airboat tour nola

Authentic Airboat SWAMP Experience

New orleans #1 airboat swamp tour.

New Orleans Only 100% Private Property Airboat Swamp Tour Deep in the Louisiana Swamps and Bayous yet just minutes from the French Quarter A safe, fun-filled, one-of-a-kind experience for couples, families and groups

Booking online is secure, fast, and easy!

A MESSAGE FROM CAPTAIN RANDY

What our customers Say

We have dozens of 5 star reviews.

Small & Large Boat Tours from 10AM – 6PM

SMALL AND LARGE AIRBOAT SWAMP TOURS

Select your tour time when you book.

• 10 AM (8:45-9:15 hotel pickup)
• 12 PM (10:45-11:15 hotel pickup)
• 2 PM (12:45-1:15 hotel pickup)
• 4 PM ( 2:45-3:15 hotel pickup) *seasonal*
• 6 PM (4:45-5:15 hotel pickup) *seasonal*
• CLOSED: Thanksgiving, Christmas Day, Easter Sunday, and Mardi Gras Day

6 Passenger Airboat Tour

$95 per rider.

The 6 Passenger Airboat Tour is our most compact boat with room for 6 – 7 people. This tour will get you up close and personal with the extraordinary wildlife in the Swamp.

$95 per person

$115 per person with hotel pickup

Airboat Tour

$85 per rider.

Our standard Airboat Tour, has room for up to 10 people. This boat has capacity for groups but is still compact enough to allow everyone a good view of the amazing swamp life.

$85 per person

$105 per person with hotel pickup

Large Airboat Tour

$65 per rider.

Large airboat tours can accommodate up to 16 passengers which is perfect for larger groups and families looking for an unforgettable adventure. Our captains still make sure every passenger gets a chance enjoy the beauty of our Louisiana swamps!

$65 per person

$85 per person with hotel pickup

Frequently Asked Questions

9:00 AM to 6:00 PM Sun – Sat.

Our hours do vary by season. For more information check out this article .

Approximately 1.5 – 2 hours and the time will fly by like one of our airboats! Please be here 15 minutes before your tour starts.

Each tour varies according to the mood of our wildlife. Customers may see:  American Alligators, Bald Eagle, Racoons, Wild Boar, Turtles, Snakes, Numerous different Bird Species. Live Oak trees, draped in mysterious Spanish Moss, Black Willow Trees, Swamp Red Maple Trees, Wild Iris, and Spider Lillys.

Chances are very high you will see an Alligator on our tours. Especially, in the warmer months. The alligators in our swamps are wild creatures so we can’t guarantee an Alligator spotting.

We offer private tours every day including wedding parties, corporate outings, special events, family reunions, etc. Ask our staff or check our site for details.

We are available to accommodate any kind of group/private tours for you and your party.

Snacks and drinks are always acceptable on our tours.

Sunscreen and bug spray are usually recommended. We will also have sunscreen and bug spray available for purchase in our souvenir shop, while supplies last.

While they are not mandatory. We highly recommend that you book to ensure you will have a seat. We do book up very quickly.

Our cancellation policy is as follows: 24 hour-no questions asked full refund.

Inside of 24 hours, there will be no refunds.

We are a rain or shine event. In the event of severe weather that is unsafe to operate our tours, we will refund or reschedule your tour.

We may delay the start or end of any tour based upon real time conditions and hazards.

Yes, there are a few restrictions for riding on our Airboat tours. The following are not permitted: expectant mothers, children under the age of 5, and persons with neck or back problems are not permitted.

Booking Online is Secure and Easy

MEET OUR CAPTAINS

We know we’re in the entertainment business and you’ve got a choice of how to spend your time and money while enjoying yourself in the great city of New Orleans. That’s why all of our Captains are seasoned Airboat pilots who know these swamps and bayous like the back of their hand. This is a precious ecosystem packed with amazing animals such as Alligators, Egrets, Turtles, Eagles, and Nutria. Whether you choose a Small or Large Airboat Tour, we’ll educate, entertain, and get you up close and personal with this wonderful wildlife.

less than 30 minutes from the French Quarter

Ragin Cajun Airboat Tours – 10090 Hwy 90 – Luling, LA 70070. Tel: 504-436-8000.

Copyright © 2021 Ragin Cajun Airboat Tours.  All Rights Reserved.

New Orleans' Highest Rated Airboat Tours

Your memories begin here. choose your experience..

While we offer several experiences, we believe that our captains are what set us apart. They know the secrets of the swamp, as well as the science, and love nothing better than to share it with you. Meet our captains now .

The Original Airboat Tour 

This is the tour that made us famous. Depending on the size of your group, we invite you to climb into one of our small or larger airboats and experience why they call it the Great Outdoors. While you will feel the wind in your hair, the thrill you get will be from Mother Nature herself. You’ll see alligators, exotic birds, perhaps a wild boar, white-tailed deer, a nutria, a raccoon, or a turtle or two. Keep your eyes peeled for a Bald Eagle. And you may just get a chance to hold a baby alligator.

