Top Portland On the Water

Whether you want to relax after a long day of sightseeing or need to unwind at the end of your workweek, a sunset dinner cruise along the Willamette River is sure to do the trick. The journey offers spectacular views of the Portland skyline and city’s main landmarks. Listen to live music while you enjoy a freshly cooked Pacific Northwest meal.

Hop aboard the Portland Spirit for a trip along the Willamette River with this sightseeing tour of Portland. Your captain will ferry you under some of the city's famous bridges and waterfront sights, and you'll have plenty of chances to take photos of the city right from the water. You'll also have the option to buy snacks and drinks from the onboard bistro.

This private tour takes you out on the Willamette River, where your captain guides you to scenic spots including one of the largest waterfalls in the Northwestern US. Ideal for personal or corporate events, the tour emphasizes sustainability and conservation. Enjoy narration while you relax and take in the views on this two-hour private boat tour.

Start your day off right with a 2-hour brunch cruise along the Willamette River. Board the boat in the late morning and soak in the scenery of northern Oregon as your boat glides away from Portland. When you’re ready, help yourself to a buffet brunch accompanied by sparkling wine or apple cider. You can walk around the deck or sit near the cabin windows to view the stunning landscape.

Experience the sights of the Columbia River Gorge from a unique vantage point on the water during this adventurous river cruise. From your seat onboard a Explorer Jetboat, snap photos of the Willamette River and Columbia River, including Cape Horn, Multnomah Falls, Crown Point, Rooster Rock, Beacon Rock, and Mount Hood. Listen as your guide provides insightful live commentary as you enjoy the exhilarating ride along the water.

The Upper Clackamas River awaits with a thrilling half-day rafting excursion that promises unforgettable fun. Nestled just a short drive from Portland, this trip offers a mix of roaring rapids and tranquil stretches, all framed by lush old-growth forests. As you navigate the river's exciting twists and turns, there are plenty of chances to splash around and cool off in the crystal-clear waters. With experienced guides leading the way, safety is paramount, ensuring you can focus on enjoying the ride. Prepare for an adventure packed with adrenaline and stunning scenery.

Embark on a truly unique adventure with our Columbia River kayak expedition. Our experienced guides lead you through breathtaking scenery, offering routes suitable for all skill levels. Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife sightings as you paddle along the Wind River crystal-clear waters. From close encounters with bald eagles to exploring fun waterways kayaking provides a perspective unlike any other. Whether you're seeking solo exploration or a memorable day with loved ones, our expedition promises unforgettable experiences. Book your adventure today and discover the magic of kayaking in the gorge!

Escape to an island paradise without leaving PDX on this tropical happy hour cruise! Sip a delicious drink, take in the city sights, and catch up with old friends or meet new ones aboard Portland's only tiki-style river boat. Depending on the day, crew and crowd, vibes vary from lively and energetic to chill and relaxing. Come connect, take in the fresh air and celebrate a special occasion—or just life itself! At Island Style Charters, every day is a party. **Perfect for:** Happy hour • Celebrations • Work Groups • Travelers • Afternoon Dates • "Just because" **Highlights:** Tropical tiki boat • Downtown river views • Music, drinks & snacks available for purchase **Cruise Duration:** 1 hour **August:** 4:30 PM check-in, 5:00–6:00 PM cruise. **September & October times vary** Please review all booking details and communications carefully before your cruise.

Our Sips and Sights cruises partner with local wineries for special tastings onboard! Enjoy a flight of three 1-ounce wine tastings while a winery representative shares a little about the featured wines. A small snack is also included. Additional drinks and snacks will be available for purchase from our onboard bar throughout the cruise. Alcohol tasting is for guests age 21+ with valid ID. What makes this tour special is its thoughtful mix of guided narration and time to simply relax, take in the scenery, capture memories, enjoy refreshments, and experience the natural beauty surrounding you. Seats are limited—reserve today to sail, sip, and see the sights in unforgettable island style!

Our kayak tours offer a unique immersion into the breathtaking Columbia Gorge National Scenic Area. Perfect for families spanning multiple generations, our crystal-clear waters provide an up-close view of fish darting beneath your kayak, while bald eagles, osprey, and blue herons soar overhead. Experience the quintessential Northwest tradition of blackberry picking right from your kayak during midsummer excursions, adding a delightful local flavor to your adventure. What sets our tours apart is our commitment to personalized experiences. With small group sizes and expert guides, we ensure that each participant receives individual attention and gains valuable insights into the local environment and wildlife. See the Columbia Gorge from a unique perspective and embark on an adventure you'll cherish forever with Gorge Paddling Center.

The Columbia River Gorge is known for its dramatic waterfalls and impressive vistas—but if you don't have car, planning a trip from Portland can be tricky. Instead, enjoy a hassle-free way to check off many top attractions in just half a day, all thanks to this small-group sightseeing tour. Visit the historic Vista House, admire Latourell Falls, stop at Multnomah Falls, and more, all while your guide shares insider stories.

