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Explore the Snake River in the Pacific Northwest of the US

Columbia and Snake Rivers Cruise

Clarkston to Portland - Example 9 Day Cruise aboard American Jazz
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Sail the Columbia & Snake Rivers on a 9-day cruise aboard American Jazz exploring the stunning landscapes and rich history of the Pacific Northwest. Sail through Hells Canyon, North America's deepest gorge, and visit historic towns such as Astoria, Pendleton, and Richland. Enjoy wine tastings in Kalama, a visit to the iconic Multnomah Falls, and travel to the volcanic remnants of Mount St. Helens. Experience the engineering marvels of the Bonneville Dam and the beauty of the Columbia River Gorge. This cruise offers a unique blend of adventure, culture, and relaxation, making it an unforgettable experience.
 
Sunrise at Crown Point, Columbia River Gorge, OregonMultnomah FallsLooking into the gorgeVineyard on a beautiful dayEnjoy stunning views of PortlandExplore the Snake River in the Pacific Northwest of the US
Highlights
  • Visit Multnomah Falls, the tallest waterfall in Oregon
  • Explore Kalama’s vineyards and local artwork
  • Tour the volcanic remains of Mount St. Helens
  • Sail through Hells Canyon, North America's deepest gorge
Activity Level: Variable
Activity options vary depending on destination and operator. Activity level is determined by the range and intensity of activities you choose to participate in. Discuss with your Trip Planner which options are best for you.
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Full Itinerary

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Day 1: Clarkston, WA | Hotel Stay

As you sail, observe the wild terrain and rugged canyon walls emerging with each turn. Look out for local wildlife, including white pelicans gliding gracefully and river otters playing along the shores. This historic town, named for William Clark of the Lewis and Clark Expedition, has roots in the Nez Perce tribe, the original inhabitants of this fertile region. Set off through Hells Canyon, the deepest gorge in North America. Navigate the rapids and towering peaks that dominate this dramatic landscape.

Hotel Stay

Begin your Columbia and Snake Rivers travel with an included Hotel Stay, ensuring a smooth transition to your cruise. On the morning of departure, gather in the hotel lobby after breakfast for transport to the ship. Your luggage will be transferred directly to your stateroom, so you can start your adventure without any hassle.

Day 2: Cruising the Snake River | Embark

As the cruise begins, participate in the Welcome Aboard Reception featuring cocktails, appetizers, and live entertainment. Meet the crew, onboard experts, and other travelers while getting acquainted with the adventure that lies ahead.

Observe the variety of landscapes and wildlife as the ship cruises along. Pass through scenic views of towering cliffs, lush forests, and gently rolling hills. Watch for bald eagles soaring above and ospreys diving for fish. Despite its name, the Snake River is home to salmon, not snakes. Its name likely comes from a Native American hand gesture, rather than its winding shape.

Day 3: Pendleton, OR | Richland, WA

Richland stands boldly at the intersection of the Yakima and Columbia Rivers, inviting exploration and discovery. The ship docks mere steps from the serene waterfront, where trails wind alongside charming shops and local wineries beckon with their unique flavors.

Guided excursions promise a trip through time and landscape. At the REACH Museum, uncover the history of Eastern Washington, from the ancient Ice Age to the modern Atomic Age. Sacajawea State Park offers a glimpse into the past, where the Corps of Discovery—led by Lewis and Clark—once camped amidst a thriving Native American community in October 1805.

A full-day adventure to Pendleton, Oregon unveils the essence of the Wild West, with its rich blend of Western heritage and Native American culture. Explore the intricate network of underground tunnels, witnesses to a century of legal trade and clandestine activities alike.

Sacajawea Interpretive Center - Complimentary Excursion
Explore this fascinating destination, located at the very place where the Lewis and Clark Expedition camped for two nights, amidst a thriving community of Native Americans. Learn about the activities that took place at the site through interactive exhibits about the Corps of Discovery and Sacagawea, a woman known for her helping the Lewis and Clark Expedition Team. Stroll the green, tree-shaded grounds, and read the seven-story circle installations by internationally known artist Maya Lin.

Activity Level: Low | ADA ACCESSIBLE: Yes

Day 4: Cruising the Columbia River Gorge

Get ready to seize the day on your private balcony and watch the Columbia River Gorge develop. Behold the majestic bluffs cloaked in greenery, while hillsides reach for the sky. The dynamic landscape is truly a wonder, catch the best views up on the sun deck.