Book Now   Call   Large Airboat   Small Airboat -->

Cajun Sunrise Adventure

If you’ve never experienced the sights and sounds of sunrise on the Louisiana swamp, you’re in for a treat. Departure times depend on the time of year. This is a private tour.

  Call

Louisiana Sunset Experience

Sunset is a magical time in Cajun Country and a photographer’s dream. At this time of day, the heat of the sun subsides a bit and the frogs start to sing a lullaby. Departure times depend on the time of year. This is a private tour.

Bachelor Party Blowout 

Bourbon Street has nothing on the bayou! The wildest bachelor and bachelorette parties take place in the swamp! While you are allowed to bring your own beverages on board, give us a call for answers to your food and alcohol-related questions.

  Call   Private parties

Bonding on the Bayou

Make your next corporate event one your group will never stop talking about. Break out of your cubicles, pause notifications, and get to really know the people you work with every day. No suits allowed on the bayou.

Fais Do Do Add-On for Parties of 40 or More

A Fais Do Do is the name for a Cajun party. Before or after your New Orleans Airboat Tour, we invite you to pull up a seat at a table under our live oak trees and enjoy a Louisiana seafood boil (crawfish, when in season), complete with all the fixin’s. We’ll play you some Cajun music and you’ll have a good old time. We will supply whatever you need including tents, tables, chairs, and bars. If you want to hire a live band or someone to teach you how to Cajun dance, we can help you there, too.

For tour availability and pricing, give us a call. 

Airboat Tours

Tour Times:

Tour Details Book Now

The highest rated airboat tour in New Orleans

Experiences make excellent gifts! Grab an E-Gift Card here for an upcoming Tour!

Airboat Swamp Tour

Quick Details

• Hour Glass Duration: 1.5hrs
• Checkmark Capacity: 16 Passengers for Large Boat & 9 Passengers for Small Boat
• Info Important Info: Please note that the total duration for the Airboat Swamp Tour with pickup is 4 hours (this includes the round trip drive time). Minimum height is 48″.

Experience the BEST Swamp Tour in New Orleans!

The area toured is a combination of Swamp, Marsh and Lake. The Swamp is such a diverse ecosystem that you may see anything such as a Bald Eagle, a Pelican, an Osprey, or even an Owl.

Airboat tours are an exhilarating adventure that consists of part tour and part airboat ride. You will experience the best of both: an educational swamp tour and a high speed airboat ride. It is a unique experience!

The airboats are driven by a 454 Chevy Engine that will produce speeds of up to 35 miles an hour. These boats are propelled by a huge fan that will blow air from the back of the boat in excess of 200 miles an hour. These tours are truly a blast! Airboats ride in inches of water and go where traditional boats cannot go! The boats were designed to take you to inaccessible areas of the swamp, which you cannot reach by foot or car.

You will travel at high speeds on the airboat tour, but also slow down and stop for pictures. Along the way, you will get a personal tour by your local Captain. Our airboats have stadium style seating, so that the person in front of you does not obstruct your view.  Every airboat seat is great for experiencing the tour and viewing the wildlife. Gators will get close……. real close!!!  So close that you will be able to look into those reptilian eyes.

Don’t forget a camera!

• Chevron down Airboat Swamp Tour – Large Boat – Pickup

We pick you up from downtown! • 48″ minimum height • 16 passenger boats • Approx. 4 hours w drive

This tour is a combination of both a swamp tour and an airboat ride. Your tour guide will stop on your journey to allow for photos and alligator encounters! This airboat is a larger capacity vessel with the ability to seat up to 16 passengers. This is perfect for larger groups. The seating on your airboat is stadium style seating, so anyone seated in front of you will not be obstructing your view. Each airboat tour is unique and unscripted, you never know what’s going to be waiting for your group behind the next turn. Airboats are driven by a 454 Chevy Engine, bringing speeds of your boat up to 25 miles an hour. Airboats are propelled by a large fan that blow air behind the vessel. On this tour, you will reach places and visit areas which normal boats and vehicles are unable to access.

The pickup times of 8:00 am will pick up between 8:00 am – 8:30 am, 10:20 am will pickup between 10:20 am – 10:50 am, 12:30 pm will pickup between 12:30 pm -1:00 pm, and 3:00 pm pickup will pickup between 3:00 pm and 3:30 pm. We ask that you be ready to go at the start of the pickup window as someone will be first and some one will be last. If you need a closer estimate to the pickup time please call us and the tour agent will try to help to the best they can. Once again thanks for your booking as you are a valued customer.

• Chevron down Airboat Swamp Tour – Large Boat – Drive Out

48″ minimum height • 16 passenger boats

Please arrive 15 minutes before scheduled departure. The address to the dock is 9706 Barataria Blvd. Marrero LA 70072. This is about 35-45 minute drive from downtown New Orleans. Please note that Uber and Lyft will take you to the swamp tour but will be difficult to get a ride back due to being in the swamps!

• Chevron down Airboat Swamp Tour – Small Boat – Pickup

We pick you up from downtown! • 48″ minimum height • 9 passenger boats • Approx. 4 hours w drive

The airboats are driven by a 454 Chevy Engine that will produce speeds of up to 35 miles an hour. They are propelled by a huge fan that will blow air from the back of the boat in excess of 200 miles an hour. The 6-9 passenger airboat is a little faster and can go in some places that the larger airboat cannot reach. These tours are truly a blast! The airboats ride in inches of water and go where traditional boats cannot go! These boats were designed to take you to inaccessible areas of the swamp, which you cannot reach by foot or car. It is a unique experience.

