Welcome to New Orleans 🎷⚜️
Friday–Sunday
We’re officially kicking off the trip in New Orleans before boarding the ship on Sunday. Here’s what to know as everyone arrives and settles in.
Getting from the Airport (MSY)
Airport Express Bus
There is an airport express bus that drops off a few blocks from the Hyatt Centric New Orleans French Quarter.
- Cost: $1.25 per person
- Runs about every 90 minutes
- You can check Apple/Google Maps for timing if you want to consider it
Uber / Lyft
Uber or Lyft is the easiest and most reliable option.
- Expect $35–$55 for a standard ride, depending on traffic and surge pricing.
Friday Night Dinner
We have a 9:00 PM reservation for 8 people at Oceana Grill, just a couple of blocks from the Hyatt Centric.
- If that feels too late, we can try to adjust the time
- Or feel free to grab dinner on your own if you’d prefer something earlier
Hotels
Hyatt Centric New Orleans French Quarter
800 Iberville St
Phone: (504) 586-0800
Embassy Suites by Hilton New Orleans
315 Julia St
Phone: (504) 525-1993
Arrival Flights (Friday)
- Wendy & Lary
- Niki & Mark
- Lori & Kyle
- Melanie & Jon
- Rebecca & TJ
Saturday (1/24) – Go with the Flow Day
Nothing locked in—just some easy ideas depending on how Friday night goes:
- Café Du Monde
Famous for beignets and café au lait—great for breakfast, brunch, or even a late stop
Parades
🎭 Krewe du Vieux
- Start time: ~6:30 PM
- Type: Adult-oriented, satirical walking parade
- Route: French Quarter & Marigny
- Vibe: Political satire, handmade floats, VERY New Orleans
- Important note: This parade is NOT kid-friendly — lots of risqué humor
🌌 Chewbacchus
- Start time: ~8:00 PM
- Type: Walking parade
- Route: Marigny → French Quarter
- Vibe: Sci-fi, fantasy, pop culture (Star Wars, superheroes, video games)
- More family-friendly than Krewe du Vieux, but still lively and crowded
Sunday (1/25) – Embarkation Day 🚢
Let the good times roll—this is just the warm-up before the cruise.