air at over 200 miles per hour. The thrill of zipping through the marshes and gliding over the shallow waters makes for an adrenaline-packed experience.

Your captain will serve as your guide, sharing fascinating insights into the local ecosystem and Louisiana’s wetlands history. Many reviews highlight guides like Captain Bebop, who mix humor with knowledge, making the ride both fun and educational. As you cruise, you’ll slow down or stop for photos and wildlife viewing—don’t be surprised if alligators come close enough to stare into your eyes. Several reviews emphasize spotting plenty of gators, with one reviewer saying, “We saw heaps of gators!”

Bird lovers will appreciate the sight of bald eagles, pelicans, and owls, often present along the waterways. The guides are skilled at pointing out wildlife and explaining the ecosystem, enriching the experience even further. No two trips are exactly alike, which keeps things exciting—you’re never quite sure what will be around the next bend.

The Wildlife and Scenery

The wetlands outside New Orleans are full of surprises, and this tour offers a front-row seat. Many reviewers mention the close encounters with alligators, sometimes just inches away from the boat, providing those perfect photo opportunities. One enthusiast even remarked, “Getting to stare into the alligator’s eyes was incredible.”

Birdwatchers will enjoy the variety of bird species, especially bald eagles and pelicans, which are prominently featured during the ride. The natural scenery is striking—the lush green marshes and winding waterways create a peaceful, yet lively backdrop for the adventure.

Beyond the wildlife, your guide will share stories about how the Cajuns lived in these wetlands, giving some cultural context to the landscape. These stories add depth to the experience, turning a simple boat ride into a journey through both nature and history.

Practical Details and Tips

The tour duration is about 100 minutes, which gives plenty of time to experience the thrill and see various wildlife without feeling rushed. If you’ve opted for the hotel pickup, expect a window of about 30 minutes for the driver to arrive. Make sure you’re ready outside at the designated time.

Weather-wise, keep in mind that since the boat is open, you’ll get wet if it rains. Many travelers find it helpful to bring a rain poncho, which can be purchased cheaply at the tour shop. If you’re pregnant or have neck/back problems, this might not be suitable, as the ride is fast-paced and physically demanding.

The cost is $90 per person, which some might consider a fair value given the length and excitement of the experience. The tour includes wildlife sightings, an experienced guide, stadium-style seating, and access to areas others can’t reach. Not included are snacks or drinks, but the focus is on the ride itself.

Group Size and Family Friendliness

With only 16 passengers per boat, the experience feels intimate without being crowded. This small group size often results in a more personalized and engaging experience. Kids who are at least 48 inches tall and can wear a seatbelt are allowed, so families with children might find this suitable. Just remember, safety is paramount, and the open boat means weather and weather-related discomfort should be considered.

More Great Tours Nearby

Pros and Cons Summary

Pros:
– Very knowledgeable and fun guides, like Captain Bebop, who make the tour lively.
– Close-up wildlife encounters, especially with alligators.
– Unobstructed views thanks to stadium-style seating.
– Access to shallow and hard-to-reach areas for a more authentic swamp experience.
– Generally high ratings (4.8/5 from over 2,173 reviews).

Cons:
– The open boat can leave you wet if it rains.
– Not suitable for pregnant women or those with neck/back issues.
– The price, while fair, might seem steep for some travelers.

The Sum Up

If you’re after a thrilling, animal-rich adventure close to New Orleans, this high-speed airboat ride offers a fun way to see Louisiana’s wetlands from a different perspective. The combination of speed, wildlife sightings, and knowledgeable guides makes it a memorable part of any trip to the city.

It’s best for those who enjoy outdoor adventure, wildlife, and a bit of adrenaline. Families with older children will likely find it exciting and manageable, but anyone with health concerns or a dislike for getting wet should consider other options. The high ratings and rave reviews speak volumes about its popularity and quality.

Ultimately, this tour provides a lively, engaging way to experience the natural beauty just outside New Orleans. Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast or just seeking an exciting story to tell back home, it’s an activity worth considering.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included in the tour?
Yes, if you select that option, the tour provides hotel pickup and drop-off, with a 30-minute pickup window.

How long does the tour last?
The actual airboat ride lasts about 100 minutes, giving plenty of time for wildlife viewing and photos.

What should I wear?
Dress comfortably for weather conditions. Since it’s an open boat, you might get wet if it rains, so bringing a rain poncho is recommended.

Can children participate?
Children must be at least 48 inches tall and able to wear a seatbelt, making it suitable for older kids and teenagers.

Is hearing protection provided?
Yes, the local operator provides hearing protection, which is helpful given the loud engine of the airboat.

What wildlife might I see?
You can expect to see alligators, raccoons, wild pigs, and bird species like bald eagles, pelicans, ospreys, and owls.

Is this tour suitable for pregnant women?
No, pregnant women are advised not to participate due to the physical nature of the ride.

Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

How accessible is the tour?
The tour is performed in a shallow, open boat, which may not be suitable for those with back problems or mobility issues.

This airboat tour offers a lively, authentic glimpse into Louisiana’s wetlands with plenty of wildlife and scenery. If you’re ready for a unique adventure that’s both fun and educational, it’s worth adding to your New Orleans itinerary.

You can check availability for your dates here: