Adventure Brief
Experience an exclusive dinner on the water with Portage Lake Cruises in Akron, Ohio. Enjoy gourmet meals, customizable music, and intimate settings perfect for celebrations.
2–3 hours
easy
Family Friendly
No Experience Required
Experience an exclusive dinner on the water with Portage Lake Cruises in Akron, Ohio. Enjoy gourmet meals, customizable music, and intimate settings perfect for celebrations.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
2–3 hours
Fitness Level
No special fitness level required; minimal physical exertion involved.
Wildlife
History
Portage Lakes played an important role in Ohio’s canal system during the 19th century, linking waterways for commerce.
Conservation
Efforts are in place to maintain water quality and protect native habitats around Portage Lakes to ensure sustainable recreation.
Portage Lake Cruises, LLC
Experience an exclusive dinner on the water with Portage Lake Cruises in Akron, Ohio. Enjoy gourmet meals, customizable music, and intimate settings perfect for celebrations.
Portage Lake Cruises, LLC is an Akron, Ohio-based boating company offering public and private cruises on the Portage Lakes.
The company operates the historic Portage Princess and spacious 24' pontoon boats, providing a range of experiences from two-hour public rides to private dinner cruises.
Public Rides on the Portage Princess feature scheduled two-hour trips with boarding beginning 30 minutes before departure. Passengers are invited to bring snacks and non-alcoholic drinks; bottled water is provided on many sailings. The public cruises highlight landscaped homes, local wildlife, and scenic golf courses, and are presented as accessible for guests with special needs.
Private Cruise options include elegant dinner setups for up to six guests, candlelight tables, and the ability to bring personal music, flowers, or chocolates for special occasions. Pontoon boat charters offer shaded seating and optional umbrellas for comfort while cruising seven connected lakes.
Portage Lake Cruises hosts themed and seasonal events aboard both the Princess and pontoon boats. Offerings include live music nights with local artists (Jim Ballard, Jon Mosey, Chuck Lyons, Buck Naked Band), Tai Chi and Qigong sessions on the water, family-friendly "Fellowship" gatherings, and dedicated fireworks cruises guided by an expert captain. Many events run rain or shine and include complimentary snacks on select trips.
Guests may bring snacks and non-alcoholic drinks on most cruises, and some events provide complimentary bottled water and music.
Location
Akron, Ohio
Operating on the Portage Lakes
Boat Types
24' Pontoons, Portage Princess
Covered pontoon and Princess boat
Typical Duration
2 hours
Standard length for public rides
Tours Offered
11 Tours
Public, private, and special events
Find a public ride, reserve a private dinner cruise, or book a themed event — check schedules and secure seats for a memorable outing on the water.
Book Early to Secure Your Date
Private cruises often fill up quickly, especially on weekends and holidays, so reserving your spot well in advance is essential.
Dress for the Evening Weather
Evening temperatures on the water can be cooler, so bring a light jacket or shawl to stay comfortable throughout the cruise.
Notify About Dietary Preferences
Communicate any food allergies or preferences ahead of time to ensure the custom menu fits your needs perfectly.
Arrive 15 Minutes Early
Arriving early allows time for boarding and settling in before the cruise departs promptly.
Light Jacket or Sweater
Keeps you comfortable during cooler spring evenings on the water.
spring
Bug Spray
Protects against mosquitoes and other insects during warm summer cruises.
summer
Camera or Smartphone
Ideal for capturing beautiful sunset and lakeside moments.
Comfortable Slip-On Shoes
Provides ease and safety while boarding and moving around the boat.