New Orleans: Creole Queen Weekend Morning Jazz Cruise

If you’re looking for a way to see New Orleans from a different angle, this Creole Queen jazz cruise promises a gentle journey down the Mississippi River filled with music, great views, and some tasty food. We’ve looked into this tour to help you decide if it’s worth your time and money, especially if you enjoy a relaxed vibe and a bit of local flavor.

Two things we really like about this experience are the chance to soak up stunning skyline views and the lively jazz that sets the perfect mood on the water. Plus, the option to add a Creole-style brunch makes this more than just a sightseeing cruise. One thing to consider is that the cruise is relatively short at just 1.5 hours, which might leave some travelers wishing for a longer experience.

This tour appeals most to those who want a peaceful, scenic escape with live music and a taste of New Orleans’ culinary charm. If you’re after a laid-back morning activity that combines the best of river views and jazz, this cruise is a pretty solid choice.

Key Points

• Scenic views of New Orleans’ skyline and French Quarter from the Mississippi River
• Live jazz music enhances the relaxing atmosphere
• Optional brunch menu packed with classic Creole dishes
• Affordable pricing at around $44 per person
• Flexible booking options allow you to reserve now and pay later
• Wheelchair accessible and suitable for children, including those under five who can join for free

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect on the Creole Queen Jazz Cruise

This experience offers a delightful glimpse of New Orleans from the water, aboard the iconic Paddlewheeler Creole Queen. As you step onto the boat, you’re transported back to an era of riverboat glamour, with the gentle sounds of jazz music setting a lively yet laid-back tone.

The Itinerary and Atmosphere

The cruise lasts about 1.5 hours, typically in the morning, giving you enough time to unwind before moving on with your day. The boat is docked at the Riverwalk/Canal Street Dock, a convenient spot close to many downtown attractions.

Once onboard, you’ll find yourself immersed in the lively sounds of the Muddy Mississippi Band. Their jazz tunes are the highlight, and many reviews mention how enjoyable it is to dance or just sway along to the music. The music’s quality and the friendly crew help create a warm, welcoming atmosphere, making it perfect for those who appreciate authentic live performances.

Views and Sights

As you cruise along, you’ll get stunning views of the New Orleans skyline, including the historic French Quarter. The boat’s open deck offers a great vantage point to snap photos of Jackson Square, the river, and the city’s iconic architecture as the city slowly drifts past.

Many travelers comment on how peaceful and scenic the ride is, especially if you’re a fan of river vistas. The gentle current and slow pace make it an ideal way to relax and enjoy the city from a different perspective.

Food and Drink Options

The optional Creole-style brunch is a highlight for many, featuring some hearty and flavorful dishes like gumbo, shrimp, French toast, and scrambled eggs. The menu feels like a true taste of Louisiana, with generous portions and familiar favorites like biscuits, potatoes, and sausage.

People who opt for the brunch often say the food is delicious and well-prepared, with some reviewers noting it as a key part of the experience. The brunch is served before or during the cruise, giving you time to savor the flavors while enjoying the music and scenery.

For drinks, you can purchase classic New Orleans cocktails on the promenade deck. One review also mentions that the crew was accommodating, especially for gluten-free options, which is a bonus for travelers with dietary restrictions.

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The Experience and Reviews

The overall consensus is very positive, with an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 from 135 reviews. Guests consistently praise the live jazz, the beautiful views, and the friendly staff.

Some specific comments include:

• “Our server was awesome,” highlighting the good service.
• “Very nice. Possible improvement would be cooling fans on deck,” suggesting that on hotter days, the open deck might get a little warm.
• “This was our kids’ favorite part of our NOLA getaway,” noting that the cruise is family-friendly and accessible, including for those in wheelchairs.
• “The brunch was delicious,” with many agreeing that the food added a lot to the experience.
• Several mention that the jazz band was “fantastic” and “just as advertised.”

One reviewer noted that the food might be served prior to the 11 am departure, so if you’re planning to eat during the cruise, arriving early is advisable.

Accessibility & Family Friendliness

The cruise is wheelchair accessible, and children under five are free, making it suitable for families and travelers with mobility concerns. The relaxed pace and lively music make it enjoyable for most ages, though it’s primarily a scenic and musical experience rather than a kid-focused activity.

Pricing and Value

At $44 per person, this cruise feels like a fair price for what’s included—live jazz, scenic river views, and an optional hearty brunch. Compared to similar experiences in other cities, it offers good value, especially considering the quality of the music and the setting. The option to reserve now and pay later adds flexibility, which many travelers appreciate.

Is it worth it?

If you’re a fan of live music, scenic river vistas, and a taste of Creole cuisine, this cruise strikes a good balance between relaxation and entertainment. For those wanting a quick but memorable look at New Orleans from the water, it’s a solid pick.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is best suited for travelers who appreciate laid-back mornings, enjoy jazz music, and want a peaceful way to see the city. It’s ideal if you’re traveling with someone who prefers a relaxed pace or if you’re looking for a light, cultural activity without needing strenuous effort.

Because of the accessibility and family-friendly nature, it’s also a good option for families with young children or travelers with mobility needs. If you’re after a longer or more elaborate cruise, or an evening experience, you might want to explore other options.

Final Thoughts

The Creole Queen Weekend Morning Jazz Cruise offers a charming slice of New Orleans life. It combines scenic views, lively music, and hearty food into a compact, enjoyable package. The friendly staff, quality entertainment, and flexible booking make it a hassle-free choice for a relaxing morning on the river.

While it’s not the longest or most elaborate river tour available, it hits the right notes for many travelers seeking a taste of NOLA’s musical and scenic spirit without overcommitting. If you enjoy jazz, good food, and gentle waterside views, this cruise could easily become a highlight of your trip.

FAQ

Is this cruise suitable for children?
Yes, children under five can join for free, making it family-friendly. The relaxed environment and live jazz are generally appealing to all ages.

How long does the cruise last?
It runs for approximately 1.5 hours, typically in the morning, fitting well into a busy sightseeing schedule.

Can I book just the cruise without brunch?
Yes, you can choose to do the cruise with or without the optional Creole-style brunch when booking.

Are drinks available onboard?
Yes, you can purchase cocktails and other alcoholic drinks during the cruise, though they are not included in the ticket price.

Is the boat accessible for wheelchairs?
Absolutely, the cruise is wheelchair accessible, and many reviews mention how accommodating the crew was to guests with mobility needs.

What is the meeting point?
The boat departs from the Riverwalk/Canal Street Dock, which is central and easy to reach in downtown New Orleans.

What should I bring?
A face mask or protective covering is recommended, especially if you prefer to stay cautious. Sunscreen and sunglasses are also helpful if it’s a sunny day.

What happens if the weather is bad?
Cruise times may be altered or canceled if weather or safety concerns arise. The boat might remain dockside in such cases.

Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, giving you flexibility if your plans change.

What’s included in the price?
The cruise, live jazz entertainment, and the brunch (if selected) are included. Transportation to the dock is not, and drinks are available for purchase onboard.

If you’re after a relaxing, music-filled morning on the Mississippi with scenic views and good food, the Creole Queen jazz cruise is a charming way to experience New Orleans from a different perspective. It’s simple, enjoyable, and offers just enough entertainment to make it memorable—without overdoing it. Perfect for those who want a peaceful start to their day in the Big Easy.

You can check availability for your dates here: