Swamp Boat Ride and Oak Alley Plantation Tour from New Orleans

This tour combines the private Manchac Swamp with Oak Alley Plantation! Experience the grandeur of New Orleans’ antebellum south on our Oak Alley tour. As Oak Alley Plantation comes into view, you’ll understand why she is the most photographed plantation ever. Her quarter-mile-long alley of 28 magnificent oak trees, each nearly 300 years old, is an impressive welcome. Tour the “Big House,” one of America’s most iconic homes and filming location for TV shows and movies. This 1839 Greek Revival mansion symbolizes grandeur from an era of great wealth. But there is much more to her story. Research by the Friends of Oak Alley Foundation reveals the lives and legacies of those who called Oak Alley home. Then it’s a short ride to Manchac Swamp, where you’ll cruise through a private wildlife refuge in a comfortable, covered pontoon boat with a local captain. Learn about Frenier and Cajun fishing, hunting, and trapping culture. Keep your eyes peeled for alligators as they leap up for snacks!

1. 1

   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.

2. 2

   Lake Pontchartrain

   Pass by

   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.

3. 3

   Stop 3

   Pass by

   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.

4. 4

   Stop 4

   1.5 hours

   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.

• Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
• Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
• Service animals allowed
• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Suitable for all physical fitness levels
• In order to help protect the French Quarter from vehicular traffic, it is requested that you please walk, if possible, to the convenient tour departure point -- just a short stroll from most downtown hotels.

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.