Book your 2026 & 2027 adventures Risk free.
From the moment you step off your cruise, you'll notice that New Orleans is slowly being restored to its former beauty after the devastation of Hurricane Katrina. Come and experience the southern splendor with a strong French influence, stately homes and avenues. Contrast that with examples of the hurricane's destruction throughout the city.
After disembarking from your cruise, your guide brings you to the French Quarter, virtually untouched by Katrina. Learn about the history and architecture of this old Creole city: Jackson Square, St. Louis Cathedral, the Pontalba row houses and an overall view of the Mississippi River Port, levees and flood walls.
Next, you will pass the French Market and the old U.S. Mint, then, through the bohemian neighborhood of Faubourg Marigny. The tour heads east towards the Industrial Canal where you will see the largest levee breach which destroyed the 9th Ward. Witness both desolation and rebirth of the Upper 9th Ward, where Harry Connick Jr.'s and Ellis Marsalis' project: Habitat For Humanity's Musicians' Village stands as a colorful beacon of hope in a neighborhood still scarred by Katrina's wrath.
Experience the city's industrious spirit as your tour takes you along now famous Treme neighborhood, where you will see how the old Lafitte housing project, troubled even before the hurricanes, is being re-imagined as a vibrant, new community.
Contrast old and new as you pass the closed, shuttered Charity Hospital and see the construction of the new LSU hospital complex, and the renaissance of Mid-City with its new housing and upcoming markets.
Then, make your way to peaceful Bayou St. John, where you will view raised houses from the late 1700's and hear about their architectural significance in a city below sea level. Driving by St. Louis Cemetery #3 along Esplanade Avenue, learn about New Orleans' unique above-ground burial system. In City Park, view the antique carousel and centuries old live oaks before stopping for refreshments and restrooms.
Witness the huge scope of Katrina's destruction, view both breaches of the London Avenue Canal and the devastation they inflicted upon the neighborhood of Gentilly. See the efforts of "Project Home Again", 101 homes rebuilt with the charity of Barnes & Noble chairman, Len Riggio. As the tour continues along the Lakeshore past the marinas, you will see the fourth levee breach at the 17th Street Canal and more examples of ruin and rebirth.
Once downtown, you will drive through the Arts and the Warehouse Districts, passing by the World War II Museum and around the Superdome and Convention Center before returning you to your hotel.
Depending on your departure time selection, your guide can pick you up at the Port of New Orleans or select downtown New Orleans hotels.
Worry-free Shore Excursion:
If your ship is delayed and you are unable to attend this activity, your money will be refunded. See our terms and conditions for full details.
