Columbia and Snake Rivers Cruise

Columbia & Snake River Pre-Cruise Hotel Stay

Each Columbia and Snake Rivers itinerary comes complete with a Complimentary Pre-Cruise Hotel Stay, providing you with a seamless way to board the ship and explore the local area. Arrive the day before your scheduled cruise date and American Cruise Lines will handle the rest. The package includes a premium hotel stay, where you can enjoy the city at your leisure. 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.

Hells Canyon Jet Boat Adventure

After savoring a homemade lunch at Garden Creek Ranch, you will board the jet boats to enjoy a relaxing day of breathtaking scenery and white water adventure. View bighorn sheep, ancient rock formations, and Native American’s pictographs as you are guided through North America’s deepest gorge - Hells Canyon. 

For cruises departing from Hayden Island, this is a Signature shore excursion and should be reserved in advance. For cruises departing from Clarkston, the Jet Boat Adventure is offered as part of our Hells Canyon Pre-Cruise Package. Please call (800) 460-4518 in advance for more information.

Hayden Island

Begin your journey on Hayden Island, discovered by Lieutenant William Robert Broughton in 1792. It is located on an island in the Columbia River between Vancouver, Washington, and Oregon.

Discover Astoria - Exploration Shuttle

Enjoy a guided exploration shuttle while making stops at the Heritage Museum, The Astoria Column, the Flavel House Museum and Downtown Astoria.

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. 

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. 

Onboard Entertainment - David Duthie

The duo of David Duthie and Bo Ayers will entertain guests with a set of songs from the “Great American Songbook,” a collection of the most important and influential American popular songs of the 20th century. These familiar melodies are principally from Broadway theatre, musical theatre, and Hollywood musical film from the 1920s through the 1950s.

Entertainment times, days, and performers are subject to change.

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. 

Mount St. Helens Experience - Complimentary Excursion

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 Johnston Ridge Observatory, your tour guide will provide engaging commentary regarding the eruption, how it affected the landscape and surrounding communities, and how the environment has responded naturally to the disturbance. The Observatory itself sits on a bluff near the crater, offering spectacular views of the pumice plain and blast site.

Multnomah Falls - Complimentary Excursion

A highlight of any trip to the Pacific Northwest is Multnomah Falls, the second tallest year-round waterfall in the U.S.  After breakfast, our private guide will meet you at the ship’s dock along the Columbia River Gorge to begin your journey. As you wind through the thick forest, cross the impressive “Bridge of the Gods,” before finally reaching Multnomah Falls. Upon arrival, you will have time to explore the Falls on your own and walk the famous Benson Bridge to get the best vantage point for your photo opportunities.

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.

Onboard Entertainment - Kevin Neil

Kevin Neil is a solo guitar player who brings our ship's voyage to life. His "Songs of the Sailor" performance is a collection of maritime songs and sea shanties inspired by sailors from bygone days, while his Cowboy Kevin show features a country-style twang, reminiscent of the heroic cowboys of the Old West.

Entertainment times, days, and performers are subject to change.

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.

Maryhill Winery Exploration & Tasting

Enjoy an exploration and tasting at the renowned Maryhill Winery, one of the largest wineries in Washington State. Begin on the terrace overlooking vineyard and the Columbia River, with the majestic Mt. Hood serving as a stunning backdrop. On a guided walk to the vineyard, learn about the history of the winery, the grapes that are used to make Maryhill varietals, as well as the fermentation process.

Mount Hood Railroad Adventure

Mount Hood Railroad is a century-old, short line railroad offering scenic passenger excursions through the heart of the Columbia River Gorge. Take an unforgettable, narrated train journey through the scenic valleys of the Columbia River Gorge in the shadow of Mount Hood in Oregon. As we travel along orchards, vineyards, and forests, enjoy picture perfect views and capture the nostalgia of classic American train travel.

Columbia Gorge Discovery Center - Complimentary Excursion

As you step off the ship, you will be greeted by members of the local visitor’s center who are dressed in period clothing from the pinnacle days of riverboating. Our guide will meet us at the ship for a short narrated tour of the town before arriving at the Columbia Gorge Discovery Center.

Explore the various exhibits that describe the volcanic upheaval and raging floods that helped to create the gorge. The highlight of the center visit includes a unique raptor exhibition where we watch birds of prey put on an aerobatic display and learn about the protected eagles that call the gorge home.

Maryhill Museum of Art

Overlooking the gorge sits the Maryhill Museum of Art. Here, Native American artifacts, royal memorabilia from Queen Marie of Romania, outdoor sculptures, and a permanent collection of international chess sets adorn the museum halls. You will not only be treated to one-of-a-kind permanent collection, but also a variety of featured exhibitions.

Sacagawea Interpretive Center

Explore this fascinating destination, located at the very place where Lewis & 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.

The Pendleton Experience

Enjoy a scenic ride through the countryside and witness the striking contrast in landscape as you make your way to Pendleton for the day’s excursions. Upon arrival, be greeted by our private tour guide who will take you to explore Pendleton’s infamous underground city, followed by a complimentary BBQ lunch at the famous Hamley’s Restaurant. In the afternoon, travel to the Tamastslikt Cultural Institute, for a look into the storied past of the Cayuse, Umatilla, and Walla Walla Tribes. Finally, visit the famous Pendleton Woolen Mill for a tour and the chance to purchase authentic woven goods.

