Frequently Asked Questions
What are the current health guidelines and protocols aboard the boats?
Currently the City of New Orleans Health Department has lifted all vaccination, test and mask requirements with the exception of some government buildings.
How far in advance should I make reservations?
Reservations are recommended only for the Dinner/Jazz Cruise, Sunday Brunch, and Holiday and Special Event Cruises. Tickets can be purchased up until departure time, depending on availability. Reservations for our cruises can be made online by going to the selected page.
What time should I arrive so I don’t miss the boat?
We always begin boarding at least one-half hour before departure time, and sail very closely “on time”. It is best to arrive 30 minutes before departure or sooner.
We board at 11:00 AM, 2:00 PM, and 6:00 PM. Cruises depart at 11:30 AM, 2:30 PM, and 7:00PM.
Which method of payment do you accept?
We accept Travelers Checks, Visa, Master Card, American Express, Discover, and of course cash!
Do you sell merchandise or riverboat memorabilia?
There is a gift shop on board both riverboats.. you can also order on-line
Are alcoholic beverages available on the cruises?
We have bars on all three decks of the NATCHEZ. The minimum alcoholic beverage age in Louisiana is 21 years old. Alcoholic beverages include beer, a wine list, and specialty drinks. The State of Louisiana allows the purchase and consumption of alcoholic beverages for those 21 years and older. Identification can be required by the Server to validate the age of any guest. The forms of identification that are acceptable (and must contain a photo and the birthdate of the holder) are: United States Military or Federal Identification Card OR United States Driver’s License (Louisiana or any of the states & territories) OR International Passport or Visa
We accept Travelers Checks, Visa, Master Card, American Express, Discover, and of course cash!
Where can we park?
There are parking lots in the French Quarter on Decatur Street and adjacent to our dock. These lots are not property of, nor connected to, our company but offer hourly or daily parking rates.
We cruise rain or shine.
Cruises are canceled only when the Coast Guard determines there will be severe weather along the river. Seating is available indoors as well as covered areas on the deck.
We sail rain or shine. In the event of severe weather, unfavorable river conditions (including river closures), breakdowns, or any other cause beyond the control of the New Orleans Steamboat Company, the Captain may determine the vessel is unable to make the cruise as scheduled. If this occurs, we will arrange for a dockside event and you will be notified via the email you supplied when booking with us.
There are times that a cruise may be delayed, but that is usually only for a short amount of time.
Refunds will not be issued for the above conditions. All sales final.
Should it be deemed necessary, the New Orleans Steamboat Company reserves the right to substitute with a vessel in place of the other (Steamboat NATCHEZ & Riverboat CITY of NEW ORLEANS) for any reason, at any time. No refunds will be issued for vessel substitution.
Is the boat handicap accessible?
We recommend river sightseeing aboard the Steamboat NATCHEZ and the Riverboat CITY of NEW ORLEANS. Call us with any questions before finalizing your plans if you have questions on access or personal equipment. The comfort, security, and enjoyment of our guests are of utmost importance. Access to the top & bottom decks is by stairs only. If you need assistance with disability concerns you may contact our Complaint Resolution Officer.
Can we bring pets onboard the boat?
The Steamboat NATCHEZ & Riverboat CITY of NEW ORLEANS allow animals to cruise with their owners as long as the animal is a Service Animal as defined by the ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act). Advance notice is requested if you plan to board with a service animal.
Where can we find historical facts and specifications on the Steamboat Natchez for a school project?
View our Schools and Scouts page or download the following .pdf files for more information: Steamboat Specs or Steamboat Guide. Documents must be viewed with Acrobat Reader. Additional information can also be found on our History page.
How do I get copies of the photo taken in front of the boat when we boarded our cruise?
The members of the Photo Team will be glad to help you locate your photo and place an order. You can reach them at photos.neworleanssteamboat@elementsimaging.com or 504-264-7144. For faster processing, please provide them with either the photo card number or the date and time of your cruise with us.
What is the dress code?
All of our cruises are casual attire. “Dressy Casual” is recommended for the Dinner Jazz Cruise based on the decor and service.
Is there entertainment on your cruises?
The Harbor Jazz Cruise entertainment includes a jazz pianist or jazz trio (Duke Heitger and the Steamboat Stompers) along with a professional live narration of the river sites and history. The 7:00 p.m. Dinner/Jazz Cruise features live performances by the grammy-nominated “Dukes of Dixieland”.* Music by these two bands are available on the Gift Shop page. Check out our music & menus page.
If I have a special celebration, what can the boat staff provide?
As the Natchez has a small galley (kitchen), we are unable to prepare cakes for celebrations such as birthday, anniversaries, etc. But you can bring a cake with you to be served, we simply ask that you mention it in your reservation so staff can be of assistance. For those celebrations, we will do a reserved table with appropriate signage if you also put those notes in your reservation. Please contact cruises@glnosc.com for more information.
Is smoking or vaping allowed onboard?
No. This is a Non-Smoking Vessel, both indoors and on the outer decks.
