ST. HELENS, Ore. – This October, Portlanders can skip the stress of parking and enjoy a festive new way to reach the Spirit of Halloweentown. The Portland Spirit is once again offering its themed “Ghostly Voyage” cruise to St. Helens, a city famous for its Halloween celebration and connection to the Disney Channel movie Halloweentown.
A Successful Return
After a popular trial run in 2024, the Ghostly Voyage will now operate every Saturday and Sunday throughout October 2025. The cruise promises both convenience and entertainment, allowing passengers to sail directly to the festival instead of fighting for limited parking spots in town.
Dennis Corwin, General Manager of Portland Spirit, said the idea came from the crew.
“One of our captains mentioned the dock in St. Helens is right next to the festival. We quickly realized we had a unique opportunity on our hands with a world-class festival just steps away from the dock.”
The Cruise Experience
The journey itself is part of the fun. The 1½-hour ride down the Columbia River includes a guide who will share tales of Portland’s haunted past, eerie legends of its infamous underground tunnels, and spooky stories tied to St. Helens, such as the haunted Klondike Hotel.
Passengers will arrive at the riverfront with more than three hours to explore the Spirit of Halloweentown attractions before boarding the return trip.
Spirit of Halloweentown
The Spirit of Halloweentown festival has become one of Oregon’s most beloved seasonal traditions, drawing thousands each year. Celebrating its 25th anniversary in 2023, the event continues to grow, with highlights including the Big Halloweentown Parade, costume contests, haunted houses, themed markets, and family-friendly activities.
The festival honors St. Helens’ cinematic legacy, as much of Disney’s Halloweentown was filmed in the riverside city. Each October, visitors return to relive the magic of the movie while enjoying new seasonal events.
Arriving by Water
For Wela Negelspach, Director of Columbia County Tourism, the cruise adds something truly special to the experience.
“There is nothing quite like arriving by water into the real Halloweentown,” she said. “With the new St. Helens Riverfront setting the stage, visitors are invited to step ashore and wander a charming town steeped in the spellbinding spirit of the season. Costumes are encouraged. Magic guaranteed!”
A Hassle-Free Halloween
Parking has long been one of the biggest challenges during the festival, with thousands of cars crowding St. Helens each weekend. Organizers say the Ghostly Voyage offers Portlanders a stress-free alternative while adding to the festive spirit of the event.
With storytelling on the river, easy festival access, and guaranteed seasonal fun, the Portland Spirit’s Ghostly Voyage is quickly becoming a new Halloween tradition for families and fans alike.
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