columbia river cruise prices

Columbia River Cruises: A Guide for Columbia and Snake River Cruises

Columbia River cruises that include the Snake River in their itineraries are some of the most in-demand river cruises in the United States -- and it's really no wonder why.

There's an abundance of history, including the Lewis and Clark expedition, along with unique local wineries and remarkable nature. While on a Columbia River and Snake River cruise, you'll witness nature's grandeur, like famous landmarks Multnomah Falls, the Columbia River Gorge and Hells Canyon.

Read our guide to discover what is so appealing about taking a Columbia River cruise and why you'll want to place it high on your cruise bucket list.

Where Is the Columbia River?

The Columbia River is a river system in the Pacific Northwest. Beginning in British Columbia's Columbia Lake, the 1,243-mile long river flows into seven U.S. states and drains into the Pacific Ocean outside of Portland, Oregon .

Where Is the Snake River?

The Snake River is a part of the Columbia River Basin as well and is 1,078 miles long. It begins in Wyoming, arcs into southern Idaho, then bends again and makes its way north. The Snake River ends in southeastern Washington where it forms a confluence with the Columbia River.

Best Time to Cruise the Columbia River and Snake River

River cruise lines on the Columbia and Snake Rivers typically operate from April to November, with no month being a particularly bad time to sail. Lindblad is one exception, which only operates for a month or so in September and October.

Spring months can be rainy, especially on the western part of the Columbia River, but it's that precipitation that lights the hillsides a verdant green. July and August trend hot and, in the early fall, the vineyards are remarkable. Wine lovers should look to travel in early October when the harvest and crush occur.

River Cruise Lines: Your Options When You Cruise the Columbia River and Snake River

Cruise lines on the Columbia and Snake rivers include American Cruise Lines , American Queen Voyages (formerly American Queen Steamboat Company), Lindblad Expeditions-National Geographic and UnCruise Adventures .

Each line offers ships with vastly different personalities, so it's difficult to outline the best river cruise on the Columbia River. As an example, Lindblad Expeditions' National Geographic Sea Lion and sister ship National Geographic Sea Bird are workmanlike expedition ships with just 62 passengers.

American Queen Voyages operates the plusher American Empress , a 224-passenger paddle wheeler. UnCruise's ship is the Wilderness Legacy , a replica turn-of-the-century steamer the S.S. Legacy that accommodates 88 passengers.

Lastly, American Cruise Lines runs paddle wheelers American West , with 120 passengers, and American Pride with 150.

Columbia and Snake River Cruise Itineraries

River cruise ships on the Columbia and Snake rivers typically cruise between Clarkston, Washington, and Astoria, Oregon , on the Pacific coast. Embarkation or disembarkation is in Portland, depending on which way the ship is headed.

It's a 500-mile journey that stretches from the arid, golden hillsides of eastern Washington to the moisture-rich, western slopes of Oregon. Along the way, the ships traverse eight locks.

Be sure to check out our Columbia River cruise map for a visual representation of where you would go when cruising the Columbia River, especially with an itinerary that includes the Snake River.

Editor's note: Passengers who embark or disembark in Clarkston fly in or out of airports in Lewiston, Idaho, a 20-minute drive from the dock, or Spokane, Washington, two and a half hours away.

Due to the typical itinerary on these cruises, there are no 3-day Columbia River cruises or shorter ones available. The shortest Columbia River cruise is five days in length and the longest is 11 days.

However, most of Columbia River cruises are seven nights with the option of a pre- or post-stay in Portland with a primary focus on the Lewis and Clark expedition. The occasional wine-themed cruise is also becoming a staple.

All in all, the various ships call on many of the same ports, among them being the Oregon communities of Hood River, Pendleton and The Dalles.

American Queen Voyages offers the most comprehensive itinerary choice. It has three different routes: Clarkston, Washington, to Portland, Oregon or Vancouver, Washington, and vice versa, which travels on both the Snake and Columbia rivers; and the Columbia River-only itinerary that's a Portland to Vancouver route.

Columbia River Cruise: Port and Experience Highlights

Cruises on the Columbia River afford visitors with an abundance of unforgettable sights. Here are just some of the major cruise port highlights to look forward to on your Columbia and Snake River cruise:

Hells Canyon: A remnant of the last ice age, Hells Canyon on the Snake River is primarily accessible by small water craft like jet boats. But this is how cruise passengers are introduced to this scenic spot where the borders of Oregon, Washington and Idaho meet.

Along the way, guides point out Native American petroglyphs, abandoned mines and wildlife such as mule deer and Rocky Mountain bighorn sheep.

The Hells Canyon region, where the Lewis and Clark expedition once traded for food, was home to the Nez Perce Native Americans , who lived there for thousands of years.

Columbia River Gorge: The Columbia River Gorge has been named America's largest National Scenic Area. This river canyon is 80 miles long and, while cruising through it, affords visitors towering cliffs, stunning views and an abundance of activities. When on a Columbia River Gorge cruise, visitors often have the option to hike, kayak, paddleboard and beyond here.

Columbia Gorge Discovery Center: Ice Age geology detailing the Missoula floods, native baskets, the Oregon Trail, the explorations of Meriwether Lewis and William Clark -- it's all there at the Columbia Gorge Discovery Center . Of particular interest is the cargo the expedition carried on the long journey to find a water route to the Pacific Ocean.

The discovery center is located on 54 acres overlooking the Columbia River. There are also nature trails that showcase plants Lewis and Clark collected and cataloged for the first time in history. A few among them are golden currant, mock orange, green rabbitbrush, ironwood and the Oregon white oak.

Multnomah Falls: This waterfall in Oregon plunges 620 feet and is the most visited attraction in Oregon. There is a 2.2-mile round trip hiking trail just past Multnomah Falls and goes up a series of switchbacks through old growth Douglas fir to a rim. From there, it's a short walk to the viewing platform cantilevered over the falls.

Fort Clatsop: The Lewis & Clark National Historical Park has a 2006 replica of Fort Clatsop where the Lewis and Clark expedition wintered in 1805. It was built from a floor plan that William Clark drew on the elkskin cover of one of his journals. The fort was reconstructed just 100 feet from the site of the original, which rotted away more than a century ago.

Another intriguing exhibit features quotes from the voluminous notes that Clark in particular made during the journey. "O! how disagreeable is our Situation dureing this dreadfull weather," he wrote from Fort Clatsop on November 28, 1805.

A less glum Clark on March 23, 1806 noted: "[We] have lived as well as we had any right to expect…." By 1806, the expedition was thought to have perished so the men's return to St. Louis on September 23 of that same year caused a national sensation.

There are also hiking trails and an orientation film at Fort Clatsop. As an added bonus, rangers wear costumes and lead programs while in-season.

Cape Disappointment: The state park at Cape Disappointment fronts the Pacific Ocean in Washington. Its interpretive center speaks to the hardship, ingenuity and leadership of an expedition that spanned 863 days.

An overview starts at the very beginning with President Thomas Jefferson telling Lewis on June 20, 1803: "The object of your mission…the Pacific Ocean."

Waikiki Beach at Cape Disappointment has one of six outdoor installations in the Columbia River basin by artist-architect Maya Lin, creator of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington, D.C.

The Confluence Project , as it's called, marks the 200th anniversary of Lewis and Clark's journey west. Lin's artwork at Waikiki includes a boardwalk inscribed with text from the explorers' journals.

It's positioned at the spot where the men found what they were looking for: the intersection of the Columbia River and the Pacific Ocean.

Columbia River Cruise: River Cruise Tips

Pack layers. During the summer and early fall, highs are typically in the 70s and 80s. However, it's not unusual to start out with three or four layers of clothing, peel down to one, and layer up again all in a single day.

