2-hour Champagne Brunch Cruise on Willamette River

A 2-hour Champagne Brunch Cruise on the Willamette River offers a delightful way to explore Portland from the water, combining scenic sights, tasty food, and refreshing drinks. Priced at $104.00 per person, this cruise departs from 1010 SW Naito Pkwy and provides an all-inclusive buffet brunch, sparkling wine or apple cider, and live piano music. Most bookings are made roughly 19 days in advance, making it a popular choice among those seeking a relaxing daytime activity.

This tour is well-suited for families, couples, and small groups who enjoy scenic views, good food, and a laid-back atmosphere. The 2-hour duration strikes a balance between sightseeing and relaxation, with multiple stops along Portland’s iconic bridges and landmarks. While the experience offers great value, potential guests should be aware that window seats are not guaranteed and most food is replenished throughout rather than served at set times.

Key Points

• Two-hour scenic cruise along the Willamette River with viewing of Portland’s bridges and neighborhoods.
• Buffet brunch including desserts, sparkling wine, mimosas, apple cider, tea, and coffee.
• Live piano music enhances the relaxing atmosphere during the cruise.
• Multiple bridge crossings, including the historic Hawthorne, Ross Island, and Burnside bridges.
• Optional narration about the city’s landmarks, available through outer deck audio or personal headphones.
• Free cancellation available up to 24 hours before departure, with weather-related cancellations fully refundable.

Departure and Meeting Location in Portland

The tour begins at 1010 SW Naito Pkwy, Portland, OR. This central location is easily accessible via public transportation and offers a convenient start point for exploring Portland’s vibrant waterfront. The cruise concludes at the same spot, making logistics straightforward for participants.

Scenic Bridges and Portland Landmarks

The cruise provides a close-up view of Portland’s most notable bridges, offering insight into their design and history. Travelers pass under Hawthorne Bridge, the oldest vertical lift bridge in the U.S., built in 1910, which sees approximately 30,000 vehicles and 5,000 cyclists daily.

Next, the Marquam Bridge spans 440 feet across the Interstate 5 corridor, followed by a glimpse of OMSI and the USS Blueback, a submarine in the U.S. Navy. The Tilikum Crossing, Portland’s newest bridge since 2015, is a highlight with its 178 LED lights that change color based on water temperature, tide, and river speed.

The boat also passes Ross Island Bridge, designed by the renowned engineer Gustav Lindernthal, who also worked on bridges over the Hudson River. The Sellwood Bridge, Oregon’s busiest two-lane span carrying around 30,000 vehicles daily, replaced a structure built in 1925.

Unique Portland Sights Along the Cruise

The cruise offers views of Waverley Park, a 7-acre dog-friendly area with sandy beaches, making it ideal for animal lovers. Passengers see the Oaks Amusement Park, established in 1905, which is recognized as the oldest continuously operating amusement park in the country.

The boat also cruises past Waverley Country Club, one of the earliest golf courses in the West, dating back to 1896. Many believe the tradition of presenting the green jacket at the Masters originated here, adding a touch of sporting history.

A notable natural feature is the Island, part of an ancient volcano formed roughly 40 million years ago, with exposed Waverly Heights Basalt rocks—possibly among the oldest in Portland.

Modern Portland Landmarks from the Water

The Morrison Bridge, also passed under during the cruise, was built by John L. Morrison, a Scottish immigrant. The Burnside Bridge, with its Italian Renaissance-style towers, is famous for the “White Stag” sign, which is visible from the vessel and a Portland icon.

Passengers can easily recognize the Oregon Convention Center with its distinctive blue-green glass spires and the Rose Quarter, home to the Moda Center and Veterans Memorial Coliseum. The Moda Center seats nearly 20,000 and hosts the Portland Trail Blazers basketball team.

The cruise also passes through Tom McCall Waterfront Park, which boasts 36 acres of open space and hosts various events throughout the year, contributing to Portland’s lively riverfront scene.

What Food and Drinks Are Included

The buffet brunch features a variety of miniature desserts and an assortment of hot and cold dishes. The beverages include champagne, mimosas, sparkling cider, as well as tea and coffee, all included in the ticket price.

Guests enjoy the live piano music while dining, creating a relaxed, refined atmosphere on the boat. Private reserved tables are assigned, although window seats are not guaranteed. Additional beverages like soda, beer, wine, and cocktails are available for purchase on board.

Onboard Experience and Entertainment

The vessel boasts two indoor decks with tables and an outdoor top deck for lounging and panoramic views. Live narration about Portland’s landmarks can be heard via external speakers or personal headphones, adding educational value to the scenic cruise.

The soundtrack is complemented by a live piano player, who takes requests, enhancing the overall ambiance. The crew is frequently praised for being friendly and attentive, ensuring a smooth, stress-free experience.

Practical Tips for Guests

Arriving at least 30 minutes prior to departure is recommended to secure a preferred table and ensure a full experience. The board ramp can be steep and slippery if rainy, so caution is advised when boarding or disembarking.

Since window seats are assigned based on early booking, booking early increases the chances of sitting by the window for better views. The buffet is replenished throughout the cruise, so arriving later still offers access to a full selection.

Guests with dietary restrictions such as gluten-free or vegan options are accommodated, making this experience suitable for a variety of preferences.

Cancellation and Weather Policies

The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. If canceled due to bad weather, a full refund is provided or a rescheduling option is available. This makes the cruise a flexible choice for most travelers, with safety and comfort prioritized.

Why This Cruise Is Worth Considering

The 2-hour Champagne Brunch Cruise provides a combination of scenic Portland views, a satisfying buffet, and a relaxed atmosphere, making it a stand-out daytime activity. The generous drinks, live music, and beautiful river panoramas are consistently praised.

Limitations include non-guaranteed window seats and the potential for food to be less hot if arriving later. However, the friendly crew, impressive landmarks, and delicious buffet make this a worthwhile outing for families and couples looking for a leisurely exploration of Portland’s waterways.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the brunch buffet suitable for dietary restrictions?
Yes, gluten-free and vegan options are available, and the buffet is replenished regularly to accommodate different dietary needs.

How early should I arrive for the cruise?
Arriving at least 30 minutes early is recommended to secure a preferred seat and enjoy full access to the buffet before departure.

Can I sit by the window?
Window seats are pre-assigned based on early booking, so booking early improves your chances but is not guaranteed.

What is included in the ticket price?
The ticket covers the buffet brunch, champagne, mimosas, sparkling cider, tea, and coffee. Additional beverages are available for purchase.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, the cruise is ideal for families, especially since it features scenic views and light entertainment. Children can also steer the boat for a fun activity.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent. In case of poor weather, the cruise is canceled and you will be offered a full refund or reschedule.

A scenic, relaxing, and delicious way to experience Portland from the water, the Champagne Brunch Cruise offers a memorable midday outing with stunning views, good food, and friendly service.