When asking yourself about something to do near me in Portland with a group of friends or family, consider
Schooner Creek Boat Works
Why Schooner Creek Boat Works is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Schooner Creek Boat Works has been a cornerstone of the Portland boating community since its establishment in 1977. Located on the Columbia River’s main channel at Hayden Island, this full-service boatyard combines decades of craftsmanship with modern facilities, making it an ideal place for boating enthusiasts and professionals to meet and collaborate. The yard specializes not only in boat repair and refitting but also in building large commercial and recreational vessels such as 65-foot catamarans for the commercial charter market. With its multiple service bays, indoor paint booth, outdoor service yard, and floating dry dock, Schooner Creek offers a versatile and fully equipped environment capable of accommodating dozens of boats simultaneously. The dedicated and skilled crew provides Coast Guard certified custom manufacturing alongside meticulous repair services, ensuring vessels are seaworthy and tailored to their owners’ needs. The friendly atmosphere and professional expertise make Schooner Creek a reliable hub for boat owners seeking quality service and camaraderie by the water.
Here's what people think of Schooner Creek Boat Works
As of recent, Schooner Creek Boat Works holds a 4.7-star rating based on 61 reviews.
User reviews of Schooner Creek Boat Works consistently praise the team for their professionalism, responsiveness, and high-quality workmanship. Many customers highlight the knowledgeable and approachable staff—especially individuals like Nick, Matt, and Eric—who are always available to answer questions and provide expert advice. Positive feedback often mentions timely service and attention to detail, reflecting the crew’s dedication to both repair and custom boat building. Several reviews emphasize the trustworthiness of the company and their ability to deliver projects on schedule, making them a dependable choice for both commercial and recreational boat owners. On the downside, a few reviews note the busy nature of the yard can sometimes result in extended wait times, though such delays appear to be offset by the quality of work and customer care. Overall, the majority of feedback reflects strong satisfaction with Schooner Creek’s balance of craftsmanship and customer service, cementing its reputation as one of Portland's premier boatyards.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Richard Livermore
I trailered my 27 foot sportfisher to SC from our Ilwaco slip late September. A lot of service was needed as it is 20 years old. Quinn was awesome to work with! He is knowledgeable, patient, and a great communicator. Schooner Creek has a large highly skilled crew with every marine discipline covered. This group is passionate about boats from the top down and it shows! Great work, fair price. I will go nowhere else.
Jake Berdine
After installing the SeaKeeper Ride 450 on my Glasply 21'10", we ran just over 450 miles this weekend in total including through some pretty rough seas offshore. The Ride system was absolutely critical. I had no idea it was even possible to run that fast and that smooth. With the auto system off, we were topped out at 18-20kn. Engaged auto and we ran out to the shelf at 34 knots while drinking coffee. At 50 miles each way, the time savings were wildly important. We had to run from Neah Bay down to Sekiu to get fuel (neah bay fuel docks broken down), and there was a 28' power cat fueling in front of us. After we filled, we caught them less than halfway back to neah bay, where they were absolutely pounding at 15kn. We cruised by at 37kn and all 4 guys on their deck pointed at our old Glasply gliding by.
Jackie J (JJ)
05/11/25 - Review by Walter Russ Brown. In early August 2024, my son accompanied me as we drove from our home in Kennewick, Washington to Yreka, California to inspect a Ranger 20 ft sailboat with the intention of purchasing it if it passed inspection. This boat is hull #347 built in 1979. The owner had kept it in good condition storing it in a covered garage area. Upon inspection, I found no obvious defects but saw that I ought to apply a new coat of primer and bottom paint before sailing. I did that prior to sailing with the help of another son. After our initial sail, we realized we wanted some upgrades so I went to work looking for a suitable boat repair/building company to complete the necessary upgrades. After performing a thorough and diligent internet search of such companies in Washington and Oregon, we selected Schooner Creek Boat Works to complete the contemplated work. This work included installation of a new depth sounder, wind direction and knot meter display, installation of four stanchions (2 on each side) with accompanying horizontal lines, complete rerigging of the mast stays and spreaders, repair of small cracks on the deck at the base of the mast tabernacle, and installation of a new marine grade battery. We delivered the boat in mid-October 2024 to Schooner Creek where we spoke with Ian D'Antonia. During our discussion, Ian quickly understood what we wanted and said he would get us an estimate as quickly as possible. Within a few days, Ian had forwarded the estimate to us and we approved the above noted work. Throughout the project, Ian phoned and texted me at each critical stage. The most significant work involved the placement and height and number of stanchions to be installed. Prior to installation, I sent Ian a video and photo of two other Ranger sailboats with stanchions placed where I wanted them installed on this boat. Ian understood perfectly and the resulting installation is excellent. With regard to the other repairs and installations, all the work and products are of the highest quality and craftsmanship. In the future, if we need additional work on this boat or any other, I will choose Schooner Creek to complete the work. Thank you Ian, and all the Schooner Creek crew, and consider this my recommendation to all boat owners and endorsement of your service, work and products. Sincerely, Russ Brown
Jacob Hendrickson
Excellent experience all around. Schooner Creek custom built my ocean rowing boat from the ground up, which performed remarkably well during my Pacific crossing. Communication was clear and respectful, the quality of work was beyond expectations, and everyone at the shop was pleasant and great to work with. I couldn't have asked for a better experience. I've had zero issues working with this company for over two years, and will always make this my shop of choice!
