Pontoon boats are a great way to experience the sights and sounds of the swamp. They travel at a much more relaxed pace than airboats and really let you slowly meander through the swamps and bayous to take it all in. We’ve featured several swamp tour companies in New Orleans (including this amazing sunset swamp tour) but none are as unique as this pontoon and plantation tour, which should go on everyone’s summer bucket list. Let’s check it out.

When you’re looking for a unique and exciting adventure, Tours by Isabelle is the way to go.

Established in 1979, Tours by Isabelle is the oldest locally owned and family fun tour company in New Orleans.

They offer several different types of tours including a Grand Tour, which features stops at two plantations and a pontoon boat Cajun bayou tour.

Pontoon boats are great for getting a slow-paced tour of Louisiana’s swamps, marshes, and bayous. One of the perks of booking a tour with Isabelle's is that they will pick you up, so you don't have to worry about driving to them!

The first stop on the tour will take you to Laura Plantation.

Built in 1805, this French Creole plantation is listed on the National Registry of Historic Places and is rated as the #1 Plantation Tour by TripAdvisor. Through first-hand accounts you’ll learn about the lives of four generations of one Louisiana Creole family.

Afterwards, you’ll head over to Oak Alley Plantation.

Perhaps the most iconic plantation in Louisiana, this famous Greek-Revival plantation dates back to 1837. Known for it’s grandiose double row of 28 ancient oak trees that are over 300-years old, a visit to Oak Alley is a must for any Louisianian.

Next, you’ll climb aboard a covered pontoon boat and take a narrated tour throughout Bayou Boeuf.

Even though the summer can be unbearably hot at times, the covered pontoon boat offers some much welcomed shade.

As you traverse the winding waterways, your Cajun captain will tell you all about the area.

You’ll learn all about the plants and wildlife in the area from a knowledgeable guide who would love nothing more than to share his knowledge with you.

You’ll want to bring your camera, because the views are downright delightful.

Emerald greens as far as the eye can see.

The summertime is also a great time to spot wildlife.

You’re almost guaranteed to walk away with at least one alligator sighting.

For more information about this tour, including booking, click here.

Have you ever taken a tour with Isabelle's? Share your experience with us in the comments below!