Morning temperatures can dip into the 40s later in the season, which can feel especially chilly on a day with high winds, so be sure to pack enough layers for your river cruise .

Protect yourself from mosquitoes. Be sure to bring bug spray whenever you go on your Columbia River cruise, as mosquitos are quite rampant on the river. Having long pants and long-sleeve shirts is a bonus for not only the weather but for keeping the mosquitos at bay, especially if/when you go hiking.

Walmart is your friend. If you are departing from Clarkston and have forgotten anything, walk to the nearby Walmart, which is just a few blocks from the dock. You can then stock up on electronic needs (batteries, chargers, power cords), sunscreen, snacks or anything else.

Note that many of the early ports on the westbound itinerary don't offer much in the way of goods and services.

Protect your valuables. Some of the cruise excursions include kayaking or transportation on inflatable rafts. It's not a bad idea to invest in a waterproof bag for cell phones and cameras.

Read up on Lewis and Clark before your trip. Before heading out on this Pacific Northwest river cruise, you should familiarize yourself a bit with Lewis and Clark to really get the most out of your trip.

Read Stephen Ambrose's "Undaunted Courage," the definitive book on Lewis and Clark. Stephanie Ambrose Tubbs, daughter of the late National Geographic Explorer-in-Residence, also produced a great book called "The Lewis and Clark Companion." Tubbs occasionally joins Lindblad's Columbia and Snake Rivers' sailings as the resident Lewis and Clark expert.

"The Essential Lewis and Clark," edited by Landon Y. Jones, is also noteworthy for its skillfully presented highlights of the journals of Lewis and Clark, which remain today the most important documents in the history of American exploration.

© 1995— 2024 , The Independent Traveler, Inc.

• Special Offers
• Travel Advisors My Account

National Parks & Legendary Rivers

Portland, or to jackson, wy, jackson, wy to portland, or.

Virtual Ship Tour

Cruise overview.

• Dates & Fares

Experience National Parks & Legendary Rivers, our first-ever land and river package, which includes an 8-day cruise along the Columbia & Snake Rivers and a 7-day land exploration of three incredible national parks. Your journey will take you through dramatic landscapes, breathtaking scenery, and fascinating landmarks. Along the way, immerse yourself in the history, geology, and culture of these iconic locations. Enjoy interactive experiences such as kayaking along the Columbia River Gorge. Visit a renowned art museum in The Dalles, taste the finest varietals at local wineries, and take an exhilarating jet boat ride through Hells Canyon. 

An Adventure Guides will be with you on your journey in America’s most precious natural treasures. Enjoy a personalized exploration of Glacier National Park, featuring glacier-carved peaks and valleys, dense ancient forests, and pristine turquoise lakes and streams. Experience Yellowstone National Park, the World's First National Park, known for the world’s most famous geyser, Old Faithful. Conclude your adventure in Jackson, WY, visiting Grand Teton National Park, a landscape of extraordinary wildlife, lakes, and alpine terrain.

The National Parks portion of the Itinerary includes:

- An American Cruise Lines' Adventure Guide leading you through the entire journey

- Accommodations in close proximity to National Parks

- Transportation to the parks

- Entrance fees and curated experiences within parks

- All meals, breakfast, lunch, & dinner

- Transportation to airport at the conclusion of the package

*15-Day itineraries available from Jackson, WY to Portland, OR

National Parks & Legendary Rivers Itinerary

Day By Day Itinerary

See reverse itinerary.

• Day 1 Portland, OR
• Day 2 Cruising the Columbia River
• Day 3 Astoria, OR
• Day 4 Kalama, WA
• Day 5 Cruising the Columbia River Gorge
• Day 6 Stevenson, WA
• Day 7 Richland, WA
• Day 8 Cruising the Snake River/Clarkston, WA
• Day 9 National Parks Adventure Begins
• Day 10 Glacier National Park
• Day 11 Travel Toward Yellowstone National Park
• Day 12 Explore Yellowstone National Park
• Day 13 Experience Yellowstone National Park
• Day 14 Explore Yellowstone and Travel to Grand Teton National Park
• Day 15 Grand Teton National Park
• Day 16 Jackson, WY

Day 1 - Portland, OR

Arrive in Portland and settle into your hotel, located near the ship’s dock for a seamless boarding process. Situated between the waters of the Columbia and Willamette Rivers, the area's history is forever entwined with the fortunes of these great rivers. 

Excursions & Entertainment

Each Columbia and Snake Rivers itinerary comes with a Hotel Stay, providing you with a seamless way to board the ship and explore the local area. 

On the morning of the cruise, meet in the hotel lobby after breakfast and we will transport you to the ship to begin your cruise. All luggage will be brought directly from the hotel and placed in your stateroom aboard the ship.

Enjoy our Hells Canyon Flightseeing Adventure over, through, and around the Nez Perce's "land of the winding rivers." On this unforgettable narrated experience, soar over scenic rolling hills, crystal clear rivers, and abounding timbered wilderness as you learn about the region’s spectacular ecology, geology, and history.

This is a Signature shore excursion and should be reserved in advance. Please call (800) 894-8570 for information.

Day 2 - Cruising the Columbia River

Board the ship and enjoy a day with Mount Hood and Mount St. Helens as your backdrop as we cruise to the mouth of the West’s most famous river.

In the golden age of riverboats, sternwheelers crossed the waterfront while steam whistles and calliopes rang out across the water. With its sparkling rivers, stately evergreens, and mild climate, you will understand why this area was noted as exceptional by explorer Meriwether Lewis.

Enjoy the scenery in the company of fellow guests in one of the spacious lounges or on the sun deck.

As you embark upon your journey, enjoy a Welcome Aboard Reception with cocktails, hors d’oeuvres and entertainment. Meet the crew, your onboard experts, and fellow guests. Learn more about the wonderful adventure ahead of you.

Day 3 - Astoria, OR

Astoria is the oldest American settlement west of the Rockies. Colorful Victorian homes adorn the hillside that climbs steeply up from the river, earning it the nickname “The Little San Francisco.”  Explore this remarkable town on your own or choose from a collection of well-curated excursions. 

Step into history on a guided exploration to the National Park Service replica of Fort Clatsop, the 1805-06 winter camp of the Lewis and Clark Expedition. Board a local red trolley to ride along the picturesque waterfront or savor the perspective from a bluff high above the city at the picturesque Astoria Column. Peruse the town’s quaint shops, galleries, wineries, and brew pubs. Or simply stroll off the ship to the nearby acclaimed Columbia River Maritime Museum.  

Experience the Columbia River Maritime Museum on a self-guided excursion. The Columbia River Maritime Museum is the official maritime museum of the state of Oregon and also prides itself as being one of the finest maritime museums on the West Coast. 

Activity Level: Low | ADA ACCESSIBLE: Yes

On this excursion, you will learn the history of the area while visiting Fort Clatsop, the site where the Lewis and Clark Expedition wintered in 1806.  Explore the Visitor Center and take a walk outside to view the Fort that was built during this famous expedition. 

Enjoy a scenic journey to Cape Disappointment State Park and visit the Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center, situated high on the cliffs 200 feet above the pounding Pacific surf.  A series of mural-sized “timeline” panels guide visitors through the westward journey of the Lewis and Clark Expedition using sketches, paintings, photographs, and the words of Corps members themselves. 

