The Portland Spirit, Willamette Star, Crystal Dolphin and Outrageous Jetboat vessels are locally owned and locally operated by American Waterways, Inc., which began operations in 1994. The Portland Spirit company also operates the Columbia Gorge Sternwheeler and Visitors Center & Cafe, Gorge Pavilion and Thunder Island in the Port of Cascade Locks, Oregon. We employ approximately 150 people seasonally.