• Chevron down Airboat Swamp Tour – Small Boat – Drive Out

48″ minimum height • 9 passenger boats

The airboats are driven by a 454 Chevy Engine that will produce speeds of up to 35 miles an hour. These boats are propelled by a huge fan that will blow air from the back of the boat in excess of 200 miles an hour. The 6-9 passenger airboat is a little faster and can go in some places that the larger airboat cannot reach. These tours are truly a blast! The airboats ride in inches of water and go where traditional boats cannot go! These boats were designed to take you to inaccessible areas of the swamp, which you cannot reach by foot or car. It is a unique experience!

Please Note:

• Airboat Tours are subject to cancel in dangerous weather. Airboats are high speed, open boats with no top. Louisiana Tour Company will not be responsible for any cameras or video equipment that is lost or damaged from water, splash, or rain.
• Pregnant women, children less than 48″ and people with neck and back problems are not allowed to ride airboats.
• All payments are final and non-refundable

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Book Your New Orleans Swamp Tour Online

Airboat tours, private tours, plantation tours, your swamp adventure awaits.

Reserve your Airboat Swamp Tour New Orleans Style Today!

Booking your Airboat Tour is Fast and Easy

New orleans best swamp tour company.

Thrilling, Affordable, Private

New Orleans Swamp Tours | Geaux Wild

New orleans swamp tours official site, welcome to the swamp.

Premium Small Airboat Swamp Tour

$95 Per Passenger

$115 with Transportation

Wildest Ride

Passengers must be 5+ years old

Boat max capacity is 6 persons

Single Seats Available

Large Airboat Swamp Tour

$65 Per Passenger

 $85 with Transportation

Good for Large Groups

Passenger Must be 5+ years old

Up to 24 Passengers

Medium Airboat Swamp Tour

$85 - Per Passenger

$105 with Transportation

Groups up to 10 passengers

Boat Max Capacity is 10 persons 

Private Bay Boat Swamp Tour

$300 - 1-4 Passengers

$70 - Additional Passengers

Private Transportation Additional

Your Party Only

Intimate Adventure

Alchohol Allowed

Ideal for Small Groups

Discover the enchanting allure of New Orleans’ Cajun Country with New Orleans Swamp Tours, your premier attraction for exhilarating and educational high-speed Airboat Swamp Tours and Private Boat Tours. Immerse yourself just 25 miles from Downtown New Orleans in the captivating world of wild swamps and bayous that wind through the rich history and folklore of Louisiana. Delve into the mystery of seemingly endless miles of Louisiana Swamps, as we operate daily, 7 days a week, offering family-friendly experiences that stand as one of the BEST attractions in New Orleans.

Whether you crave the adrenaline of a wild airboat ride or the tranquility of a private bayou boat tour, our tours cater to all preferences and party sizes. New Orleans Swamp Tours ensures an unforgettable journey through the heart of Cajun Country, making us your go-to choice for a remarkable New Orleans experience.

We Create Memories that last a Lifetme!

Explore the fascinating realm of New Orleans swamps with our diverse fleet of boats tailored to meet your preferences. Choose from our Large Airboats, Small Airboats, or Private Bayboats, all accompanied by fully narrated and guided tours led by our experienced U.S.C.G. captains. Delve deep into the swamps, once the notorious home of the legendary Pirate Jean Lafitte, and encounter a plethora of wildlife.

Witness the allure of Alligators, Snakes, Frogs, Nutria, Turtles, Fish, Blue Crabs, and a myriad of bird species, including waterfowl. Immerse yourself in the beauty of diverse native plants, swamp vegetation, and aquatic flora. Our expertly crafted tours provide an up-close and personal experience with the vibrant ecosystem that sets New Orleans apart. Come, indulge in the exploration of this unique and unparalleled eco-system that stands out as a one-of-a-kind adventure on the planet.

Our Daily Swamp Tour Excursions

Embark on a thrilling adventure with our New Orleans swamp tours, available seven days a week, featuring five captivating tour options each day. Explore the vibrant ecosystem of the Louisiana swamps during our expertly guided tours, ranging from 1 hour and 45 minutes to 2 hours. Whether you’re in town for a Convention, Sporting Event, Mardi Gras, or iconic local festivals like Jazz Fest, make sure to include our airboat swamp tours or private swamp tour on your list of must-visit attractions. Uncover the beauty and excitement of New Orleans’ natural wonders with our daily tours designed to enhance your experience in the city.

New Orleans Swamp Tour Times for Airboats and Bayboats

12:00 p.m .

 2:00 p.m.

Transportation Available – New Orleans Swamp Shuttle

Facilitate your New Orleans swamp tour experience with convenient transportation options to and from downtown New Orleans or French Quarter hotels. Our dedicated swamp shuttle buses and vans ensure a clean and comfortable journey, adhering closely to our published schedule. For added convenience, customers can opt for drive-ups, but it’s essential to book online or call 504-481-9138 in advance to secure availability.

