Columbia & Snake Rivers Cruise
Portland, OR to Clarkston, WA
Clarkston, WA to Portland, OR
9 Days / 8 Nights
Cruise Overview
Columbia & Snake Rivers Cruise
Step into the intrepid shoes of Lewis and Clark and embark on a riveting journey through history on the Columbia & Snake Rivers. Setting sail from Portland, OR to Clarkston, WA, get ready for all this legendary waterway has in store for you. Admire the ever-shifting landscapes, from lush, forested mountains to cascading waterfalls and rocky shores, each turn offers a breathtaking spectacle unlike any other in America.
Watch as the ship passes through the intricate lock and dam system, witness firsthand the marvel of human engineering that tames these mighty rivers. Led by our local guides, discover the captivating stories behind iconic landmarks like Mount St. Helens, renowned for its explosive 1980 eruption, and enjoy a tour and tasting at Maryhill Winery, one of Washington State's largest wineries. Watch as the scenery switches from the towering peaks of the Cascade Range to the misty veil of Multnomah Falls, standing proud at a staggering 620 feet.
This region, with its waterways lined by the tallest trees you can imagine, mountains that blend into the uninterrupted sky, and eagles soaring above you. Experience America like never before, aboard a modern river boat or an authentic paddlewheeler.
Traveling with American Cruise Lines has never been easier. Ask about our flat-rate domestic Airfare option available on our Columbia & Snake Rivers Cruise itinerary.
Columbia & Snake Rivers Cruise Itinerary
Columbia & Snake Rivers Cruise 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 The Dalles, OR
- Day 6 Cruising the Columbia River Gorge
- Day 7 Pendleton, OR / Richland, WA
- Day 8 Clarkston, WA
- Day 9 Clarkston, WA
Day 1 - Portland, OR
Arrive in Portland and settle into your pre-cruise hotel room, before your Oregon River Cruise begins. Don’t worry about getting to the ship, we’ll take you there by motorcoach, ensuring a hassle-free boarding process. Nestled between the serene waters of the Columbia and Willamette Rivers, this city tells the stories of the many Pioneers that traveled through, discovering the great American West.
Join us a day early and start your journey early whilst you explore all this port city has in store for you. On the morning of your cruise, simply gather in the hotel lobby after a hearty breakfast, and we'll whisk you away to the awaiting ship. Rest assured, all luggage will be swiftly transported from the hotel to your stateroom aboard the ship, leaving you free to relax and soak up the excitement of your upcoming voyage.
Excursions & Entertainment
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Hotel Stay
Hotel Stay
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.
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Day 2 - Cruising the Columbia River
Take this time to witness a diverse array of landscapes and wildlife while you cruise the Columbia and Snake River. As you glide along its winding course, you'll be greeted by breathtaking vistas of towering cliffs, emerald forests, and rolling hillsides. Be sure to notice the bald eagles soaring overhead and ospreys diving into the water in search of fish.
Along the riverbanks, you may spot deer grazing or river otters frolicking in the shallows. As you pass through locks and dams, experience the engineering feats that tame this mighty river. Don't forget to look out for historical landmarks and points of interest, such as the towering Mount Hood and the striking Bonneville Dam.
Excursions & Entertainment
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Welcome Aboard
Welcome Aboard
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.
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Day 3 - Astoria, OR
As the oldest American settlement west of the Rockies, this port is adorned with charming Victorian homes that cascade down the hillside, this town has earned the lively nickname of “The Little San Francisco.”
Embark on your own adventure or choose from a selection of thrilling excursions that will allow you to see this city from its shore where mountains paint the sky to the cliff where the Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center is perched above the Pacific.
Immerse yourself in history with a guided tour of the National Park Service replica of Fort Clatsop, the very winter camp where Lewis and Clark hunkered down during their legendary expedition. Wander through the town's charming shops, galleries, wineries, and brew pubs, or lose yourself in the captivating exhibits of the nearby Columbia River Maritime Museum.
