Columbia River Gorge Cruise - 7 Days

Upon reaching Portland, ease into the comfort of your hotel. Included with every Columbia River Gorge expedition is a Hotel Stay, curated to facilitate effortless embarkation, and allow ample time for local exploration. Enveloped by the gentle embrace of the Columbia and Willamette Rivers, this locale is where history intertwines with the ebb and flow of these waterways.

As dawn breaks on the day of your cruise, convene in the hotel's lobby following breakfast. From there, we'll transport you to the awaiting vessel in the port of Camas-Washougal, where your luggage will be waiting in your stateroom. We ensure a hassle-free commencement to your river voyage.

Arrive at the port of Camas-Washougal to begin your epic journey.

Step aboard the ship and let the gentle currents guide you past lush forests and dramatic cliffs, with the peaks of the Cascade Range framing the horizon. Experience a revival of the glory days of river navigation, where sternwheelers glide along the waterfront, their steam whistles harmonizing with the melodies of calliopes. Surrounded by sparkling rivers and lavish evergreens, it's easy to see why this region captured the imagination of explorer Meriwether Lewis.

The day is yours to enjoy—explore the ship, unwind in one of our spacious lounges, or soak up the sun on the expansive deck.

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

Hood River is located at the panoramic crossroads of the Columbia River Gorge and the Cascade Range, surrounded by towering mountains and lush forests. Officially established in 1854, Hood River has a rich history that dates back to the Native American tribes who lived here for thousands of years. In 1805, the Lewis and Clark Expedition traversed the area, marking the beginning of an American expansion into the West. Its location along the Columbia River made it a key site for trade, transportation, and agriculture, especially apples, and later pears, becoming known as the "Pear Capital of the World." In the early 20th century, the development of the Bonneville Dam and the construction of the Historic Columbia River Highway stimulated growth and development. Today, Hood River is a lively town known for its outdoor activities, agricultural heritage, and expanding tech scene, while continuing to preserve its scenic beauty and small-town charm. The downtown area features charming boutiques, cafes, and galleries, as well as numerous wineries and breweries offering tastings that highlight the region’s agricultural bounty.

Optional Excursions:-

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

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.

Activity Level: Low | ADA ACCESSIBLE: Yes

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 capture 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. 

Cedar Creek Alpaca Farm Experience - 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

Stave and Stone Winery at the Vineyard - Experience this enchanting winery, where you can indulge in exquisite tastings while surrounded by picturesque vineyards. Explore the delightful lavender farm gift shop, offering unique lavender-infused products and souvenirs. An on-site expert will guide you through the various wines, sharing insights into their unique flavours and production methods. The tranquil surroundings provide the perfect backdrop for relaxation and connection.  Activity Level: Low | ADA Accessible: Yes

Gorge Sailing Ventures - Enjoy the beautiful Columbia River Gorge from a vantage you have never experienced before. Bring all five senses and hop aboard. Hoist the sails, steer the boat, or just sit back and enjoy the views of the spectacular Columbia River Gorge aboard S/V Northern Exposure. Activity Level: High| ADA ACCESSIBLE: No

This is a Signature shore excursion and should be reserved in advance. 

Guided Electric Bike Exploration - Discover the beauty of the Columbia River Gorge on our Electric Bike Adventure along the iconic, car-free Historic Highway. Your expert guide will lead you to breathtaking viewpoints, take you through the twin tunnels, and share fascinating stories about the Gorge’s history. This guided adventure offers a perfect combination of nature, fun, and education. 

Activity Level: High | ADA ACCESSIBLE: No

This is a Signature shore excursion and should be reserved in advance. 

The Dalles, marking the final stretch of the historic Oregon Trail, offers a stunning panorama of Mount Hood and Mount Adams, each towering over 11,000 feet above you. While this rugged terrain posed challenges for 19th-century pioneers, today's visitors find it utterly captivating.

Disembark to explore the historic downtown, just steps away from the ship, boasting charming museums, cosy cafes, lively pubs, and a vibrant collection of historic murals adorning the streets. Alternatively, opt for guided excursions to delve into the area's rich history, admire a unique art collection housed in a splendid bluff-top building overlooking the river, or indulge in an afternoon with expert sommeliers, sipping on the fertile Columbia Valley. Whether wandering independently or guided by local experts, The Dalles promises a journey through history and culture that will leave a lasting impression.

Optional Excursions:-

The Dalles Local Loop - Complimentary Excursion - Our convenient Cruise Coach will provide a continuous loop with stops at the following locations:

• Columbia Gorge Discovery Center
• Grand Theater 
• Neon Sign Museum
• Fort Dalles Museum
• Anderson Homestead 
• Downtown

Activity Level: Low | ADA ACCESSIBLE: Yes

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.

Activity Level: Low | ADA ACCESSIBLE: Yes

The Columbia River Gorge, a river canyon slicing through the Cascade Mountain Range, showcases dramatic natural juxtapositions, from lush rainforests to arid deserts, and sea-level passages to alpine meadows. Designated as the largest federally protected National Scenic Area in the United States, the Gorge dazzles with its waterfalls, basalt cliffs, serene lakes, winding streams, and wildflower fields.

In the 1800s, Lewis & Clark navigated the scenic Columbia River Gorge during their westward expedition, paving the way for Oregon Trail pioneers. Today, this historic region boasts a plethora of attractions, including museums, art centres, fine dining establishments, theatres, wineries, and abundant recreational opportunities. Still, the forests hold the stories of the discovery of the West.

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.

Explore the Cascade Mountains from our new private dock in Kalama, Washington, where a scenic drive unveils the remnants of Mount St. Helens' 1980 eruption. Accompanied by a local guide, gain insight into the volcano's impact on the environment and local communities. Nearby attractions include a city park, an art-adorned hotel, and an interpretive centre, all within easy reach of the dock. For a taste of local culture, venture to a nearby family vineyard for wine tasting. Whether admiring nature's grandeur or immersing in local heritage, Kalama offers a rich array of experiences for visitors.

Optional Excursions:-

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, 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

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

Dot Painting at the Dot Shop Gallery - 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 colour 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.

Activity Level: Low | ADA Accessible: Yes

Castle Rock Axe House Experience - Try your hand at axe throwing at Castle Rock Axe House, a unique experience that blends skill, focus, and fun. With guidance from experienced staff, learn proper technique and safety, whether you're new to the sport or looking to sharpen your skills. Choose from 16 interactive games—including duck hunt, darts, and tic-tac-toe—that put a creative spin on classic axe throwing.  

Activity Level: Moderate | ADA Accessible: Yes 

After breakfast on board, we say goodbye and transport you to the airport for your journey homeward. Take a moment to reflect on your many experiences, cherished memories, and lasting bonds created along the way. From the thrill of exploration to the warmth of newfound friendships, we hope your time on exploring the Columbia River Gorge has instilled in you the very essence of the West the pioneers discovered. 

Why not stay an extra night or two to immerse yourself in the spirit of this vibrant city?