The 5 Best Cruises And Boat Tours in Portland Oregon
When you think of Portland, Oregon, it’s easy to picture its iconic bridges, lush riverbanks, and vibrant downtown. But to truly see the city and its surroundings, a boat or cruise tour adds a whole new perspective. Whether it’s a leisurely lunch on the Willamette River, a romantic dinner cruise, a lively brunch, or an adrenaline-pumping jetboat adventure, Portland offers a variety of ways to explore its waterways.
This guide dives into five top-rated experiences, each with its own flavor. You’ll find scenic cruises with live narration, gourmet dining on the water, family-friendly brunches, and high-speed river adventures chasing Bigfoot or the falls. We’ve looked at what makes each tour special, how they stack up on value, and who they’re best suited for—so you can pick the perfect outing for your trip.
Quick Overview
This list covers three scenic cruises with meals, including a lunch cruise, a dinner cruise, and a champagne brunch, offering a range of dining experiences on the Willamette River. It also features two high-energy jetboat adventures—one searching for Bigfoot in the Columbia Gorge, and another offering a speedy tour past Multnomah Falls and other Columbia River Gorge sights. Whether you want a relaxed meal with city views or an adrenaline rush, Portland’s waterways have it covered.
1. Portland: 2-hour Lunch Cruise on the Willamette River
The Lunch Cruise on the Willamette River offers a fantastic way to see downtown Portland from the water while enjoying a freshly prepared Northwest meal. This 2-hour cruise departs from downtown, giving you a scenic perspective of Portland’s skyline, bridges, and riverfront on the outer decks while you listen to live narration about local landmarks.
What sets this tour apart is the combination of delicious food and live entertainment—an outdoor piano player adds to the relaxing atmosphere. The meal includes a plate of Northwest favorites, and the commentary highlights Portland’s history, bridges, and neighborhoods. It’s an ideal outing for visitors wanting a laid-back yet informative experience, especially since reviews praise its “magical” atmosphere and “great” food.
At $87 per person, this cruise provides good value for a memorable two-hour experience with scenic views and live narration. It’s perfect for families, couples, or small groups wanting a relaxing cruise combined with a tasty meal.
Bottom Line: A relaxed, scenic introduction to Portland with good food and engaging commentary, best suited for those seeking a calm, city-focused river experience.
2. Portland: Willamette River 2.5-hour Dinner Cruise
This Dinner Cruise on the Willamette River stands out for its romantic setting and memorable evening atmosphere. Over 2.5 hours, you’ll cruise through Portland’s illuminated skyline while enjoying a three-course dinner with local ingredients, served onboard. As you dine, live piano music sets a classy tone, making it an excellent choice for couples or special occasion dinners.
Unique to this experience is the chance to see Portland’s landmarks from the water after dark, adding a magical glow to the cityscape. The $127 per person price includes the meal, live entertainment, and the chance to unwind while taking in the sights. Guests rave about the “spectacular views” and the “romantic” vibe that makes this cruise stand out.
While it’s pricier than the lunch cruise, the combination of fine dining, live music, and relaxing river navigation offers good value for a special night out. It’s best suited for those celebrating romance, anniversaries, or looking for a memorable Portland experience.
Bottom Line: A perfect choice for couples and food lovers who want to combine scenic night views with a sophisticated dining experience.
3. Portland: Champagne Brunch Cruise on Willamette River
For a truly upscale weekend treat, the Champagne Brunch Cruise offers elegant moments on the water. This 2-hour cruise features a buffet brunch with a variety of hot dishes and desserts, complemented by mimosas and sparkling cider. Hosted on the Willamette River, it combines scenic views with a festive, indulgent atmosphere.
Highlights include the bottomless mimosas, the freshly prepared buffet, and the chance to see Portland’s skyline from the water. It’s ideal for families, friends, or anyone looking to elevate their brunch game while enjoying the city’s sights. The $104 per person price makes it a bit of a splurge, but many reviews mention how well the food is presented and the “very nice scenery,” making it a worthwhile indulgence.
This cruise is particularly good for celebrating special occasions or for visitors who want a leisurely, stylish start to the day. The only potential downside is the limited 2-hour duration, but the quality of the food and atmosphere more than makes up for it.
Bottom Line: An elegant, family-friendly way to enjoy a festive brunch with scenic river views and bottomless drinks.
4. From Portland: Bigfoot Adventure 3.5-hour Jetboat Cruise
For those craving adrenaline, the Bigfoot Jetboat Adventure takes you from Portland into the Columbia Gorge for a high-speed chase, all while searching for the legendary Bigfoot. This 3.5-hour tour combines exploration of the Columbia River and its tributaries with the thrill of speeds up to 40 mph on a jetboat.
The tour features scenic views of the Gorge, wildlife spotting, and passing by riverboats. The highlight is the fun narration, both recorded and live, that keeps the experience lively. It’s ideal for adventure seekers, families with older kids, or anyone interested in folklore and a bit of a thrill.
At $90 per person, it’s reasonably priced given the length and excitement of the ride. Many reviewers praise the “superb” guide Silas and the engaging nature of the trip. A few mention that the ride can be chilly and noisy, so dressing warmly is wise.
Bottom Line: Perfect for adventure lovers who want a fast-paced, fun-filled tour with a chance to hunt for Bigfoot and enjoy the Columbia Gorge’s natural beauty.
5. From Portland: 7 Wonders of the Gorge Jetboat Cruise
This 7 Wonders of the Gorge Jetboat Cruise offers a high-energy ride through the Columbia River Gorge, reaching speeds of up to 45 mph. This 3.5-hour exploration takes you under iconic bridges and past the majestic Multnomah Falls, Cape Horn, Beacon Rock, and Mount Hood.
What makes this tour stand out is the lively narration about the natural and cultural history of the region. The open-air boat allows you to feel the wind and see the landscape up close, making it a favorite for those who love scenic thrills combined with facts. It’s especially suited for travelers wanting an active, fast-paced tour with impressive waterfalls and mountain views.
Priced at $90 per person, it offers good value considering the length and the variety of sights. Reviewers appreciate the “amazing staff,” and the ride’s excitement, although some found the group size a little crowded for deck access.
Bottom Line: An exhilarating way to explore the Columbia River Gorge’s most famous sights with a dose of speed and history.
How to Choose the Right Water Tour
Picking the best cruise or boat tour depends on your interests, budget, and schedule. If you enjoy relaxing, scenic city views combined with good food, the lunch or dinner cruises are ideal. For a special celebration or a romantic outing, the champagne brunch offers upscale comfort. Adventurers and folklore fans will love the jetboat trips, especially the Bigfoot search and the Gorge expedition.
Consider your fitness level and weather—some tours involve outdoor decks and may be chilly or windy. Booking early is wise during peak seasons, especially for popular dinner and brunch cruises. Check availability and start times to align with your plans, and don’t forget to dress appropriately for the season.
Final Thoughts
Portland’s waterways provide a surprising variety of boat experiences—calm cruises with gourmet meals, lively storytelling rides, and high-speed adventures. For a laid-back city view with good food, the Lunch Cruise hits the spot. If celebrating a special occasion, the Dinner Cruise offers romance and elegance. Adventure seekers will find plenty of excitement with the Bigfoot Jetboat or the Gorge Jetboat, which combine spectacular scenery with a thrill.
No matter which you pick, these tours give you an authentic way to see Portland and its iconic landscape from the water. Booking in advance, considering your interests and comfort level, will ensure you make the most of your time on the river. Now, get your tickets early—these experiences are popular, and Portland’s waterways are waiting to show you their best side.