Booking your New Orleans airboat swamp tour or private swamp tour is a breeze when done directly online. Simply click the “BOOK NOW” button, and the entire process takes just 2 minutes. Explore our FAQ page for answers to common questions about our swamp tours, ensuring a seamless and informed booking experience for your adventure in the Louisiana swamps.

Packages and Group Events

Packages and Group Events are available for Corporate Outings, Corporate Team Building, Birthday Parties and Fishing Charters.

Reach out to us with any additional Questions by completing the form below. 

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A: New Orleans Airboat Tours with Free Cancellation (in most cases up to 24 hours in advance of your activity date, check the specific activity page) include:

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A: No problem. These New Orleans Airboat Tours include Hotel Pickup:

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Disability profiles supported in our website

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Notes, comments, and feedback.

5 of the best New Orleans Airboat Tours

Make your time in New Orleans a whole new kind of thrilling, while getting closer to nature, on these top airboat tours.

(Photo: Getyourguide.com)

New Orleans sits near the Mississippi River delta, where a vast network of bayous, lakes and wetlands crisscross the fringes of America before succumbing to the Gulf of Mexico. With so much water around, sometimes the best, and often the only, way to get from one place to another is by boat. With sea levels on the rise, this method of transport will only become more necessary than ever. Some airboat tours ply the extensive network of waterways around the New Orleans, while others incorporate other sights into the tour. Here are our favorite five.

Swamp Tours South of New Orleans by Airboat

For a chance to spend two hours winding along the cypress-lined waterways of the Lafitte wetlands at Bayou Barataria, check out this popular ride from Airboat Adventures. You’ll see plenty of wildlife along the way, including alligators (two of which are albino), turtles, snakes and plenty of water birds, such as ibis, egrets and herons. These airboats are large, holding up to 30 people. The prices do not include transport to the dock from New Orleans, although this can be added onto your ticket. From $59 per person.

Book at Getyourguide.com

New Orleans High-Speed 16 Passenger Airboat Ride

Get a swampy thrill on a high-speed airboat ride on this two-hour tour. Taking up to 16 passengers, the boat alternates between speeds of up to 35 miles per hour and virtual standstill, once reaching areas where the wilderness becomes particularly fascinating. Professional guides help lend context to the flora and fauna, that’s if the alligators don’t first come and introduce themselves. The fan-propelled boat can get to areas of the swamp that would be inaccessible by any other means. From $63 per person.

New Orleans High Speed 6-9 Passenger Airboat Tour

With passengers limited to only nine people, there is a much more personalized feel to this New Orleans swamp tour. Over the course of two hours the boat will explore varied waterways, including swamp, lake and marshland. The emphasis of this tour is to discover local wildlife, getting nice and close to large reptiles and fascinating birdlife along the way. Although there are no guarantees with the wild, it is highly likely that alligators will appear. From $82 per person.

Small-Group Swamp Tour by Airboat with New Orleans Pickup

For travelers who don’t have any way of getting out to the start points of some of the other tours, this is a great option as downtown hotel pickup in New Orleans is included. The tour itself will last two hours (not including transfers to and from New Orleans). Your guide will help unlock the mysteries of the local flora and fauna, including alligators, which will be clearly abundant on all sides once the airboat gets moving. Group numbers on the boats are kept low. From $102 per person.

Book at Viator.com

Swamp Airboat, 2 Plantation Tours & Lunch from New Orleans

It’s worth remembering that there are plenty of other great sights around New Orleans, and some of them can be combined with an airboat tour. In this example, you can pair a short airboat ride with guided tours of two different plantations. Start the day with a scenic narrated history of New Orleans, before discovering the teeming wildlife of a swamp environment from the comfort of your airboat. Then visit Laura and Houmas House plantations, and enjoy a Cajun lunch served at the latter. From $230 per person.

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New Orleans Airboat Tours

Take an amazing Airboat Ride in the swamps and bayous closest to New Orleans. Our Captains share knowledge of Bayou Segnette history and ecosystem. Skim the surface on our high-powered Airboats and feel what we mean by Cajun Air Conditioning! On this tour sunglasses, sunscreen and cameras are highly recommended! Bayou Segnette is located just on the outskirts of New Orleans. Our airboats are fully maintained at all times and ready for fun. 

Small Airboats

This adventure is perfect  for those who have smaller groups wanting a fast pace ride through Bayou Segnette. Don't Worry you still get all the scenery and action you see on the swamp boat , you just get to see a little more of the bayou. Riders Must Be At Least 48 in tall

  Small Airboat Tours $88-$115 *fuel surcharge may apply  

6-10 passengers, swamp and bayou tour, high powered thrill ride, large airboats .

Large Airboat Tours Are Great For Larger Groups.

Tour through the closest natural swamps to downtown New Orleans.  Ultimate Swamp Adventures has special rates for large airboat trips. Our Airboats are still fast and fun, just larger to accommodate more passengers. Book online and Tour Bayou Segnette in the historic Westwego Village, the closest natural swamp to Downtown New Orleans. Riders Must Be At Least 48 in tall

  Large Airboat Tours $65-$85 *fuel surcharge may apply  

10 or 16 passengers, view bayou and swamp.

