Portland: 2-hour Lunch Cruise on the Willamette River

Discover Portland from the water on this 2-hour lunch cruise offered by Portland Spirit Cruises. For $87 per person, you get a leisurely journey along the Willamette River, featuring a freshly prepared Northwest lunch, live piano music, and engaging narration about Portland’s landmarks. The tour departs from downtown Portland and is perfect for those seeking a relaxed way to see the city’s sights while enjoying good food and entertainment. With an average rating of 4.6/5 from 157 reviews, this cruise combines scenic views, tasty cuisine, and friendly service, making it a popular choice for locals and visitors alike.

While the 2-hour duration offers a manageable glimpse of Portland’s riverside landscapes, there is an option to enhance your experience with additional purchases like salads, desserts, drinks, and souvenirs. The cruise’s accessible facilities and casual yet elegant atmosphere suit a variety of groups, from families to couples, looking for a laid-back but memorable outing on the water.

Key Points

• Duration of 2 hours provides a relaxed sightseeing experience.
• Includes a freshly prepared Northwest lunch with a choice of entrée.
• Enjoy live piano music and narration about Portland’s landmarks.
• Multiple outdoor decks offer panoramic views of Portland’s bridges and skyline.
• Affordable price of $87 per person with options to purchase additional food and drinks.
• Accessible to wheelchairs and suitable for diverse groups.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Scenic Views of Downtown Portland from the Willamette River

This tour offers an expansive view of Downtown Portland from the Willamette River, with two outdoor decks providing excellent vantage points. The top deck offers an even greater perspective of the city’s bridges, giving a different experience than driving across them. Passengers can appreciate the cityscape, bridges, and waterfront architecture from a peaceful water-level perspective, away from the hustle of land-based tours.

The Portland Spirit Cruises Menu and Dining Experience

Guests enjoy a delicious Northwest meal prepared with local ingredients. The meal includes a choice of entrée and fresh baked bread, with side salads, appetizers, and desserts available for purchase. The food quality receives praise, with several reviews highlighting the salmon dish and beef tenderloin as especially tasty. The casual yet refined atmosphere pairs well with the live piano music that accompanies your meal, adding a touch of sophistication.

Entertainment and Narration on Board

The cruise features live piano music that sets a relaxing tone throughout the journey. Plus, historical narration about Portland’s landmarks is available on the outer decks, or guests can bring headphones to listen via the Listen Everywhere app from their table. The narration enhances the experience by providing context about the sights, making the cruise both enjoyable and informative.

Practical Arrangements and Accessibility

Meeting point is conveniently located in downtown Portland, with instructions to arrive 30 minutes prior to departure. The tour lasts 2 hours, usually scheduled in the morning or afternoon. The vessel is wheelchair accessible, with lower deck seating available upon request to avoid stairs. For those with hearing impairments or a preference for visual guides, printed narration guides and a large print version are available. Guests should remember to bring passport or ID and dress in business casual or dressy casual attire.

More Great Tours Nearby

Booking Flexibility and Cancellation Policy

Reservations are flexible, with the option to reserve now and pay later, offering full cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. This flexibility makes it easier to plan a spontaneous outing or fit the cruise into a busy schedule. The cost of $87 per person makes this cruise a reasonably priced way to enjoy Portland’s scenic river views with a meal included.

The Experience for Families and Couples

Reviews highlight this tour as suitable for families with children, as it offers a casual, friendly environment that appeals to multiple age groups. The friendly and attentive crew, along with the delicious food and live music, creates a warm and enjoyable atmosphere. It’s a perfect activity for celebrations, casual outings, or just a peaceful afternoon on the water.

What Sets This Tour Apart from Other Water Cruises

Unlike many water tours, this cruise balances scenic sightseeing with a sit-down meal and live entertainment. The inclusion of local ingredients and the option to purchase additional food and drinks add value to the experience. The casual dress code and accessible facilities make it welcoming for a broad audience, while the outdoor decks guarantee fantastic views.

Final Thoughts on the Portland Lunch Cruise

This 2-hour Portland lunch cruise offers a relaxed, scenic way to explore the city from the water. It provides a high-quality meal, live piano music, and informative narration, all within a comfortable setting. The affordable price and positive reviews reflect its popularity, especially among those who appreciate a leisurely pace and beautiful vistas.

Ideal for families, couples, or solo travelers seeking a gentle sightseeing experience, this cruise balances entertainment, good food, and scenic views seamlessly. While some may wish for more narration or a wider menu selection, the overall experience remains delightful and value-packed. For anyone looking to enjoy Portland’s riverside scenery with a touch of elegance, this cruise stands out as a charming choice.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the lunch included in the ticket price?
Yes, the lunch with your choice of entrée is included in the $87 ticket price.

How long is the cruise?
The cruise lasts 2 hours, giving enough time for sightseeing and dining without feeling rushed.

Are there outdoor decks to view the city?
Yes, there are two outdoor decks, with the top deck providing an even better view of the bridges and skyline.

Can I bring my own headphones for narration?
Yes, you can bring headphones to listen via the Listen Everywhere app on your cell phone.

Is the cruise accessible for wheelchairs?
Yes, wheelchairs can come aboard the enclosed lower deck, and prior notification is recommended to reserve lower deck seating.

What should I wear?
The recommended dress code is business casual or dressy casual. Avoid thin high heels for comfort.

Can I cancel my reservation?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Are drinks included?
No, drinks are not included but can be purchased on board.

Are souvenirs available?
Souvenir photos can be purchased separately, but they are not included in the ticket.

Is this tour suitable for families?
Absolutely, it is family-friendly, with a casual atmosphere and activities suitable for children.

What is the best way to reserve?
Reservations can be made with the option to reserve now and pay later, offering flexibility for your travel plans.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby