Columbia River Cruise: May 3 - May 11, 2028

Named in honor of William Clark from the renowned Lewis and Clark Expedition, this historic town traces its lineage back to the resilient Nez Perce tribe, the original stewards of this fertile land. After enjoying a scenic Columbia River cruise or a memorable paddlewheeler experience, settle into your comfortable hotel and explore this wonderful town at your own pace. Discover the beautiful parks, visit a boutique winery, or stroll down 6th Street and surrounding downtown to enjoy art galleries, the old-school soda fountain at Wasem's, unique shops, and a friendly small-town vibe, all while considering a relaxing Snake River cruise to round out your experience.

Take this time to experience a remarkable Columbia River cruise, where you can witness a diverse array of landscapes and wildlife. As you glide along its winding course on a paddlewheeler, you'll be greeted by breathtaking vistas of towering cliffs, emerald forests, and rolling hillsides. Be sure to notice the bald eagles soaring overhead and ospreys diving into the water in search of fish. 

On board this Snake River cruise, partake in engaging activities, listen to fascinating lectures about the history of the river and the surrounding landscape, or spend the day on the expansive top deck spotting wildlife along the shore.

Richland is situated at the meeting point of the Yakima and Columbia Rivers, a place shaped first by Ice Age floods and later by the Atomic Age. Experience the beauty of the area on a Columbia River cruise with American Cruise Lines and set out to see how the past continues to shape this part of the Pacific Northwest. 

Step inside the REACH Museum to learn about the area’s ancient geology, Native History, and Cold War science. Walk the ground at Sacajawea State Park, where Lewis and Clark camped among Native communities in 1805. For those seeking a unique adventure, consider a paddlewheeler experience that offers a different perspective of the region. Or spend the day in nearby Pendleton, a town where the Old West lives on. Beneath its streets, uncover tunnels that once carried trade, secrets, and survival. From riverside museums to frontier tunnels, this port stop reveals the Northwest’s history in ways both unexpected and unforgettable, including the scenic beauty of a Snake River cruise.

Enjoy a relaxing day on a Columbia River cruise and watch the stunning Columbia River Gorge unfold from your private balcony. The dynamic landscape is truly magnificent, and you can catch the best views from the sun deck of our paddlewheeler experience. Engage in destination-focused enrichment programs featuring guest speakers and onboard activities. From Art Classes and tech App-titude sessions to sizzling Cooking Demonstrations, Mixology magic, and brain-teasing Trivia, there is so much to discover on board, making this Snake River cruise an unforgettable adventure.

Hood River holds a name derived from the river that flows from Mount Hood into the Columbia. Once renowned as the final stop of the Mount Hood Railroad, where timber and produce embarked on their journey downstream, this town exudes a long history of trade and commerce.

Today, Hood River beckons with a tapestry of delights, from quaint shops showcasing local artisanal treasures to some of the Pacific Northwest's finest wineries and breweries. For a unique adventure, consider a Columbia River cruise, where you can enjoy stunning views, or opt for a paddlewheeler experience that takes you through the region's scenic waterways. You can also embark on a guided kayaking expedition through the Gorge's breathtaking waters or visit the fascinating exhibits of The Western Antique Aeroplane & Automobile Museum.

Our private dock in Kalama, Washington allows you to venture where most Columbia River cruises can’t reach. Take in the stunning Cascade Mountains as you journey toward nearby stoic Mount St. Helens. Guided by a knowledgeable local expert, delve into the gripping tale of the volcano's cataclysmic eruption in 1980 and its lasting impact on the region. 

Right off the ship’s dock, learn more about other wonders of the region at the fascinating Port of Kalama Interpretive Center. Shop like a local for fresh produce, seafood, and artisan snacks at the Mountain Timber Market. For a unique local experience, you can even try for a bullseye at Castle Rock Axe House or enjoy a paddlewheeler experience on the Snake River cruise.

This small port city, known for its charming Victorian homes that cascade down the hillside, has earned the nickname “The Little San Francisco.” Embark on your own adventure or choose from a selection of curated excursions in Astoria that will allow you to get to know this city. Immerse yourself in history with a guided tour of the National Park Service replica of Fort Clatsop, the winter camp where Lewis and Clark hunkered down during their legendary expedition. Afterward, consider taking a Columbia River cruise to experience the stunning landscapes from the water, or enjoy a paddlewheeler experience that offers a unique perspective on the region. You can also wander through the incredibly scenic Cape Disappointment State Park, where the Lewis & Clark Interpretive Center tells the duo’s story, or lose yourself in the captivating exhibits of the nearby Columbia River Maritime Museum. For those seeking more adventure, a Snake River cruise might just be the perfect addition to your itinerary.

Take this time to witness a diverse array of landscapes and wildlife while you enjoy a Columbia River cruise. On board, partake in engaging activities, listen to fascinating lectures about the history of the river and the surrounding landscape, or spend the day on the expansive top deck spotting wildlife along the shore, all while savoring the unique paddlewheeler experience. For those interested in exploring further, consider a Snake River cruise to discover even more breathtaking scenery.

After a final breakfast on board your paddlewheeler experience, bid farewell to the ship and fellow travelers as you prepare to head homeward from your unforgettable Columbia River cruise or Snake River cruise.

Pre-Cruise - Hells Canyon Pre-Cruise Package

Kick off your adventure with our Hells Canyon Pre-Cruise Package in Clarkston. This exclusive package includes a 2-night hotel stay with breakfast to fuel your days. Experience the beauty of Hells Canyon, the deepest canyon in North America, during a half day excursion. As you journey deeper into the canyon, you'll be amazed by the towering cliffs adorned in earthy reds, browns, and greens, while the powerful waters of the river carve through ancient rock formations. This stunning backdrop sets the stage for your upcoming Columbia River cruise or an unforgettable Snake River cruise, where you can enjoy a unique paddlewheeler experience.