Kayaking for Kids Open
Willamette Jetboat Excursions
4.8(667)4.8 out of 5 stars, 667 reviews Portland, OR
About Willamette Jetboat Excursions
Willamette Jetboat Excursions offers a unique blend of high-thrill jet boat maneuvers (including fast speeds, 360° turns, and 'spin outs' that will get you soaked) and engaging, educational narration about Portland's history, iconic bridges, natural features like waterfalls, and 'creepy buildings'. It provides a dynamic way for families to experience the city from the water, suitable for a wide age range.
What parents should know
Summarized from real visitor reviews.
Best for: Families seeking a unique and thrilling way to explore Portland's sights and history.Multi-generational family outings, including young children (4+) and grandparents.Tourists looking for an exciting and informative river tour.Combining with a visit to the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry (OMSI) for a full day of activities.Those who enjoy adventurous rides and don't mind getting wet.
Why families love it
- Captains are consistently described as extremely funny, engaging, and an 'absolute riot', providing a highly entertaining experience.
- The tours include thrilling 'spin outs' and 'hard breaking' maneuvers that are designed to get passengers soaked, adding an element of excitement.
- Educational narration is provided, covering Portland's history, shoreline sights, bridges, vessels on the water, and even 'creepy buildings' and waterfalls.
- Specific tour options are available, including a 'one-hour bridges jet boat tour' and a '2 hour tour'.
- Conveniently located and 'easy to access after spending the morning at OMSI'.
- Implemented social distancing measures by leaving 'every other row empty' during tours.
Insider tips
- Bring cash, preferably in a zip-lock bag, to tip the captain, as they are consistently praised for their entertainment and service.
- Be prepared to get wet from the thrilling maneuvers; wear appropriate clothing or bring a change.
- Plan for sun exposure while waiting, as there is a lack of shade in the waiting area, especially on hot days.
- Consider the 'one-hour bridges jet boat tour' if you have younger children or prefer a shorter experience.
- If combining with other activities, it's easily accessible after visiting OMSI.
Good to know before you go
- Individuals suffering from 'back or neck problems' due to the ride being 'quite bumpy'.
- Waiting during the 'hot, hot brilliant sun' if you are sensitive to heat and require shade, as the waiting area lacks cover.
- The waiting area lacks 'pop-up tents or shaded areas', leading to a 'suffer-fest waiting in the hot, hot brilliant sun'.
- The ride 'can be quite bumpy', which might be an issue for some passengers.
- Crowds
- The company implemented 'every other row was left empty for social distancing', suggesting capacity management.
- Value
- Specific pricing is not mentioned in the reviews. However, the consistent 5-star ratings and enthusiastic recommendations suggest high value for money, given the combination of entertainment, thrill, and educational content. The need for cash tips for captains is an implicit potential 'hidden cost'.
- Accessibility
- Not recommended for individuals with back or neck problems due to the bumpy nature of the ride.
- Safety
- Social distancing was implemented by leaving 'every other row empty'.
What parents say
"My son and I had the best time ever on this excursion! We did the bridges and boats tour. 10 out of 10 I highly recommend! Definitely a great time. If I'm ever back in Portland I will absolutely do it again!"
8 months ago
"I loved this experience! I’ve been jet boating before but this company does it the best! Our captain was extremely funny. He also did several “spin outs” and hard breaking that got us soaked! I wish I had cash in a zip lock bag to give him for a tip. He was awesome! The background and history about Portland was also really cool, loved seeing the bridges, creepy buildings, waterfalls, and learning the history of Portland! Will absolutely go again!!"
3 years ago
"This tour was truly such a blast! My family and I did the one-hour bridges jet boat tour. Our captain was an absolute riot, so funny and engaging. The kids, 4 and 8, had so much fun. It was a nice combination of thrilling, pleasant, and informational. It was easy to access after spending the morning at OMSI. The whole family, from grandpa to grand children, had a wonderful time and enjoyed seeing the city from the water."
a year ago
Reviews sourced from public Google data.
More kayaking for kids in Portland
Kayaking for Kids Next Adventure Portland Outdoor Store
4.7(2,652)4.7 out of 5 stars, 2652 reviewsNext Adventure in Portland, OR, USA, 426 SE Grand Ave, Portland
Kayaking for Kids Blue Lake Regional Park
4.4(2,218)4.4 out of 5 stars, 2218 reviews21224 NE Blue Lake Rd, Fairview
Kayaking for Kids North Clackamas Aquatic Park
4.5(1,534)4.5 out of 5 stars, 1534 reviewsParking lot, 7300 SE Harmony Rd, Milwaukie
Kayaking for Kids Alder Creek Kayak & Canoe
4.9(440)4.9 out of 5 stars, 440 reviews200 NE Tomahawk Island Dr, Portland