Private 2-Hour Luxury Sail on Lake Pontchartrain from New Orleans
Leave the French Quarter bustle for two hours of wind and wide water. A private sail on a 47' Beneteau lets you see Lake Pontchartrain and the Causeway with a local captain, complimentary drinks, and space for just six guests.
The Experience
Before You Go
Arrive 15 minutes early
Parking and a short dock briefing are required—plan extra time to find the Alexander Community Sailing Center lot and check in.
Bring sun protection
Open water amplifies sun exposure—use SPF 30+ sunscreen, a brimmed hat, and polarized sunglasses.
Motion-sickness prep
If you’re prone to seasickness, take medication beforehand and sit midship where movement is minimized.
Dress in layers
A lightweight windbreaker handles lake breeze and evening chill; non-marking, closed-toe shoes keep you steady on deck.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •West End seafood stands for a post-sail po'boy or shrimp plate
- •Causeway-side viewpoints at Seabrook for unobstructed bridge photos
Wildlife
- •Brown pelican
- •Bottlenose dolphin
Conservation Note
The lake faces runoff and habitat pressures; operators encourage minimizing single-use plastics and following NOAA guidelines to protect water quality and wildlife.
Lake Pontchartrain has long been a working estuary—used by Indigenous people and early settlers—later reshaped by the construction of the Causeway in the 1950s and ongoing coastal management.
Photographer's Notes
- • Bow for open-lake views and pelican shots
- • Aft near the transom for Causeway compositions
- • Helm area for candid captain and rigging details
What to Bring
Sunscreen (SPF 30+)Essential
Protects skin on reflective open water where UV is stronger.
Polarized sunglassesEssential
Cuts glare so you can spot wildlife and frame photos.
Non-marking deck shoesEssential
Provide grip and protect the boat’s finish while keeping you steady.
Light rain shell or windbreaker
Blocks spray and sudden breezes, useful in changeable lake weather.
Common Questions
What is the meeting location?
Meet at the Alexander Community Sailing Center parking at 101 N Roadway, New Orleans; the captain will be docked across the lot by the blue signs.
How many people can join a private charter?
The vessel is limited to a maximum of six guests for private charters; a minimum of two tickets is required to sail.
Are restrooms available?
Yes, the boat has a clean onboard head (restroom) for guest use during the two-hour sail.
Is alcohol provided onboard?
Complimentary local craft beer and white wine are included, along with non-alcoholic beverages and snacks; please bring ID if you plan to drink.
What is the cancellation policy?
All sales are final; trips may be cancelled by the operator for bad weather or insufficient travelers—no refunds are provided for guest cancellations.
Are pets allowed?
Service animals are allowed; other pets are not specified—check with the operator before booking if you plan to bring an animal.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
2–2.5 hours
Location
New Orleans, Louisiana
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; able to step on/off a dock and move about a boat deck
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