But that's just the beginning, as the ship sails along, get ready for a range of activities tailored just for you. Engage in destination-focused enrichment programs featuring guest speakers exploring all things regional and port-related. From captivating Art Classes to mastering the latest tech with our App-titude sessions, sizzling Cooking Demonstrations, Mixology magic, and brain-teasing Trivia– there is so much to discover on board.

Day 5: The Dalles, OR

Welcome to The Dalles, the final frontier of the iconic Oregon Trail! With the towering Mount Hood and Mount Adams as your stunning backdrop, each reaching over 11,000 feet, this stop possesses all the natural beauty the Pacific Northwest is known for.

For an extra dose of excitement, opt for guided excursions that promise unforgettable experiences. A visit to Multnomah Falls, the largest waterfall in the state of Oregon, is a true wonder of nature. The 620-foot fall fills the world with its rushing sounds. Or paddle on the quiet river on a guided Gorge kayak tour where you can be one with the eagles, herons, osprey, and occasional otters that call this river home. Don’t forget to participate in expert-led wine tastings and sample the finest wines from the fertile Columbia Valley.

Columbia River Gorge Interpretive Center - Complimentary Excursion
Enjoy a self-guided tour of the Columbia River Gorge Interpretive Center, which showcases the area's unique history and cultural diversity. From the Native American tribes that inhabited the gorge to the expedition of Lewis and Clark and 19th-century loggers, learn of the bountiful life on the gorge as you explore this amazing museum.

Activity Level: Low | ADA ACCESSIBLE: Yes

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

Day 6: Kalama, WA

The brand-new private dock in Kalama, Washington allows you to go where most cruises can’t. Take in the stunning Cascade Mountains as you drive to view the remnants of nearby Mount St. Helens.

Guided by a knowledgeable local, delve into the gripping tale of the volcano's cataclysmic eruption in 1980 and its profound impact on both the environment and the lives of those in the surrounding area.

Right off the ship’s dock, step into the beauty of an expansive city park, adorned with local artwork that adorns the impressive adjacent hotel. Learn more about other wonders of the region at the interpretive center. Explore a family vineyard nearby for an afternoon of wine tasting, where you can savor the finest local varietals amidst vineyard landscapes.

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 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 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

Day 7: Astoria, OR

As the oldest American settlement west of the Rockies, this port is adorned with Victorian homes that cascade down the hillside, this town has earned the lively nickname of “The Little San Francisco.”

Embark on your adventure or choose from a selection of thrilling excursions that will allow you to see this city from its shore where mountains paint the sky to the cliff where the Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center is perched above the Pacific.

Delve into history with a guided tour of the National Park Service replica of Fort Clatsop, the very winter camp where Lewis and Clark hunkered down during their legendary expedition. Wander through the town's shops, galleries, wineries, and brew pubs, or lose yourself in the captivating exhibits of the nearby Columbia River Maritime Museum.

Astoria Local Loop - Complimentary Excursion
Explore downtown Astoria on your own aboard this convenient shuttle which makes several stops on a continuous loop throughout the day including:
Downtown Astoria - for shopping and exploring
Heritage Museum - featuring Clatsop County’s rich and exciting history in permanent and changing exhibit galleries
Astoria Column - a tower overlooking the mouth of the Columbia River, from which you can enjoy the majestic views of the countryside from the land
Flavel House Museum - once the home of Captain George Flavel, this 1885 Queen Anne home features original Eastlake-influenced woodwork, period furnishings, and exotic hardwood

Activity Level: Low | ADA ACCESSIBLE: Yes

Columbia River Maritime Museum - Complimentary Excursion

Experience the Columbia River Maritime Museum on a self-guided excursion. The Columbia River Maritime Museum is the official maritime museum of the state of Oregon and also prides itself on being one of the finest maritime museums on the West Coast. 

Activity Level: Low | ADA ACCESSIBLE: Yes

Day 8: Day of Cruising

Along the riverbanks, you may spot deer grazing or river otters frolicking in the shallows. As you pass through locks and dams, experience the engineering feats that tame this mighty river. Don't forget to look out for historical landmarks and points of interest, such as the towering Mount Hood and the striking Bonneville Dam.

