Planning our first trip to FQ -- Swamp and Steamboat Tours

Question

Hi,

We are planning our first trip to French Quarter late March and we are looking to book a Steamship and Swamp tour.

For the Steamship we are looking at:

Steamboat Natchez Evening Jazz Cruise with Dinner Option (we would not do the dinner option)

For the Swamp tour:

Original Swamp Tour by Cajun Encounters through Honey Island Swamp.

Boat does not have a covering but is that needed in March?

New Orleans Swamp Tour Boat Adventure

By Louisiana Tour Company

Barataria Preserve

Recommendations on which to pick or others are greatly appreciated.

Thank you!

Answer

Your trip to New Orleans sounds exciting, and both the Steamboat Natchez and swamp tours are great ways to experience the city’s history and natural beauty! Here’s a breakdown of the options you’re considering, along with some advice to help you decide:

Steamboat Natchez Evening Jazz Cruise

The Steamboat Natchez is one of the most iconic experiences in New Orleans, and the Evening Jazz Cruise is a fantastic way to see the city from the Mississippi River. Even though you’re not opting for the dinner option, the cruise still offers a relaxing experience with live jazz music and beautiful views of the city skyline, the French Quarter, and the Mississippi River. The boat itself is an authentic steamboat, adding to the charm. March weather in New Orleans can be mild, but evenings might still be a bit cool, so it’s a good idea to bring a light jacket or sweater, especially if you’ll be outside on the deck.

Swamp Tours

For the swamp tour, you’re considering two different options, both offering unique experiences:

Original Swamp Tour by Cajun Encounters through Honey Island Swamp – This is one of the most popular swamp tours, taking you through the beautiful and remote Honey Island Swamp. The tour is known for its wildlife sightings, including alligators, herons, and egrets, and it provides a more tranquil, scenic experience compared to some other swamp tours. Since the boat does not have a covering, it’s important to keep the weather in mind. In March, the weather can be cool, especially in the early morning, so dressing in layers is recommended. The boat ride is typically calm, but the lack of cover means you might feel the chill more. The Honey Island Swamp is a prime spot for wildlife, and this tour is highly recommended for nature lovers.
New Orleans Swamp Tour Boat Adventure by Louisiana Tour Company (Barataria Preserve) – This tour takes you through the Barataria Preserve, part of the Jean Lafitte National Historical Park. It’s a beautiful, pristine swamp area that’s rich in wildlife and history. The boat is covered, which makes it a great option if you’re concerned about being exposed to the elements, especially since March weather can be unpredictable. The covered boats provide more comfort and warmth during the cooler months. The Barataria Preserve is a fantastic location for viewing wildlife in a more serene environment, and the guides here are known for being very informative and engaging.

Which Tour to Choose?

If you’re looking for a more authentic, wildlife-filled swamp experience with a chance to spot alligators and other animals in their natural habitat, the Cajun Encounters Honey Island Swamp Tour is a great choice. It’s a classic swamp experience, with fewer tourists and a more peaceful atmosphere. However, keep in mind the boat has no cover, so be prepared for the weather.
If you’re looking for a more comfortable and educational tour with a covered boat, the Louisiana Tour Company’s Barataria Preserve Tour might be a better fit. The covered boat provides extra comfort in cooler or unpredictable weather, and the Barataria Preserve offers a rich mix of wildlife, scenery, and history.

Weather Considerations:

In late March, New Orleans weather is typically mild, with average temperatures ranging from 50°F (10°C) in the early mornings to 70°F (21°C) in the afternoon. However, it can still be cool, especially on the water, so if you’re taking the non-covered swamp tour, consider layering up or bringing a light jacket just in case. For the Steamboat Natchez, you might want to bring a light sweater or jacket, as it can get cool in the evening breezes on the river.

Both the steamboat and swamp tours offer fantastic experiences, so it really comes down to what kind of experience you’re looking for—whether it’s the jazz and history of the steamboat, or the serene, wild beauty of the swamps. Whatever you decide, you’re sure to have an amazing time!

Planning our first trip to FQ -- Swamp and Steamboat Tours

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