Swamp Tour help please!

Question

Looking to book a swamp tour with hotel pickup from the French Quarter. Have been looking at the ones that picture more of an enclosed boat (not airboat). Please share any recommendations. And will bug spray or anything else be needed. I think I read on one that earplugs were provided ?

Answer

Swamp tours are a fantastic way to experience the unique natural beauty of New Orleans, and it's great you're looking to book one with hotel pickup from the French Quarter. For tours that use enclosed boats (as opposed to airboats), there are several options that provide a more relaxed and comfortable ride while still offering a close-up view of the swamps and wildlife.

Here are a few recommendations for swamp tours that offer hotel pickup and feature enclosed boats:

Jean Lafitte Swamp Tours – Located just outside of New Orleans, they offer small, comfortable boats that are fully enclosed. They have hotel pick-up and drop-off options from the French Quarter. This tour provides a great experience with plenty of wildlife sightings, including alligators, birds, and turtles. They do provide earplugs for comfort due to the boat's engine noise.
Airboat Adventures – While known for their airboats, they also offer smaller, enclosed boats for a quieter and more relaxed experience. They are located in the nearby Honey Island Swamp and provide round-trip transportation from the French Quarter. It's a great option if you want a smaller group experience while still getting to see plenty of wildlife.
Louisiana Tour Company – They offer swamp tours with enclosed boats in the nearby Barataria Preserve. They provide hotel pickup from the French Quarter and have a range of options, including family-friendly tours. You’ll likely see a mix of wildlife, including alligators, snakes, and a variety of birds.

In terms of preparation, bug spray is highly recommended, especially in the warmer months (March through October), as mosquitoes are common in the swamps. It’s always a good idea to apply bug spray before your tour to avoid any discomfort. You may also want to bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses, as it can get sunny during the tour. Many swamp tours will provide earplugs to help with the noise from the boat’s engine, but if you're sensitive to sound, it's a good idea to ask ahead of time to make sure they're provided.

Overall, any of these tours will give you a memorable experience of New Orleans' natural side, with plenty of opportunities to spot alligators, birds, and other wildlife in their natural habitat. Enjoy your swamp adventure!