Rich Kersten
We spent several months researching boat builders for our new boat. After meeting with the owner Kevin, the GM Pascal, and the architect Gino, we were pleased to contract with Schooner Creek Boat Works. From their incredible facilities to their perfect location we knew we were in good hands! We began our build just prior to the COVID 19 shut down, once the world closed down we were stuck with a challenging situation, either stop the build, wait and see what would develop or work out a solution to continue. We were fortunate to have an offer from the owner Kevin that would allow us to continue to move forward and complete the build. Upon completion of our boat we were extremely pleased with the final result! Our vessel “Hoku Nui” turned out to be far more impressive than we expected! We have been operating her since 2021 and she has proven herself as the best ship in every way! We strongly recommend Schooner Creek Boat Works for your next new boat!! Richard & Holly Kersten Owners of Sea Paradise Kona HI
How to reach Schooner Creek Boat Works
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Why Schooner Creek Boat Works may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Schooner Creek Boat Works with your friends?
Gathering your friends at Schooner Creek Boat Works means more than just meeting up — it’s about sharing an experience at a premier waterfront destination where adventure, craftsmanship, and camaraderie come together. Located on the main channel of the Columbia River in Portland’s Hayden Island, the scenic marina setting creates an inviting atmosphere that is perfect for groups looking to enjoy nature, water activities, and unique boat culture. Whether your group shares a passion for boating, fishing, or simply relaxing by the water, Schooner Creek offers a robust blend of amenities and activities to satisfy diverse interests. The facility’s rich history dating back to 1977, combined with its reputation for high-quality boat repair and building, makes it a hub of nautical craftsmanship, inspiring both boating enthusiasts and casual visitors alike. Meeting here offers not only a splendid backdrop of riverside views but also a chance to explore the marine world firsthand, making any gathering feel special and memorable. With its clean, organized, and well-maintained environment, Schooner Creek Boat Works provides a comfortable spot for friends and family to reconnect, celebrate, or simply unwind together on the water’s edge.
What types of activities can groups enjoy at Schooner Creek Boat Works?
Schooner Creek Boat Works offers a wide variety of activities for groups that blend relaxation with hands-on experiences. One of the main draws is the access to boating and watercraft activities. Whether you own a boat or want to rent one nearby, the facility’s extensive dry dock, floating slips, and service bays provide a unique opportunity to observe boat maintenance and craftsmanship, turning an otherwise routine visit into an educational outing. Walking along the docks to see various vessels—from sleek catamarans to historic wooden boats—can be a fascinating experience for groups interested in marine design and engineering. For fishing enthusiasts, being situated on the Columbia River means chances to cast a line in some of the region’s most vibrant waters. The scenic riverfront environment also invites group picnics, casual walks along the water, and bird watching, offering a tranquil escape from city life. The boat yard staff’s dedication to clean and environmentally friendly practices contributes to a pleasant atmosphere that everyone can appreciate during their visit.
Why is Schooner Creek Boat Works perfect for a group meetup?
Schooner Creek Boat Works is perfectly suited for group meetups due to its spacious, well-organized, and versatile facility. With multiple service bays, an indoor paint booth, and ample outdoor service yards, the expansive grounds can comfortably accommodate groups both large and small without feeling crowded. The marina’s design encourages strolling and socializing as attendees explore the site, with plenty of safe viewing areas to watch boats being worked on or launched. For groups interested in boating, Schooner Creek’s reputation for quality repair and custom boat building ensures there’s plenty to talk about and appreciate. Beyond the practical benefits of the location, the community atmosphere cultivated by decades of skilled craftspeople makes the feel of the venue warm and welcoming. Whether gathering for a leisurely afternoon, a celebratory event, or a casual weekend hangout, the blend of industrial charm and riverfront beauty creates a memorable setting that sparks conversation and connection among friends and family.
