Columbia & Snake Rivers Cruise
9 day River Cruise – from £4599
With flights from £5249
Admire the ever-changing landscapes of the Pacific Northwest on this relaxing cruise along the Columbia and Snake Rivers. View snow-capped mountains, cascading waterfalls and and tree-lined shores from the comfort of your riverboat.
Highlights
- Visit the world’s largest independent bookstore, whilst in Portland
- Follow in the footsteps of the early explorers Lewis & Clark
- Witness the impact of the Mount St. Helens eruption
- View the dramatic 620-foot drop of the Multnomah Falls
Your Itinerary
Expand AllYou can customise your holiday by adding extra nights or destinations. Just let us know what you would like to do.
Arrive into Portland and settle in to you pre-cruise hotel, before exploring the city. You may like to start with a visit to the iconic ‘Powell’s City of Books’, the largest independent bookstore in the world. Then you can explore the lush landscapes of Washington Park, home to the Portland Japanese Garden and the International Rose Test Garden.
A stroll through the bustling Pearl District, will reveal trendy boutiques, art galleries, and cafes. You can also enjoy a gourmet meal at one of Portland’s renowned farm-to-table restaurants.
Portland Hotel
Day 2 – Cruising the Columbia River
This morning you will gather, with your fellow travellers, in the hotel lobby ready to be transferred to your riverboat. Your bags will be collected and taken directly from the hotel and placed in your cabin aboard the ship.
Once you board your ship, you will be greeted at a Welcome Reception, where there is a chance to meet the crew and your fellow passengers.
Spend the afternoon relaxing as you begin cruising along the Columbia River, on the way towards the Pacific Ocean.
Day 3 – Astoria & The Columbia River Estuary
Nestled at the mouth of the Columbia River, Astoria is renowned for its Victorian architecture, maritime heritage, and stunning coastal views.
You can take the complimentary shuttle to the historic Astoria Column, which offers panoramic vistas of the river estuary and ocean. You may also like to visit the engaging Columbia River Maritime Museum to learn about the region’s rich nautical history.
A simple stroll along charming waterfront, from under the sprawling Astoria-Megler Bridge, reveals streets lined with unique shops and restaurants, often reflecting Astoria’s history of salmon-canning and other fresh seafoods. You can experience the local flavours at a variety of the local eateries.
Day 4 – Kalama & Mount St. Helens
The deepwater port of Kalama, is on the Washington State side of the Columbia River. Its waterfront is distinguished by totem poles, each intricately carved to reflect stories and symbols significant to local indigenous culture, celebrating the area’s original inhabitants. Just a short walk from the dock, is the Kalama Interpretive Centre that tracks the beginning of the town with its native inhabitants and then the early settlers.
On 18th May, 1980 the nearby Mount St. Helens violently erupted, drastically changing the surrounding landscape, now referred to as the National Volcanic Monument. You can join a guided scenic tour to learn more about the eruptions and how the local environment has since responded.
Day 5 – The Dalles & Multnomah Falls
From your private balcony or the sundeck you will be able to witness the breathtaking views as your cruise through the Columbia River Gorge, where forest cloaked cliffs rise dramatically on each side of the river.
From the dock at The Dalles you can walk through the streets of the village or be transported to see the Multnomah Falls up close. Plummeting 620 feet, Multnomah Falls is the second highest constant waterfall in the USA. You can 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 Centre or take the 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.
Day 6 – Cruising the Snake River
A day to relax onboard your riverboat and watch as the scenery of the Columbia River Gorge transitions into the scenery around the Snake River. The dynamic landscape is truly a wonder and the best views can be had from the sundeck.
As the ship sails along you can also join talks by guest speakers, who can add history to the surrounding towns and villages as they pass by. You can also be more active and join in art classes, mixology lessons and cooking demonstrations.
Day 7 – Richland & Pendleton
At Richland your riverboat docks alongside the town’s waterfront, where charming shops and wineries await your exploration.