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

The REACH Museum

Looking through the lens of The Hanford Reach National Monument and the Columbia River, the REACH Museum illustrates the rich culture and history of Eastern Washington through engaging exhibits, artifacts, and tours. Featuring over 14,000 square feet of exhibits, the museum claims the only complete baby woolly mammoth skeleton on display.

Echoes from Our Ancestors

Join a Nimippuu (Nez Perce) guide on a fascinating jet boat ride up the Snake River into Hells Canyon. Listen to ancient legends of these native people and explore the places their ancestors called home. Learn the importance of “Tsceminicum” (She-mi-ni-cum), where the waters meet, and why water is considered sacred. Explore sites, where Nimiipuu encampments where once located, and visit fishing, hunting, gathering places. Along the rocks of Buffalo Eddy, view ancient messages left in the petroglyphs. End your amazing journey with a Pow Wow dance and drum performance by the native Nimippuu, which celebrates the sacred landscape and echoes the voices of their ancestors. This is a Signature shore excursion and should be reserved in advance. Please call (800) 460-4518 for information.

Hells Canyon Jet Boat Adventure

After savoring a homemade lunch at Garden Creek Ranch, you will board the jet boats to enjoy a relaxing day of breathtaking scenery and white water adventure. View bighorn sheep, ancient rock formations, and Native American’s pictographs as you are guided through North America’s deepest gorge - Hells Canyon. 

For cruises departing from Hayden Island, this is a Signature shore excursion and should be reserved in advance. For cruises departing from Clarkston, the Jet Boat Adventure is offered as part of our Hells Canyon Pre-Cruise Package. Please call (800) 460-4518 in advance for more information.

Nez Perce National Historic Park

Take a short ride to Spalding, ID and visit the Nez Perce National Historical Park where you will learn about the rich history of the Nez Perce Native American tribe while hearing amazing stories of adventure, friendship, courage, innovation, hardship, and the pioneering spirit.

Please Note: This excursion is only available on cruises ending in Clarkston.

Last Day

After breakfast, explore the scenic city of Clarkston at your leisure. If you need assistance with departure travel arrangements, be sure to ask our onboard hotel manager.
 
Please Note: On reverse itineraries, we offer a Premium Pre-Cruise Hotel Stays which includes a Hells Canyon Jet Boat Adventure. Call a Cruise Specialist to learn more. 

Columbia & Snake River Pre-Cruise Hotel Stay

Each Columbia and Snake Rivers itinerary comes complete with a Complimentary Pre-Cruise Hotel Stay, providing you with a seamless way to board the ship and explore the local area. Arrive the day before your scheduled cruise date and American Cruise Lines will handle the rest. The package includes a premium hotel stay, where you can enjoy the city at your leisure. 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.

Hells Canyon Jet Boat Adventure

After savoring a homemade lunch at Garden Creek Ranch, you will board the jet boats to enjoy a relaxing day of breathtaking scenery and white water adventure. View bighorn sheep, ancient rock formations, and Native American’s pictographs as you are guided through North America’s deepest gorge - Hells Canyon. 

For cruises departing from Hayden Island, this is a Signature shore excursion and should be reserved in advance. For cruises departing from Clarkston, the Jet Boat Adventure is offered as part of our Hells Canyon Pre-Cruise Package. Please call (800) 460-4518 in advance for more information.

Last Day

After breakfast, explore the scenic city of Clarkston at your leisure. If you need assistance with departure travel arrangements, be sure to ask our onboard hotel manager.
 
Please Note: On reverse itineraries, we offer a Premium Pre-Cruise Hotel Stays which includes a Hells Canyon Jet Boat Adventure. Call a Cruise Specialist to learn more. 

Echoes from Our Ancestors

Join a Nimippuu (Nez Perce) guide on a fascinating jet boat ride up the Snake River into Hells Canyon. Listen to ancient legends of these native people and explore the places their ancestors called home. Learn the importance of “Tsceminicum” (She-mi-ni-cum), where the waters meet, and why water is considered sacred. Explore sites, where Nimiipuu encampments where once located, and visit fishing, hunting, gathering places. Along the rocks of Buffalo Eddy, view ancient messages left in the petroglyphs. End your amazing journey with a Pow Wow dance and drum performance by the native Nimippuu, which celebrates the sacred landscape and echoes the voices of their ancestors. This is a Signature shore excursion and should be reserved in advance. Please call (800) 460-4518 for information.

Hells Canyon Jet Boat Adventure

After savoring a homemade lunch at Garden Creek Ranch, you will board the jet boats to enjoy a relaxing day of breathtaking scenery and white water adventure. View bighorn sheep, ancient rock formations, and Native American’s pictographs as you are guided through North America’s deepest gorge - Hells Canyon. 

For cruises departing from Hayden Island, this is a Signature shore excursion and should be reserved in advance. For cruises departing from Clarkston, the Jet Boat Adventure is offered as part of our Hells Canyon Pre-Cruise Package. Please call (800) 460-4518 in advance for more information.

