Portland River Tours

We had a small group staying an extra day with an event we were hosting due to flights. This tour provided the group with a different view of the city. Because it is an intimate experience, we could ask questions. Captain Arnell was incredibly knowledgeable about the happenings in city as well as the history of the bridges. Our tour was mid-November and he provided blankets for warmth as well. 10/10 would recommend!!

This tour was such a treat! The guide was both knowledgeable and entertaining, making the experience engaging from start to finish. The views were absolutely spectacular. I've lived here for decades and thought I knew the city inside and out, but seeing the bridges from this vantage point truly took my breath away. The boat itself was very comfortable, with thoughtful touches like heated blankets that made the ride extra cozy. Highly recommend to both locals and visitors alike!

Our family had a wonderful time on the Christmas Ship ride along cruise! Despite the weather, we were warm and covered- they even have heated blankets on the seats! The captains were so kind and welcoming and checked our comfort levels throughout the tour. There is also a bathroom on board which is awesome. A great activity if you have family in town or you’re just looking to start a new tradition. Thank you Portland River Tours!

I had a really wonderful time on my tour. We followed the Christmas Ships parade at night along the river and it was absolutely magical!!!! I was warm, felt very safe, and can’t believe the views we had. The location and parking were easy to find. Loved that there’s a bathroom on board too. Great if you are going solo, with another, or in a group.

Wonderful tour, with Captain Charles and Captain Dominic. We learned a lot about the history of Oregon city and all along the river. Beautiful views of all of the floating homes and the people who have made that area great. Once you get past Captain Charles’, since of humor… Ha ha …we had a great time and highly recommend. Punctual, courteous, Comfortable, communicative. Make sure you bring your own water and snacks if you wish.

Excellent private Pontoon boat tour with a most interesting and knowledgeable Guide/ Captain Nate along the beautiful Willamette River. Saw lots of wildlife including species of birds and deer and learned a lot of history, geology, and gossip and facts and great recommendations for other things like restaurants, etc! Highly recommend this outstanding tour!

We had such an amazing time with Captain Charles! He was super informative and shared interesting facts along the way, but also gave us time to just relax and take in the beautiful views. The boat was cozy and intimate, making the whole ride feel really special. Highly recommend this experience!!

A wonderful and memorable river experience with a most delightful & knowledgeable captain. We were talking about it for days. Our family (who live there) were going to take and/or recommend it to others who visit. It was so relaxing and just the right length. Thanks you for a great experience! Judie, Rich, Nan,Dean & Annie

Captain Steve was a wonderful host and we completely enjoyed our boat tour to Willamette Falls. It was fascinating to see the Falls from the river! The weather was perfect, and the details and information from Steve were so interesting. There is no such thing as a bad day on the water, and we loved every moment. A special thanks to a young fisherman (and his proud adult) who landed a whopper of a sturgeon before releasing it. What a day - thanks so much!

This was my second tour,and did not dissapoint. The Captain is very knowledgeable about the city. You become part of his floating classroom as you hop aboard his personal Minnow. I wish it was a 3hr tour, as you start to get engrossed in the stories and the lore of the river. Like sands through the hour glass those two hours slip away so very quick. Friendly,personable, and quite generous with his time frames, occasionally slipping in an extra side quest for the inquisitive student.This Captain is truly a treasure. You will get many chances to take photos. Photo ops are plentiful and varied,and can even be requested. This tour is easily a 12 out of 10. A hidden gem of this magical city we call Portland. You will never again look at the Williamette River the same. Will be doing an evening cruise in the very near future. Thank you so very much for all you do.