Blues Cruise brings the music, food and fun on the gorgeous Willamette

PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) — As the final preparations are underway for Portland's annual Waterfront Blues Festival, set to start on Thursday at Tom McCall Waterfront Park, the Blues Cruise has already kicked off the festivities on the water Wednesday night.

As passengers floated down the gorgeous Willamette River aboard the Portland Spirit, music, food and fun were the focus.

The two-and-half-hour ride was filled with good vibes, a few jazz bands and amazing people. For some, it was also their first time taking the boat trip.

"This is my first time on the cruise… anytime you can get out on a boat like today is wonderful," said Paul McCoy.

"It's just a great," said Duffy Bishop, a performer on the cruise. "It's one of the great festivals in the world. So much talent, so much community, and I hope it goes on for such a long time."

The cruise will be happening all throughout the weekend so don't fret if you missed today's ride. More information and tickets can be found at the Waterfront Blues Festival's website.