Portland, Oregon, is a city that really shows its charm from the water. The Willamette River winds through downtown, offering stunning views of the skyline, bridges, and lush green surroundings. It’s no surprise that boat tours and cruises are among the top ways to experience Portland’s unique vibe—whether you’re after a relaxed lunch, a lively happy hour, or an adrenaline-pumping jetboat ride. We especially like the 2-hour Lunch Cruise for its combination of great scenery and a delicious Northwest meal, and the Bigfoot Adventure Jetboat for something more adventurous.
Portland’s proximity to natural wonders like Multnomah Falls, the Columbia Gorge, and Mount Hood makes its river cruises particularly scenic. Plus, the city’s lively food and drink scene is well-represented on several tours, especially those with dinner or happy hour options. Whether you seek family fun, romantic evenings, or wildlife spotting, Portland’s boat tours offer plenty of options that suit different tastes and budgets.
1. Portland: 2-hour Lunch Cruise on the Willamette River
This scenic 2-hour cruise lets you see downtown Portland from the water while enjoying a freshly prepared Northwest lunch. It’s a perfect choice for a relaxing midday activity. The boat features outdoor decks with narration about notable city landmarks, making it both educational and picturesque. The lunch includes a delicious plated meal, and live entertainment adds to the atmosphere, making it feel like a special occasion.
What makes this cruise stand out is its balance of meal and sightseeing. You’ll enjoy the views of bridges spanning the Willamette River while listening to stories about Portland’s history and neighborhoods. The reviews highlight its good value and friendly staff, with a 4.6/5 rating from 157 travelers. It’s ideal for visitors who want a calm, scenic experience with good food and informative narration.
Bottom Line: A well-rounded, leisurely cruise perfect for lunch and sightseeing, especially if you appreciate a good meal paired with beautiful river views.
2. Portland: Willamette River 2.5-hour Dinner Cruise
For around $127 per person, this 2.5-hour dinner cruise combines the magic of Portland by night with a three-course meal. As you glide along the Willamette River, enjoy live piano music that sets a romantic tone. The dinner is crafted with local ingredients, and guests often praise the quality of food and the elegant atmosphere onboard.
This cruise is special because it offers a more refined experience. The combination of a delicious meal, live music, and scenic views—including the illuminated city skyline—creates an intimate setting. It’s especially suited for couples celebrating a special occasion or anyone who wants a relaxed, upscale outing. The 4.5/5 reviews reflect its popularity among those seeking a memorable night out.
Bottom Line: An excellent option for a romantic evening with fine dining, live entertainment, and lovely nighttime city views.
3. Portland: Brunch Cruise on Willamette River
The Brunch Cruise offers a delightful way to start your day. For $104, you get a 2-hour cruise with a buffet brunch, including desserts and a variety of drinks like mimosas, sparkling wine, apple cider, and orange juice. The cruise guides you through Portland’s scenic waterways, providing a relaxed atmosphere and stunning views, especially in the morning light.
What makes this tour stand out is its focus on good food and family-friendly appeal. It’s highly rated at 4.9/5 from 37 reviews, with many travelers appreciating the freshly prepared buffet and lively ambiance. The cruise is great for families or anyone who enjoys a leisurely brunch with water views. The onboard hosts keep things lively, and the spacious boat makes it easy for everyone to relax.
Bottom Line: A top choice for a late-morning treat—perfect for families or brunch lovers eager to experience Portland from the river while enjoying a hearty meal.
4. Portland: Happy Hour Sightseeing Cruise
Looking for a casual, fun way to see Portland? The Happy Hour Sightseeing Cruise offers 1.5 hours of relaxed river cruising for just $40. You’ll get panoramic city views from all three levels of the boat while listening to narration about Portland’s landmarks. It’s a budget-friendly way to soak in the sights without committing to a full dinner or longer cruise.
The highlight is the full bar and happy hour menu available for purchase—think local beer, wine, cocktails, and snacks. Its 4.6/5 rating from 74 reviews shows it’s a popular choice for travelers wanting a quick, enjoyable overview of the city. The open decks mean you can mingle and take photos easily.
Bottom Line: A great, affordable option for a short, scenic cruise, especially if you want to combine sightseeing with socializing over drinks.