What facilities and features enhance the group experience at Schooner Creek Boat Works?
Several features make Schooner Creek Boat Works especially inviting for groups seeking an engaging day out. The facility boasts two travel lifts and floating dry docks, drawing in boat owners and curious visitors alike to witness boat hoisting and maintenance activities up close. This lends a hands-on element to the visit, particularly appealing for groups with marine enthusiasts eager to learn about boat care and craftsmanship. The presence of ABYC-certified technicians ensures that repair and building work adheres to top industry standards, which can enhance the educational value of a visit. Furthermore, Schooner Creek is an Oregon Certified Clean Marina, employing environmentally sensitive practices that keep the water and surrounding areas pristine, adding to the comfort and appeal for visitors concerned about nature preservation. The presence of an indoor paint booth and multiple service bays implies that no matter the weather, activities and boat services can continue uninterrupted, an important factor when planning group events outdoors. Additionally, the proximity to Portland and the accessibility of Hayden Island means convenient transportation options for groups coming from diverse locations.
How does Schooner Creek Boat Works support sustainable and safe boating practices that groups can appreciate?
Schooner Creek Boat Works takes pride in operating as an Oregon Certified Clean Marina, an important distinction that reflects its commitment to environmentally responsible practices. Groups meeting here can enjoy their time knowing that waste water from the facility is carefully filtered before entering the Columbia River, protecting water quality and local wildlife. The yard's crew maintains clean repair projects that minimize environmental impact while ensuring the site remains tidy and safe. For boat owners and curious visitors interested in safety, Schooner Creek employs American Boat & Yacht Council (ABYC) certified technicians, a hallmark assuring that all boat systems comply with rigorous global standards for construction, maintenance, and repair. This dedication to both safety and sustainability adds depth of purpose to the gathering, as it highlights a culture of respect for nature and fellow waterway users. For groups that might include children or new boaters, this setting offers not just recreation, but a live demonstration of best practices in modern boating and water stewardship.
What makes the Schooner Creek boating community vibrant and appealing for friends and family meetups?
The community spirit at Schooner Creek Boat Works is anchored by decades of skilled craftsmanship and a shared passion for boating culture. Having grown from a niche wooden sailboat builder into one of the nation’s top boatyards, Schooner Creek brings together a diverse group of people—from local sailors and commercial boat operators to weekend adventurers and maritime professionals. This rich tapestry makes the location a hotspot for lively conversation and knowledge exchange, where groups can meet not only to relax but to connect with experts and fellow enthusiasts. The constant hum of activity, from boat repairs to catamaran building for commercial charters, ensures that visitors always have something interesting to observe or discuss. For families and friends, this sense of being part of a larger community adds a layer of warmth and engagement to their visit. Plus, Hayden Island’s location on the Columbia River means easy access to other local attractions, restaurants, and scenic spots, making it simple for groups to extend their meetup with other outings nearby.
How can groups best plan their meetups at Schooner Creek Boat Works for maximum enjoyment?
Planning a meetup at Schooner Creek Boat Works is easiest when you think about combining both active and leisurely elements to suit your group’s preferences. Arriving during weekday hours allows guests to see boatyard operations in full swing, offering a dynamic experience as boats are serviced or launched. For weekend visits, groups might plan a picnic or bring along fishing gear to enjoy the river’s abundant wildlife and scenery. Scheduling your gathering around local tide charts and weather forecasts can maximize comfort and opportunities for water-based activities. Don’t forget to explore nearby amenities on Hayden Island, including eateries and walking trails, to complement the riverside experience. Bringing along binoculars or cameras can enhance appreciation of the natural surroundings, including bird watching and river traffic. For those interested, contacting Schooner Creek ahead of time might be possible to arrange tours or learn about workshops and events, which can add unique value to your group outing. Finally, encourage everyone to dress in layers and bring sunscreen—weather by the river can change quickly but always offers fresh air and beautiful views.
What unique historical and cultural features at Schooner Creek enrich a group visit?