Exploring the Gulf

9 Best Airboat Tours in New Orleans in 2024

There are many great airboat tours in New Orleans to discover. Here, we will discuss the best airboat or swamp tours in New Orleans, where you can book them, and what to look forward to when you go. 

When we were able to go as a family, our girls loved all of the creatures they got to see. Riding the airboat was the best part! Here, we will list the best private swamp tours in New Orleans and the best airboat tours in New Orleans and touch on some other activities that are worth doing while you’re there. 

🏆 Best Airboat Tour in New Orleans

Don’t have time to read the whole article? The hands-down best choice for a great time is the Small-Group Airboat and Plantations Tour with Gourmet Lunch From New Orleans .

Traveling is what we do as a family. It’s so important to us to share what we learn along the way, and airboat tours are an adventure all their own. Here, we’ll make sure to list any restrictions that may keep you from enjoying the airboat tours and give alternate suggestions that are also great ways to spend your time while in New Orleans. 

We’ll also go over the length of each tour and ratings and have links to book each. Let’s dive into the list and look at the best airboat rides in New Orleans! 

Quick Guide: Airboat Tours in New Orleans

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Small-Group Airboat and Plantations Tour with Gourmet Lunch From New Orleans ✔️ Gourmet lunch included ✔️ Visits two of the most well-preserved plantations in Louisiana

New Orleans Zipline Swamp Tour  ✔️ Great zipline for beginners ✔️ Aerial swamp views

New Orleans Airboat Ride ✔️ Flexibility in length and time of day ✔️ View an Albino alligator

Airboat Tours in New Orleans

1. small-group swamp tour by airboat with downtown new orleans pickup.

⭐️ Rating : 5 out of 5 Stars | 🕑 Tour Length : 2 Hours | Check Rates and Availability  

If you’re traveling with a small group, you’ve hit a jackpot tour. Almost 1,000 people have rated this tour, and it’s rarely rated lower than five stars. This airboat tour is a mix of speed and cruising. There will be opportunities to experience the adrenaline of going fast as well as the peace of floating near flora and fauna, crocodiles, and other creatures. 

Amazing experience! We learned a lot and had a once in a lifetime opportunity with our kids to pet an alligator or two. – Collins (Read More Reviews )

These small boat tours will remain small – not allowing more than nine people per tour. If you’re looking for an intimate tour where the local guides can answer all your questions, this is the perfect one. A plus is that they pick up from any major hotel in downtown New Orleans. 

Side Note: There are restrictions on airboat tours – children under 48 inches tall and pregnant women are not allowed. If you need something to do while your group enjoys an airboat tour – check out these awesome Cemetery Tours in New Orleans . 

▶️ BOOK New Orleans Small-Group Swamp Tour by Airboat with Downtown New Orleans Pickup

2. New Orleans: High Speed 16 Passenger Airboat Ride

⭐️ Rating : 4.8 out of 5 Stars | 🕑 Tour Length : 100 minutes OR 4 hours |  Check Rates and Availability

Out of the many airboat swamp tours – this one gives you options. For 100 minutes, you meet at a certain pickup spot and experience the High-Speed Airboat Tour from there. For only $20 more, you can choose the 4-hour option and get pick up/drop off to and from your hotel in New Orleans.

Many reviewers noted how knowledgeable the bus driver was from their hotel and noted it as one of the highlights of the tour. 

Captain Matt was great and the whole adventure was amazing. Seeing the canals and bayou and learning about the area. Plus ALLIGATORS! Highly recommend. – Verified Traveler (Read More Reviews )

This airboat tour has stadium-style seating for an unobstructed view. The 16-passenger boat glides at high speeds through shallow areas where traditional boats cannot go – allowing you to view wildlife up close and personal. Don’t miss out on this highly-rated and popular airboat tour. 

▶️ BOOK New Orleans: High Speed 16 Passenger Airboat Ride

3. New Orleans Oak Alley Plantation & Airboat Swamp Combo Tour

⭐️ Rating : 4.7 out of 5 Stars | 🕑 Tour Length : 8.5 Hours | Check Rates and Availability

If you have a day to spare and want to do a little extra sightseeing, check out this tour. It isn’t only one of the best airboat adventures in New Orleans, it is also one of the best overall tours in New Orleans. 

This tour starts with hotel pickup and continues to a day tour of Oak Alley Plantation. The house includes Greek Revival Architecture, antique farm equipment exhibits, and 28 large oak trees. There is also a blacksmith and souvenir shop, and restaurant. 

We had a wonderful day. The guide was informative. He kept us entertained all day long. We enjoyed all the activities. – Sue (Read More Reviews )

From the plantation, you’ll head to Barataria Basin for a guided airboat swamp tour. You’ll go at high speeds and slower speeds – allowing you to see all types of animals and vegetation. 

The plus of this tour is definitely the added bonus of being able to take in the local sights of a plantation while also fulfilling your dream of going on an airboat adventure. 

Keep in mind there are several plantation tours in New Orleans , but none quite as thrilling as an airboat adventure combo!

