Sip cocktails and explore Louisiana coastal foodways over a seafood feast
2.5 hours
Cruise, cocktail, seafood boil
Explore Louisiana's coastal foodways through a hands-on seafood cooking experience and cruise. Learn how local estuaries support fishing, wildlife, and regional history.
Dockside Demo: Upon arrival, the Captain will meet your group and take you to the dock's end for a demonstration on how crabs are trapped in our local waters.
Crab Boil Prep: You’ll have the opportunity to participate in prepping for the boil while learning about the key ingredients and cooking process. seasonal seafood will be placed into a pre-boiling pot under the watchful eye of one of our experienced guides.
Boat Ride & Cocktail Class: As the crab/crawfish cook and soak, you'll board the boat for a relaxing 45-minute cruise. A specialty cocktail will be offered as you sail to a scenic cove known for its alligators and other local swamp critters. During the cruise, the captain will discuss:
The life cycle of blue crabs
The economic impact of the fishing industry on Louisiana and the nation
The vital habitat our estuaries provide for migratory birds
Coastal restoration efforts and historical significance of Bayou Bienvenue, including the Battle of New Orleans, Andrew Higgins' landing crafts, Hurricane Katrina, the floodgates, and NASA
Dining: After the cruise, you’ll return to the dock where you'll help pull the pot and enjoy a delicious meal with beer and water included. If you are feeling brave, your crew will even pour up a traditional blue shooter!
Cancel at least 7 days before your scheduled cruise. No refunds for late arrivals or no-shows. Full refund if the operator cancels due to weather; weather cancellations are determined at least 2 hours before departure.
Product ID: JJMWVR
Yes. There is parking in front of the marina. Carpool when possible and plan for a sober driver.
Yes. All boats have restrooms on board.
Yes. Guests help with prepping the crab boil and assist in pulling the pot when returning to the dock.
New Orleans Party Barge, 2101 Paris Road, New Orleans, LA 70129
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.
Good time, even got to pet a gator! Captain Eddie and his crew mate were excellent tour guides!
Bayley REHMAN
August 31, 2026
Good time, even got to pet a gator! Captain Eddie and his crew mate were excellent tour guides!
Bayley REHMAN
August 31, 2026
Gather up to six guests for a 1-hour-45-minute BYOB bayou cruise on a luxury pontoon.
Heated Bayou Bienvenue cruise with wildlife viewing and an onboard restroom
Bring your drinks and cruise swamp scenery with music, lights, and possible wildlife sightings
Float through Bayou Bienvenue with music and a chance to spot wildlife
Cruise Bayou Bienvenue on a party boat with possible alligator and wildlife sightings
Cruise Bayou Bienvenue on a tiki party boat with sound, lights, and possible wildlife sightings