Explore downtown Astoria on your own aboard this convenient shuttle which makes several stops on a continuous loop throughout the day including:

- Downtown Astoria - for shopping and exploring

- Heritage Museum - featuring Clatsop County’s rich and exciting history in permanent and changing exhibit galleries

- Astoria Column - a tower overlooking the mouth of the Columbia River, from which you can enjoy the majestic views of the countryside from land

- Flavel House Museum - once the home of Captain George Flavel, this 1885 Queen Anne home features original Eastlake influenced woodwork, period furnishings, and exotic hardwood

Your knowledgeable guide will greet you at the dock to begin your exploration along Astoria's Riverwalk. Enjoy views of the majestic Columbia River with cargo ships at anchor and constant river traffic. Continue along the main downtown street and view several excellent examples of early 20th-century commercial architecture, including the towering Astor Hotel and the highly ornate, terra-cotta clad Liberty Theater. Stroll along city sidewalks to the Garden of the Surging Waves, which celebrates the town’s Chinese history. Enjoy the Beaux Arts-style Clatsop County Courthouse and the former Clatsop County Jail, which is now the Oregon Film Museum. The jail, used from 1914 to 1976 is not only noted for being the longest used, freestanding jail in Oregon, but also seen in the many movies filmed here, most famously, The Goonies . Your excursion will end at the well-known Flavel House. Completed in 1886, it is considered one of the finest examples of Queen Anne Stick style architecture in the Pacific Northwest.

Activity Level: Moderate | ADA ACCESSIBLE: Yes

Day 4 - Kalama, WA

From our convenient new dock at Kalama, Washington, enjoy the grand landscape of the Cascade Mountains scenic drive to view the remnants of nearby Mount St. Helens. A local guide enhances your understanding and shares the story of the volcano’s 1980 eruption and its impact on the environment and the lives of those in the area. Just off the ship dock, enjoy an expansive city park, unique local artwork throughout an impressive adjacent hotel, and an interesting interpretive center. Or venture out to a nearby family vineyard for an afternoon of wine tasting.

May 18, 1980 is a day etched into the history of the United States, as the powerful eruption of Mount St. Helens drastically changed the landscape of what is now referred to as the National Volcanic Monument. On your scenic journey to the Mount St. Helens, learn about the eruption, how it affected the landscape and surrounding communities, and how the environment has responded naturally to the disturbance. Admire spectacular views of the pumice plain and blast site.

Just a short walk from the ship, explore this new facility that celebrates Kalama’s unique place in Pacific Northwest history as a transportation and commercial hub, and is designed to replicate a traditional waterfront warehouse of the 1800s. Exhibits track Kalama’s first inhabitants, the Cowlitz Tribe, and the settlers that followed over the next hundred years, including renowned Oregon Trail writer Ezra Meeker. Displays illustrate how Kalama’s particular landscape gave birth to a booming transportation system, impacting the area both culturally and economically.

Day 5 - Cruising the Columbia River Gorge

From the comfort of your private balcony, admire the magnificent bluffs of the Columbia River Gorge, covered in deep green forest and framed by picturesque hillsides that quickly ascend toward the sky. Windsurfers and kiteboarders adorn the landscape as they drift across the broad, shining river. 

There are a variety of activities scheduled on board when the ship is underway, which vary depending on the itinerary and scheduled date. Enjoy destination-focused enrichment programs with special guest speakers who present topics related to the region and ports of call, including Art Classes, App-titude Classes (Tech Made Easy), Cooking Demonstrations, Mixology (practice of making great cocktails,) Trivia, Game Shows, and more.

Day 6 - Stevenson, WA

Nearby attractions offer a day of diverse options. Stand in awe of the glorious Multnomah Falls as it tumbles 620-feet off mountains and down into the river. Visit the Bonneville Dam visitor’s center to ponder the wonders of hydroelectricity and explore the intriguing exhibits of the Columbia Gorge Interpretive Center Museum. Discover the village of Stevenson, easily accessible from our dock, offering small town charm and a unique Northwest flair. Or simply, sit on deck with a beverage and admire the grandeur of nature.

Plummeting 620 feet, Multnomah Falls is the second highest year-round waterfall in the nation. Experience the sights and sounds of this magnificent waterfall, fed by rain, snow-melt, and underground springs on Larch Mountain.

Admire the falls from the Visitor Center or take a short hike to Benson Bridge, one of the most photographed pieces of architecture in Oregon, to feel its misty spray and get a great photo.

Multnomah Falls also offers one of the best places in the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area to view the basalt rock formations exposed by Ice Age Floods.

Enjoy a self-guided tour of the Columbia River Gorge Interpretive Center, which showcases the area's unique history and cultural diversity. From the Native American tribes that inhabited the gorge to the expedition of Lewis and Clark and 19th-century loggers, learn of the bountiful life on the gorge as you explore this amazing museum.

Throughout your journey on the Columbia River, you will transit 8 locks, lifting the ship more than 700 feet vertically. Building upon the lectures of our onboard experts throughout the week, this excursion provides guests with an in-depth understanding of and appreciation for the engineering that enables the Dam to generate enough hydroelectric power to provide nearly 500,000 homes with electricity.

Experience this amazing guided excursion along a local river fed by blue aquifer melt from Mount Adams. Along the way, view eagles, herons, ospreys, ducks, fish, and occasional otters. Paddle up the mellow river, taking a break to swim and take photos. Gently float back down stream trying to spot as many fish as possible, finishing your journey with a scenic look down the Gorge. 

Activity Level: High | ADA ACCESSIBLE: No

Day 7 - Richland, WA

Best known for its beautiful countryside, legendary rodeo, fine woolens, and leather craftsmanship, Pendleton is a place where the heyday of the American Cowboy, as well as the best of western tradition and heritage lives on. Join our local guides on a lively look into Pendleton's infamous and entertaining past. Explore the network of underground tunnels created a century ago for illicit activities and learn about the rich culture of the area’s indigenous tribes at the Tamastslikt Cultural Institute.   

Visit the REACH Museum and discover Eastern Washington’s rich landscape and history, from the Ice Age to the Atomic Age. Explore the featured galleries and rotating exhibits inside, as well as the amazing outdoor area with breathtaking views of the majestic Columbia River and surrounding scenery. Discover the geological impact of the Ice Age floods and basalt lava flows to the area. Learn about the Manhattan Project at Hanford and its continuous influence on the region. Continue to the 9-11 Memorial in Kennewick which is home to a 30 foot 6,000 pound steel column recovered from the World Trade Center Twin Towers, a sobering reminder of the tragic events of the day.

Explore this fascinating destination, located at the very place where Lewis and Clark Expedition camped for two nights, amidst a thriving community of Native Americans. Learn about the activities that took place at the site through interactive exhibits about the Corps of Discovery and Sacagawea, woman known for her helping the Lewis and Clark Expedition Team. Stroll the green, tree-shaded grounds, and read the seven story circle installations by internationally known artist Maya Lin.

Day 8 - Cruising the Snake River/Clarkston, WA

On your way to Clarkston, cruise the legendary Snake River. Watch the remote wilderness and canyon hillsides glide by in ever-changing scenic panoramas. Admire the steep hillsides, dotted with white pelicans, osprey, bald eagles, cormorants, blue herons, and more. 

Nestled in a handsome valley surrounded by steep hillsides, Clarkston embellishes the shoreline along the Snake River at the river’s confluence with the Clearwater River. Named for William Clark of the historic Lewis and Clark Expedition, Clarkston’s origin dates back to the late 1890s, tracing its roots to the Nez Perce, the Native American tribe that originally inhabited the valley. Venture to Hells Canyon for a boat ride or aerial flightseeing adventure, through the deepest canyon in North America, and let your senses run as wild as the landscapes of grand mountain peaks and vast reaches of remote wilderness.

What you won’t see are snakes, as the river doesn’t actually have snakes in it, but rather an abundance of salmon.  While some believe the river was called the Snake is because its shape has many twists and winds, it is actually believed to have received its name from a Native American hand symbol.