A visit to 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 1805, against the backdrop of the majestic Columbia and Snake River confluence.
We also recommend the excursion to the town of Pendleton, Oregon. Best known for its rich Western heritage and wool production, Pendleton has hosted an annual rodeo since 1910 and hosts many other events, parades and festivals throughout the year.
The Tamástslikt Cultural Institute is a museum that offers a deep dive into the history and culture of the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation, showcasing artifacts, exhibits, and multimedia presentations, whilst the Heritage Station Museum is located in an historic train depot, features exhibits on pioneer artifacts, antique vehicles and local historical photographs.
Downtown Pendleton is filled with boutique shops, art galleries, and local restaurant and cafes.
Day 8 – Clarkston, Washington State
Continuing along the Snake River it is worth keeping an eye out for wildlife.The river is home to an abundance of salmon, which in turn attracts eagles, otters and other predators.
The town of Clarkston is cradled within a picturesque valley, with green hills sandwiching it alongside the river. There are various activities available to choose from Clarkston. It is possible to explore Hells Canyon, North America’s deepest, by switching to smaller launches. Alternatively, you could also choose to view Hells Canyon from above on a scenic helicopter flight.
For those preferring a more leisurely activity it is possible to enjoy a tasting and exploration of the family owned Rivaura winery. Perched gently on a vineyard covered hillside with breathtaking views of the Clearwater River Valley, the Rivaura tasting room provides an idyllic setting for savouring their delicious wines, while soaking in the surrounding natural beauty of the Lewis-Clark Valley.
Day 9 – Farewell from Clarkston
Your Columbia & Snake River cruise comes to an end today but there is still time for breakfast onboard before you leave.
You could choose the complementary transfer to the airport to continue your holiday or return home. Alternatively you may like to spend some more time exploring Clarkston and the Pacific Northwest.
Your Itinerary
You can customise your holiday by adding extra nights or destinations. Just let us know what you would like to do.
Day 1
| Welcome to Portland, Oregon
Arrive into Portland and settle in to you pre-cruise hotel, before exploring the city. You may like to start with a visit to the iconic ‘Powell’s City of Books’, the largest independent bookstore in the world. Then you can explore the lush landscapes of Washington Park, home to the Portland Japanese Garden and the International Rose Test Garden.
A stroll through the bustling Pearl District, will reveal trendy boutiques, art galleries, and cafes. You can also enjoy a gourmet meal at one of Portland’s renowned farm-to-table restaurants.
Portland Hotel
Day 2
| Cruising the Columbia River
This morning you will gather, with your fellow travellers, in the hotel lobby ready to be transferred to your riverboat. Your bags will be collected and taken directly from the hotel and placed in your cabin aboard the ship.
Once you board your ship, you will be greeted at a Welcome Reception, where there is a chance to meet the crew and your fellow passengers.
Spend the afternoon relaxing as you begin cruising along the Columbia River, on the way towards the Pacific Ocean.
Day 3
| Astoria & The Columbia River Estuary
Nestled at the mouth of the Columbia River, Astoria is renowned for its Victorian architecture, maritime heritage, and stunning coastal views.
You can take the complimentary shuttle to the historic Astoria Column, which offers panoramic vistas of the river estuary and ocean. You may also like to visit the engaging Columbia River Maritime Museum to learn about the region’s rich nautical history.
A simple stroll along charming waterfront, from under the sprawling Astoria-Megler Bridge, reveals streets lined with unique shops and restaurants, often reflecting Astoria’s history of salmon-canning and other fresh seafoods. You can experience the local flavours at a variety of the local eateries.
Day 4
| Kalama & Mount St. Helens
The deepwater port of Kalama, is on the Washington State side of the Columbia River. Its waterfront is distinguished by totem poles, each intricately carved to reflect stories and symbols significant to local indigenous culture, celebrating the area’s original inhabitants. Just a short walk from the dock, is the Kalama Interpretive Centre that tracks the beginning of the town with its native inhabitants and then the early settlers.