Escape the hustle and bustle of the city for the day on this guided tour to Multnomah Falls and the Columbia River Gorge Waterfalls. Travel along the historic Columbia River Highway National Scenic Byway and stop at the magnificent falls of Multnomah, Latourell, and Bridal Veil.

Head out to the Columbia River Gorge for half a day of visiting cascading waterfalls and scenic overlooks with this tour from Portland. You'll visit Multnomah Falls, the highest waterfall in the state, as well as lesser-known falls throughout the region. You'll also have the chance to take mini-hikes in the area to get better views of waterfalls and the surrounding scenery.

**City Lights & Tiki Nights Cruise – Tiki, Tunes & Waterfront Views** Step aboard for Portland's most unique evening escape: the City Lights & Tiki Nights Cruise. This 21+ one-hour cruise along the Willamette River combines the fun of a floating lounge with views of the city skyline sparkling against the night sky. Sip your favorite drink as you glide past glowing bridges and the illuminated waterfront while music and social vibes set the mood. Every cruise is unique as the vibe tends to align with the energy of the group onboard, often ending in one big dance party. Whether you're planning a date, celebrating a special occasion, simply gathering with friends, or looking for a new way to enjoy Portland after dark, this cruise blends scenic views with lively island-style energy. **August:** 9:30 PM check-in, 10–11 PM cruise. **September & October:** Usually 8:00 PM check-in, 8:30–9:30 PM cruise. Please review all booking details and communications carefully before your cruise.

Paddle through the calm, winding waterways of Scappoose Bay, one of the most serene and wildlife-rich kayaking areas in the region. This guided experience takes you into quiet tidal channels surrounded by wetlands and forest, where it’s common to spot birds, river otters, fish, and other native wildlife. The tour follows a relaxed pace, with time to float, observe nature, and take photos rather than rushing. With stable kayaks and attentive guidance, it’s well suited for both first-time paddlers and those seeking an easy, enjoyable outing on the water. What truly sets this experience apart is its private and unrushed format. The route and rhythm are adapted to the group and conditions, creating a more personal connection with the landscape. To keep things seamless, private transportation from a location chosen by the traveler is included, along with fresh snacks and water—so you can focus entirely on the experience.

Enjoy Portland from the water on this relaxed, island-style sunset cruise along the Willamette River. This 2-hour experience blends scenic views, tropical vibes, and a welcoming atmosphere for a memorable evening on the river. **August:** Check-in 6:30 PM, cruise 7–9 PM PT. **September & October:** Check-in 5:00 PM, cruise 5:30–7:30 PM PT. Cruise past floating homes, historic riverside properties, Waverly Country Club, and under 10 iconic bridges as the sky glows with sunset colors and the city reflects on the water. The route includes a unique stretch behind Ross Island for a quieter perspective rarely seen from shore. Enjoy open-air seating plus a covered palapa rooftop with wind screens for comfort in colder weather. Snacks and drinks, including cocktails, mocktails, beer, wine, and cider, are available for purchase. Whether sightseeing, celebrating, or simply unwinding, this sunset cruise is a fun, social way to experience Portland from a whole new view.

Take a scenic cruise along the Willamette River while you learn about Oregon's history. Your captain will take you on a 44-mile journey, showing you historic attractions such as the Wheatland Ferry Crossing, which first began operations back in 1845. This tour is totally private and up to six passengers can be accommodated.

Step aboard Portland's only tiki boat for a 1.5-hour river cruise blending laid-back island vibes, scenic city views, and playful onboard fun. Relax and take in downtown landmarks and iconic bridges, sip a drink, and enjoy the breeze as we cruise the Willamette. A lively host keeps the atmosphere fun with games like trivia and cornhole, plus chances to win prizes. Whether you're here to unwind, connect with family, meet new friends, or rediscover the city from the water, this cruise is designed to flow with the moment—a perfect mix of relaxation, socializing, and river adventure, all with unforgettable island style. Most cruises check in at 2:00 PM and cruise from 2:30–4:00 PM PT. Some departures check in at 12:00 PM for a 12:30 PM departure. The first 30 minutes of the 2-hour event window is for boarding. Please feel free to email directly with questions or to confirm your scheduled departure time.

Enjoy superb views of the Portland riverfront on a 90-minute sailing cruise along the Willamette. Set out from Portland on a small-group tour up the river, stopping to view Portland's floating homes as well as uninhabited Ross Island. Savor the surrounding scenery―including placid Holgate Channel and the Oaks Bottom Wildlife Refuge―as you go. Bring your own snacks, refreshments and spirits to satisfy both hunger and thirst throughout.

One of Portland's many nicknames is Bridgetown, not much of a surprise given that the city is split by a river crossed by 10 bridges. With this tour, you'll hop aboard a pontoon and head from the southernmost of the city's bridges, the Sellwood Bridge, making your way north. You'll pass through downtown, eventually coming to the last bridge within the inner city: the towering Freemont Bridge, before heading back south.