▶️ BOOK New Orleans Oak Alley Plantation & Airboat Swamp Tour Combo

4. New Orleans Airboat Ride

⭐️ Rating : 4.5 out of 5 Stars | 🕑 Tour Length : 2 to 4 Hours | Check Rates and Availability

The reason we love this New Orleans Airboat Ride so much is the flexibility it offers. This tour gives you the option to choose either hotel round-trip transportation or self-transportation. Hotel pickup makes the tour last longer. You can also choose either a morning or afternoon tour – whichever works best for you.

With all of these options, this tour fits perfectly into your busy vacation schedule. Just the flexibility could make it one of the best airboat tours in Louisiana. 

I wasn’t to thrilled going I thought it was going to be boring and just see a big body of water but our tour guide was awesome and the ride was fun for my kids . – Cindy (Read more Reviews )

This tour drives by the Mississippi River and explores the Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve. In the warmer months, you can expect to see alligators, egrets, turtles, and snakes, but in the cooler months, you could spot such things as deer, raccoons, and nutria. They also have indoor exhibits that showcase an albino alligator. 

▶️ BOOK New Orleans Airboat Ride

5. Airboat Ride With Round Trip Transportation From New Orleans

⭐️ Rating : 4.5 out of 5 Stars | 🕑 Tour Length : 4 Hours | Check Rates and Availability

This Airboat tour , although not a small airboats group, does not exceed 25 travelers. This tour visits the edge of the Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve and will take travelers to the town of Jean Lafitte – a notorious 19th-century pirate and privateer.

After being picked up from your French Quarter hotel, travelers have the opportunity to purchase snacks and beverages at Jean Lafitte before heading out on the airboat. 

Awesome experience. From start to finish!! We lost count of how many gators we saw. The guide was incredible and knowledgeable. – Tiffany (Read More Reviews )

You’ll glimpse Cajun culture at its best in Jean Lafitte and then head out on one of the best airboat rides near New Orleans. You will spot creatures such as alligators, snakes, raccoons, and giant river rodents called nutria.

Enjoy the calm moments when the boat slows, and native tour guides possibly interact with some wildlife!

▶️ BOOK Airboat Ride With Round Trip Transportation From New Orleans

6. Small-Group Airboat and Plantations Tour with Gourmet Lunch from New Orleans

⭐️ Rating : 4.5 out of 5 Stars | 🕑 Tour Length : Approx. 9 Hours | Check Rates and Availability

If your budget is a bit larger, this Small-Group Airboat and Plantations Tour is worth it. Noted as one of the best swamp tours near New Orleans, this tour winds through two different plantations and includes an airboat swamp tour. Pickup is offered, although not required, and this small boat group tour is limited to 12. 

The tour goes to the Houmas House and Laura Plantation – two of the best-preserved plantations in Louisiana. This tour starts with a cypress swamp airboat tour and then goes on to Laura Plantation – an 1804 Creole Plantation.

Steve was a wonderful guide, full of so much history A great tour of history and a lot to see. Loved the buffet at Houmas House, a good sample of traditional foods – Michelle (Read More Reviews )

There you’ll learn about the history of the plantation before heading to Houmas House – a 250-year-old plantation –  for an elegant lunch. After lunch, you’ll tour the Houmas House Plantation and experience the 38 acres of gardens surrounding it.  

▶️ BOOK Small-Group Airboat and Plantations Tour with Gourmet Lunch From New Orleans  

Best Swamp Tours In New Orleans

7.   new orleans swamp tour boat adventure.

⭐️ Rating : 5 out of 5 Stars | 🕑 Tour Length : 2 Hours | Check Rates and Availability

If you’re looking for one of the best swamp tours in New Orleans, you’ve found it! Over 600 people have rated this New Orleans Swamp Tour Boat Adventure with five stars. This swamp boat tour is on a comfortable Swamp Tour Boat, which means that pregnant women and young children are allowed on board. 

We have gone on this tour before with our daughter, who was three at the time, so we weren’t eligible to go on an airboat ride, and we had a great time on this tour. We got to see the beautiful wetland area around New Orleans and saw lots of wildlife.

Steve was a wonderful guide, full of so much history A great tour of history and a lot to see. Loved the buffet at Houmas House, a good sample of traditional foods – Patricia (Read More Reviews )

This swamp boat tour goes past a Cajun cemetery, an Indian burial mound, and an ancient fishing village. If you’re looking for history and beauty, this is the perfect tour for you. It’s one of the best-rated swamp tours near New Orleans.

▶️ BOOK New Orleans Swamp Tour Boat Adventure

 8. New Orleans Swamp And Bayou Boat Tour With Transportation

This tour is held on a one-of-a-kind 22-passenger flat-bottom boat. It may be one of the best-rated swamp tours in New Orleans, which allows the opportunity to get closer to local wildlife than other typical airboat tours.

You may glimpse many different types of animals on this tour – alligators, raccoons, owls, wild boar, nutria, snakes, turtles, black bears, bald eagles, and other bird species – being just some of them.  