Excursions & Entertainment
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Astoria Local Loop - Complimentary Excursion
Astoria Local Loop - Complimentary Excursion
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
Activity Level: Low | ADA ACCESSIBLE: Yes
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Cape Disappointment State Park
Cape Disappointment State Park
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.
Activity Level: Low | ADA ACCESSIBLE: Yes
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Columbia River Maritime Museum - Complimentary Excursion
Columbia River Maritime Museum - Complimentary Excursion
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
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Fort Clatsop Experience
Fort Clatsop Experience
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.
Activity Level: Low | ADA ACCESSIBLE: Yes
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Astoria Walking Exploration
Astoria Walking Exploration
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
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Day 4 - Kalama, WA
Our brand-new private dock in Kalama, Washington allows you to go where most cruises can’t. Take in the stunning Cascade Mountains as you drive to view the remnants of nearby Mount St. Helens.
Guided by a knowledgeable local, delve into the gripping tale of the volcano's cataclysmic eruption in 1980 and its profound impact on both the environment and the lives of those in the surrounding area.
Right off the ship’s dock, step into the beauty of an expansive city park, adorned with captivating local artwork that adorns the impressive adjacent hotel. Learn more about other wonders of the region at the fascinating interpretive center.
Explore a charming family vineyard nearby for an afternoon of wine tasting, where you can savor the finest local varietals amidst stunning vineyard landscapes.
Excursions & Entertainment
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Mount St. Helens Experience - Complimentary
Mount St. Helens Experience - Complimentary
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.
Activity Level: Moderate | ADA ACCESSIBLE: Yes
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Port of Kalama Interpretive Center- Complimentary Excursion
Port of Kalama Interpretive Center- Complimentary Excursion
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.
Activity Level: Low | ADA ACCESSIBLE: Yes
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Day 5 - The Dalles, OR
Welcome to The Dalles, the final frontier of the iconic Oregon Trail! With the towering Mount Hood and Mount Adams as your stunning backdrop, each reaching over 11,000 feet, this stop possesses all the natural beauty the Pacific Northwest is known for.
For an extra dose of excitement, opt for guided excursions that promise unforgettable experiences. Like a visit to Multnomah Falls, the largest waterfall in the state of Oregon, is a true wonder of nature. The 620-foot fall fills the world with its rushing sounds. Or paddle on the quiet river on a guided Gorge kayak tour where you can be one with the eagles, herons, osprey, and occasional otter that call this river home. Don’t forget to participate in expert-led wine tastings and sample the finest wines from the fertile Columbia Valley.
Excursions & Entertainment
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Bonneville Dam
Bonneville Dam
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.
Activity Level: Low | ADA ACCESSIBLE: Yes
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Columbia River Gorge Interpretive Center - Complimentary Excursion
Columbia River Gorge Interpretive Center - Complimentary Excursion
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.
Activity Level: Low | ADA ACCESSIBLE: Yes
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Multnomah Falls - Complimentary Excursion
Multnomah Falls - Complimentary Excursion
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.
Activity Level: Moderate | ADA ACCESSIBLE: Yes
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Guided Gorge Kayak Excursion
Guided Gorge Kayak Excursion
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
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Day 6 - Cruising the Columbia River Gorge
Get ready to seize the day on your private balcony and watch the Columbia River Gorge develop. Behold the majestic bluffs cloaked in greenery, while hillsides reach for the sky. The dynamic landscape is truly a wonder, catch the best views up on the sun deck.
But that's just the beginning, as the ship sails along, get ready for a range of exhilarating activities tailored just for you. Engage in destination-focused enrichment programs featuring guest speakers exploring all things regional and port-related. From captivating Art Classes to mastering the latest tech with our App-titude sessions, sizzling Cooking Demonstrations, Mixology magic, and brain-teasing Trivia– there is so much to discover on board.
Excursions & Entertainment
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A Day of Cruising
A Day of Cruising
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.
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Day 7 - Pendleton, OR / Richland, WA
Richland stands boldly at the intersection of the Yakima and Columbia Rivers, inviting exploration and discovery. Our ship docks mere steps from the serene waterfront, where trails wind alongside charming shops and local wineries beckon with their unique flavors.
