Northwest Pioneers Cruise

2-Night Hells Canyon Pre-Cruise Package

This 2-night package features two nights in Clarkston at a hotel conveniently located near the dock for easier boarding. Enjoy breakfast both mornings, as well as a full day in Hells Canyon. Explore the deepest canyon in North America on a Jet Boat Adventure and be treated to lunch at a private ranch located deep inside the canyon.  

For cruises departing from Hayden Island, the Hells Canyon Jet Boat Adventure is part of a Post-Cruise Package in Clarkston, WA.

Pre-Cruise and Post-Cruise Packages must be reserved at least 30 days before your cruise date. Please call (800) 460-4518 in advance for pricing and availability.

1-Night Complimentary 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.

Pre-Cruise Hotel Stays must be reserved at least 30 days before your cruise date. Please call (800) 460-4518 to reserve your space.

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.

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. 

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.

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. 

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.

Day of Cruising the Columbia River Gorge

Cruise arguably the most spectacular river canyon in the United States. From your private balcony, you'll experience mountainous views, breathtaking scenery, and the modern comfort of our ship.

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.

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.

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.

Western Antique Aeroplane & Automobile Museum - Complimentary Excursion

The Western Antique Aeroplane & Automobile Museum is dedicated to the preservation of all means of transportation. Enjoy viewing the cars, planes, motorcycles, military vehicles, and more, which are housed in this 3.5-acre indoor hangar. Rather than just refinishing the outside surface, engines are rebuilt so all are operable, resulting in one of the largest collections of antique planes and cars that are still in working condition.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Hells Canyon Post-Cruise Package (Brand New)

After breakfast, disembark the ship and begin your amazing Hells Canyon Jet 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 lunch at a private ranch within the canyon. 

In the afternoon, we will escort you to the Holiday Inn Clarkston-Lewiston, where your luggage will be waiting for you. Explore the charming towns of Clarkston and Lewiston at your leisure. Enjoy a 1-night stay, breakfast the following morning, and transportation the Lewiston-Nez Perce County Regional Airport (LWS) to begin your journey home.     

Post-Cruise Packages must be reserved at least 30 days before your cruise date. Please call (800) 460-4518 for pricing and availability.

2-Night Hells Canyon Pre-Cruise Package

This 2-night package features two nights in Clarkston at a hotel conveniently located near the dock for easier boarding. Enjoy breakfast both mornings, as well as a full day in Hells Canyon. Explore the deepest canyon in North America on a Jet Boat Adventure and be treated to lunch at a private ranch located deep inside the canyon.  

For cruises departing from Hayden Island, the Hells Canyon Jet Boat Adventure is part of a Post-Cruise Package in Clarkston, WA.

Pre-Cruise and Post-Cruise Packages must be reserved at least 30 days before your cruise date. Please call (800) 460-4518 in advance for pricing and availability.

1-Night Complimentary 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.

Pre-Cruise Hotel Stays must be reserved at least 30 days before your cruise date. Please call (800) 460-4518 to reserve your space.

Hells Canyon Post-Cruise Package (Brand New)

After breakfast, disembark the ship and begin your amazing Hells Canyon Jet 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 lunch at a private ranch within the canyon. 

In the afternoon, we will escort you to the Holiday Inn Clarkston-Lewiston, where your luggage will be waiting for you. Explore the charming towns of Clarkston and Lewiston at your leisure. Enjoy a 1-night stay, breakfast the following morning, and transportation the Lewiston-Nez Perce County Regional Airport (LWS) to begin your journey home.     

Post-Cruise Packages must be reserved at least 30 days before your cruise date. Please call (800) 460-4518 for pricing and availability.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Western Antique Aeroplane & Automobile Museum - Complimentary Excursion

The Western Antique Aeroplane & Automobile Museum is dedicated to the preservation of all means of transportation. Enjoy viewing the cars, planes, motorcycles, military vehicles, and more, which are housed in this 3.5-acre indoor hangar. Rather than just refinishing the outside surface, engines are rebuilt so all are operable, resulting in one of the largest collections of antique planes and cars that are still in working condition.

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.

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.

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.

Day of Cruising the Columbia River Gorge

Cruise arguably the most spectacular river canyon in the United States. From your private balcony, you'll experience mountainous views, breathtaking scenery, and the modern comfort of our ship.

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.

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. 

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.

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. 

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.