Explore the deepest canyon in North America and admire breathtaking scenery, including bighorn sheep, ancient rock formations, and Native American pictographs. Along the way, be treated to refreshments at a private ranch within the canyon. 

Activity Level: Moderate | ADA ACCESSIBLE: No

Day 9 - National Parks Adventure Begins

After breakfast and disembarking the ship, travel north to Coeur d’Alene, Idaho for a cruise on Lake Coeur d’Alene. Enjoy the spectacular scenery while enjoying a relaxing lunch on a private cruise. Travel to Kalispell for an overnight stay.

Day 10 - Glacier National Park

After breakfast, we will begin our full day in Glacier National Park. Established as a National Park in 1910, the park features the unspoiled beauty of alpine meadows, deep forests, waterfalls, glistening glaciers, and sparkling lakes. Whether enjoying colorful Lake McDonald or iconic Going-To-The-Sun Road, there is natural beauty around every turn. Experts from Glacier Institute lead the way as they explain the history and geology of the park.

Conclude your day with a delicious dinner at Russell’s Fireside Dining Room in the Lake McDonald Lodge.

Enjoy this full day adventure with transportation and narration by Glacier Institute, the educational partner of the park. Spanning 50 miles and crossing the Continental Divide, the main road through Glacier National Park is one of the top scenic drives in the United States.

Stop at points of interest and designated viewpoints to admire impressive glaciers, beautiful valleys, cascading waterfalls, towering mountains and colorful wildflowers. Along the way, enjoy lunch in Rising Sun, Montana, an eatery within the park.  

Conclude your day with a delicious dinner at Russell’s Fireside Dining Room in the Lake McDonald Lodge.

Day 11 - Travel Toward Yellowstone National Park

Travel through Montana toward Yellowstone National Park. Along the way, your Adventure Guide will provide narration and fun National Park activities.

We will stop for lunch in Butte, MT and a rest stop in the quaint town of Ennis, MT.

Delight in a stunning drive through the beautiful landscapes of Montana. Travel from a land of high mountains, deep valleys, and green forests to the plains, a vast horizontal sweep of yellow rangeland, golden grain fields, and brown harrowed strips. Along the way, your Adventure Guides will provide narration and fun National Park activies.

Day 12 - Explore Yellowstone National Park

After breakfast at the hotel, spend a full day in Yellowstone National Park, the World’s First National Park, known for its unique hydrothermal and geological features. This nearly 3,500-sq.-mile wilderness recreation area is set atop a volcanic hot spot and is larger than the states of Rhode Island and Delaware combined, with over 290 waterfalls, including the impressive Upper Falls of Yellowstone River. Led by your Adventure Guides, explore the Upper portion of Yellowstone's Grand Loop, including Lamar Valley. Stop at Norris Geyser Basin, Mammoth Hot Springs, and Tower Fall. Enjoy an exclusive catered dinner at Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel.

Terrace Mountain at Mammoth Hot Springs is the largest known carbonate-depositing spring in the world. From an easily walkable boardwalk trail, view this large complex of approximately 50 hot springs on a hill of travertine. Colors range from a pristine white to pink to dark red.

Explore Yellowstone National Park’s hottest and most changeable thermal area, making it one of the most extreme environments on the face of the Earth. Thanks to a combination of minerals and life forms, the colors are impressive too, ranging from milky blue to reddish orange. The views of this geological phenomena demonstrate the power of the Yellowstone Caldera and provide endless photo opportunities.

The drive to this amazing fall offers the opportunity to catch a glimpse of park wildlife, including as buffalo, elk, and black bear. Upon arrival, admire its magnificence and feel the misty spray as the fall plunges 132 feet to the rocks below.

Day 13 - Experience Yellowstone National Park

Continue your adventures in Yellowstone, exploring the lower section of the Grand Loop, Falls of Yellowstone, West Thumb, and Yellowstone Lake.

From the Canyon of Yellowstone to the largest lakes in the park, discover sections of the Yellowstone Caldera that were created 640,000 years ago and the West Thumb Caldera that erupted 174,000 years ago.

Throughout the day, you will experience the natural diversified beauty of the area and the wildlife who call it home. Enjoy lunch at Grant Village Dining Room and an evening of entertainment at Yellowstone Playhouse or Meadow Vue Ranch.

The awesome sight of this 109-foot cascade of surging water demonstrates its power and how the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone was created. The Upper Falls has stood the test of time as it flows over rocks, which are remnants of a lava flow and are resistant to erosion.

Discover the largest geyser area on the shores of Yellowstone Lake. Here, you can view Potts Basin, a very dynamic area, with dozens of geysers of all sizes. Abyss Pool is a hot spring in the basin, known for its impressive deepness and Fishing Cone a geyser that was named after nineteenth-century visitors would boil their freshly caught fish right in its center, a practice that is no longer allowed.

Day 14 - Explore Yellowstone and Travel to Grand Teton National Park

National Parks Yellowstone is renowned for various hydrothermal features, and today provides the opportunity to see several of the most popular sites in the park, including Old Faithful and Biscuit Basin. 

Depart for Grand Teton National Park, admiring the scenic views along the way and visit at Jackson Lake Lodge.

Sixty-percent of the world’s geysers are found in Yellowstone National Park, but none more famous than Old Faithful. With soaring bursts that erupt about every 90 minutes, it is one of the parks most predictable geysers. In 1870, members of an expedition team led by General Washburn were so amazed by its predictability they named it Old Faithful.

Come relax in this comfortable lodge boasting incredible views. Here, the 60-foot floor to ceiling windows frame pristine Jackson Lake and the majestic Teton Range with breathtaking vistas as far as the eye can see. The view alone is worth the visit.

Day 15 - Grand Teton National Park

Begin your day with a scenic cruise on Jackson Lake, then join your Adventure Guides on a Grand Teton Exploration to learn about the park, which boasts 310,000 acres of lush valley, mountain meadows, alpine lakes, and majestic mountains. Nomadic Indians, Native American tribes, early American explorers, and permanent settlers once called this national park home.

Explore the Craig Thomas Discovery Center, Jenny Lake Visitor Center, and Jackson Lake Lodge for spectacular views of the Teton Range. Cap off the day at the National Museum of Wildlife Art in Jackson Hole. In the evening, celebrate your amazing journey with fellow travelers during a farewell dinner.

Stop at this visitor center, with the Teton Mountain Range providing a beautiful backdrop. Enjoy a variety of exhibits and artwork with the interwoven themes of place, people, preservation, and mountaineering, including a collection of Native American Indian artifacts. A raised relief map of the park provides a birds-eye-view of the valley, canyons, lakes and peaks. Attend a Ranger Talk, during which you can learn more about the region and even get some stargazing tips.

This remarkable Visitor Center is housed in the historic Crandall Studio, built in the late 1920s, serving as Harrison Crandall's photography studio. Here, he sold photographs and postcards of the Teton Range as park mementos and was the park’s official photographer. Capturing the spirit of Crandall, today the Jenny Lake Visitor Center serves as an art gallery and museum, illustrating the role that art has played in the conservation of the Teton Range.

Built on the hillside overlooking the National Elk Refuge, the museum holdings a collection of over 5,000 artworks representing wild animals from around the world. Featuring work by prominent artists such as Georgia O’Keeffe, Andy Warhol, and John James Audubon, the museum’s unsurpassed permanent collection chronicles much of the history of wildlife in art from 2500 B.C.E. to the present.

Day 16 - Jackson, WY

After breakfast, American Cruise Lines will transfer you to the Jackson Hole Airport to begin your travels home.