Schooner Creek Boat Works carries a deep heritage that adds dimension to any group visit. Since its inception in 1977 as a collective of expert craftspeople focused on wooden sailboats, it has evolved into a nationally recognized boat refit and repair center, blending traditional boatbuilding methods with modern technology. This history is visible in the variety of vessels and repair techniques showcased daily, providing an intriguing glimpse into the evolution of American maritime craftsmanship. Groups can appreciate how the site preserves both the artistic and technical sides of boatbuilding, ideal for those interested in local history or maritime culture. The ongoing building of large commercial catamarans for charter markets connects visitors to the broader story of river commerce and the Pacific Northwest’s boating tradition. This fusion of past and present makes Schooner Creek not just a functional space but a living museum of nautical achievement, perfect for groups wanting a meaningful, educational outing alongside relaxation and fun.
What are the amenities and accessibility features at Schooner Creek Boat Works that support comfortable group gatherings?
Beyond its primary role as a boat repair and manufacturing yard, Schooner Creek Boat Works offers numerous amenities that support comfortable and hassle-free group meetups. The facility’s well-maintained grounds and clear walkways provide safety and convenience when moving around in groups. Ample parking near the 3255 N Hayden Island Dr location in Portland facilitates easy arrival and departure, especially for visitors traveling together or by carpool. The onsite infrastructure, including indoor and outdoor workspaces, ensures that weather disruptions don’t dampen activities and gives groups sheltered spots to gather and socialize. While primarily an industrial space, the marina’s cleanliness and environmental certifications demonstrate a commitment to a tidy, welcoming environment. Nearby access to restaurants, shops, and other conveniences on Hayden Island further supplements the experience by offering options for dining or last-minute needs. This combination of thoughtful infrastructure and location convenience makes Schooner Creek a practical but charming destination for groups.
How can Schooner Creek Boat Works enhance the experience for boating enthusiasts and casual visitors alike?
For boating enthusiasts, Schooner Creek Boat Works is a treasure trove of expert craftsmanship, advanced repair services, and ongoing projects like luxury catamarans that highlight the pinnacle of boatbuilding in the region. The presence of ABYC-certified technicians means visitors can trust the quality of work and even gain insights if they interact with staff. This level of expertise enriches conversations and learning opportunities during a group visit, helping enthusiasts stay informed on the latest in boat technology and maintenance. For casual visitors, the scenic river location and the visible bustle of a working boatyard create an engaging environment filled with sights and sounds of maritime life. Observing the intricate work involved in maintaining and refitting boats provides a fascinating backdrop for socializing, while the nearby Columbia River offers recreational elements such as fishing, wildlife watching, and photography. This blend of technical excellence and natural beauty ensures every visitor leaves with both new knowledge and fond memories, making Schooner Creek a well-rounded destination for varied interests.
What seasonal considerations should groups be aware of when planning a visit to Schooner Creek Boat Works?
Because Schooner Creek Boat Works is situated on the Columbia River in Portland, understanding local seasonal weather patterns can improve the group experience. Spring through early fall usually offers the best conditions, with milder temperatures and less rain, perfect for outdoor activities like picnicking, fishing, and dockside exploring. Summer brings longer daylight hours, allowing extended gatherings and more time on the water. However, even in summer, groups should come prepared with sun protection and hydration to enjoy the day comfortably. Fall and winter can be cooler and wetter, but the facility’s indoor amenities and covered service bays help shield visitors from inclement weather, so shorter visits or tours remain pleasant. Planning around local events or fishing seasons can add excitement for attendees eager to join river activities or boat-related events. Overall, selecting a season with favorable weather and coordinating with facility hours and staff availability will help groups maximize their time and enjoyment at Schooner Creek.
What makes Schooner Creek Boat Works stand out compared to other marina or boatyards in the Portland area for group visits?
Schooner Creek Boat Works distinguishes itself from other marinas and boatyards around Portland through its blend of historical craftsmanship, comprehensive service offerings, and pristine environmental standards. Unlike many repair yards that focus solely on maintenance, Schooner Creek integrates boat building, repair, and commercial refit projects of varying scale, providing a dynamic and diverse environment to explore. Its status as an Oregon Certified Clean Marina emphasizes a higher level of environmental stewardship, an increasingly valued quality for visitors. The facility's certified technicians and commitment to industry best practices add a layer of trustworthiness that reassures boating groups and enthusiasts alike. Moreover, its location on Hayden Island provides striking river views and proximity to Portland’s urban offerings, making it an easy and attractive destination for day trips or longer gatherings. This unique combination of technical excellence, scenic beauty, and community spirit makes Schooner Creek Boat Works a top choice for hosting memorable and enriching meetups with friends and family.