Columbia River Gorge Cruise

Arrive in Portland and settle into the comfort of your hotel. A hotel stay is included with every Columbia River Gorge expedition to make your trip easier and give you time to explore the area. Nestled between the Columbia and Willamette Rivers, this location blends history with the natural beauty of the waterways.

On the morning of your cruise, meet in the hotel lobby after breakfast. From there, you are taken to the port in Camas-Washougal, where your luggage is ready in your stateroom. The aim is to make the start of your river journey as smooth as possible.

 

Begin your unforgettable journey at the port of Camas-Washougal. Step aboard the ship and let the gentle flow of the river carry you past lush forests and towering cliffs, with the Cascade Range peaks stretching across the horizon. Relive the golden age of river travel as sternwheelers glide by, their steam whistles blending with the cheerful tunes of calliopes. Surrounded by sparkling waters and vibrant evergreens, it’s easy to understand why this region inspired explorer Meriwether Lewis. The day is yours—explore the ship, relax in one of the comfortable lounges, or bask in the sunshine on the spacious deck.

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.

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

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, cozy 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 leaves a lasting impression.

Columbia Gorge Discovery Center - Complimentary Excursion
As you step off the ship, you'll be greeted by members of the local visitor’s center who are dressed in period clothing from the pinnacle days of riverboating. The guide meets you 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 you watch birds of prey put on an aerobatic display and learn about the protected eagles that call the gorge home.

Activity Level: Low | ADA ACCESSIBLE: Yes

Neon Sign Museum - Complimentary Excursion
Imagine a simpler time. From streets that were fan faired with smaltz and glass beaded signs to windows dazzled from the glow of full storefront neon, America was booming. The National Neon Sign Museum captures the vibrant history, craftsmanship, and culture that shaped America as seen through the evolution of pre-electric vintage signage and advertising. From the turn of the century through the 1960s, The National Neon Sign Museum displays early ephemera, scientific equipment, industry machinery and spectacular examples of pre-electric and full store front neon signs. View, explore, and engage with signage and advertising from the turn of the century through the 1960s.

Activity Level: Low | ADA ACCESSIBLE: Yes

Fort Dalles Museum - Complimentary Excursion
Housed in the former Surgeon’s Quarters, the Fort Dalles Museum is located in the only remaining officer’s quarters of the 1856 Fort Dalles military complex. Explore the unique collection of pioneer and military artifacts and antique wagons at one of the Old West’s most pivotal places in history. View engaging exhibits and walk the grounds of this impressive military fort.

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 centers, fine dining establishments, theaters, wineries, and abundant recreational opportunities. Still, the forests hold the stories of the discovery of the West.

Explore the Cascade Mountains from the 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 center, 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.

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

After breakfast on board, you 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, hope your time on exploring the Columbia River Gorge has instilled in you the very essence of the West the pioneers discovered.