Day 9: Portland, OR | Disembark

  • 1 Breakfast
Enjoy a final breakfast on board before you say goodbye. Bid farewell and prepare to send you off on your travel homeward bound, take a moment to bask in the glory of your time here on the Columbia & Snake Rivers. Let the memories of laughter, exploration, and newfound friendships be some of the few things you take with you. Cherish every moment and carry the spirit of adventure with you wherever you voyage.

Ship/Hotel

American Jazz

American Jazz
American Jazz Lounge
American Jazz Skylounge

Dates & Prices

My Preferred Start Date

Deals

Special Offers 23942
Promotional rates are available on select departures for a limited time. These offers cannot be combined with other discounts and are only valid on new bookings.  Please discuss with your trip planner about applicable dates and cabin types.
Applies to select departures

Per person starting at
$5,635 2-3 travelers
Single Private Balcony
Single
250 sq. ft., dedicated Single staterooms are perfect for solo travelers, featuring spacious layouts with private balconies, premium bathroom amenities, hairdryers, Keurig coffee brewers, ample storage, complimentary Wi-Fi, Satellite TV, DVD players, and individual climate control.
AAR
AAR
275 sq. ft. of living space, the AAR staterooms on the main deck offer complete comfort, with a full-size bathroom, large picture window, furnished private balcony, spacious sitting area, individual climate control, Keurig coffee brewer, ample storage, complimentary Wi-Fi, Satellite TV, and a DVD player.
AAL
AAL
300 sq. ft. of living space, AAL staterooms on the second deck offer plush seating, full-size bathrooms, and furnished private balconies providing outstanding views. Amenities include individual climate control, Keurig coffee brewers, ample storage space, toiletries, complimentary Wi-Fi, Satellite TV, and a DVD player.
AAC
AAC
At 316 sq. ft., these AAC staterooms are conveniently located on the third deck. Featuring floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors, private balconies, a sitting area, a desk, full-size bathrooms, individual climate control, Keurig coffee brewers, ample storage, toiletries, complimentary Wi-Fi, Satellite TV, and a DVD player.
AAM
AAM
At 350 sq. ft., these spacious staterooms feature commanding views of the passing river landscapes, floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors with a private balcony, individual climate control systems, in-room Keurig coffee brewers, ample storage, an array of toiletries, complimentary Wi-Fi, Satellite TV, and a DVD player.
Veranda Suite
Veranda Suite
405 sq. ft. of relaxing space in each Veranda Suite guests are treated to a fruit and cheese plate upon arrival, a complimentary bottle of premium champagne, full-size bathrooms, a large living area, a fully stocked mini-refrigerator, and a private balcony with nightly "suite treats".
Owner's Suite
Owner's Suite
645 sq. ft. of space in each Owner’s Suite offers the finest accommodations featuring a full-size bathroom, separate bedroom and living area, floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors, and an expansive private balcony for serene moments or breakfast with a riverbank sunrise.
Grand Suite
Grand Suite
The 650 sq. ft. Grand Suite features panoramic views, a fruit and cheese plate on arrival, and complimentary premium champagne. It includes a private balcony, lavish bedroom, and separate living room. The bathroom has double sinks and plush robes, with an in-suite mini-refrigerator stocked with juices, water, and wines. Nightly "suite treats" are also provided.
Included
  • 8 Breakfasts, 6 Lunches, 7 Dinners
  • 8 Nights Accommodations
  • Accommodations as listed
  • Ground transportation as listed
  • Activities as listed
  • Meals as listed
  • Access to a 24-7 Emergency line while traveling
  • Snacks
  • Onboard Entertainment 
  • Onboard gratuities
  • Port charges and fees
  • Complimentary cocktail parties
  • Dining service
Excluded
  • Travel Insurance
  • Personal Expenses
  • Flight costs (please request a quote)
  • Additional excursions during free time
  • Fuel and transportation surcharges (when applicable)
  • Signature shore excursion - Should be reserved in advance due to limited availability.

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The trip was terrific with great planning on your part. Most of the adventures were not mainstream and somewhat off the beaten path which made it especially enjoyable!! We felt taken care of and you all were readily available to respond to questions and issues. I would highly recommend your company and friends have already expressed interest based on our pictures and excitement.
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