About Us

Our Mission

Founded in 2013, Portage Lakes Cruises began as a way for both locals and visitors to enjoy the beauty of the lakes without the cost or commitment of owning or renting a boat. When Judy Narducci launched the company, her mission was simple: create an experience that brings people closer to the scenic charm of the Portage Lakes.

In late 2025, Judy retired and passed the helm to a local Portage Lakes family dedicated to preserving her vision and carrying the tradition forward.

Our guiding prinicpals remain steadfast: 

  • We are passionate about the rich history and stunning vistas of the Portage Lakes.
  • Our offerings, ensure high standards of entertainment and amenities, including exceptional food and beverage options, complemented by engaging storytelling upon request.
  • Trustworthiness and reliability are at the core – safety, scheduling, and boat maintenance are prioritized to guarantee a dependable quality experience every time.
  • We embody Ohio hospitality by being gracious hosts, providing thoughtful assistance to individuals of abilities to ensure can enjoy our cruises.

Pick Up Locations

Frequently Asked Questions

Old State Park is located at 4315 State Park Drive, Akron, OH 44319.

  • Find us dockside for Public Cruises that depart from Old State Park. Tours are scheduled on Monday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday at Noon, 3pm and 6pm. Reservations required to guarantee your seats.  Walk-ons are permitted when open seats are available.  Maximum seating is 10 on these tours.
  • You can schedule Private Cruise that departs from Old State Park launch area, or from your own Portage Lakes dock.
  • Staying at a short-term rental?  Let us pick you up there.

We run our cruises rain or shine if the rain is light and it’s warm out. We have cover over half of the boat and carry ponchos and umbrellas.  If it’s cold or if there are storms are in our area we will reschedule your cruise to a different time or date without charge.  If that isn’t possible we will issue a gift card or refund your purchase price.  

Yes, there are enough PFDs (Personal Floatation Devices)  for adults and children on each boat for the full capacity of the boat.  Parents are welcome to bring their own jacket that the child is familiar with, as well.

Guests are welcome to bring food and non-alcoholic beverages aboard.  Bottled water is provided for all cruisers, and small bags of chips are complimentary on every Private cruise.  

We can adjust the number of guests and credit your payment source with some advance notice.  Please note:  If this reduces the total number to fewer than four, the basic rate still applies and is $240.00.  

Yes!  You may add guests to the full capacity of your boat – usually 12 total.  Just call to have us add guests and charge your same card or theirs.

For big groups we often take more than one boat at a time, riding in caravan.  The guests enjoy taking photos of the other boats, and we can group together to allow everyone to mingle on the water.

For groups of 20 or more, there is a boat available that will carry up to 45 in your party.  It’s bookable as: Portage Princess-The Big Boat– – NOTE: This option is not available on weekends or holidays.    Please call for more information or assistance planning & booking.

Yes, a standard width wheelchair can be brought aboard.  This is available at the Pick’s/Smoke on the Water location or the Old State Park locations.  

While there are ten stairs at Pick’s location, there is a ramp and also golf cart assistance from the parking area to the boats.  Please notify us in advance when this is needed.  There are no stairs to navigate at the State Park location. 

While there are ten stairs at Pick’s location, there is a ramp and also golf cart assistance from the parking area to the boats.  Please notify us in advance when this is needed.  There are no stairs to navigate at the State Park location. 

While there are ten stairs at Pick’s location, there is a ramp and also golf cart assistance from the parking area to the boats.  Please notify us in advance when this is needed.  There are no stairs to navigate at the State Park location. 

While there are ten stairs at Pick’s location, there is a ramp and also golf cart assistance from the parking area to the boats.  Please notify us in advance when this is needed.  There are no stairs to navigate at the State Park location. 

While there are ten stairs at Pick’s location, there is a ramp and also golf cart assistance from the parking area to the boats.  Please notify us in advance when this is needed.  There are no stairs to navigate at the State Park location.  PLEASE NOTE: Nauti Vine Winery does not have access to the boat other than by way a set of around 20 stairs (sturdy handrail).

While there are ten stairs at Pick’s location, there is a ramp and also golf cart assistance from the parking area to the boats.  Please notify us in advance when this is needed.  There are no stairs to navigate at the State Park location.  PLEASE NOTE: Nauti Vine Winery does not have access to the boat other than by way a set of around 20 stairs (sturdy handrail).

Our service is available from May 1 to September 30 each year.  Some dates may be arranged earlier or later, weather permitting.  Please call to inquire about booking before or after our usual dates.

While tipping is not required, it is certainly appreciated.  Your Captain/Guide puts a lot of effort into your experience and tipping is a great way to show your appreciation. 

Bringing along familiar toys or diversions will help when your child tires of looking at scenery, which is often very soon.

Meet the Crew

Portage Lakes Cruises is a pontoon charter service, designed for visitors as well as locals who want to enjoy our scenic lakes without being the one navigating and docking.  We handle everything so you can relax. 

 Join us to:

  • Hear about the Native American tribes who roamed these lakes,  while also learning about current events.
  • Take advantage of our experience and resources.  Come out in the morning while the day is cool and calm or plan a perfect sunset cruise for that special moment.
  • Call while dining lakeside for an impromptu ride.
  • Bring your own snacks and order just what you want from our optional menus, full meals or extras like candy, balloons, and cupcakes. 
  • Decorate and celebrate!  Order full decoration packages – Choose from several themes such as  Birthday, Anniversary, Bridal showers, etc..

Passengers with special needs find our wide docks and boats with open floor plans easy to maneuver, and our staff members are experienced in assisting with transfer and boarding issues.

If you need inspiration to help plan an excursion, please call us. Travel in style, let us do the driving and enjoy the trip.

Departure Locations

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