(503) 902-5161
Our Excursions
Choose One of Our Package Tours
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Cruise in Comfort
Rain or Shine!
Bookings
Each tour is a private tour. Our tours are great for individuals and small groups of 6 or fewer passengers. We tour on the lower section of the beautiful Willamette River in the city of Portland, Oregon.​
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We have same day and last minute tours available!
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We are always on the water! Rain or shine. Our boat is covered, heated, and we have heated blankets.
What to Bring
Sunglasses
Sunscreen
Hat
A warm jacket
Food, wine, and beer!
Enjoy Your Cruise!
Meet Your Head Captain
Ahoy, Mateys!
Captain Charles here, your guide to the treasures of the Willamette River! With a U.S. Coast Guard Master Merchant Mariner license, I’ve spent my life navigating everything from open seas to rivers, always driven by a passion for the water. I’m not just a captain—I'm also a surfer, Dive Master, Rescue Diver, and an FAA-licensed seaplane pilot. If it involves water, air, or a little bit of adventure, I’m in!
Since arriving in Oregon in 1990, the Willamette River has been my backyard, and now, living in one of Portland’s historic floating homes, it’s truly become my front yard too! My love for this river runs deep, and there’s nothing I enjoy more than sharing its stunning sights and stories with my guests. From river lore to hidden views and secret wildlife spots, I’ll make sure this journey is one you won’t forget.
Hop aboard and let’s explore! I can’t wait to show you the Willamette through the eyes of someone who calls it home.
Meet Captain Steve
Meet Captain Steve Cridland—a seasoned river guide, storyteller, and your passport to the wonders of the Willamette! With over 30 years navigating the Willamette and Columbia Rivers, Captain Steve knows every bend, bridge, and bit of history along these waters. As a USCG 100-ton Master Captain and a retired freelance photographer, he brings both a sharp eye and a unique perspective to every tour, capturing the river’s essence through vivid stories and a dash of humor.
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Captain Steve’s tours are more than just a scenic cruise; they’re a journey through time. From tales of old Portland legends to stories of colorful river characters, he blends history with just the right amount of embellishment to keep you riveted. Whether you’re a local or a visitor from afar, he loves getting to know his passengers, sharing laughs, and creating unforgettable memories.
Hop aboard with Captain Steve, and get ready to see the Willamette in a whole new light!
Meet Captain Chris
Captain Christopher Sloggett here—ready to guide you on an unforgettable adventure down the beautiful Willamette River! My journey on the water started in the Hawaiian Islands, where the ocean became my playground and passion. Growing up as a Kai Kane, or “waterman,” I spent countless hours mastering waves, tides, and currents. By my early twenties, I bought my first sailboat, the Catalina 22 I named Sail La Vie, and haven’t looked back since!
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Now, after four years in Portland, I’ve fallen in love with the hidden gems of the Willamette River. The city’s rich history and breathtaking river views blend perfectly with my love for sharing a good story and a great adventure. Whether it’s an old Portland tale, fascinating river facts, or even a few boating tips, I promise you’ll leave with something new—and a lot of laughs!
So, hop aboard, and let’s make some memories! Call me Captain, or just Chris—either way, you’re in for a journey that’s anything but ordinary!
The Fleet
Meet Sweetwater, our custom built, fully covered, rain resistant, 23-foot tritoon powered by a Yamaha 4-stroke, 150 horsepower engine.
Cruise the Willamette in comfort and style. Our boat has three pontoons for an extremely comfortable and stable ride.
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Features easy entry and exit at dock level for maximum accessibility.
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During the winter months, we have heated blankets and an onboard heater.
Book a Custom Tour
Private, customizable local boat tours from $199 for the first hour for 1-4 passengers. Discounts for larger groups and longer river tours.
We have same-day and last-minute tours available! We are always on the water, rain or shine! Our boat is fully covered.
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Please call or text for a quick quote!
503-902-5161
Our Cruising Destinations
Eagles, Sea Lions, Waterfalls, Beautiful Portland Bridges! Together, we will explore all of the incredible sights and sounds in and around the beautiful waterways of Portland!
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We offer customizable, personalized, private, guided river tours. Surprise your partner with a wedding proposal! Get married! Come explore with us as we take in the views and soak in the sun. It's always a great time out on the water!
Felicia Rahm
08/14/2022
AMAZING EXPERIENCE! Professional, knowledgeable and absolutely stunning scenery!
Saabio M
07/10/2022
Portland River Tours is a great option for spending time enjoying the beauty and sights along the Willamette!
We enjoyed a wonderful time, the boat is very comfortable and Captain Charles did a great job navigating plus kept us entertained with local knowledge and stories.
Our Professional Crew
Captain Charles Arnell
Captain Charles Arnell is happy to have you aboard! Together we will explore the beautiful waters surrounding the city of Portland!
First Mate Coco
Coco the dog will help us along our adventure with her incredible nose and sharp wit!