Portland Boat Cruises

M.S. Wolf

The M.S. Wolf, a classic Columbia River Bow Picker, is an artifact of the history that built the Northwest. Built in 1932 by the Blix Brothers on Puget Island, Washington, she spent most of her early life on the Columbia River gillnet fishing for salmon and servicing canneries built on docks and villages emerging along the banks of the Columbia River.

The gillnet fishing boats were introduced to the Columbia River in the 1860’s when it was discovered that salmon could be canned. Originally, these gillnet boats were powered by sail. After the marine gasoline engine was introduced in 1893, the engine cabin was placed towards the stern, leaving the bow open for nets. This type of design became known as a Columbia River Bow Picker. The purpose of the cabin was to keep the engine dry while the two-man fishing crew braved the elements outside! By 1927 there were over 2,600 Columbia River gillnetters registered in Astoria, Oregon.

Wolf Yacht Restorations, Inc. purchased the boat in 1987 and began an extensive restoration and refitting project. The boat was recently put back into charter service as Wolf Cruises, Inc. The M.S. Wolf now proudly transports passengers from around the world on specialized tours and private charters.

Of the original large fleet of thousands, only a few gillnet vessels, such as the M.S. Wolf, are in service today. Most remaining gillnetters of this historical era are now in museums. The M.S. Wolf was documented by the Columbia River Maritime Museum in Astoria, Oregon as the best restored Columbia River Bow Picker from that historic period.

We hope to continue to share this classic artifact of history with others on the river.

Passenger Comments about the Boat

"I love this little boat..best of all, waving to envious onlookers of this ancient vessel."  - Anne

"Cruising on the M.S. Wolf is the most relaxing way to enjoy the sights and sounds the Willamette River offers. Our craft drew many nods and thumbs up of approval. We had a sense of what the early fishermen must have felt without having to tend the nets!".  - Greg

"Riding the M.S. WOLF is a trip that takes one back in time, as the craft is a historic gillneter never seen on the river these days. The M.S. WOLF attracted interest from other boaters who commented on the unique craft, providing some lively banter along the way.  - Elizabeth

"Your boat is so darned cute and comfy. I kept wanting to shout 'Toot Toot" or sing 'I'm Popeye the Sailor Man" as others pointed and smiled at your beautiful, unique boat."  - Mona

"The M.S. Wolf is a beautiful boat...When we went by the Waterfront Park, people were waving like we were celebrities." - Williamson

"I enjoyed traveling on the water at a reasonable speed, which gave time to see the sights...eagles, riverbank houses, and the Cessna 182 Skylane on a floating dock." Ricardo

"I've had the great fortune of taking a charter on the M.S. Wolf whenever I come to the Portland area. The historical gillnetter is so much fun! A mini-adventure." - Jhauna

Public Cruise

Looking for a river excursion that escapes from the ordinary?

Welcome aboard! On a public cruise, there’s never a crowd with a limit of 6 passengers. Join others on board the M.S. Wolf, our historic 1932 vessel. Sit at the front in the open bow  of the boat to enjoy an exceptional water level view of both magnificent Downtown Portland and to experience wilderness areas of the Willamette River. You are welcome to bring a snack or the beverage of your choice. No uncorking fees! You, like many others, may even meet a new friend from Portland or from around the country.

Book now for your 90-Minute Portland/Scenic Wilderness Public Cruise. Your booking time determines a daytime, sunset, or city lights tour. 

Private Charter

Want to have the boat to yourself and your own special guests?

Personalized private charters are available on the M.S. Wolf.  Book for our popular customized cruises to commemorate that important event, entertain associates, to make merry a Happy Hour, treat visitors, or celebrate a romantic occasion. You'll have the bow of the boat to yourself for your personal party while enjoying incredible river level views of Portland waterways. Relax as your USCG licensed captain safely navigates you through the sights. 

Book now for a 90-Minute Private Charter on this delightful boat for that memorable adventure.

Interested in a 3-Hour Private Charter? Contact Captain Bruce directly at wolfcruises@gmail.com to set up a special request date for your cruise.