Guided excursions promise a journey through time and landscape. At the REACH Museum, uncover the rich tapestry of Eastern Washington's history, from the ancient Ice Age to the modern Atomic Age. Sacajawea State Park offers a glimpse into the past, where the Corps of Discovery—led by Lewis and Clark—once camped amidst a thriving Native American community in October 1805, against the backdrop of the majestic Columbia and Snake River confluence.
A full-day adventure to Pendleton, Oregon unveils the essence of the Wild West, with its rich blend of western heritage and Native American culture. Explore the intricate network of underground tunnels, witnesses to a century of legal trade and clandestine activities alike.
Excursions & Entertainment
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The REACH Museum
The REACH Museum
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.
Activity Level: Low | ADA ACCESSIBLE: Yes
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The Pendleton Experience
The Pendleton Experience
Come join us for a lively look into Pendleton's infamous and entertaining past. No town has a more colorful history. Find out why Pendleton was known as the entertainment capital of Eastern Oregon as you follow your guide underground to the Shamrock Card Room, Hop Sing's (Chinese Laundry), the Empire Ice Cream Parlor, and through the tunnels beneath the sidewalls to the Empire Meat Market. Stand under prism glass and go through a secret passageway to a prohibition Card Room. Continue through the tunnels to the Duck Pin Bowling Alley where you will learn about the Triple Nickels and Doolittle Raiders who trained here. If you are interested in learning about Pendleton Air Base, visit the Pendleton Air Museum a few doors down.
Explore the Tamastslikt Cultural Institute to learn about the storied past, contemporary culture, and bright economic future of the Cayuse, Umatilla, and Walla Walla Tribes. With world-class exhibits and interactive displays, local, regional, and national history is interpreted through the voices, collective memories, objects, and images of the native people. In the expansive Museum Store, discover the creativity of dozens of tribal artists as well as books, music, huckleberry treats, and exclusive Tamastslikt limited-edition collectible Pendleton blankets. Along the way, enjoy conversations with elders, traveling exhibits, storytelling, and hands-on displays. Between sites, enjoy a complimentary lunch at Sister's Cafe.
This is a Signature shore excursion and should be reserved in advance. Please call (800) 894-8570 for information.
Activity Level: Moderate | ADA ACCESSIBLE: Yes
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Sacajawea Interpretive Center - Complimentary Excursion
Sacajawea Interpretive Center - Complimentary Excursion
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.
Activity Level: Low | ADA ACCESSIBLE: Yes
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Day 8 - Clarkston, WA
Embark on an electrifying journey to Clarkston as we sail along the legendary Snake River. Spot the untamed wilderness and rugged canyon hillsides as they come to the forefront in a mesmerizing tapestry of ever-changing vistas. Keep your eyes peeled for the majestic inhabitants of this pristine landscape – from the graceful white pelicans to the playful river otter.
Clarkston, cradled within a picturesque valley embraced by towering hillsides, awaits at the confluence of the Snake and Clearwater Rivers. Named in honor of William Clark from the renowned Lewis and Clark Expedition, this historic town traces its lineage back to the resilient Nez Perce tribe, the original stewards of this fertile land.
Prepare for an adrenaline-pumping voyage into the heart of Hells Canyon, North America's deepest gorge. Let your spirit soar as you navigate the roaring rapids and colossal mountain peaks that define this rugged terrain.
Excursions & Entertainment
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Cruising the Snake River
Cruising the Snake River
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.
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Hells Canyon Boat Adventure
Hells Canyon Boat Adventure
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
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Rivaura Winery Tasting
Rivaura Winery Tasting
Enjoy a tasting and exploration of the family owned Rivaura winery. Perched gently on a vineyard covered hillside with breathtaking views of the Clearwater River Valley, the Rivaura tasting room provides an idyllic setting for savoring their delicious wines, while soaking in the surrounding natural beauty of the Lewis-Clark Valley AVA.
Activity Level: Low | ADA: Yes
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Hells Canyon Flightseeing Adventure (Brand New)
Hells Canyon Flightseeing Adventure (Brand New)
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.