• Day 1 Jackson, WY
• Day 2 Grand Teton & Yellowstone National Parks
• Day 3 Yellowstone National Park
• Day 4 Experience Yellowstone National Park
• Day 5 Travel toward Glacier National Park
• Day 6 Glacier National Park
• Day 7 Travel to Clarkston
• Day 8 Begin Your Columbia & Snake Rivers Cruise
• Day 9 Richland, WA
• Day 10 Cruising the Columbia River Gorge
• Day 11 Stevenson, WA
• Day 12 Kalama, WA
• Day 13 Astoria, OR
• Day 14 Day of Cruising
• Day 15 Portland, OR

Day 1 - Jackson, WY

Upon arrival at the Jackson Hole Airport, you will be welcomed by your Adventure Guides to begin your National Park exploration. 

In the evening, enjoy a special welcome reception and dinner and get to know your Adventure Guides and fellow explorers.

Day 2 - Grand Teton & Yellowstone National Parks

Begin your day with a scenic cruise on Jackson Lake, then join your Adventure Guides on a Grand Teton Exploration to learn about the park, which boasts 310,000 acres of lush valley, mountain meadows, alpine lakes, and majestic mountains. Nomadic Indians, Native American tribes, early American explorers, and permanent settlers once called this national park home. Along the way, explore the Jenny Lake Visitor Center and Jackson Lake Lodge.

Depart for Yellowstone and visit Old Faithful Geyser, the most well-known geyser in the country and perhaps the most reliable.

Day 3 - Yellowstone National Park

From the Canyon of Yellowstone to the largest lakes in the park, discover sections of the Yellowstone Caldera that were created 640,000 years ago and the West Thumb Caldera that erupted 174,000 years ago. Throughout the day, you will experience the natural diversified beauty of the area and the wildlife who call it home.

As you follow this half-mile long boardwalk loop, witness all four of the hydrothermal features found in the park, including, mud pots, geysers, hot springs, and fumaroles. The many Fountain Paint Pot Area geysers erupt so frequently that you are almost guaranteed a great show on your short hike.

Day 4 - Experience Yellowstone National Park

After breakfast at the hotel, spend a full day in Yellowstone National Park, the World’s First National Park, known for its unique hydrothermal and geological features. This nearly 3,500-sq.-mile wilderness recreation area is set atop a volcanic hot spot and is larger than the states of Rhode Island and Delaware combined, with over 290 waterfalls, including the impressive Upper Falls of Yellowstone River.   Led by your Adventure Guides, explore the Upper portion of Yellowstone's Grand Loop, including Lamar Valley. Stops include Norris Geyser Basin, Mammoth Hot Springs, and Tower Fall. Enjoy an exclusive catered dinner at Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel.

Day 5 - Travel toward Glacier National Park

 Delight in a stunning drive through the beautiful landscapes of Montana. Travel from a land of high mountains, deep valleys, and green forests to the plains, a vast horizontal sweep of yellow rangeland, golden grain fields, and brown harrowed strips.

Along the way, your Adventure Guides will provide narration and fun National Park activities. Enjoy lunch in Butte, MT, as well as a rest stop in the quaint town of Ennis, MT.

Day 6 - Glacier National Park

After breakfast, we will begin our full day in Glacier National Park, we will spend a full day at Glacier National Park. Established as a National Park in 1910, the park features the unspoiled beauty of alpine meadows, deep forests, waterfalls, glistening glaciers and sparkling lakes.

Whether enjoying colorful Lake McDonald or enjoying driving along Going-To-The-Sun Road, there is natural beauty around every turn. Experts from Glacier Institute explain the history and geology of the park.

Conclude your day  with a delicious dinner at Russell’s Fireside Dining Room in the Lake McDonald Lodge.

Day 7 - Travel to Clarkston

Along your way, enjoy a stop Coeur d'Alene featuring a special lunch on a cruise around the lake. Savor a delightful meal as you take in the spectacular panoramic views.

Next travel to Clarkston, WA to settle into your hotel. In the evening, celebrate your amazing journey with fellow travelers during a farewell dinner.

Day 8 - Begin Your Columbia & Snake Rivers Cruise

Travel to Clarkston and board the ship to begin your cruise along the Columbia & Snake Rivers.

Day 9 - Richland, WA

Day 10 - Cruising the Columbia River Gorge

Day 11 - Stevenson, WA

Day 12 - Kalama, WA

Day 13 - Astoria, OR

Day 14 - Day of Cruising

Continue your journey in this vibrant region with majestic Mount Hood serving as a stunning backdrop. Situated between the waters of the Columbia and Willamette Rivers, the area's history is forever entwined with the fortunes of these great rivers. In the golden age of riverboats, sternwheelers crossed the waterfront while steam whistles and calliopes rang out across the water.

Day 15 - Portland, OR

Enjoy breakfast on board. As we transport you to the airport to begin your journey home, reflect upon your amazing adventure and the memories and friendships made along the way.

Ships Deck Plans, Staterooms

• Select a Ship

American Harmony

American jazz, american song.

• Select a Deck

Deck Plan 1

Deck plan 2, deck plan 3, deck plan 4, deck plan 5, deck plan 6, stateroom categories.

Select below for stateroom details

• Owner's Suite Private Balcony
• Veranda Suite Private Balcony
• AAM Private Balcony
• AAC Private Balcony
• AAL Private Balcony
• AAR Private Balcony
• Single Private Balcony

• Grand Suite Private Balcony

• AAG Private Balcony

Upcoming Cruises

Request a quote.

A detailed quote will be sent to your email and a Cruise Specialist will be assigned to help you plan your vacation.

We have sent your requested quote to the email address provided.

Processing…

Request A Free Cruise Guide Modal

Begin planning your U.S. cruise adventure with American Cruise Lines today. From the coast of Maine, to the mighty Mississippi and Pacific Northwest, our Free Cruise Guide provides detailed information about all of our more than 50 U.S. itinerary options.

Highlights of the Columbia River

• Get inspired by the possibilities.
• Build your ideal trip.
• Discover Astoria's charm with Victorian homes and historic sites
• Learn about Mount St. Helens' eruption and its aftermath
• Admire the Columbia River Gorge from your private balcony
• Small Ship Cruises
• Wine Tasting
• Columbia River
• North America
• Pacific Northwest
• United States

Full Itinerary

Day 1: portland, oregon, day 2: embark in portland | cruising the columbia river.

• 1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner

Day 3: Astoria

Day 4: kalama, washington, day 5: stevenson, washington, day 6: portland, oregon | disembark.

• 1 Breakfast

American Pride

Dates & prices, my preferred start date.

Initial deposit is $500pp, and most travelers will call our office and pay the deposit with a credit card.

Final payment is due 100 days prior to departure by Bank transfer, check or credit card. All final payments by credit card may be subject to a surcharge and maximum of $20,000 charge

See our general terms and conditions:

• Adventure Life Terms & Conditions

We are an agent for one or more providers on this trip with specific cancellation policies and terms:

• American Cruise Lines, Inc. - General Information - American Cruise Lines, Inc.

For full cancellation policy details, please contact us for a quote.

• 5 Breakfasts, 4 Lunches, 5 Dinners
• 5 Nights Accommodations
• Accommodations as listed
• Ground transportation as listed
• Activities as listed
• Meals as listed
• Access to a 24-7 Emergency line while traveling
• Onboard Entertainment 
• Onboard gratuities
• Port charges and fees
• Complimentary cocktail parties
• Dining service
• Travel Insurance
• Personal Expenses
• Flight costs (please request a quote)
• Additional excursions during free time
• Fuel and transportation surcharges (when applicable)
• Signature shore excursion - Should be reserved in advance due to limited availability.