5. From Portland: Bigfoot Adventure 3.5-hour Jetboat Cruise
For something more energetic, check out the Bigfoot Adventure Jetboat. This 3.5-hour ride takes you upstream along the Willamette and Columbia Rivers, reaching speeds of up to 40mph on an open-air jetboat. The focus here is on adventure—wild wildlife spotting, river scenery, and the thrill of high-speed travel.
The guide shares live and recorded narration, with many reviews mentioning how fun and engaging the ride is. It’s suitable for those craving excitement, with the boat passing by notable spots like river boats and wildlife habitats. The ride’s energetic pace and outdoor adventure make it appealing to families with kids over 10 or adventure-seekers.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers wanting adrenaline and scenery, with a side of wildlife spotting and storytelling along the Columbia Gorge.
6. From Portland: 7 Wonders of the Gorge Jetboat Cruise
Travel at high speed on the 7 Wonders of the Gorge Jetboat, which covers the lower Columbia River Gorge. This 3.5-hour cruise whisks you past bridges, waterfalls, and dramatic landscapes, including Multnomah Falls, Cape Horn, Beacon Rock, and Mount Hood. The boat reaches speeds of up to 45 mph, making it a thrilling way to see these iconic sights.
The live narration enhances the experience by sharing facts and stories about the scenery. The open-air boat provides a close-up view of the rugged landscape, ideal for photo enthusiasts. Reviewers mention the excitement of the ride and the stunning visuals, making it a hit for thrill-seekers.
Bottom Line: A fast-paced, scenic cruise with plenty of photo ops and interesting facts—great for adventure-loving travelers who want to see the Gorge’s highlights.
7. Portland Happy Hour & City Lights Cruises – Tiki Boat Party
For a more lively, party atmosphere, the Tiki Boat Party offers a 1- or 2-hour cruise with tropical drinks, music, and fun games. During the day, you can enjoy a 2-hour Happy Hour with snacks and drinks, while at night, a 1-hour City Lights cruise showcases Portland’s glowing skyline.
This boat is all about celebration—think dancing, socializing, and enjoying tropical vibes on the water. It’s perfect for birthdays, anniversaries, or just a lively night out with friends. The views of bridges and city lights from the floating tiki bar are impressive, and the atmosphere is relaxed and jovial.
Bottom Line: An energetic, social cruise ideal for celebrating special occasions or just letting loose with friends while enjoying Portland’s skyline.
$45 per person
8. Portland River Boat Family Fun Cruise, Island Style
Families will love the Family Fun Cruise, which is a lively, interactive 1-hour trip. It features games, trivia, and dancing, with themed cruises like Pirates & Pumpkins in October. The boat’s island-inspired decor adds to the playful environment, making it suitable for all ages.
This cruise offers a relaxed way for families to explore Portland’s riverfront while enjoying some fun and entertainment. Reviewers note the mix of activities and the festive atmosphere; it’s especially popular in fall with costume contests and seasonal themes.
Bottom Line: A family-friendly, playful cruise that combines sightseeing with games and themed fun, suitable for kids and kids-at-heart.
$45 per person
How to Choose the Best Portland Boat Tour for You
When selecting among these options, consider your budget, time, and interests. For a relaxing midday meal, the Lunch Cruise is a good pick. If you want a romantic evening, the Dinner Cruise offers an elegant experience. For adventure lovers, the Jetboat rides and Gorge expedition provide adrenaline and scenic highlights.
Budget travelers or those seeking a quick overview should check out the Happy Hour Sightseeing Cruise, while families and groups can opt for the Family Fun Cruise. Booking early is recommended, especially for popular cruises during peak season, to secure your spot on these memorable water adventures.
Final Thoughts
Portland’s boat tours cover everything from scenic city views and fine dining to high-speed thrill rides and family fun. Whether you’re after a romantic dinner, a lively party, or an exciting adventure, there’s a cruise that fits your style and interests. Two standout options are the Lunch Cruise for a relaxed daytime outing and the Gorge Jetboat for thrill-seekers eager to explore the Columbia Gorge’s dramatic scenery at high speed.
No matter which tour you choose, booking ahead will ensure you don’t miss out on Portland’s best water-based experiences. So, pick your perfect cruise, get your camera ready, and enjoy seeing this vibrant city from a whole new perspective.