The Columbia River, often called the “Great River of the West,” stretches over 1,200 miles from British Columbia to the Pacific Ocean. Its largest tributary, the Snake River, winds through Idaho and Washington, carving out the deepest river gorge in North America – Hells Canyon. Together, these mighty waterways offer a cruising experience unlike any other in the United States.
As you journey along these rivers, you’ll trace the path of legendary explorers Lewis and Clark, witness the raw power of nature that shaped this dramatic landscape, and immerse yourself in the diverse cultures that have called this region home for millennia. From the misty coastal forests of Oregon to the sun-drenched vineyards of Washington, each bend in the river reveals a new facet of the Pacific Northwest’s stunning beauty and fascinating heritage.
Modern river cruise ships have transformed these historical waterways into floating havens of comfort and luxury. If you’re seeking an adventure that combines natural wonders, historical significance, and modern comfort, Columbia and Snake River cruises should be at the top of your travel list for 2025.
1. Columbia & Snake Rivers: Food, Wine, & History – National Geographic Sea Lion
Indulge your senses on this culinary and historical adventure aboard the National Geographic Sea Lion. This cruise is a perfect blend of gastronomic delights, world-class wines, and rich cultural experiences, all set against the backdrop of the Pacific Northwest’s stunning river landscapes.
Duration: 5 nights / 6 days
Starting Price: From $4,165 per person (based on double occupancy)
Itinerary:
– Day 1: Portland, Oregon (Embarkation)
– Day 2: Astoria, Oregon
– Day 3: Columbia River Gorge
– Day 4: Walla Walla, Washington
– Day 5: Palouse Falls State Park
– Day 6: Clarkston, Washington (Disembarkation)
Highlights:
– Embark on a culinary journey with farm-to-table experiences and locally sourced ingredients prepared by expert chefs.
– Enjoy wine tastings featuring some of the best vintages from Washington and Oregon’s renowned wine regions.
– Explore the charming coastal town of Astoria, known for its vibrant food scene and historical sites.
– Visit the Columbia River Gorge, a natural wonder, and taste local fruits at a family-owned orchard.
– Experience the Walla Walla Valley’s celebrated wineries with exclusive tastings and tours.
– Witness the stunning Palouse Falls and learn about the dramatic Ice Age floods that shaped the region.
– Gain insights from onboard historians about the Lewis and Clark expedition and Native American heritage.
– Participate in optional activities like kayaking, hiking, or biking to work up an appetite for your next gourmet meal.
2. Columbia & Snake Rivers Cruise – American Jazz
Step aboard the American Jazz for a harmonious blend of modern luxury and historical exploration. This cruise by American Cruise Lines offers a comprehensive journey through the Columbia and Snake Rivers, combining comfort, culture, and natural beauty in one unforgettable experience.
Duration: 8 nights / 9 days
Starting Price: From $6,610 per person (based on double occupancy)
Itinerary:
– Day 1: Portland, Oregon (Embarkation)
– Day 2: Astoria, Oregon
– Day 3: Mount St. Helens, Washington
– Day 4: Stevenson, Washington
– Day 5: The Dalles, Oregon
– Day 6: Richland, Washington
– Day 7-8: Clarkston, Washington & Hells Canyon
– Day 9: Clarkston, Washington (Disembarkation)
Highlights:
– Cruise in style aboard the American Jazz, featuring spacious staterooms, private balconies, and modern amenities.
– Explore the maritime history of Astoria at the Columbia River Maritime Museum.
– Take a scenic journey to the Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument and learn about its dramatic 1980 eruption.
– Visit the Columbia Gorge Discovery Center in The Dalles to delve into the region’s natural and cultural history.
– Enjoy wine tasting in Washington’s premier wine country in the Tri-Cities region.
– Embark on a thrilling jet boat excursion into Hells Canyon, North America’s deepest river gorge.
– Learn about the Lewis and Clark expedition through onboard lectures and shore excursions.
– Experience the engineering marvel of the Columbia River lock system as you cruise through the gorge.