We Love to Talk Travel

Why travel with adventure life, recognized by.

A new view offers better perspectives

Columbia River Cruises is a family owned tour boat company providing unparalleled access to the Columbia River, with a unique experience on a classic maritime vessel . We provide the opportunity to explore a familiar landscape from a new perspective. Whether you are a native or visiting from afar, our flexible departure times for a luxurious trip fits well into any schedule.

Meet The Constance

This 41’ yacht offers first-class amenities and refined nautical charm. Timeless and stylish, The Constance is as beautiful as the 360 degree panoramic views she commands.

Lovingly restored by Aaron Schlosser , we’d love for you to meet our yacht!

What To Expect

Learn more about a river cruise with us.

What should you wear? Will you see wildlife on the river? How long is a tour? What is the yacht like? Do we have a Covid-19 protocol established?

You have questions, we have answers!

Photo Galleries

Astoria, the Columbia River, and The Constance are truly beautiful. If you enjoy walking through visual stories, visit our Photo Galleries page and check out three different presentations: The Restoration of The Constance ; our friends and passengers enjoying the experience; and the beautiful Columbia River and Astoria.

You can picture yourself here, and when you come cruise with us, we’re happy to add your photo to our collection!

Book your adventure today!

Just added to your cart

Check out our 2024-2025 destinations here!

Columbia River Cruise - Rivers of Adventure and Wine

Book Before This Sails its Final Voyage in 2023

Adventure Calls. Hike dramatic landscapes, kayak through canyons, sample local wines, and raft the rapids on this adventurous Snake River and Columbia River cruise.

INCLUDED HIGHLIGHTS:

• Tour and taste at a Walla Walla winery
• Sample local culinary delights at Walla Walla’s historic Gesa Power House Theater
• Deschutes River rafting trip
• Hikes at Tom McCall Nature Preserve, Multnomah Falls, Columbia Hills State Park, and Ft. Clatsop—a Lewis and Clark National Historical Park and Palouse Falls State Park
• Kayak, paddle board, swim, and skiff
• Transit five locks and tour the Bonneville Dam Visitor Center
• Cruise through the heart of the Columbia River Gorge
• Onboard sommelier, and natural and cultural history guides
• Option to visit Maryhill Winery and Museum
• B=Breakfast, L=Lunch, D=Dinner

Your day-by-day details | Roundtrip Portland, Oregon from $5,300

Day 1 portland, or - embarkation.

Arriving in Portland, an UnCruise representative escorts you to our hospitality suite where you can relax or explore the city. Breweries, bookstores, coffee shops, and quirkiness abound, the City of Roses doesn’t disappoint with colorful options within walking distance. When it’s time to board the Wilderness Legacy , you’ll be welcomed with champagne, hors d’oeuvres, and views of the city—a perfect start to your adventure. (D)

Day 2 Astoria / Ft Clatsop - Lewis & Clark National Park

Dock in charming, Victorian downtown Astoria, then you’re off to Ft. Clatsop, the winter fort of the 1804-1806 Lewis and Clark Expedition. Check out the exhibits and follow trails to the replica fort or take a low- /no-elevation walk from the visitor center to view replica dugout canoes. For a longer but easy hike, a one-mile trail along the Lewis and Clark River leads to an outdoor viewing area. Hard chargers can take a 7-mile, one-way hike on the Fort to Sea Trail through forest, fields, and dunes. Everyone experiences Ft. Clatsop and beach walks. Back downtown, explore on your own, walk the waterfront trail, and/or visit the Astoria Column. Afterward, set sail upriver and see what delectable treats your chef and crew have in store for the evening—a nibble from a local harvest, a special pairing perhaps? (BLD)

Day 3 Columbia River Gorge Scenic Area / Hood River Valley

Gateway to the gorge. Slip through the Bonneville Dam locks, then head behind the scenes at the visitor center. You’re in luck with a private tour of its massive turbines and fish ladders. Take a walk on the wild side at Multnomah Falls—the tallest in the state. Snap a few photos before your next big adventure: a guided hike in the heart of the Columbia Gorge. Choose the low elevation option, or trek upward to a waterfall amidst towering trees. Back on board, your onboard sommelier has a “Best of Hood River Valley” wine tasting dialed in. All you have to do is take a seat in the lounge—you’re in good hands. (BLD)

Day 4 Walla Walla, Washington

Start the day cruising the famed Wallula Gap. Today’s theme is all things Walla Walla including nibbles from visits with an olive oil maker. For lunch, try culinary delights that are truly of the area at the historic Gesa Power House Theatre or other local venue. With local bites come local sips and time to stretch your legs. Tour and taste at family-owned Dunham Cellars. In historic downtown Walla Walla, visit multi-media artist Squire Broel’s studio and stroll downtown where boutique shops and over 30 tasting rooms await. Bellies full, the afternoon is perfect for easy cruising in the most unique river system in the nation. Join your guides for interpretive presentations of a land rich in history. (BLD)

Day 5 Palouse River / Snake River

Wake up at the mouth of the Palouse River. The essentials of the day: kayaks, paddle boards, and swimsuits. Bring your binocs, too! There’s the chance of an early morning skiff outing for some great birding—hawks and herons and grebes. A birders delight. Embark on an exhilarating hike in Palouse Falls State Park, where the rugged beauty of the Pacific Northwest unfolds before your eyes on your way to the iconic Palouse Falls. Enjoy the awe-inspiring landscapes as you traverse through dramatic canyons, witness the cascading waterfall and create memories that will forever resonate with your adventurous spirit.(BLD)

Day 6 Columbia Hills

Visit Columbia Hills State Park and Rowena Plateau on foot or, if weather permits, by skiff. Take a dip in a lazy section of the river, and let the sunshine dry you off after a swim. Swap stories with your shipmates over sunset cocktails and appetizers.(BLD)

Day 7 The Dalles

Dise mbark at the Dalles this morning ready for a day full of adventures. The more adventurous might choose a Deschutes whitewater rafting adventure. Class II and III+ rapids come with names like Elevator and Surf City. Rafting guides provide the gear (including optional wetsuits) and expertise; your ship’s chef provides the picnic lunch. Other options may include winery tours, walks through the park, and museum tours. Cheers to adventure, wine, and your week aboard! Wrap it up cruising through the Columbia River Gorge and popping a few corks at the Farewell Dinner. (BLD)

Day 8 Portland Disembark

One last fresh scone or omelet. After breakfast, disembark in Portland and transfer to the airport to catch your flight home. (B)

Passport required (non USA citizens). Itineraries are guidelines; variations in itinerary and the order of days may occur to maximize your experience.

Dates and Rates

Rivers of adventure and wine | roundtrip portland, oregon, rates shown are per person, based on double occupancy. charter rates available on request., book before this sails its final voyage, our columbia river cruise will be sailing its finale voyage from portland. this is the last opportunity to sail this one-of-a-kind adventure with us. need more info speak with an adventure specialist or check out our help and support page for our most frequently asked questions.                          .

855-471-8918 | [email protected]

You May Also Like

• Choosing a selection results in a full page refresh.
• Press the space key then arrow keys to make a selection.

Save up to 50% on Columbia River Cruises!

Columbia River cruises reveal the rugged beauty and amazing wildlife of the Pacific Northwest. Itineraries follow the waterway along the Washington/Oregon border and cruise a portion of the Snake River as well, offering opportunities to see attractions such as Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument, the Columbia River Gorge, Bonneville Dam and Hells Canyon.

Delicious meals, wine and beer with dinner, onboard entertainment and enriching lectures are covered in the fare. At each port, a tour of local attractions is included.

