New Orleans Pedal Barge

This is one of those rare activities where the vibe really depends on what you're looking for. There are actually two different experiences offered here: a party barge where you pedal, drink, and socialize while cruising through the bayou, and a more traditional eco-tour focusing on wildlife and history. The party version gets high marks for being a blast with friends, though solo travelers mention they had fun meeting people too. You'll want to BYOB and create a solid playlist since the energy level apparently depends a lot on your group's DJ skills. Multiple reviewers spotted alligators even during the party rides, which is a nice bonus. Captain Pip gets called out repeatedly for the eco-tours and seems to be genuinely passionate about the swamp ecosystem. People rave about his knowledge of birds, reptiles, plant life, and local history, saying he made the experience both educational and entertaining. The crew overall comes across as friendly and professional, with one standout story about Jeff the office manager personally returning a forgotten sweater to someone's hotel. That said, there's one harsh review about customer service related to booking policies and late arrivals, so it seems they're strict about timing. The boats have bathrooms and are spacious, which is always a plus. Whether you're looking to turn up with drinks or genuinely learn about Louisiana's wetlands, this seems like a solid pick for different moods.