– Savor regionally inspired cuisine featuring fresh, local ingredients throughout your journey.
3. Highlights of the Columbia River Cruise – American Pride
For those seeking a quick but comprehensive taste of the Columbia River’s wonders, the American Pride offers a perfect 4-night getaway. This cruise packs a punch, delivering a blend of natural beauty, historical significance, and modern comfort in a compact timeframe.
Duration: 4 nights / 5 days
Starting Price: From $3,315 per person (based on double occupancy)
Itinerary:
– Day 1: Portland, Oregon (Embarkation)
– Day 2: Astoria, Oregon
– Day 3: Columbia River Gorge & Stevenson, Washington
– Day 4: The Dalles, Oregon
– Day 5: Portland, Oregon (Disembarkation)
Highlights:
– Cruise aboard the American Pride, a modern riverboat offering spacious staterooms and private balconies.
– Explore the charming coastal town of Astoria, including a visit to the Columbia River Maritime Museum.
– Witness the breathtaking beauty of the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area.
– Visit the Bonneville Lock and Dam, a testament to human engineering and a crucial part of the river’s ecosystem.
– Enjoy a tour of the Western Antique Aeroplane & Automobile Museum in Hood River.
– Discover the fascinating history of The Dalles at the Columbia Gorge Discovery Center & Museum.
– Learn about the Lewis and Clark expedition through onboard lectures and shore excursions.
– Savor locally-inspired cuisine featuring fresh ingredients from the Pacific Northwest.
Related: The 9 best Mississippi River cruises for seniors
4. Columbia & Snake Rivers Cruise – American Harmony
For those yearning for a more extensive exploration of the Columbia and Snake Rivers, the 8-night cruise aboard the American Harmony offers an in-depth journey through the region’s diverse landscapes and rich history. This cruise provides a perfect blend of natural wonders, cultural experiences, and modern luxury.
Duration: 8 nights / 9 days
Starting Price: From $6,510 per person (based on double occupancy)
Itinerary:
– Day 1: Portland, Oregon (Embarkation)
– Day 2: Astoria, Oregon
– Day 3: Mount St. Helens, Washington
– Day 4: Columbia River Gorge & Stevenson, Washington
– Day 5: The Dalles, Oregon
– Day 6: Pendleton, Oregon
– Day 7: Clarkston, Washington
– Day 8: Hells Canyon
– Day 9: Clarkston, Washington (Disembarkation)
Highlights:
– Experience the newest ship in American Cruise Lines’ modern riverboat fleet, featuring contemporary design and spacious accommodations.
– Explore the historic coastal city of Astoria and its iconic Astoria Column.
– Take a scenic journey to the Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument and learn about its dramatic 1980 eruption.
– Cruise through the spectacular Columbia River Gorge, a designated National Scenic Area.
– Visit the Columbia Gorge Discovery Center in The Dalles to learn about the region’s unique geology and Native American history.
– Step back in time in Pendleton with a visit to the Tamástslikt Cultural Institute and the famous Pendleton Woolen Mills.
– Enjoy a thrilling jet boat excursion into Hells Canyon, North America’s deepest river gorge.
– Learn about the Nez Perce tribe’s history and culture in the Clarkston area.
– Indulge in regionally inspired cuisine and local wines throughout your journey.
– Benefit from onboard enrichment programs, including lectures from historians and naturalists.
Related: The Best Hudson River Cruises
5. Columbia & Snake Rivers Cruise – American Song
Step aboard the American Song, a modern riverboat that combines contemporary luxury with the timeless allure of river cruising. This 8-night journey offers a comprehensive exploration of the Columbia and Snake Rivers, blending natural wonders, historical significance, and the comfort of modern amenities.
Duration: 8 nights / 9 days
Starting Price: From $5,950 per person (based on double occupancy)
Itinerary:
– Day 1: Portland, Oregon (Embarkation)
– Day 2: Astoria, Oregon
– Day 3: Mount St. Helens, Washington
– Day 4: Stevenson, Washington
– Day 5: The Dalles, Oregon
– Day 6: Richland, Washington
– Day 7-8: Clarkston, Washington & Hells Canyon
– Day 9: Clarkston, Washington (Disembarkation)
Highlights:
– Cruise in style aboard the American Song, featuring spacious staterooms, private balconies, and a unique retractable gangway.