• ACL: Save up to $1,500 per couple off select cruises. Prices shown reflect discount. Expires May 19. Click here .
• ACL: Receive a free $150 per couple onboard credit on all sailings. Click here .
• ACL: Receive free shore excursions on select cruises. Click here .

All cruises  will be on the M/V West Star

Tri-Cities' One of

A kind dining.

Welcome Aboard! We are pleased to share with you exclusive and unique way to explore the Columbia River. Experience a breathtaking Tri-Cities’ sunset, Northwest wines, fine cuisine aboard our 74-foot luxury yacht. We have a variety of different cruises to choose from with delicious meals prepared fresh daily by our own chefs. 

Join our newsletter for exciting upcoming events, special offers, and more!

Columbia River: 15 Mile Boat Ride, Cruising & Thrills

• Marine Grade Fuel
• Experienced U.S.C.G. Licensed Captain
• Required Safety Equipment including Life Jackets
• Mostly Cruising, Several Dynamic Fish Tale Turns and a Few Hamilton Spins
• View of the Rocky Reach Dam, the Confluence and US 2 Bridge
• Media Package - Capture your experience!
• 1 N Worthen St, Wenatchee, WA 98801, USA We meet at the Day Moorage dock at Wenatchee Riverfront Park, situated roughly 100 yards north of the boat launch and restrooms. The entrance might be easy to miss, and the dock is nearly hidden from the parking lot view. Please consider arriving 30 minutes ahead of time.
• Not wheelchair accessible
• Confirmation will be received at time of booking
• Not recommended for travelers with back problems
• Not recommended for pregnant travelers
• No heart problems or other serious medical conditions
• Travelers should have a moderate physical fitness level
• This experience is family-friendly and tailored for the general public. It may not fully satisfy an adreniline junky or powersports enthusiest seeking an intense adrenaline rush.
• This experience is primarily a ride rather than a narrated tour.
• We do not provide any white water or river rapids experiences.
• You might get wet, or even thoroughly soaked, but isn't guarenteed.
• We are not responsible for any personal belongings that are lost, wet, or damaged, including electronics.
• Participants must sign our waiver online before getting on the boat.
• The duration of this experience can drastically change depending on the conditions of the river.
• Our seating is fixed and might not comfortably accommodate guests who are exceptionally tall.
• This experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund
• This tour/activity will have a maximum of 6 travelers
• For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience.
• Rocky Reach Discovery Center

Similar experiences

• You'll start at 1 N Worthen St 1 N Worthen St, Wenatchee, WA 98801, USA We meet at the Day Moorage dock at Wenatchee Riverfront Park, situated roughly 100 yards north of the boat launch and restrooms. The entrance might be easy to miss, and the dock is nearly hidden from the parking lot view. Please consider arriving 30 minutes ahead of time. See address & details
• Pass by Rocky Reach Discovery Center
• You'll return to the starting point

• Journey51445835713 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles An Amazing and Unique Experience! One of the best experiences I’ve had while visiting Wenatchee! Captain Wiley is very professional, knowledgeable, as well as accommodating which made the whole experience absolutely fun but also safe! I highly recommend this experience, you’ll definitely have a blast! Read more Written April 21, 2024
• 20coryl 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Great time on the Water Captain Wiley was the best. Very professional, safe and lots of fun. Great for kids and adults. Everyone had the best time. The views alone was worth it. Would highly recommend to any and everyone. Defiantly a must do if your in the area. Great way to make memories. Read more Written July 15, 2023

More to explore in Leavenworth

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

Columbia River: 15 Mile Boat Ride, Cruising & Thrills provided by Wileys Boat Rides

Columbia & Snake Rivers Cruise – American Harmony

The American Harmony is a brand new, modern riverboat that is now cruising the Columbia and Snake Rivers between Washington and Oregon offering iconic NW cruises. This is the newest addition to the Columbia River and are so excited to have her cruising this glorious river!  Visit stunning locations including the Mount St. Helens volcano observatory.

Ports of call: Portland, Oregon (Hayden Island) | Kalama | Astoria | Stevenson | Pendleton | Clarkston

Cruise Details

or call 800.578.1479

*Per person/double occupancy. Special single rates apply where listed. Excludes port fees. Itineraries may operate in reverse.

Your Itinerary

1 Portland, OR (Pre-Cruise Hotel) Arrive in Portland and settle into your hotel, located right at the ship’s dock for a seamless boarding process. Situated between the waters of the Columbia and Willamette Rivers, the area's history is forever entwined with the fortunes of these great rivers.

2 Portland, OR Welcome to the City of Roses! Portland's history and culture has forever been entwined with the two rivers that flow around and thru it: the Columbia and Willamette Rivers. If you're planning to arrive early into Portland, talk to our agents about putting together a city tour, crossing many of Portland's beautiful bridges, and even stopping at the International Test Garden featuring over 6800 rose bushes!

3 Astoria, OR Astoria is the oldest American settlement west of the Rockies, close to where Lewis & Clark wintered at Fort Clatsop during their Corps of Discovery expedition. Just stepping off the boat you'll have access to the city trolley - a quaint ride along the waterfront that will explain all the highlights of Astoria - and the Columbia River Maritime Museum, examining the history of crossing the bar and the actual ships and artifacts of ships that found the crossing too dangerous. Other options from here: Fort Clatsop Tour & Astoria Experience, or Lewis & Clark Interpretive Center at Cape Disappointment.

4 Kalama/Mount St. Helens, WA There is nothing more magnificient or eye-catching than the beautiful Mount St. Helens. She is a local treasure, despite her grumblings and 1980 eruption. Everyone should take this complimentary excursion to Johnston Ridge Observatory. Make sure to watch the film, where you can hear Johnston call out: "Vancouver! Vancouver! This is it!" His last transmission before perishing in the eruption.

5 The Dalles, OR The Dalles, the last stop on the historic Oregon Trail, nestles along the Columbia River with a beautiful view of both Mount Hood and Mount Adams, each towering more than 11,000 feet above your cruise ship. To the pioneers of the 1800s, this rugged terrain was treacherous, but to today's visitors, it is fascinating. Venture ashore on your own to explore the historic downtown, steps from the ship, featuring fascinating museums, intimate cafes, local pubs, and a collection of historic murals which embellish the streetscape. Or enjoy guided excursions to learn about the area’s rich history, view a unique art collection in a magnificent building perched on a bluff above the river, or spend an afternoon with expert sommeliers enjoying the bounty of the fertile Columbia Valley.

6 Cruising the Columbia River Gorge Enjoy a nice day on the river cruising through the Columbia River Gorge national scenic area.

7 Pendleton, OR/Richland, WA The Hanford Reach Museum in Richland is an amazing option for your fun today. Or book the Pendleton Signature Tour: underground city tour, BBQ lunch at Hamley's Restaurant, and visits to the Tamastslikt Cultural Institute and Pendleton Woolen Mills.

8 Clarkston, WA At the border lies Clarkston, WA and Lewiston, ID - I wonder how they got their names? There's so much history and culture to explore here, including the complimentary excursion to the Nez Perce National Historic Park. But the Hells Canyon Jet Boat Signature Tour is always a hit. Be sure to sign up for this one in advance - it fills up!

9 Disembark in Clarkston, WA Talk to our agents about travel arrangements, or lengthening your stay with a hotel in Spokane, WA.

Map & Gallery

Cabin Categories

*Prices may vary due to seasonality

Onboard Experience

The American Cruise Line fleet of ships are the newest and most environmentally friendly small ships in the US. The cruise line prides itself on their hospitable staff, and that you’ll be graciously received no matter which ship you cruise on. The large staterooms with interior entrances ensure you have a relaxed, private area to watch the river from, or visit any of the many onboard lounges. Daily entertainment will be brought onboard, including musicians, historians and naturalists.

