Airboat and Plantations Tour With Gourmet Lunch From New Orleans

Discover the rich cultural heritage of Louisiana with the Airboat and Plantations Tour from New Orleans. This immersive experience takes you on an exhilarating airboat ride through the stunning cypress swamps, followed by guided tours of the historic Laura Plantation and the grand Houmas House. Enjoy a gourmet buffet lunch at the impressive Houmas House, as you explore the vibrant Cajun and Creole influences that have shaped this region. With knowledgeable guides and a small-group setting, you’ll uncover the captivating history and natural beauty that make this tour a must-do.

Key Points

• Full-day immersive tour showcasing Cajun and Creole culture, including an exciting airboat ride, guided plantation tours, and a gourmet buffet lunch.
• Personalized small-group experience with live narration and hotel pickup in New Orleans.
• Knowledgeable guides praised for their expertise and engaging presentations of the region’s history and traditions.
• Limitations for pregnant women, those with back issues, and wheelchair users, but accommodations available for service animals and infant seats.
• Tour priced at $255 per person with free cancellation up to 24 hours before departure.

Tour Overview and Highlights

The tour offers an immersive experience that showcases Cajun and Creole culture through an exciting airboat ride in the cypress swamps.

This is followed by guided tours of the historic Laura Plantation and the grand Houmas House.

Travelers will explore the swamplands, learn about the region’s history and architecture, and enjoy a gourmet buffet lunch at the Houmas House.

With over 1,200 positive reviews and a 95% traveler recommendation, this tour provides a personalized and engaging small-group setting to discover the unique heritage of Louisiana.

Tour Details and Schedule

This tour starts bright and early at 8:00 AM, with pickup from your New Orleans hotel.

You’ll then travel by 14-passenger air-conditioned van, enjoying live narration as you journey to the swamps and plantations.

The full-day experience includes an exhilarating airboat ride, guided tours of the historic Houmas House and Laura Plantation, and a gourmet buffet lunch at Houmas House.

The tour includes an exhilarating airboat ride, guided tours of historic plantations, and a gourmet buffet lunch.

Throughout, you’ll learn about Cajun and Creole culture, with a small-group setting providing a personalized experience.

The exact pickup time will be provided, ensuring a smooth and efficient start to your day.

Inclusions and Special Accommodations

The tour includes a fast-paced airboat ride, an unlimited gourmet buffet lunch at the historic Houmas House, and guided tours of both the Houmas House and the Laura Plantation.

The tour accommodates service animals and provides infant seats. Dietary requirements are also catered to.

However, the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, and there are certain restrictions for pregnant women and those with back issues.

Umbrellas and rain ponchos are available, as the tours operate in all weather conditions.

Traveler Experiences and Feedback

Positive reviews highlight the knowledgeable guides and engaging experiences provided on the tour, with travelers commonly praising guides like Gisel and Rene for their expertise and friendliness.

Reviewers enjoyed the immersive Cajun and Creole cultural experiences, including the airboat ride through the cypress swamps and tours of the historic plantations.

However, some negative feedback pointed to weather conditions affecting the airboat experience and concerns over the quality of the gourmet buffet lunch.

Booking Information and Policies

The tour is priced from $255.00 per person, with free cancellation up to 24 hours before the scheduled departure.

Travelers must confirm their pickup point with the local supplier, as the tour has a maximum of 12 participants.

Umbrellas and rain ponchos are available, and the tours operate in all weather conditions.

The company provides service animals and infant seats upon request, though the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible.

Certain restrictions apply for pregnant women and those with back issues.

Exploring the Cajun and Creole Culture

Although the tour offers a glimpse into the rich Cajun and Creole heritage of Louisiana, it goes beyond just sightseeing.

Travelers enjoy the local culture through an exhilarating airboat ride through cypress swamps, where they may spot alligators and other wildlife.

They then visit the historic Laura Plantation, learning about the lives of the Creole owners and enslaved people.

The tour culminates with a gourmet Cajun and Creole-inspired buffet lunch at the magnificent Houmas House, allowing guests to savor the flavors that define this unique region.

The Airboat Ride Through Cypress Swamps

An exhilarating airboat ride through the serene cypress swamps is a highlight of the tour.

Gliding swiftly across the tranquil waters, travelers are immersed in the lush, verdant landscape dotted with majestic cypress trees draped in hanging Spanish moss.

The knowledgeable guides skillfully navigate the narrow waterways, pointing out the diverse wildlife – from graceful herons to curious alligators – that call this unique ecosystem home.

The adrenaline-fueled experience offers a thrilling perspective of the Cajun and Creole culture‘s natural setting, leaving guests with a deeper appreciation for the region’s remarkable wetlands.

Discovering the Historic Laura Plantation

After the thrilling airboat ride, the tour heads to the historic Laura Plantation. Guests explore the antebellum estate, learning about its Creole history and the lives of its former inhabitants.

The guided tour takes visitors through the well-preserved main house, showcasing its unique architectural features and period furnishings. Highlights include the slave quarters, where the stories of those enslaved on the plantation are shared.

Visitors gain a deeper understanding of the region’s complex past and the resilience of the Creole community. The in-depth tour provides a thought-provoking and enriching experience for all who step into the pages of Laura Plantation’s captivating history.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?

The tour doesn’t have a strict dress code, but comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and closed-toe shoes are recommended. Guests should dress for the outdoor activities and be prepared for potentially hot, humid, or rainy conditions.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Airboat Ride?

There are no age restrictions for the airboat ride. However, the tour provider notes that the airboat experience may not be suitable for pregnant women or those with back issues due to the nature of the ride.

Can We Bring Our Own Food and Drinks?

The tour doesn’t allow participants to bring their own food and drinks. A gourmet buffet lunch at Houmas House is included in the tour, so outside food and beverages are not permitted.

Is There a Discount for Seniors or Students?

The tour does not offer discounts for seniors or students. However, certain exceptions may apply for children under a specific age. Customers should check with the tour operator for the most up-to-date pricing information and any applicable discounts.

How Accessible Is the Tour for Individuals With Mobility Issues?

The tour is not wheelchair accessible. It has certain restrictions for pregnant women and those with back issues. Service animals are allowed, and infant seats are available to accommodate special needs.

The Sum Up

The Airboat and Plantations Tour from New Orleans offers a captivating exploration of Louisiana’s rich Cajun and Creole heritage. Visitors can enjoy the region’s natural beauty and historical significance, with an exhilarating airboat ride through cypress swamps and guided tours of the iconic Laura Plantation and Houmas House. The tour’s gourmet buffet lunch at Houmas House completes the experience, providing a delightful culinary journey through the vibrant flavors of the area.