Exploring Portland: Boat Docks And Beyond

Portland, Oregon, offers a variety of docking options for boats and other watercraft. The city's Parks and Recreation department manages several public docks and boat ramps, providing access to the region's waterways. Additionally, private marinas like Riverplace Marina offer boat moorage and related services. The city is also home to a vibrant boating community, including the Golden Dragons PDX, a dragon boat paddling club that has been active since 1996. For those seeking long-term or short-term storage solutions for their boats, PDX Auto & Boat Storage provides a secure facility conveniently located near the airport. Portland's boating scene is further enhanced by its proximity to the Willamette and Columbia Rivers, making it a popular destination for boaters and sailors alike.

Boat docks and launches in Portland

The City of Portland offers a variety of boat docks and launches for public use, providing opportunities for watercraft exploration and recreation. Portland Parks & Recreation (PP&R) manages several public docks and two boat ramps within the city. Here is an overview of some of the key boat docks and launches in Portland:

Willamette Park Boat Ramp and Dock

This facility is open from 5:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. and offers a boat ramp and dock for launching and mooring watercraft. Parking is available, but there is no overnight parking permitted. Active boat loading and unloading are allowed for a maximum of one hour on the wings.

Cathedral Park Boat Ramp and Dock

Cathedral Park is located at N Edison Street and Pittsburg Avenue and offers a boat ramp and dock. The facility is open from 5:00 a.m. to midnight, with no overnight parking available. Similar to Willamette Park, it allows active boat loading and unloading for a maximum of one hour, and overnight moorage is not permitted.

Sellwood Riverfront Dock & Hand Watercraft Launch

The Sellwood Riverfront Dock provides access for both motorized and hand-powered watercraft. It is open from 5:00 a.m. to midnight, with no overnight parking. There is a two-hour maximum moorage limit, and overnight moorage is not allowed.

Gov Tom McCall Waterfront Park North and South Breakwater Docks

These docks are located along the waterfront and are open from 5:00 a.m. to midnight. There is no on-site parking available, and payment is required to use these docks. Overnight moorage can be arranged with proper payment or a permit. To accommodate large vessels, contact PP&R Customer Service to reserve dock space.

Holman Dock & Hand Watercraft Launch

Located south of the Hawthorne Bridge on the Eastbank Esplanade, this facility is for non-motorized watercraft only. It is open from 5:00 a.m. to midnight, allowing active loading and unloading only. No overnight moorage is permitted.

Kevin Duckworth Dock at Eastbank Esplanade

The Kevin Duckworth Dock is open from 5:00 a.m. to midnight and offers an eight-hour maximum moorage. Similar to other docks, it permits active loading and unloading in designated areas only and does not allow overnight moorage. This dock may also be used for swim access.

Riverplace Marina

Riverplace Marina is a premier downtown marina located on the Willamette River. It offers convenient docking facilities, as well as paddleboard and kayak storage. Short-term moorage options are available, but reservations are recommended. The marina provides a range of amenities, including electronic security gates, 24-hour security patrols, restrooms, and private pump-out stations.

M. James Gleason Memorial Boat Ramp

Just minutes from downtown Portland, the Gleason Boat Ramp offers a convenient public launch point on the Columbia River.

Chinook Landing Marine Park

Chinook Landing, located on the Columbia River, is one of Oregon's largest public boating facilities, featuring six launching lanes.

These are just a few examples of the boat docks and launches available in Portland. Each facility has its own set of rules and regulations, so it is important to familiarize yourself with them before using the docks or ramps.

Boat storage options

Portland, Oregon, offers a variety of boat storage options to cater to different needs. Here is a detailed overview of the choices available:

Public Docks and Boat Ramps

The Portland Parks & Recreation department manages several public docks and two boat ramps within the city. These facilities provide convenient access for launching and mooring watercraft, allowing exploration of the region by water. Some notable locations include:

• Willamette Park Boat Ramp and Dock: Open from 5:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m., this site offers pay-to-park options but does not allow overnight parking or moorage.
• Cathedral Park Boat Ramp and Dock: Operating from 5:00 a.m. to midnight, this location also permits active boat loading and unloading with a one-hour maximum on wings. No overnight parking or moorage is allowed.
• Sellwood Riverfront Dock & Hand Watercraft Launch: With hours from 5:00 a.m. to midnight, this dock offers a two-hour maximum moorage but does not permit overnight parking or moorage.
• Gov Tom McCall Waterfront Park North and South Breakwater Docks: Accessible from 5:00 a.m. to midnight, these docks require payment for usage and offer overnight moorage with proper payment or a permit.

Marinas

Portland is home to several well-regarded marinas that provide boat storage and moorage options. These include:

• Riverplace Marina: Located at 0315 SW Montgomery St, this marina offers convenient access to the Willamette River and downtown Portland. It features 108 open slips, electronic security gates, 24-hour security patrols, and private pump-out stations.
• Waverly Marina: Known for its friendly and helpful community, Waverly Marina is well-lit and safe, making it a popular choice for boaters.
• Columbia River Marina: Offering affordable rates, this marina charges $150 per month for a 36-foot slip.
• Tidewater Cove Marina: Located at 5811 SE Columbia Way, this marina receives praise for its outstanding dry storage options.
• Sundance Yacht Sales and Marinas: Situated at 570 NE Tomahawk Island Dr, Sundance Marina provides concrete docks and dry storage options.

Boat and Trailer Storage Facilities

For those seeking long-term or short-term boat storage, PDX Auto & RV & Boat & Trailer Storage offers a secure facility conveniently located within 10 minutes of the Portland International Airport. They provide competitive rates, valet service, and a friendly atmosphere. The facility features 24-hour video surveillance, on-site personnel, and flexible daily, weekly, or monthly rates.

Liveaboard Options

For individuals interested in living aboard their boats, there are several marinas in the Portland area that accommodate liveaboards. These include:

• Tomahawk Bay Marina
• Salpare Bay Marina
• Hayden Bay Marina
• Waterside Marina
• Tomahawk Island Marina
• McCuddy's Marina
• Steamboat Landing Marina
• Rocky Point Marina

Living aboard a boat in Portland

Living on a boat in Portland, Oregon, can be an attractive option for those seeking a unique lifestyle with scenic views and a close-knit community. However, it's important to be aware of the rules and regulations that come with liveaboard living.

Marina Rules

Firstly, not all marinas in Portland allow liveaboards. Those that do often have specific requirements, such as a minimum boat length, and additional fees for liveaboard residents. Some popular marinas with liveaboards include Rocky Point Marina, Salpare Bay Marina, Hayden Bay Marina, and McCuddy's Marina.

Waste Management

Proper disposal of sewage is critical when living on a boat. It is illegal to discharge untreated sewage into the waters of Portland. All marinas will have pump-out facilities, and many will require their regular use for liveaboards.

Safety Regulations

Boats used as residences must still comply with U.S. Coast Guard safety regulations. This includes having essential safety equipment such as life jackets and fire extinguishers.

Taxes and Fees

While you don't have to pay property taxes when living on a boat, federal and income taxes still apply. Marina fees in Portland are approximately $1500 to $2000 per year, which is significantly cheaper than renting an apartment.

Local Laws and Ordinances

The City of Portland and the state of Oregon have specific laws and ordinances related to liveaboard living, anchoring, and mooring. It's essential to be aware of these regulations and ensure compliance to avoid steep fines.

Benefits of Liveaboard Living

Liveaboard living in Portland offers several advantages, including:

• Scenic views and tranquil waterfront living
• Simplified living with fewer possessions
• A tight-knit community with similar values and lifestyles
• Cost savings compared to traditional housing or apartment rentals
• Proximity to water-based activities like fishing, kayaking, and paddleboarding
• A reduced carbon footprint due to limited space and resources

Dragon boat paddling clubs

Portland, Oregon, has several docks and marinas where boats can be moored. These include the Riverplace Marina, which offers 108 open slips, paddle board and kayak storage, and 24-hour security patrols. The city also has a number of public docks and boat ramps managed by Portland Parks & Recreation, which provide launching and mooring for watercraft and vessels.