On 18th May, 1980 the nearby Mount St. Helens violently erupted, drastically changing the surrounding landscape, now referred to as the National Volcanic Monument. You can join a guided scenic tour to learn more about the eruptions and how the local environment has since responded.
Day 5
| The Dalles & Multnomah Falls
From your private balcony or the sundeck you will be able to witness the breathtaking views as your cruise through the Columbia River Gorge, where forest cloaked cliffs rise dramatically on each side of the river.
From the dock at The Dalles you can walk through the streets of the village or be transported to see the Multnomah Falls up close. Plummeting 620 feet, Multnomah Falls is the second highest constant waterfall in the USA. You can 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 Centre or take the 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.
Day 6
| Cruising the Snake River
A day to relax onboard your riverboat and watch as the scenery of the Columbia River Gorge transitions into the scenery around the Snake River. The dynamic landscape is truly a wonder and the best views can be had from the sundeck.
As the ship sails along you can also join talks by guest speakers, who can add history to the surrounding towns and villages as they pass by. You can also be more active and join in art classes, mixology lessons and cooking demonstrations.
Day 7
| Richland & Pendleton
At Richland your riverboat docks alongside the town’s waterfront, where charming shops and wineries await your exploration.
A visit to 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 1805, against the backdrop of the majestic Columbia and Snake River confluence.
We also recommend the excursion to the town of Pendleton, Oregon. Best known for its rich Western heritage and wool production, Pendleton has hosted an annual rodeo since 1910 and hosts many other events, parades and festivals throughout the year.
The Tamástslikt Cultural Institute is a museum that offers a deep dive into the history and culture of the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation, showcasing artifacts, exhibits, and multimedia presentations, whilst the Heritage Station Museum is located in an historic train depot, features exhibits on pioneer artifacts, antique vehicles and local historical photographs.
Downtown Pendleton is filled with boutique shops, art galleries, and local restaurant and cafes.
Day 8
| Clarkston, Washington State
Continuing along the Snake River it is worth keeping an eye out for wildlife.The river is home to an abundance of salmon, which in turn attracts eagles, otters and other predators.
The town of Clarkston is cradled within a picturesque valley, with green hills sandwiching it alongside the river. There are various activities available to choose from Clarkston. It is possible to explore Hells Canyon, North America’s deepest, by switching to smaller launches. Alternatively, you could also choose to view Hells Canyon from above on a scenic helicopter flight.
For those preferring a more leisurely activity it is possible to enjoy a tasting and exploration of the family owned Rivaura winery. Perched gently on a vineyard covered hillside with breathtaking views of the Clearwater River Valley, the Rivaura tasting room provides an idyllic setting for savouring their delicious wines, while soaking in the surrounding natural beauty of the Lewis-Clark Valley.
Day 9
| Farewell from Clarkston
Your Columbia & Snake River cruise comes to an end today but there is still time for breakfast onboard before you leave.
You could choose the complementary transfer to the airport to continue your holiday or return home. Alternatively you may like to spend some more time exploring Clarkston and the Pacific Northwest.
This Cruise Includes
Flights & More
Lean more about the ships operating this cruise:
Ask your FREEDOM Consultant to include Economy, Premium or Business Class flights for a complete ABTA and ATOL protected package.
They can also add extra nights and experiences in places you choose, to create the exact holiday you are looking for.
Next Step
Please get in touch with our America Experts to start planning your holiday. You’ll have a single point of contact from your first enquiry through booking.
Columbia & Snake Rivers Cruise
9 day River Cruise – from £4599
With flights from £5249
All prices are per person, based on two people sharing a double or twin room, and include meals where shown. Please call Freedom Destinations for departure dates and availability. Seasonal variations may apply.
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