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Day 9 - Clarkston, WA
Cherish the final breakfast on board and experience a narrated ariel tour over Hells Canyon before you say goodbye.
As we bid farewell and prepare to send you off on your journey homeward bound, take a moment to bask in the glory of your extraordinary time here on the Columbia & Snake Rivers. Let the memories of laughter, exploration, and newfound friendships be some of the few things you take with you. Until we meet again, cherish every moment and carry the spirit of adventure with you wherever you voyage.
Excursions & Entertainment
Day By Day Itinerary
See Reverse Itinerary
- Pre-Cruise Hells Canyon Pre-Cruise Package
- Day 1 Clarkston, WA
- Day 2 Cruising the Snake River
- Day 3 Pendleton, OR / Richland, WA
- Day 4 Cruising the Columbia River Gorge
- Day 5 The Dalles, OR
- Day 6 Kalama, WA
- Day 7 Astoria, OR
- Day 8 Day of Cruising
- Day 9 Portland, OR
Pre-Cruise
This package features a 1-night hotel stay, breakfast, as well as a full day in Hells Canyon, exploring the deepest canyon in North America on jet boating adventure. Along the way, be treated to refreshments at a private ranch located deep inside the canyon.
Pre-Cruise Packages must be reserved at least 30 days before your cruise date. Please call (800) 460-4518 for pricing and availability.
Excursions & Entertainment
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Hells Canyon Boat Adventure Pre-Cruise Package
Hells Canyon Boat Adventure Pre-Cruise Package
This package features a stay in Clarkston at a hotel conveniently located near the dock for easier boarding. Enjoy breakfast, as well as a half day in Hells Canyon. Explore the deepest canyon in North America on Boat Adventure and be treated to refreshments at a private ranch located deep inside the canyon.
Guests have the option of purchasing our Hells Canyon Flightseeing Adventure which takes place the morning of embarkation.
Pre-Cruise Packages must be reserved at least 30 days before your cruise date. Please call (800) 460-4518 in advance for pricing and availability.
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Hells Canyon Boat Adventure
Hells Canyon Boat Adventure
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
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Day 1 - Clarkston, WA
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. Settle into your hotel and enjoy this historic town at your leisure. 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.
Excursions & Entertainment
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Hotel Stay
Hotel Stay
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.
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Day 2 - Cruising the Snake River
Board your ship and enjoy a Welcome Reception. Spend the day cruising the legendary Snake River in the company of fellow guests and crew. 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.
Excursions & Entertainment
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Cruising the Snake River
Cruising the Snake River
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.
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Hells Canyon Flightseeing Adventure (Brand New)
Hells Canyon Flightseeing Adventure (Brand New)
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.
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Welcome Aboard
Welcome Aboard
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.
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Day 3 - Pendleton, OR / Richland, WA
Richland sits at confluence of the Yakima and Columbia River. Our ship docks just steps away from scenic waterfront walking trials, unique shops, and local wineries. Enjoy a variety of guided excursions to area parks and museums, including the REACH Museum where you can discover Eastern Washington’s rich landscape and history, from the Ice Age to the Atomic Age. Admire the beauty of the Columbia and Snake River confluence at Sacajawea State Park and explore the grounds where the Corps of Discovery camped in October 1805 amidst a thriving community of Native Americans.
A full-day excursion also visits Pendleton, Oregon to enjoy western heritage, Native American history and the network of underground tunnels created a century ago for both legal and illicit activities.
Excursions & Entertainment
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The REACH Museum
The REACH Museum
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.
Activity Level: Low | ADA ACCESSIBLE: Yes
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The Pendleton Experience
The Pendleton Experience
Come join us for a lively look into Pendleton's infamous and entertaining past. No town has a more colorful history. Find out why Pendleton was known as the entertainment capital of Eastern Oregon as you follow your guide underground to the Shamrock Card Room, Hop Sing's (Chinese Laundry), the Empire Ice Cream Parlor, and through the tunnels beneath the sidewalls to the Empire Meat Market. Stand under prism glass and go through a secret passageway to a prohibition Card Room. Continue through the tunnels to the Duck Pin Bowling Alley where you will learn about the Triple Nickels and Doolittle Raiders who trained here. If you are interested in learning about Pendleton Air Base, visit the Pendleton Air Museum a few doors down.