If you're interested in dragon boat paddling clubs in Portland, there are several options to choose from:

The Golden Dragons PDX Dragon Boat Paddling Club

The Golden Dragons PDX Dragon Boat Paddling Club is a group of men and women aged 50 and above who paddle dragon boats for fun, fitness, and friendship. The club was founded in 1996 and has over 160 members. They practice year-round on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday mornings at 9 AM at the North Dock of Riverplace Marina. In addition to paddling, the club also participates in social events such as hiking, skiing, kayaking, and birthday celebrations. New paddlers are welcome to join for three free sessions.

Amazon Dragons Paddling Club

The Amazon Dragons Paddling Club is an organisation that provides lesbians and queer women with camaraderie, fitness, and physical strength through competitive dragon boat racing. They promote positive lesbian and queer visibility through competition, personal integrity, community service, and good sportsmanship. Their season begins with conditioning in February and on-water practices in March, continuing into the fall.

The Castaways

The Castaways is a recreational team that prioritises fun and exercise over competition. They offer "open" practices to all paddlers for $10 per month and paddle year-round on Tuesdays and Saturdays.

Fire Breathing Blowfish

The Fire Breathing Blowfish are a group of competitive paddlers who are united by their love for competition and the sound of thrashing the water in unison. They have been competing for the past 9 years and are known for their expressive and joyful spirit. They practice from March to September on Mondays and Wednesdays in the evenings.

Mighty Women Paddling Club

The Mighty Women Paddling Club is a team that supports and uplifts its members while also giving back to the community. They paddle year-round on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays.

Oregon Women Lawyers (OWLS) Dragonflies Dragon Boat Team

The OWLS Dragonflies Dragon Boat Team was formed in 1999 by female attorneys and law school alumni. They paddle year-round on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays in the evenings.

These are just a few examples of the dragon boat paddling clubs in Portland, Oregon. Each club has its own unique culture, schedule, and focus, so be sure to explore the options to find the one that best fits your interests and goals.

Boat ownership

Types of Boat Ownership

There are several options for boat ownership, each with its benefits and drawbacks:

• Purchasing a new boat: New boats are in pristine condition and have modern features and customization options. However, they are more expensive and have higher insurance and maintenance costs.
• Purchasing a used boat: Used boats are more affordable, and well-maintained options can be good deals. They may require more repairs and have outdated features, but their depreciation is more predictable.
• Temporary boat leasing or renting: This option is ideal for those who want to enjoy boating without the financial burden of ownership. It offers flexibility and a wide range of choices, but there are ongoing rental costs, and it does not provide any long-term asset value.

Costs of Boat Ownership

Understanding the costs of boat ownership is crucial to avoid unexpected financial burdens. Here are some of the expenses to consider:

• Initial purchase price: The cost of a boat depends on factors such as size, age, brand, and government taxes. Larger, newer, and more renowned brand boats tend to be more expensive.
• Boat registration fee: In most places, boat registration is mandatory and requires a fee to obtain official documentation and legal operation.
• Boat insurance: This protects your boat and provides liability coverage in case of damage, theft, or accidents. Insurance costs vary based on boat type, size, use, location, and coverage limits.
• Docking and storage: There are various options, including marinas (offering wet and dry storage), dry storage facilities, and private docks, each with different cost structures depending on location, amenities, and boat size.
• Fuel and utilities: Fuel consumption varies depending on the type and size of the boat, and utility costs for electricity, water, and sewage systems are additional expenses.
• Maintenance: Annual maintenance costs can be significant, including engine maintenance, winterization, and repairs.

If you're considering boat ownership in Portland, Oregon, there are several public docks and boat ramps managed by Portland Parks & Recreation that provide launching and mooring options. The city also offers various private marinas and storage facilities for boat owners, such as the Riverplace Marina, which provides secure overnight docking options and amenities.

Boat Licensing and Safety

In addition to the financial aspects of boat ownership, it's important to understand the legal and safety requirements:

• Boating license: Boating license and education requirements vary by state, but most courses and tests can be completed online.
• On-water training: Basic boat operation and safety training are crucial before taking your boat out for the first time.
• Safe and responsible boating: Consider taking a boating safety course offered by organizations like the United States Coast Guard Auxiliary or local authorities to ensure a fun and safe experience for everyone.

Frequently asked questions