Our Captain, Pat, was so knowledgeable, which really made the trip enjoyable. Seeing the gators was amazing, the raccoons were adorable and the blue herons were beautiful. So much fun! – Mary (Read More Reviews )

This tour departs from downtown New Orleans French Quarter – and explores Honey Island – a small Louisiana wildlife preserve. It also goes through one of the last protected wetlands in Louisiana, including a Cajun village.

Don’t miss out on this boat tour – different from typical New Orleans airboat swamp tours. The best part – pregnant and children can take part in this tour!

▶️ BOOK New Orleans Swamp and Bayou Boat Tour With Transportation

9. New Orleans Zipline Swamp Tour

⭐️ Rating : 5 out of 5 stars | 🕑 Tour Length : Approx 1 hour 15 mins | Check Rates and Availability

Experience a swamp tour in a completely different way, high above the air on a zipline! This is, without a doubt, one of the best swamp tours in New Orleans, given the new and different vantage point. This tour takes place at Maurepas Swamp near Lake Pontchartrain and is a great option, even for zipline beginners. 

That was so fun! A little out of the way from New Orleans, so make sure to arrange transportation, but so worth it! The staff was great, zip lines were fantastic, would totally recommend. – Tammy (Read More Reviews )

All safety equipment and gear are included. If you’re up for an adventure, give this zipline swamp tour a try! It is a great adrenaline-filled adventure where you can view wildlife from a different angle. 

Note: Pickup is offered as an option, but you must call to set it up and add it to your package as an additional fee.

▶️ BOOK New Orleans Zipline Swamp Tour

Airboat Tour Restrictions

Airboats don’t allow people to ride who have back problems or who are pregnant. Also, children younger than five or shorter than 48 inches are not allowed to ride- check the fine print for the airboat tour you’re wanting to book.

As an alternative, try the swamp boat tours rather than an airboat tour. We have gone on the swamp boat tours at had a great time.

One suggestion is the  New Orleans Swamp and Bayou Boat Tour With Transportation . You can also visit cemeteries, ride a paddle-wheeler boat or go on a food tour . 

What to Expect on a New Orleans Swamp Tour 

On a New Orleans Swamp Tour, you can always expect to see some type of wildlife – whether it be a baby gator, other reptiles, or birds of many varieties. You will always learn interesting facts as well about history – Cajun or otherwise. 

How Long Do Airboat Tours in New Orleans Last

It really varies. They tend to last anywhere from about 1.5 hours to many. It also depends on if you have hotel pickup included – that always lengthens the time. There will be a time and tour that fits into your schedule. 

What to Wear on An Airboat Tour in New Orleans 

It’s always smart to wear clothes that you can get wet. It’s common on an airboat to get at least a little wet from the speed of the airboat. A hat and sunscreen in the Summer are always recommended.

If going in the colder months, make sure to wear a heavy coat and long pants. And don’t forget the bug spray!

Best Time for Swamp Tours in New Orleans 

It’s suggested that dawn and dusk are the best times to view exotic wildlife – especially alligators. But really, anytime that it is daylight is the best! We went on our tour in the early afternoon, and we saw lots of native wildlife during our airboat tour. 

FAQ: Best Airboat Tours in New Orleans 

What is a swamp tour in new orleans.

A Louisiana swamp tour is different from a traditional airboat tour. Large airboats use a huge fan and motor to go at high speeds, whereas a swamp tour is done on a slower boat that is better for all ages and abilities.

Those who have bad backs, are pregnant, or have young children are usually allowed on swamp boat tours.

Whether you are riding a swamp tour boat or an airboat – both explore swamps. Swamps are marshy rivers that have all types of creatures and things to see. These tours take you on boats to see all types of creatures, including but not limited to alligators, crocodiles, osprey, and the like. Also, you may learn about ancient ruins and other historical sites. 

What Are the Best Airboat Tours in New Orleans? 

The top pick for us includes a classic plantation tour – if that’s in your budget –  The Small-Group Airboat and Plantations Tour with Gourmet Lunch from New Orleans . If you’re in the mood for something different, we suggest the New Orleans Zip Line Swamp Tour .

What Airboat Tours in New Orleans Are Good For Avoiding Crowds?

Any small group airboat tour is a great option for avoiding crowds. If you really want to avoid crowds – just bring your own people to fill the numbers for the small group tour!

Can Kids Go On an Airboat Swamp Tour?

No one under 48 inches is allowed on an airboat – some tours don’t allow children younger than 5 – make sure to check the fine print. Children can go on other boats other than airboats, though.

Check the tours under the Swamp Tours Header of this article for a swamp tour adventure such as the  New Orleans Swamp Tour Boat Adventure – these don’t tend to have restrictions on ages, and they are some of the most fun ways to enjoy New Orleans with kids .

What Time of Day is Best For an Airboat Tour in New Orleans? 

If you want to glimpse animal life, obviously daytime tour times are better than night. It really depends on what you are wanting to see – but all tours boast of being able to see creatures at all times during daylight. If you’re really wanting to glimpse alligators specifically, dawn or dusk is best.

A day trip in November with cooler fall temperatures makes for a memorable experience in New Orleans.

How Much Do Airboat Rides Cost in New Orleans? 

