Portland offers an unexpectedly vibrant water scene, thanks to the Willamette and Columbia rivers weaving through the city. Unlike many cities, Portland’s boat tours don’t just offer a pretty view—they give you an intimate look at the city’s lively waterfront, historic bridges, and even the chance to spot wildlife or search for Bigfoot. Whether you’re craving a relaxing lunch, an elegant dinner, or an adrenaline-pumping jetboat ride, Portland’s water-based tours provide unique perspectives on this Pacific Northwest metropolis. With so many options, it’s worth knowing what each tour offers to choose what suits your style—be it a family brunch, a romantic dinner, or an adventurous river chase.
Below, you’ll find a curated list of the best cruises and boat tours in Portland, each with their own charm, unique features, and reviews. From leisurely brunch cruises to high-speed explorations, this guide helps you decide which water adventure fits your Portland visit.
Quick Overview
This list covers a variety of water tours in Portland, including scenic lunch cruises, dinner cruises, brunch cruises, and high-speed jetboat adventures. Each offers something different: some focus on sightseeing and fine dining, while others deliver adrenaline rushes and wildlife sightings. For a relaxing way to see the city from the water, the Portland: 2-hour Lunch Cruise on the Willamette River is a popular choice. If you prefer an upscale dinner with live music, check out the Willamette River 2.5-hour Dinner Cruise. For brunch lovers, the Champagne Brunch Cruise combines good food with scenic views. For adventure seekers, the Bigfoot Jetboat and the 7 Wonders Gorge Jetboat offer high-speed rides with spectacular scenery and wildlife spotting. Each tour has its own appeal, making Portland a surprisingly dynamic city for boat excursions.
1. Portland: 2-hour Lunch Cruise on the Willamette River
This scenic lunch cruise is perfect for those wanting to combine good food with city views. For just $87 per person, you get about two hours of cruising through Downtown Portland, with narration about the city’s landmarks. The vessel features outdoor decks where you can soak up the sights, listen to live commentary, and enjoy fresh Northwest cuisine—think steelhead fish and freshly baked bread. The music and friendly staff help create a relaxed atmosphere, making it great for families or couples.
What makes this tour stand out is the combination of delicious plated lunch, live entertainment, and informative commentary. Reviewers often mention how magical the experience feels, especially when the city’s skyline is reflected on the water. The only slight critique is that inside speakers could improve the experience for those not on the deck. This cruise is perfect if you want a daytime water experience that balances sightseeing and dining without taking up your entire day.
Bottom line: A charming way to see Portland from the water while enjoying a Northwest-style lunch. Best suited for those wanting a relaxed, scenic meal with a view.
2. Portland: Willamette River 2.5-hour Dinner Cruise
This dinner cruise is an elegant choice for an evening out. For $127, you get 2.5 hours of cruising along the Willamette River while enjoying a three-course meal crafted with local ingredients. The cruise features live piano music, adding a romantic touch, especially as the city lights start to glow. The boat itself offers plenty of space to relax and take in Portland’s skyline from the water, making it a favorite for anniversary dinners or special occasions.
What sets this tour apart is the combination of gourmet dining, river views, and live entertainment—a step beyond simple sightseeing. Passengers frequently mention how the setting feels intimate and sophisticated, especially as the sun sets. The food quality, combined with the scenic views, makes this a good value for those who want a memorable, upscale experience. However, it’s better suited for those who appreciate fine dining and live music in a relaxed setting.
Bottom line: A refined, leisurely cruise perfect for celebrating or enjoying a special night out on the water.
3. Portland: Champagne Brunch Cruise on Willamette River
For a more celebratory start to your day, the Champagne Brunch Cruise offers a festive two-hour journey. At $104 per person, you get a buffet brunch with bottomless mimosas, sparkling wine, apple cider, and orange juice, plus fresh food and dessert options. The cruise takes you past iconic sights like Multnomah Falls and offers a lively, family-friendly atmosphere.
What makes this tour special is its all-inclusive brunch with unlimited drinks, making it ideal for everyone from couples to families. Reviewers love the relaxed vibe and the chance to enjoy good food while absorbing Portland’s scenic river views. The live piano music adds a charming touch, and the buffet-style setup makes it easy to mingle. It offers great value for those wanting a hearty meal combined with sightseeing.
Bottom line: Perfect for brunch lovers who want a cheerful, scenic cruise with plenty of food and drinks.
4. From Portland: Bigfoot Adventure 3.5-hour Jetboat Cruise
For those craving adventure, the Bigfoot Jetboat delivers an exciting 3.5-hour ride up the Columbia Gorge. For $90, you’ll travel along the Willamette and Columbia rivers, reaching speeds of up to 40 mph while searching for the elusive Bigfoot. The tour includes live and recorded narration, so you’ll learn about the area’s wildlife, history, and the Bigfoot legend, making it a fun story to tell later.
What makes this tour memorable is its adrenaline rush combined with wildlife and Bigfoot searching. The guide, Silas, is praised for his engaging approach, especially with kids. It’s a lively, fast-paced trip that appeals most to active travelers looking for a fun, high-energy experience. The boat’s speed, combined with the chance to see wildlife along the river, is a big draw. The only drawback might be the length if you prefer a more laid-back experience.
Bottom line: Ideal for thrill-seekers and families wanting a mix of sightseeing, storytelling, and high-speed fun.
5. From Portland: 7 Wonders of the Gorge Jetboat Cruise
This 7 Wonders of the Gorge Jetboat offers a 3.5-hour high-speed tour along the Columbia River, with speeds reaching up to 45 mph. It’s perfect for travelers wanting a thrilling ride filled with breathtaking views of Multnomah Falls, Cape Horn, Beacon Rock, and Mount Hood. The boat’s open-air design keeps you close to the action, while a live guide shares facts about the landscapes, bridges, and local sights.
What makes this trip stand out is the combination of speed, scenic landscapes, and interesting narration. Rated at 4.3 stars, it’s slightly less highly reviewed than some others, but still a popular choice for those wanting more than just a sightseeing cruise. The ride is exhilarating, with plenty of opportunities to take photos of the stunning scenery along the way. Some mention that the group size could be smaller for more comfort, but overall, it’s a fantastic option for adventure-minded travelers.
Bottom line: For thrill-seekers and landscape lovers alike, this is a fast-paced and scenic way to experience the Columbia Gorge.
How to Choose Your Water Adventure in Portland
Deciding between these tours depends on your interests and schedule. If you want a casual daytime experience, the lunch cruise offers good value. For a romantic evening, the dinner cruise combines food, music, and city views beautifully. Brunch lovers should consider the champagne brunch cruise, especially if celebrating a special occasion. For adventure, the Bigfoot jetboat offers thrill and wildlife spotting, while the 7 Wonders Gorge delivers a high-speed, scenic ride that’s perfect for adrenaline junkies.
Think about your budget—these range from $87 to $127—and your preferred pace. Booking early is recommended, especially for popular cruises, and check availability for specific times to fit your plans.
Final Thoughts
Portland’s water tours cover everything from relaxed sightseeing and fine dining to high-speed adventures. For a family-friendly outing, the Champagne Brunch Cruise and the Lunch Cruise are excellent options. If you’re celebrating a special occasion or want a romantic evening, the Dinner Cruise fits the bill. For those seeking adventure and storytelling, the Bigfoot Jetboat and 7 Wonders Gorge provide thrilling rides filled with unforgettable scenery.
No matter your choice, early booking and checking availability will help ensure you don’t miss out on Portland’s exciting water experiences. Pack your sense of adventure and get ready to see the city from a whole new perspective—on the water, of course.