Nez Perce National Historic Park

Take a short ride to Spalding, ID and visit the Nez Perce National Historical Park where you will learn about the rich history of the Nez Perce Native American tribe while hearing amazing stories of adventure, friendship, courage, innovation, hardship, and the pioneering spirit.

Please Note: This excursion is only available on cruises ending in Clarkston.

Sacagawea Interpretive Center

Explore this fascinating destination, located at the very place where Lewis & 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.

The Pendleton Experience

Enjoy a scenic ride through the countryside and witness the striking contrast in landscape as you make your way to Pendleton for the day’s excursions. Upon arrival, be greeted by our private tour guide who will take you to explore Pendleton’s infamous underground city, followed by a complimentary BBQ lunch at the famous Hamley’s Restaurant. In the afternoon, travel to the Tamastslikt Cultural Institute, for a look into the storied past of the Cayuse, Umatilla, and Walla Walla Tribes. Finally, visit the famous Pendleton Woolen Mill for a tour and the chance to purchase authentic woven goods.

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

The REACH Museum

Looking through the lens of The Hanford Reach National Monument and the Columbia River, the REACH Museum illustrates the rich culture and history of Eastern Washington through engaging exhibits, artifacts, and tours. Featuring over 14,000 square feet of exhibits, the museum claims the only complete baby woolly mammoth skeleton on display.

Maryhill Winery Exploration & Tasting

Enjoy an exploration and tasting at the renowned Maryhill Winery, one of the largest wineries in Washington State. Begin on the terrace overlooking vineyard and the Columbia River, with the majestic Mt. Hood serving as a stunning backdrop. On a guided walk to the vineyard, learn about the history of the winery, the grapes that are used to make Maryhill varietals, as well as the fermentation process.

Mount Hood Railroad Adventure

Mount Hood Railroad is a century-old, short line railroad offering scenic passenger excursions through the heart of the Columbia River Gorge. Take an unforgettable, narrated train journey through the scenic valleys of the Columbia River Gorge in the shadow of Mount Hood in Oregon. As we travel along orchards, vineyards, and forests, enjoy picture perfect views and capture the nostalgia of classic American train travel.

Columbia Gorge Discovery Center - Complimentary Excursion

As you step off the ship, you will be greeted by members of the local visitor’s center who are dressed in period clothing from the pinnacle days of riverboating. Our guide will meet us at the ship for a short narrated tour of the town before arriving at the Columbia Gorge Discovery Center.

Explore the various exhibits that describe the volcanic upheaval and raging floods that helped to create the gorge. The highlight of the center visit includes a unique raptor exhibition where we watch birds of prey put on an aerobatic display and learn about the protected eagles that call the gorge home.

Maryhill Museum of Art

Overlooking the gorge sits the Maryhill Museum of Art. Here, Native American artifacts, royal memorabilia from Queen Marie of Romania, outdoor sculptures, and a permanent collection of international chess sets adorn the museum halls. You will not only be treated to one-of-a-kind permanent collection, but also a variety of featured exhibitions.

Multnomah Falls - Complimentary Excursion

A highlight of any trip to the Pacific Northwest is Multnomah Falls, the second tallest year-round waterfall in the U.S.  After breakfast, our private guide will meet you at the ship’s dock along the Columbia River Gorge to begin your journey. As you wind through the thick forest, cross the impressive “Bridge of the Gods,” before finally reaching Multnomah Falls. Upon arrival, you will have time to explore the Falls on your own and walk the famous Benson Bridge to get the best vantage point for your photo opportunities.

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.

Onboard Entertainment - Kevin Neil

Kevin Neil is a solo guitar player who brings our ship's voyage to life. His "Songs of the Sailor" performance is a collection of maritime songs and sea shanties inspired by sailors from bygone days, while his Cowboy Kevin show features a country-style twang, reminiscent of the heroic cowboys of the Old West.

Entertainment times, days, and performers are subject to change.

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.

Mount St. Helens Experience - Complimentary Excursion

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 Johnston Ridge Observatory, your tour guide will provide engaging commentary regarding the eruption, how it affected the landscape and surrounding communities, and how the environment has responded naturally to the disturbance. The Observatory itself sits on a bluff near the crater, offering spectacular views of the pumice plain and blast site.

Discover Astoria - Exploration Shuttle

Enjoy a guided exploration shuttle while making stops at the Heritage Museum, The Astoria Column, the Flavel House Museum and Downtown Astoria.

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. 

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. 

Onboard Entertainment - David Duthie

The duo of David Duthie and Bo Ayers will entertain guests with a set of songs from the “Great American Songbook,” a collection of the most important and influential American popular songs of the 20th century. These familiar melodies are principally from Broadway theatre, musical theatre, and Hollywood musical film from the 1920s through the 1950s.

Entertainment times, days, and performers are subject to change.

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. 

Hayden Island

Begin your journey on Hayden Island, discovered by Lieutenant William Robert Broughton in 1792. It is located on an island in the Columbia River between Vancouver, Washington, and Oregon.