Overview
This combination tour combines the best of the best! The best swamp tour with the best plantations along River Road.
See a variety of wildlife on a swamp boat ride and explore an authentic southern plantation on this tour from New Orleans. See alligators, egrets, raccoons and snakes during your ride around a private Louisiana swamp.
9am and 11am departure times tour Oak Alley Plantation and are 7 hours and 45 minutes in length returning to New Orleans at 4:45pm and 6:45pm respectively.
1pm departure time tours Destrehan Plantation and is 5 hours and 30 minutes in length returning to New Orleans at 6:30pm.
- Recommended by 98% of travelers
- Badge of Excellence
- Free cancellation up to 24 hours before
- Mobile ticket
What's included
Tour of either Oak Alley or Destrehan Plantation
Swamp Boat Tour
Round trip transportation
In-vehicle air conditioning
Narrated by a local guide
Hotel Pick-up and Drop-off
Food & Drink (Available for Purchase)
Gratuities
Meeting and pickup
Travelers meet at the meeting point.
Meeting point
Departs from the Gray Line Lighthouse at Toulouse St. and the Mississippi River (at the Steamboat Natchez Dock), just one block from Jackson Square in the French Quarter. Please arrive 15 minutes before boarding to check in.
End point
This activity ends back at the meeting point.
Good to know
• Please note that both the New Orleans Steamboat Company and Gray Line New Orleans share the 'Lighthouse' ticket office - you must go to the 'Gray Line' window.
What to expect
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Oak Alley Plantation
2 hours
9am & 11am Departures - 7 1/2 Hour Tour
Your 1.5 hour Oak Alley experience will include a docent guided tour of the plantation home, a self guided tour of the grounds and many photo opportunities along the way. Save room for a Mint Julep or refreshment from the snack bar. -
Destrehan Plantation
45 min
1pm Departure Only - 5 1/2 hour tour
Established in 1787, Destrehan is the oldest documented plantation home in the lower Mississippi Valley. It is also the closest to New Orleans. Built by Free Person Of Color Charles Pacquet, she has survived colonial and civil wars, occupation by the Union Army, abandonment, decay and restoration, and has now been preserved in all its glory for you to enjoy. A short drive away from the grand River Road, you'll experience another another side of Louisiana culture in the Manchac Swamp.
Cruise through this private wetland with homegrown captains who, like the early Cajuns, sustain their way of life fishing, hunting and trapping. Alligators recognize tour boats as part of their normal environment. Unafraid and responsive to their boat captain's call, they peek out from underbrush and between moss-draped trees, frequently coming directly to the boat. In the safety and comfort of the boat, you can actually come within a few feet of jumping gators. -
Lake Pontchartrain
45 min
Although called a lake, this is actually a large lagoon and brackish estuary fed by fresh water rivers and connected to the Gulf of Mexico. Covering 630 square miles (1600 km2) it is one of the largest wetlands in North America.
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I-10 Bonnet Carré Spillway Bridge
45 min
View the spillway, a flood control operation in the Lower Mississippi west of New Orleans. The spillway, when open, allows floodwaters from the Mississippi River to flow into Lake Pontchartrain and thence into the Gulf of Mexico.
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Cajun Pride Swamp Tours
1 hour 30 min
This privately owned wildlife refuge ensures that you won’t encounter any other boats during your peaceful journey into the swamp. Local Cajun captains share personal tales of their own swamp explorations and fascinating information on the plants and wildlife you'll encounter. The primitive beauty of moss draped cypress tress and abundant wildlife guarantees some amazing pictures! Enjoy a beverage and snack from the open air pavilion.
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the start time.
Times are local to the experience (America/Chicago).
Additional Information
- 1pm = Destrehan Plantation
- Mobile or paper ticket accepted
- Up to 15 travelers per booking
- Each booking must include at least one adult.
FAQs about Swamp Boat Ride and Oak Alley Plantation Tour from New Orleans
Can I cancel Swamp Boat Ride and Oak Alley Plantation Tour from New Orleans for free?
Yes. For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the start time.
How long does it take?
It takes about 7 hours 45 min.
Where does it start?
Departs from the Gray Line Lighthouse at Toulouse St. and the Mississippi River (at the Steamboat Natchez Dock), just one block from Jackson Square in the French Quarter.
What's included?
- Tour of either Oak Alley or Destrehan Plantation
- Swamp Boat Tour
- Round trip transportation
- In-vehicle air conditioning
- Narrated by a local guide
What's not included?
- Hotel Pick-up and Drop-off
- Food & Drink (Available for Purchase)
- Gratuities
Which places does it visit?
It visits Oak Alley Plantation, Destrehan Plantation, Lake Pontchartrain, I-10 Bonnet Carré Spillway Bridge, Cajun Pride Swamp Tours.
Which languages is it offered in?
It is offered in English.
Is it suitable for children?
Children must be accompanied by an adult.
Operated by Gray Line New Orleans