They vary depending on tour length, what’s included in the private tour, and sometimes the tour company. From what we’ve seen, they tend to vary from about $35/person to $150/person.

Do You Tip Airboat Tours? 

It is suggested that if your knowledgeable guide/captain gives you good service, you tip them anywhere from 10-20% of the cost of the New Orleans airboat tour price. It’s a kind courtesy to those who really give a great experience.

What Are Other Things To Do Than Airboat Tours That Are Worth Visiting in New Orleans?

There are many other exciting things to do in New Orleans other than airboat tours. We have done many exciting things in New Orleans, such as cemetery tours, riding the Creole Queen or Steamboat Natchez, and exploring the French Quarter.

Conclusion: Best Airboat Tours in New Orleans

If you’re in New Orleans, an airboat or swamp boat tour should be at the top of your list. Our children absolutely love anything we do, including water, animals, and boats. This covers all three! Airboat tours are definitely a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.

Still not sure about the best airboat tour in New Orleans? I recommend the Small-Group Airboat and Plantations Tour with Gourmet Lunch From New Orleans .

Candice Steele is the owner of Exploring the Gulf, a blog that helps travelers explore the Gulf Coast Region in the United States. Since 2015, she and her family have been providing valuable insider tips about travel experiences suitable for families traveling to the Gulf Coast. They love exploring the beaches and small coastal towns in this area.

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Airboat Swamp Tour Adventures

If you’re looking for the best byob bachelor party airboat tours or private airboat tours in new orleans, our airboat adventures are exactly what you are looking for, we are the best swamp tours in new orleans, located just 11 short miles from the french quarter..

Get ready for our high speed alligator tours, you will get to view our 20 thousand acres with plentiful wildlife, Such as wild gators, turtles, snakes and eagles and the best cypress trees anywhere. 

TOUR TIMES    (1:30 TOUR): 9:45am, 12pm, 2pm, 4pm, 6pm ( 4p & 6p tours are seasonal)

SMALL BOATS ( 6, 8, 10, 13 passengers): Per Person: $115 DRIVE OUT or $125 HOTEL PICKUP

LARGE BOAT (16-27 passengers): Per Person: $95 DRIVE OUT or $105 HOTEL PICKUP

Your New Orleans Airboat Swamp Tour Awaits! With numerous airboats onsite, we can accommodate any size party you may have!

Pontoon Boat Swamp Tours

Set out on a 20,000-acre (8,095-hectare) tract of tidewater cypress swamp close to the Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve. Your flat-bottomed boat is leisurely guided through the shallow marshes. Discover bayous lined with mossy cypress and tupelo-gum trees as your captain points out a stunning variety of wildlife. Enjoy a fully narrated tour by a local guide.

Prepare to see plenty of alligators in the warmer months (and warmer days in winter), some of which may be sunning themselves on logs! Your guide may even feed the gators, affording you amazing photo opportunities. Also, keep your eyes open for turtles, snakes, egrets, herons, and ibis. You may even catch sight of a hawk, owl, or bald eagle. In the cooler months, look for white-tailed deer, raccoons, and the large rodents known as nutria.

Your morning or afternoon tour ends at the embarkation point. Be sure to check out the indoor exhibits of alligators — including an albino alligator — before making your way back to downtown New Orleans.

Note: This tour does not include hotel pick-up or drop-off unless hotel pickup and drop-off is selected. Roundtrip transportation is an extra $30 per person. Duration: 1hr 30 min

Our Louisiana Airboat Swamp Tours are 1 hour and 45 minutes of opportunity to (safely!) encounter all of the state’s majestic creatures, such as:

• Alligators (as big as seventeen feet!)                             
• Bald Eagles
• White-tailed deer

NEW ORLEANS Swamp TOURS EVERY SINGLE DAY

There’s a tour to fit your group and your schedule. And remember—our hotel pickup option makes your Louisiana Bayou Adventure even easier!

Choose your Swamp Tour Time:

• 4:00 PM (Seasonal*)
• 6:00 PM (Seasonal*)

*We offer two additional tours during spring and summer months, but it can vary each year. See the calendar on our booking page  to check your date.

Questions? Ready to book? We’re just a phone call away! 504-689-2005

Address: 5145 Fleming Park Road, Lafitte, LA 70067

We are approximately 30 miles from downtown New Orleans. Are you staying at a hotel in the Greater New Orleans area? We can pick you up and drop you off! (Unfortunately, we can’t offer rides to or from residential areas or Airbnbs.) Transportation pickup begins 1 hour and 15 minutes before your scheduled tour time. Please be waiting outside your pickup location, as drivers have a short window of time to pick up all guests.

Be advised: Since Airboat Adventures is 30-45 minutes outside of New Orleans cab services and Uber/Lyft are not available.

Terms and Conditions

It’s fast! It’s fun! It’s the ultimate New Orleans airboat tour!

Private Airboat Tours 

Looking for a more intimate experience? Click the link below to book a private airboat.

Optional roundtrip transportation from Greater New Orleans hotels is an additional $30 per person.

Start your adventure!

Ready to have a great time getting up close and personal with the creatures of the swamp?  Plan your tour today!