The New Orleans Steamboat Company will build a new Mississippi River riverboat for New Orleans.

The new boat, to be designed by marine architects DeJong and Lebet of Jacksonville, Fla., will join the steamboat Natchez running harbor cruises, dinner cruises, and private charters.

Initial design specifications call for a 600-passenger vessel, 160’x36’, with three passenger decks, a dining room with seating for 200, and a full-service galley and bars. The company is aiming for a traditional steamboat look with stacks, bow stages, and shear and camber in the decks.

The new vessel will berth in the French Quarter at the lower end of Woldenberg Park on the riverfront at the former Lower Bienville Street Wharf, adjacent to Nachez’ berth at the Toulouse Street Wharf.

New Orleans Steamboat said that shipyard bids are forthcoming, and that the vessel is expected to enter service in late 2017.