Highlights of the Columbia River Cruise
Portland, OR to Portland, OR
Board a modern small ship near the city of Portland, Oregon, for a journey that captures the essence of the Columbia River. As you cruise, the river will reveal its diverse ecology and fascinating history, guided by our experts who are well-versed in the stories of the land.
Your trip includes unforgettable stops such as the Columbia River Maritime Museum, which showcases interactive exhibits and artifacts, vividly illustrating the region’s seafaring past. A visit to Fort Clatsop offers a glimpse into early 19th-century exploration of Lewis and Clark. At their meticulously recreated winter encampment, you can experience the trials and tribulations these pioneers faced. Learn more about the shores you cruise alongside at the Columbia River Gorge Interpretive Center. Featuring engaging displays and dynamic storytelling about the geological wonders and cultural history of the Gorge, this unique stop provides a look into the area's vibrant past.
Enjoy a comfortable cruise aboard our state-of-the-art vessels, where you'll find unmatched service and comfort provided by our dedicated crew, ensuring a memorable experience on the water.
Traveling with American Cruise Lines has never been easier. Ask about our flat-rate domestic Airfare option available on our Highlights of the Columbia River Cruise itinerary.
Itinerary
Map & Itinerary Overview
Cruise the Columbia River Gorge and navigate through the Cascade Mountains with stops at Mount St. Helens, Stevenson, WA, and Astoria, OR. Experience the best of the Pacific Northwest through personalized, well-crafted excursions.
Day 1 - Portland, OR
Arrive in Portland and check into your hotel. Positioned at the confluence of the Columbia and Willamette Rivers, this area is deeply connected to the ebbs and flows of these significant waterways, shaping its historical and cultural landscape. On land, this city is celebrated for its eclectic arts scene, breathtaking nature, and a commitment to sustainability that's reflected in its numerous bike paths and green initiatives. Known as the "City of Roses," Portland's laid-back atmosphere is complemented by its innovative culinary offerings and vibrant coffee culture. American Cruise Lines will ensure that you and your luggage make it to the ship to begin your adventure in the port of Camas-Washougal.
Day 2 - Cruising the Columbia River
Step aboard your vessel and spend your day cruising with the iconic silhouettes of Mount Hood and Mount St. Helens framing the horizon. As we navigate toward the mouth of the region's most storied river, you'll be transported back to the riverboat era when sternwheelers dominated the waterfront, their steam whistles and calliopes echoing across the water.
Surrounded by sparkling rivers, towering evergreens, and a gentle climate, you'll quickly see the exceptional beauty that explorer Meriwether Lewis once noted. Relax and mingle with other guests in one of the ship's expansive lounges or catch panoramic views from the sun deck.
Day 3 - Astoria, OR
Astoria, Oregon, stands dramatically at the edge where the mighty Columbia River meets the Pacific. Founded in 1811, it's the first American settlement on the western frontier. The sprawling Astoria-Megler Bridge, a marvel of engineering, arches boldly over the river, linking Oregon to Washington. At the Columbia River Maritime Museum, tales of peril on the treacherous waters known as the "Graveyard of the Pacific" come alive. Astoria's storied streets, lined with elegant Victorian homes and the grand, restored Liberty Theater, echo the prosperity of its salmon-canning heyday. Today, Astoria buzzes with a dynamic blend of history, art, and a thriving seafood scene, drawing visitors into its captivating charm. Stand on the city’s edge and see the mountains cascade into the sky and the calm waters brush up to the city’s side.
Day 4 - Kalama, WA
Kalama, Washington, is a scenic gem on the banks of the Columbia River, known for its panoramic views and deep-water port. Established in the late 19th century, Kalama was originally envisioned as the northern final stop of the Northern Pacific Railroad, a plan that stamped the town with a strong industrial influence. Its waterfront is distinguished by totem poles, each intricately carved to reflect stories and symbols significant to local indigenous culture, celebrating the area's original inhabitants.
Modern Kalama combines its historical roots with a welcoming small-town atmosphere, highlighted during community events like Kalama Heritage Festival. The town also serves as a peaceful residential area and a gateway for exploring the natural beauty of southwestern Washington, attracting both nature lovers and those intrigued by its tranquil riverfront lifestyle.
With our new private dock, this port town is easy to explore. Whether you want to pave your own way or join a tour led by a local guide, there’s so much to learn in Kalama.
Day 5 - Stevenson, WA
From your exclusive private balcony, revel in the splendor of the Columbia River Gorge, where verdant bluffs draped in thick forests stand against a backdrop of rolling hills that seem to touch the clouds. Witness the dance of windsurfers and kiteboarders gliding across the expansive, shimmering river below.
