Portland is a city near the banks of the Willamette River, close to its confluence stream with the waters of the Columbia River. Long ago, “Stumptown” was one of the most dangerous ports in the entire world. In our times, the Willamette is no longer treacherous, and an evening on its waters is an ideal way to explore Portland.
Portland Spirit
Portland Spirit River Cruise Dining as well as Columbia River Adventures will run a fleet of 4 ships along the Willamette River every day from Salmon Springs Fountain in Tom McCall Waterfront Park. Portland Spirit is a 3-deck, 149-foot yacht which will include multiple bars, full meal service, a grand piano or marble dance floor. It offer dinner cruises every day and can also be rented for private events of up to 449 guests. Portland Spirit, the Crystal Dolphin, the Outrageous Jetboat or the Willamette Star will offer several sightseeing trips, from a cruise tour of Portland bridges to an excursion to Willamette Falls.
Portland Spirit River Cruises
119 SE Caruthers St.
503 224 3900
portlandspirit.com
Portland Kayak Co.
Get intimate with the Willamette River on a cruise tour from Portland Kayak Co., no paddling prior experience being necessary. The company will guide lead paddlers on 2- or 3-hour excursions around Ross Island, in the south side of downtown Portland. It is a quieter and up-close at the life along the Willamette River. Excursions will launch from Sellwood Riverfront Park and pass near Oaks Bottom Wildlife Refuge along its way. Cruise tours will depart at 10.00 and 14.00 on a daily basis, and afternoon tours are being provided during the evening from May through September.
Portland Kayak Co.
6600 SW Macadam Ave.
503 459 4050
portlandkayak.com
Willamette Jetboats
Let the wind blow your hair with Willamette Jetboats. The sleek ship will run the Willamette River from May through October, providing a panoramic view of the historic bridges of Portland, birds nesting, Portland`s downtown skyline, beautiful homes as well as the wildlife of the Willamette River. Ospreys, herons or eagles will all nest along this river near Oaks Bottom, in the south side of downtown. The open-top jetboats will launch from the east bank of Willamette River, out of the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry.
Willamette Jetboat Excursions
1945 SE Water Ave.
503 231 1532
willamettejet.com
American Safari Cruises
The American Safari Cruises will provide guests a private sailing experience on the large Safari Explorer which will travel along the Columbia River with up to 39 guests and 19 staterooms. Passengers will be able to explore the Wine Library or work out in the fitness center, hot tub or sauna. Also provided are complimentary messages or yoga classes.
The 7-night Rivers of the West cruise will travel along the Willamette River from Portland. Various stops will include Bonneville Dam and a few other beautiful locations as well as a private wine-tasting event. Guests will also be able to enjoy quiet river channels, kayak or jet boat into Hells Canyon. The Wine & Culinary Yacht Cruise will visit the Maryhill Museum, where well known railroad tycoon Sam Hill has built a mansion which houses Rodin artwork and sculpture. Passengers will also enjoy a few gourmet meals along the cruise.
American Safari Cruises
3826 18th Ave W
206 284 0300
americansafaricruises.com