The Columbia and Snake Rivers provide one of America’s most scenic river-cruise regions. Cruises combine Pacific Northwest landscapes with Lewis and Clark history, waterfalls, volcanic geology, dams, wineries and the dramatic approach toward Hells Canyon.

The Columbia and Snake is best understood as a cruise region, not just a line on a map. The itinerary, season, ship and amount of time spent ashore can change the character of the trip considerably. Travelers should compare what they will actually see and do rather than choosing only by cruise length or advertised fare.

A Columbia and Snake cruise is particularly appealing for travelers interested in Oregon, Washington and Idaho. Depending on the itinerary, the experience can combine:

·         Columbia River Gorge

·         Multnomah Falls and Mount Hood region

·         Lewis and Clark history

·         Astoria and the Pacific coast

·         Hells Canyon excursions on selected itineraries

·         Pacific Northwest wine, salmon and regional cuisine

One of the advantages of river cruising is the ability to move through a region while unpacking once. The ship becomes a traveling hotel, while the destination changes outside your window.

Portland / Stevenson → Astoria → Columbia River Gorge / The Dalles → Richland → Snake River → Clarkston, with roundtrip and longer variations available.

Exact port sequences vary by cruise line, water conditions, ship design and departure date. Some trips also include hotel stays or motorcoach excursions that extend well beyond the river itself, so the complete day-by-day itinerary is more important than the cruise title.

Cruises generally operate from spring through fall. Spring brings greener landscapes and waterfalls; summer offers warm weather and long days; September and October can provide pleasant temperatures, harvest-season wine country and changing foliage.

No season can guarantee perfect weather or river conditions. For that reason, it is useful to choose the season based on the experience you want—comfortable walking weather, long summer daylight, fall color, harvest activity, holiday markets, wildlife patterns or other destination-specific priorities.

Portland

The main transportation gateway for many itineraries and a center for Pacific Northwest food and culture.

Astoria

Near the mouth of the Columbia, with maritime history and strong Lewis and Clark connections.

Kalama / Mount St. Helens region

A gateway to landscapes shaped by the 1980 eruption of Mount St. Helens.

The Dalles

A historic Columbia Gorge community associated with regional history, agriculture and dramatic scenery.

Richland

Near the confluence region of the Columbia and Snake and a gateway to eastern Washington.

Clarkston

The eastern endpoint for many cruises and a gateway to Hells Canyon jet-boat excursions.

American Cruise Lines is a major operator in the region. Lindblad Expeditions and other expedition companies have also offered Pacific Northwest river and coastal programs depending on year.

Cruise lines should not be treated as interchangeable. Cabin design, dining, included excursions, activity levels, service style, passenger count, gratuities, beverages and pre- or post-cruise programs can differ substantially. The best line is the one that fits the traveler’s priorities and the specific river

The scenery changes dramatically from the wetter western Columbia Gorge to the drier landscapes east of the Cascades. Some of the best experiences, including Hells Canyon, may be reached by jet boat rather than the cruise ship itself.

A Columbia and Snake cruise can be an excellent fit for travelers who value destination-focused travel, guided sightseeing and the convenience of returning to the same stateroom each evening. It may be less suitable for someone who wants a resort-style ship with extensive entertainment, large pools, casinos or a wide range of onboard venues.

Things to Consider Before Booking

·         Walking and mobility requirements on shore

·         The amount of daytime scenic cruising versus nighttime sailing

·         Included excursions versus optional excursions

·         Docking locations and transfers into major cities

·         Seasonal weather, heat, rain or cold

·         Possible itinerary changes caused by river, weather or local conditions

·         The value of appropriate travel protection

1.       Does the itinerary include both the Columbia and Snake Rivers?

2.       Is Hells Canyon included or an optional/pre-cruise excursion?

3.       Does the cruise visit Astoria?

4.       Which Lewis and Clark sites are included?

5.       Is the itinerary one-way or roundtrip Portland?

The river is only the beginning. The right Columbia and Snake cruise depends on the itinerary, cruise line, ship, cabin, included excursions, pace, dining style, activity level, season and total trip price. Two ships can sail through the same region and still provide very different vacations.

At All About Travel, our advisors can help compare those differences so you can choose a Columbia and Snake River cruise that fits the way you actually want to travel.

What is the best time to cruise the Columbia and Snake?

Cruises generally operate from spring through fall. Spring brings greener landscapes and waterfalls; summer offers warm weather and long days; September and October can provide pleasant temperatures, harvest-season wine country and changing foliage.

How long is a typical Columbia and Snake River cruise?

Cruise length varies by route. Many core river itineraries are about one week, while expedition cruises, combination cruises and cruise-tours can be significantly longer. Compare the number of actual cruise nights with hotel and land-tour nights.

What should I look for when comparing Columbia and Snake cruises?

Compare the exact route, time in the most important destinations, included excursions, ship and cabin, activity level, dining and beverage inclusions, transfers, pre- and post-cruise hotels, and how the operator handles itinerary disruptions.

Are river cruises good for first-time cruisers?

They can be. A Columbia and Snake cruise is most appealing to travelers who prioritize destinations and guided exploration. The onboard experience is generally quieter and more intimate than a large ocean cruise.