The Columbia River is the largest river in the Pacific Northwest, and with its 485 miles of scenic beauty and rich cultural history, it is one of America's most popular rivers. While on a Columbia River cruise you will explore small river towns and come to appreciate the beauties of the green Pacific Northwest. You can also expect to take walks, bike, swim, and even kayak if the weather allows. Most of our cruises will start in the city of Portland, Oregon, and often will finish by taking the Snake River from Richland to Lewiston, Idaho. Our itineraries usually go west first to the mouth of the river and stop in the port town of Astoria before heading back upriver. Much of the river landscape is paradise for photographers, bird-watchers, and other nature enthusiasts thanks to its rich ecosystem that attracts visitors from around the world. Contact our travel specialists to start planning your ideal trip today!

7 Best Columbia River Cruises for 2023-2024

All Columbia River Cruises

Rivers of Adventure and Wine

Portland to Portland
8 Days from $4,800

Join this incredible 8-day cruise roundtrip from Portland aboard the Wilderness Legacy to discover the award-winning wines that come out of the Red Mountain AVA. Whitewater rafting, swimming, kayaking, paddle boarding, and hiking opportunities abound as you learn about this area's culture and natural history!

Sunrise over Crown Point at Columbia River

Clarkston (Spokane) to Vancouver (Portland)

Spokane to Portland
9 Days from $3,619

The American Empress hosts this 9-day voyage from Clarkston to Vancouver. Cruise the Columbia and Snake rivers, historic sites, and dams. Explore ports such as Vancouver & Portland, Astoria, Richland, The Dalles, Stevenson, and more.

Journey on the Columbia & Snake Rivers

Portland to Clarkston
8 Days from $6,430

The National Geographic Quest hosts this 8-day voyage from Portland, Oregon to Clarkston, Washington. Along the way, pass through Hells Canyon, visit the Lewis and Clark Wildlife Refuge, zodiac & kayak your way along the Palouse River, and witness the stunning Columbia River Gorge.

Columbia and Snake Rivers Journey

Portland - Clarkston
8 Days from $5,880

The Sea Lion hosts this 8-day excursion from Portland, Oregon towards Clarkston, Washington. Along the way, pass through Hells Canyon, visit the Lewis and Clark Wildlife Refuge, zodiac & kayak your way along the Palouse River, and witness the Columbia River Gorge.

Vancouver (Portland) to Clarkston (Spokane)

Vancouver to Clarkston
9 Days from $3,619

The American Empress hosts this 9-day voyage from Vancouver, Washington to Clarkston, Washington. Cruise the Columbia and Snake rivers, historic sites, and dams. Explore ports such as Vancouver & Portland, Astoria, Richland, The Dalles, Stevenson, and more.

Columbia & Snake Rivers Journey: Harvests, History & Landscapes

Fall Season
8 Days from $5,880

The Sea Bird takes you on this 8-day Pacific Northwest cruise along the Columbia and Snake Rivers, including zodiac & kayak excursions, hiking and biking opportunities, and visits to the Lewis and Clark Wildlife Refuge, the Columbia River Gorge, and Hells Canyon.

Roundtrip Portland

7 Days from $3,509

Sail roundtrip from Vancouver, WA, and savor a panoramic experience of the Pacific Northwest region's history, harvests, and landscapes on this 7-day cruise along the Columbia River aboard the American Empress.

Top 6 Recommended Columbia River Ships for 2023-2024

Ship Name	Max Passengers	From	Summary
National Geographic Sea Bird	62	$5880	The Sea Bird, sister ship of the Sea Lion, can reach places inaccessible to larger ships due to its small size, yet it comfortably accommodates 62 … 0
Wilderness Adventurer	60	$3900	Wilderness Adventurer is an expedition ship capable of nimble exploration through nature's most dramatic hideaways. Offering her 60 passengers an … 0
American Empress	211	$3509	The American Empress is an authentic paddle wheel river boat cruising the Columbia and Snake Rivers. Proudly serving as the largest overnight … 0
National Geographic Quest	100	$6430	The National Geographic Quest is a state-of-the-art expedition ship accommodating 100 guests in 5 different categories of fully equipped cabins. It … 0
Wilderness Legacy	88	$4800	Embark on this refurbished 88-small ship, the Legacy. Emulating an earlyl victorian steamer, this charming vessel carries guests on small ship … 0
National Geographic Sea Lion	62	$5880	The Sea Lion, sister ship of the Sea Bird, can reach places inaccessible to larger ships due to its small size, yet it comfortably accommodates 62 … 0

Columbia River Travel Guide

Bridge over Columbia River to Mount Hood

Top cruise ports on the Columbia River

See all the best that the Pacific Northwest has to offer as you explore the top ports on your Columbia River cruise!

How to choose the best Columbia River cruise for you

The Columbia River cruise itineraries that we offer start in Portland/Vancouver and head west to the port town of Astoria, where you will do a 180-degree turn and head east, enjoying the beauties of the Pacific Northwest and the tranquility of river cruising. We offer many different itineraries that will stop at different port cities and parks, with different activities as well. Here’s a quick guide to help you choose the best Columbia River cruise for you!

Best time to cruise the Columbia River

Summer is the best time to visit the Columbia River because the beautiful blue skies are more appealing than the wet dismal skies of the other seasons. The Columbia River is also attractive in the late spring and early fall, before the heavy rains arrive.

What to pack for a Columbia River Cruise

When packing for Columbia River cruise vacation, it's important to consider the right clothing to bring. Whether you are planning to be more active or to unwind, the right items can make a difference when it comes to enjoying your time outdoors and indoors. Here are some tips to keep in mind, but as a basic recommendation, think layers, mix and match, and keep it simple:

Long and short sleeve options, and a thin layer to go under your jeans.
A lightweight jacket and warm sweatshirt.
A raincoat for humid days.
Comfortable hiking socks.
Walking or hiking shoes.
Avoid cotton and opt for wicking or wool fabrics that dry faster.
Fancy clothes and dress shoes are not necessary.
Small backpack.
Sunglasses.

FAQs: Columbia River Cruises

How much does a Columbia River cruise cost?

Columbia River cruises range from $1,400 to $6,100 per person, but the average price for a 7-9 day itinerary is between $4,000-5,000 per person.

What boats cruise the Columbia River?

We feature four of the best vessels cruising the Columbia River - the American Empress, National Geographic Quest, National Geographic Sea Lion, and Wilderness Legacy. Each of these ships is unique, featuring its own atmosphere and appointments onboard, but no matter which you choose you can expect comfortable and spacious accommodations, great food, and exciting itineraries.

What will I do on a Columbia River cruise?

Columbia River cruises are ideal for active travelers willing to get their heart rate up to experience all of the exciting daily activities like biking, hiking, kayaking, paddle boarding, whitewater rafting, and wildlife viewing. You can also enjoy more relaxed wine tasting and hikes.

What are the top destinations on a Columbia River cruise?

Your Columbia River cruise will take you to some of the top destinations in the Pacific Northwest, including Vancouver, Astoria, Clarkston, The Dalles, the Columbia River Gorge, Walla Walla, and Portland.

Are river cruises good for kids?

River cruises in general are ideal for adult travelers, and Columbia River cruises are best suited to active adults who are looking for a nature-based adventure in the Pacific Northwest. Older teens who like the outdoors may enjoy our Columbia River cruises, but they are not good for younger teens or children.