– Explore the historic coastal city of Astoria, including a visit to the acclaimed Columbia River Maritime Museum.
– Take a scenic journey to the Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument and learn about its dramatic 1980 eruption.
– Witness the breathtaking beauty of the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area.
– Visit the Columbia Gorge Discovery Center in The Dalles to delve into the region’s natural and cultural history.
– Enjoy wine tasting in Washington’s premier wine country in the Tri-Cities region.
– Embark on a thrilling jet boat excursion into Hells Canyon, North America’s deepest river gorge.
– Learn about the Lewis and Clark expedition through onboard lectures and shore excursions.
– Savor regionally inspired cuisine featuring fresh, local ingredients throughout your journey.
6. Columbia & Snake Rivers Cruise – American West
For those seeking a blend of adventure and comfort, the American West offers an 8-night odyssey through the Columbia and Snake Rivers. This cruise combines the charm of a classic riverboat with modern amenities, providing a unique perspective on the region’s diverse landscapes and rich history.
Duration: 8 nights / 9 days
Starting Price: From $5,145 per person (based on double occupancy)
Itinerary:
– Day 1: Portland, Oregon (Embarkation)
– Day 2: Astoria, Oregon
– Day 3: Columbia River Gorge & Hood River, Oregon
– Day 4: The Dalles, Oregon
– Day 5: Pendleton, Oregon
– Day 6: Tri-Cities (Richland), Washington
– Day 7-8: Clarkston, Washington & Hells Canyon
– Day 9: Clarkston, Washington (Disembarkation)
Highlights:
– Experience the nostalgia of river cruising with modern comforts aboard the American West.
– Visit Fort Stevens State Park near Astoria, home to military installations from the Civil War to World War II.
– Cruise through the spectacular Columbia River Gorge, witnessing numerous waterfalls including the iconic Multnomah Falls.
– Explore the Western Antique Aeroplane & Automobile Museum in Hood River.
– Step back in time in Pendleton with a visit to the Tamástslikt Cultural Institute and the famous Pendleton Woolen Mills.
– Tour the REACH Museum in Richland, showcasing the natural and cultural history of the region.
– Enjoy a thrilling jet boat ride into Hells Canyon, keeping an eye out for wildlife and ancient petroglyphs.
– Learn about the Nez Perce tribe’s history and culture in the Clarkston area.
– Indulge in onboard entertainment, including regional music performances and culinary demonstrations.
Related: The 10 Best U.S. River Cruises for Seniors
What is the best month to cruise the Columbia River?
The best month to cruise the Columbia River can depend on personal preferences, but generally, the most popular and often recommended months are:
1. September: This is often considered the ideal month for several reasons:
– The weather is typically mild and pleasant, with warm days and cool nights.
– Fall colors begin to appear, especially later in the month, creating beautiful scenery.
– Harvest season in the local vineyards, offering great wine-tasting opportunities.
– Lower chance of wildfires compared to mid-summer.
2. October: Also an excellent choice for similar reasons:
– Fall foliage is usually at its peak, providing stunning landscapes.
– Cooler temperatures, which some travelers prefer.
– Harvest festivals and activities in many port towns.
3. May: For those who prefer spring:
– Mild temperatures and generally good weather.
– Spring wildflowers in bloom.
– Waterfalls along the Columbia River Gorge are often at their most impressive due to spring runoff.
4. June: Early summer can also be a great time:
– Long daylight hours.
– Generally warm but not hot temperatures.
– Good weather for outdoor activities.
It’s worth noting that July and August, while offering warm weather and long days, can sometimes be very hot and dry, and there’s a higher risk of wildfires which could affect air quality or itineraries.
Remember to check with specific cruise lines as they may have different operating seasons and might offer special-themed cruises during certain months.