Regionally-Inspired Menus

American Cruise Lines uses fresh, local ingredients to show off the culinary glory of the region you’re cruising in. On the Mississippi River, that could mean Andouille Gumbo, a po’boy with red beans and rice, and bourbon pecan pie. In New England, you could find Littleneck clam ceviche on the menu followed by a spiced apple pudding with maple whipped cream. In the Pacific Northwest, you’ll find fresh fish on the menu, including shrimp bisque or Dungeness Crab cake, and a marionberry cheesecake that’ll make your mouth water! Your ship will provide you with a list of all the locally-sourced ingredients when you unpack.

Eagle Society

Once you’ve cruised aboard any American Cruise Line ship, you are an Eagle Society member. It’s free to be a member, but your loyalty to American Cruise Lines is greatly rewarded. You’ll receive Eagle Society luggage tags, and member-only gifts when you board each cruise. After 3 cruises, you’ll receive complimentary premium shore excursions. After 10 cruises, you’ll get a complimentary 11th cruise. There are special Eagle Society cruise dates every year. Plus all Eagle Society member benefits can be used when booking with USA River Cruises, plus you’ll still be eligible for our loyal customer benefits as well.

• Best of the Northwest
• Travel Abroad
• Travel Health
• Travel Warnings
• US Travel Security
• Vessel Sanitation Program
• Airline On-Time Stats
• Airline Status
• Portland City Tours, Oregon Wine Tours, Mt. Hood Tours
• World Clock
• Travel Agents
• Travel Insurance
• Video Gallery
• Cruise Recipes

Sign up for our e-Newsletter & receive exclusive offers!

10000 NE 7th Ave Suite 125, Vancouver, WA 98685 Contact

Call us at 800-578-1479

America’s Most Scenic Small-Ship and River Cruises

Columbia and snake rivers.

T hese nine-day American river cruises on the American Queen Steamboat Company's American Empress sail from Vancouver, Washinton to Portland, Oregon and show you a glimpse at some of the most gorgeous scenery in the Pacific Northwest. From the paddle wheeler, you'll get to see the dramatic waterfalls at the Columbia River Gorge, the pioneer town The Dalles, and sea lions and filming sites from the hit 1980s film, The Goonies in Astoria.

Rivers of Wine Theme Cruise on the Columbia and Snake Rivers

These seven-night American river cruises on the UnCruise Adventure's S.S. Legacy sail round trip out of Portland, Oregon cruising a similar route to American Empress but focusing on wine. A sommelier and guest wine expert sail with passengers for the week, serving as an onboard resource and hosting tastings. There are also wine tastings, vineyard tours, and wine cave tours in Columbia Gorge, Walla Walla, Red Mountain, Columbia Valley, and the Willamette Valley and guests get to taste old-vine varietals and wines from eco-cultivated vineyards. River cruises are also popular across the pond.

Adventure Theme Cruise on the Olympic Peninsula

Sailing round-trip out of Seattle through Puget Sound and the San Juan Islands on an elegant little yacht, this seven-night cruise on UnCruise Adventure's Safari Quest includes kayaking, paddle boarding, and plenty of hikes. There are also opportunities to spot bald eagles, sea lions, and whales and to enjoy local seafood, including oysters and clams.

Upper Mississippi American Heartland Theme Cruise

This river cruise from Chicago to St. Louis is on American Queen Steamboat Company's newest ship, the American Duchess , a paddle wheeler as majestic as her older sisters, with the same iconic red paddlewheel. You'll see the towering skyscrapers of Chicago and get the perfect photo op of St. Louis's famed arch. The focus of this cruise is American history, and you can see towns that were settled as trading posts by French explorers, visit the site of the first Lincoln-Douglas debate in Ottowa, Illinois, and check out places from Mark Twain's writings in his hometown of Hannibal, Missouri. Want to learn even more of America's backstory? Start with these 16 best cities for American history buffs .

Ohio River Cruise

These 11-day cruise tours on American Cruise Line's Queen of the Mississippi travel from St. Louis to Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania visiting Louisville, Kentucky and Cincinnati (among other towns) along the way. You'll get a behind-the-scenes tour of Churchill Downs, home of the Kentucky Derby, and tour the Underground Railroad Freedom Center in Cincinnati. In Cape Girardeau, you'll see everything from Trail of Tears sites to Civil War battlefields. Best of all, expect plenty of bluegrass music and mint juleps along the way.

Music Cruise on the Cumberland River

These seven-night American river cruises from Nashville to St. Louis also on American Cruise Line's Queen of the Mississippi will take you to the Country Music Hall of Fame, the Grand Ole Opry, and the Johnny Cash Museum and then heads on to St. Louis for a celebration of blues music.

Mississippi River Bourbon Theme Cruise

Cruise up the Mississippi River from Memphis to Louisville on the American Queen Steamboat Company's American Queen, with private tastings and cooking demos along the way, as well as lectures by historians. This special sailing, offered annually in July, also includes the opportunity to sample rare and vintage bourbons as well.

Lake Michigan

On this eight-day cruise roundtrip out of Chicago on Blount Small Ship Adventures's Grande Mariner , you'll visit Mackinac Island, Michigan, home to historic homes and plenty of rocking chairs as well as Sturgeon Bay in Wisconsin's Door County, where you'll see lighthouses and plenty of yachts.

Lower Mississippi from New Orleans to New Orleans

See—and eat—the highlights of New Orleans—from beignets to po' boys—before setting sail on American Cruise Line's America Song . You'll head to Natchez and Vicksburg in Missouri for Civil War sites and St. Francisville and Houmas House, Louisiana for historic plantations with a stop in the middle in Baton Rouge to see the Louisiana State Museum and the capital buildings. Occasionally, the line also offers a food-themed cruise out of New Orleans, too.

Maine Coastal Cruises

Maine Windjammer Association's Lewis R. French is a dramatic 21-passenger schooner that offers two- to six-night cruises in the summer and through the month of September out of the town of Camden, Maine. The schooner, which dates back to 1871 and is a National Historic Landmark, has no engine, and powers through Penobscot Bay just with the wind in its sails. You can help out with the sails, and watch for porpoises and eagles.

Newport, Nantucket, and Martha's Vineyard Cruise

This sailing yacht, the Arabella , may winter in the Caribbean, but it summers in the northeast, home of lobster rolls, lighthouses, and clambakes. The five-night sailings in July, August, and September let you travel to the area's loveliest beaches under billowing white sails.

Chesapeake Bay Cruise

This seven-night cruise on American Cruise Line's Independence sails round-trip out of Baltimore to Oxford, St. Michael's, and Annapolis, Maryland as well as Yorktown and Williamsburg, Virginia. You'll visit coastal fishing villages and eat plenty of hard-shell blue crabs, and get to visit Baltimore's famed aquarium.

Hudson River Valley Fall Foliage Theme Cruise

This eight-day American river cruise on American Cruise Line's American Constitution sails round-trip out of New York City before taking you to Hyde Park, the Catskills, and West Point as well as Sleepy Hollow, all in upstate New York. But in addition to the history in the region, the highlight of the cruise is easily the changing colors of the autumnal leaves.

Savannah to Baltimore

Cruise one of our favorite 12-day American river cruises in the Southeast on Blount Small Ship Adventures's Grand Mariner and you'll spend your days exploring Beaufort by horse-drawn carriage and wander the cobblestone streets of Charleston, South Carolina as the port town of Annapolis. Read on to discover the best cruise to take every month of the year .

The post America’s Most Scenic Small-Ship and River Cruises appeared first on Reader's Digest .

Below is a complete list of ships that sail the Columbia River. Click any ship name for details.