Portland’s waterways offer excellent cruising options, with the Willamette River and Columbia Gorge as prime destinations. The standout tours include the practical Happy Hour Sightseeing Cruise – perfect for budget travelers with its reasonable 1.5-hour duration and good-value drinks menu. I’m especially fond of the Lunch Cruise, which combines excellent Northwestern cuisine with million-dollar views of Portland’s skyline.
For adventure seekers, the 7 Wonders Gorge Jetboat experience delivers high-speed thrills while showcasing dramatic river landscapes. The Champagne Brunch Cruise, my personal favorite, provides a relaxed morning atmosphere with quality local food – exactly what savvy travelers look for.
Let’s explore Portland’s best boat tour options in detail:
Key Points
- The Happy Hour Sightseeing Cruise on the Willamette River offers a 1.5-hour experience with indoor/outdoor seating, a full-service bar, and a bistro menu, starting at $40 per person.
- The Lunch Cruise on the Willamette River provides a 2-hour scenic tour with a freshly prepared Northwest lunch, live entertainment, and historical narration, priced at Kč 2,083 per person.
- The 7 Wonders of the Gorge Jetboat Cruise is a 3.5-hour adventure showcasing views of Multnomah Falls, Cape Horn, and Mount Hood, with speeds up to 45 mph, starting at €85.63 per person.
- The Bigfoot Adventure Jetboat Cruise, led by Cliff Barackman from “Finding Bigfoot,” offers a 3.5-hour, 80-mile roundtrip journey to Multnomah Falls, reaching speeds up to 40 mph.
- The Champagne Brunch and Dinner Cruises offer 2-2.5 hours of experiences, with a buffet brunch or a three-course meal, live entertainment, and unlimited sparkling wine, priced from $104-$127 per person.
Portland: Happy Hour Sightseeing Cruise
The Portland Happy Hour Sightseeing Cruise offers travelers a chance to take in the city’s stunning waterfront views from the Willamette River.
Priced from $40 per person, this 1.5-hour cruise provides an intimate, narrated experience with indoor and outdoor seating options. Guests can enjoy a full-service bar and bistro menu as they sail along the river, passing by notable landmarks and bridges.
The cruise is wheelchair accessible, and travelers should arrive 30 minutes before departure with their passport or ID.
With an overall rating of 4.6/5 from 45 reviews, this cruise is a popular way to experience Portland’s natural beauty and rich history.
Read our full review: Portland: Happy Hour Sightseeing Cruise Review
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Portland: 2-hour Lunch Cruise on the Willamette River
A 2-hour Lunch Cruise on the Willamette River offers travelers a chance to savor the scenic views of Downtown Portland from the comfort of a private table.
Priced from Kč 2,083 per person, the cruise includes a freshly prepared Northwest lunch with an entrée choice. Passengers can enjoy live entertainment during the meal and historical narration about city landmarks.
With an overall rating of 4.6/5 based on 114 reviews, the cruise is praised for its food quality, service, and live music.
Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance, and the tour operates rain or shine, making it a reliable and enjoyable experience for visitors.
Read our full review: Portland: 2-hour Lunch Cruise on the Willamette River Review
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From Portland: 7 Wonders of the Gorge Jetboat Cruise
Excitement beckons thrill-seekers with the 7 Wonders of the Gorge Jetboat Cruise, a high-speed sightseeing adventure along the lower Columbia River Gorge near Portland.
Priced from €85.63 per person, this 3.5-hour cruise whisks passengers at up to 45 miles per hour, offering stunning views of natural wonders like Multnomah Falls, Cape Horn, and Mount Hood.
The live guide provides engaging commentary, and noise-canceling headsets ensure a comfortable open-air experience.
While not wheelchair accessible, the adventure-style cruise is suitable for those steady on their feet.
Passengers can bring their own refreshments, as food and drinks aren’t available for purchase.
With an overall rating of 4.3/5, this cruise promises an exhilarating way to explore the 7 Wonders of the Gorge.