Venture to nearby attractions for a day of diverse experiences. Marvel at the majestic Multnomah Falls, cascading an impressive 620 feet from mountain peaks into the rushing river. Explore the wonders of hydroelectricity at the Bonneville Dam visitor's center and delve into the intriguing exhibits of the Columbia Gorge Interpretive Center Museum. Experience the charm of Stevenson village, conveniently accessible from our dock, boasting a unique Northwest ambiance. Alternatively, savor the tranquility of nature from the deck with a refreshing beverage in hand, basking in the sheer beauty of your surroundings.
Day 6 - Portland, OR
Conclude your adventure where it commenced, outside the city of Portland. As you bid adieu to this idyllic haven, cherish the moments and memories forged along the journey. Don’t worry, we’ll take you to the airport too. There is so much more to the Columbia River, so, until we meet again, continue to explore wherever you go.
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.
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.
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
Your local 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 downtown Main Street which has been completely rebuilt after two fires, one in 1883 and one later in 1922. View several excellent examples of early 20th-century commercial architecture, including the towering Astor Hotel and the highly ornate, terracotta-clad Liberty Theater. When built in 1924, the hotel was the tallest building on the Oregon Coast and the theatre was an early movie palace. Continue 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
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
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
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
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
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
Join this Dot Painting class and immerse yourself in the fascinating world of this ancient art form. Originating from Indigenous cultures, dot painting uses intricate, repetitive dots to create vibrant, visually captivating designs. In this class, you'll learn the fundamental techniques of dot painting, from choosing the right materials to mastering the application of dots in unique patterns and compositions. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced artist, this class offers a fun, creative environment where you can express yourself through color and form, while gaining insight into the cultural significance behind this beautiful art. Let your creativity flow as you bring your own masterpiece to life. Please meet at the gangway to be escorted to the experience, a short walk from the ship.
Activity Level: Low | ADA Accessible: Yes
Embark on an unforgettable adventure to Beacon Rock State Park, located in the heart of the Columbia River Gorge. This exhilarating hike takes you to the summit of one of Washington's most iconic landmarks, offering breathtaking views of the Gorge and surrounding landscape. The nature walk starts in a forested area, before ascending on the basalt monolith along a gradually ascending well-maintained, switchback path which offers incredible views across the Columbia River and the surrounding Cascade Mountains. Perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers, this excursion promises a memorable experience as you climb to new heights, admiring natural beauty and learning about the geologic history of the rock, Ice age floods, Lewis and Clark’s Journey of Discovery, as well as local flora and fauna.
Activity Level: High / ADA Accessible: No
This is a Signature shore excursion and should be reserved in advance. Please call (800) 894-8570 for information.
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
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
Aboard a comfortable 24-foot fishing vessel, embark on an unforgettable Sturgeon fishing adventure and experience the thrill of fishing for these ancient giants in pristine waters. Let expert guides lead you to the best fishing spots. Whether you're a seasoned angler or a beginner, this is the perfect opportunity to connect with nature and land a prized catch!
Activity Level: Moderate / ADA Accessible: No
This is a Signature shore excursion and should be reserved in advance. Please call (800) 894-8570 for information.
Discover the 10,000 years of indigenous native history that makes the Columbia Gorge one of the oldest areas of human habitation in the Western Hemisphere. Learn about early explorers like Lewis and Clark and the Oregon Trail pioneers, as well energy and natural resources and early transportation along the Historic Columbia River Highway. The Raptor Program will introduce you to live birds of prey as you learn about these majestic birds and their habitat
Activity Level: Low | ADA ACCESSIBLE: Yes
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
This is a Signature shore excursion and should be reserved in advance. Please call (800) 460-4518 for information.
Located in the beautiful Columbia River Gorge, visit Cedar Creek Alpacas, and be welcomed by the Rogers at their family farm. Get to know these soft, sweet animals as you pet and feed them. Then learn how fibers are spun into alpaca yarn and woven on a loom. You will have an opportunity to visit the fiber studio and shop in the farm store for yarn, apparel, and special gifts made from soft wool.
Activity Level: Moderate / ADA Accessibility: No
Explore Hood River’s car-free historic highway and beyond on an electric bike adventure. Your guide will lead you to stunning Columbia Gorge views and share fun facts on your way to the quaint town of Mosier, OR. Upon arrival, relish a relaxing break at a local coffee shop or enjoy an ice cream.
Activity Level: High| ADA ACCESSIBLE: No