Watch the Christmas Ships Parade Downtown on the Schooner Rose

Owner's Description

Watch the Christmas Ships Parade from Portland’s Tall Ship – the Schooner Rose When the winter nights settle softly over Portland and the city’s bridges sparkle with festive light, there’s one place that outshines them all — the Schooner Rose. Moored along the Willamette waterfront, this stately, steel-hulled tall ship becomes a front-row balcony to the wonder of the Christmas Ships Parade — a beloved Northwest tradition of lights, laughter, and community that has been sailing the city’s rivers for more than six decades. This season, instead of standing in the cold or fighting for a riverside spot, you can experience the show the way it was meant to be seen: from the heated and luxurious comfort of Portland’s only tall ship, wrapped in the glow of a thousand holiday lights and the warmth of good company. A Floating Winter Lounge Beneath the Bridges Step aboard and leave the city behind. The Schooner Rose’s wide decks and classic lines evoke another era — when ships were works of art and craftsmanship, not just machines. Her 86 feet of gleaming steel and tall masts create a striking silhouette against the winter skyline, but it’s inside where the real magic unfolds. Descend into the heated salon, where flickering lanterns and twinkling lights mingle with the scent of cocoa and cinnamon. Plush seating, nautical woodwork, and panoramic windows make the Rose feel like a floating lodge — cozy, elegant, and alive with the hum of the season. It’s warm enough to slip off your coat and settle in, yet close enough to the open deck to feel the crisp winter air and hear the faint music of passing ships. Bring your favorite bottle of wine or champagne — BYOB is encouraged — and we’ll provide complimentary mixers, hot drinks, and seasonal snacks. Think steaming mugs of cider, hot chocolate, and coffee spiced just right, alongside light bites and sweets to keep the evening merry. Front-Row Seats to the Christmas Ships Parade For decades, the Christmas Ships Parade has enchanted Portlanders young and old — a fleet of brightly lit vessels, each one uniquely decorated, gliding up and down the Willamette and Columbia Rivers. Some look like floating Santas, others like reindeer or sleighs in motion; all are reflections of the city’s creative, joyful spirit. From the deck of the Rose, you don’t just watch the parade — you belong to it. The sound of laughter and music drifts across the water as the illuminated boats pass close enough to see the captains wave. The reflection of their lights ripples across the hull, painting the Rose in shifting colors of red, gold, and green. Cameras can’t quite capture it — but your heart will. Each night of the parade has its own route, and our dockside location means you enjoy a prime viewing spot without ever leaving the comfort of the ship. Rain or shine, we’re ready — the salon is warm, dry, and festive, and the decks offer an unforgettable perspective for those who want to step outside and feel the night. For Groups, Gatherings, and Holiday Magic The Schooner Rose is licensed for up to 100 guests dockside, making her the perfect venue for: - Office and team holiday parties - Friends’ and family gatherings - Romantic evenings and proposals - Community or charity celebrations - Club and organization socials You can book individual tickets or reserve the entire ship for your private event. Whether you’re toasting the season with a small circle of friends or hosting an elegant riverside soirée, the Rose offers a space unlike anything else in the city — intimate, atmospheric, and absolutely one-of-a-kind. The Flower of Portland, Afloat Portland is known for its creative energy and love of the water. The Christmas Ships Parade embodies both — a community-powered spectacle that unites mariners, artists, and dreamers in a river of light. The Schooner Rose carries that same spirit year-round. Built for ocean voyages and restored with care, she now serves as a floating gathering place — part adventure, part sanctuary, and always full of heart. Her owners and crew have spent decades sharing the joy of sailing and the beauty of the Pacific Northwest, from summer sails and weddings to storytelling nights and music cruises. During the holidays, she transforms again — a warm harbor in the heart of the city, inviting you to slow down, sip something delicious, and reconnect with what matters most. BYOB + We’ll Bring the Cheer Your ticket includes access to the ship’s heated interior and open decks, a spread of light snacks, and all the hot beverages and mixers you’ll need for your favorite drink. Bring along your bottle of wine, spirits, or bubbly — we’ll handle the rest. Non-alcoholic options and sweet treats are always available for families and designated drivers. If you book a private group event, we can help you personalize the experience — from holiday playlists and decorations to catering suggestions and custom itineraries. The goal is simple: to make your evening on the Rose effortless, joyful, and memorable. What to Expect - Dockside comfort: No seasickness, no motion, just solid warmth and easy access. - Heated indoor salon: Stay cozy no matter the weather, with space for mingling and lounging. - Outdoor decks: Perfect for photos, fresh air, and watching the illuminated parade glide past. - BYOB friendly: Mixers, hot drinks, and glassware provided. - Light snacks included: Festive bites to complement the drinks and the mood. - Family-friendly atmosphere: All ages welcome — kids love the ships too! - Parking and access: Convenient downtown location close to public transit and restaurants. Why Choose the Rose? There are plenty of ways to see the Christmas Ships Parade — but there’s only one Schooner Rose. She’s not just a vessel; she’s a piece of living history, a gathering place, and a work of art afloat. Watching the parade from her deck is like being inside a storybook: the glow of the river, the laughter of your friends, and the timeless beauty of a tall ship dressed for the season. You’ll step off the gangway with your heart lighter, your hands warm, and your spirit lifted — carrying a memory that will brighten every winter to come. Book Your Spot Now The Christmas Ships Parade runs select evenings throughout December, and space aboard the Schooner Rose fills quickly. Whether it’s your first time seeing the parade or your favorite Portland tradition, there’s no better way to experience it than from the deck of a warm, welcoming tall ship — with friends beside you and the lights of the season reflected all around. Come aboard the Schooner Rose — and let the holiday lights sail straight into your heart.