Explore the Tamastslikt Cultural Institute to learn about the storied past, contemporary culture, and bright economic future of the Cayuse, Umatilla, and Walla Walla Tribes. With world-class exhibits and interactive displays, local, regional, and national history is interpreted through the voices, collective memories, objects, and images of the native people. In the expansive Museum Store, discover the creativity of dozens of tribal artists as well as books, music, huckleberry treats, and exclusive Tamastslikt limited-edition collectible Pendleton blankets. Along the way, enjoy conversations with elders, traveling exhibits, storytelling, and hands-on displays. Between sites, enjoy a complimentary lunch at Sister's Cafe.
This is a Signature shore excursion and should be reserved in advance. Please call (800) 894-8570 for information.
Activity Level: Moderate | ADA ACCESSIBLE: Yes
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Sacajawea Interpretive Center - Complimentary Excursion
Sacajawea Interpretive Center - Complimentary Excursion
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.
Activity Level: Low | ADA ACCESSIBLE: Yes
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Day 4 - 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.
Excursions & Entertainment
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A Day of Cruising
A Day of Cruising
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.
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Day 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.
Excursions & Entertainment
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Bonneville Dam
Bonneville Dam
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.
Activity Level: Low | ADA ACCESSIBLE: Yes
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Columbia River Gorge Interpretive Center - Complimentary Excursion
Columbia River Gorge Interpretive Center - Complimentary Excursion
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.
Activity Level: Low | ADA ACCESSIBLE: Yes
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Multnomah Falls - Complimentary Excursion
Multnomah Falls - Complimentary Excursion
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.
Activity Level: Moderate | ADA ACCESSIBLE: Yes
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Guided Gorge Kayak Excursion
Guided Gorge Kayak Excursion
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
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Day 6 - 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.
Excursions & Entertainment
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Mount St. Helens Experience - Complimentary
Mount St. Helens Experience - Complimentary
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.
Activity Level: Moderate | ADA ACCESSIBLE: Yes
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Port of Kalama Interpretive Center- Complimentary Excursion
Port of Kalama Interpretive Center- Complimentary Excursion
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.
Activity Level: Low | ADA ACCESSIBLE: Yes
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Day 7 - 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.
Excursions & Entertainment
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Astoria Local Loop - Complimentary Excursion
Astoria Local Loop - Complimentary Excursion
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
Activity Level: Low | ADA ACCESSIBLE: Yes
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Cape Disappointment State Park
Cape Disappointment State Park
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.
Activity Level: Low | ADA ACCESSIBLE: Yes
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Columbia River Maritime Museum - Complimentary Excursion
Columbia River Maritime Museum - Complimentary Excursion
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
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Fort Clatsop Experience
Fort Clatsop Experience
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.
Activity Level: Low | ADA ACCESSIBLE: Yes
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Astoria Walking Exploration
Astoria Walking Exploration
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
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Day 8 - 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.
Excursions & Entertainment
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A Day of Cruising
A Day of Cruising
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.
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Day 9 - 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.
Excursions & Entertainment
Ships
Ships Deck Plans, Staterooms
American Harmony
Deck Plan 1
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
American Jazz
Stateroom Categories
Select below for stateroom details
- Grand Suite Private Balcony
- Owner's Suite Private Balcony
- Veranda Suite Private Balcony
- AAM Private Balcony
- AAC Private Balcony
- AAL Private Balcony
- AAR Private Balcony
- Single Private Balcony
American Song
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
- AAG Private Balcony
American West
Stateroom Categories
Select below for stateroom details
- Veranda Suite Private Balcony
- AAC Private Balcony
- AAL Private Balcony
- AAG
- AA
- A
- Single- Balcony Private Balcony
- Single
Upcoming Cruises
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