Read our full review: From Portland: 7 Wonders of the Gorge Jetboat Cruise Review
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From Portland: Bigfoot Adventure 3.5-hour Jetboat Cruise
Seeking an exhilarating adventure along the Columbia River Gorge? Consider the Bigfoot Adventure 3.5-hour Jetboat Cruise.
This tour offers a high-speed journey from Portland to Multnomah Falls, covering 80 miles roundtrip. Passengers can expect to spot wildlife, pass river boats, and reach speeds up to 40 mph.
The experience is narrated by Cliff Barackman from Animal Planet’s “Finding Bigfoot,” providing exclusive insights. While not suitable for those with mobility issues or children under 2, the cruise offers noise-canceling headsets, a restroom, and the ability to bring your own food and drinks.
With 4.5/5 stars from 13 reviews, this adventure promises thrills and stunning scenery along the way.
Read our full review: From Portland: Bigfoot Adventure 3.5-hour Jetboat Cruise Review
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Portland: Champagne Brunch Cruise on Willamette River
For a leisurely and indulgent experience on the Willamette River, the Portland Champagne Brunch Cruise offers an unparalleled opportunity.
Priced from $104 per person, this 2-hour cruise features a freshly prepared buffet brunch, along with unlimited sparkling wine, mimosas, and other beverages.
Guests can enjoy live piano music and historical narration as they take in the scenic views of Portland.
The cruise is accessible to wheelchair users, and a dedicated server is available to enhance the experience.
With an overall rating of 4.9/5 based on 31 reviews, this cruise is an excellent choice for families and all traveler types seeking a memorable outing.
Read our full review: Portland: Champagne Brunch Cruise on Willamette River Review
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Portland: Willamette River 2.5-hour Dinner Cruise
On the Willamette River, travelers can embark on a 2.5-hour dinner cruise that offers a truly captivating experience.
Priced from $127 per person, the cruise provides scenic views of downtown Portland, a three-course meal featuring local ingredients, and live piano music.
Reviewers praise the romantic atmosphere, excellent food, and friendly staff.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, the cruise is flexible and convenient.
Whether seeking a special night out or simply wanting to enjoy the river’s beauty, this dinner cruise is an excellent choice.
Headphones are recommended for historical narration, and guests should arrive 30 minutes before departure.
Read our full review: Portland: Willamette River 2.5-hour Dinner Cruise Review
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are Pets Allowed on the Cruises?
Pets are generally not allowed on cruises for safety and sanitary reasons. However, some companies may make exceptions for service animals with proper documentation. Passengers should check the pet policies before booking a cruise.
What Is the Dress Code for the Cruises?
The dress code for cruises typically ranges from casual to business casual. Passengers should wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and closed-toe shoes. Some cruises may have specific dress requirements, so it’s best to check with the operator before your trip.
Do the Cruises Have Vegetarian/Vegan Meal Options?
The cruises generally offer vegetarian and vegan meal options to accommodate various dietary needs. Customers should check with the cruise operator prior to booking to ensure their specific dietary requirements can be met.
Are the Cruises Wheelchair Accessible?
Many cruises offer wheelchair accessibility, with ramps, elevators, and designated seating areas. Travelers should check with the cruise company in advance to ensure their specific needs can be accommodated. Accessibility may vary across different cruise options.
Can I Bring My Own Alcoholic Beverages on the Cruises?
Most cruises don’t allow passengers to bring their own alcoholic beverages onboard. However, some may offer the option to purchase drinks at the bar during the cruise. It’s best to check the cruise line’s policies before your trip.
The Sum Up
Portland offers a variety of fantastic cruises and boat tours to suit any taste. Whether you’re looking for a sightseeing, lunch, dinner, or adventure cruise, there’s an option to fit your needs. These tours provide a unique way to experience the city’s waterways and natural beauty. Visitors can choose from a range of durations and experiences to create the perfect outing on the water.