Rivers, Canyons & Wines of the Pacific Northwest
United States Small Ship Cruises
Hike, kayak, raft & wine taste on the Columbia & Snake Rivers
- Tour Type
- Skill Level
- Length8 days
- Prices from$5300 Rates
- Book This Trip
Overview
This is where river meets adventure! Travel in the footsteps of legendary explorers Lewis and Clark on a fun-filled discovery of America’s Pacific Northwest.
Stretching from Astoria on Oregon’s coast to Palouse Falls in Washington, this cruise takes in two states and four rivers. The east-west divide of the Cascade Mountains unveils a unique contrast of lush temperate rainforest to the west and desert-like landscape to the east. You'll experience both. Cruise along the Columbia and Snake Rivers through extraordinary scenery: winding canyons, tumbling waterfalls, towering plateaus, and sun-soaked vineyards.
Not only are the rivers your ticket to outdoor activities, but they also provide access to top-class wineries, notable geological sites, and natural parks boasting unique wildlife. Complimented with wine tastings and food pairings hosted by local sommeliers, interpretive walks, and guided river activities, this tour offers a personal touch to an exciting itinerary.
If you are looking for a laid-back, crowd-free, and outdoor-inspired tour, this small boat adventure makes the grade!
Highlights
- Kayak, paddleboard, swim, and skiff on the rivers
- River rafting on the Deschutes River
- Taste local produce in Walla Walla
- Hike Columbia Hills State Park and Tom McCall Nature Preserve
- Visit the Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center
- Wine tastings with a certified sommelier
- Multnomah Falls and Columbia River Gorge
- Natural and cultural history talks with experts
- Cross six locks and tour Bonneville Dam Visitor Center
Looking for more hiking, biking, and cruising options in the United States?
Itinerary
Day 1: Portland, Oregon
Day 2: Astoria / Ft. Clatsop Lewis & Clark National Historical Park
Day 3: Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area / Hood River Valley
Day 4: Walla Walla, Washington
Day 5: Palouse River / Snake River
Day 6: Columbia Hills
Day 7: The Dalles
Day 8: Portland, OregonThe planned itinerary is subject to change due to nautical, technical, or meteorological reasons and other unforeseen circumstances. The captain reserves the right to change the route in view of your safety, even with no advance notice.
Day 1: Portland, Oregon
On arrival in Portland, you’ll be escorted to the hospitality suite where you can relax or explore the city. Fondly known as the “City of Roses” (a nod to its popular Rose Festival held every June), Portland has breweries, bookstores, coffee shops, and quirky places within walking distance ready for you to explore. After boarding the Wilderness Legacy boat, champagne, hors d’oeuvres, and views of the city will welcome you - a perfect start to your adventure. (D)Day 2: Astoria / Ft. Clatsop Lewis & Clark National Historical Park
You will dock in the charming Victorian port city of Astoria Dock, for a visit of Ft. Clatsop, the winter fort of the 1804-1806 Lewis and Clark Expedition. There are many exhibits for you to browse and trails you can follow to the replica fort, or you can take a low-elevation walk from the visitor center to view replica dugout canoes. For a longer but easier hike, a one-mile trail along the Lewis and Clark River, leading to an outdoor viewing area highlighting the landscape and stories described in the journals of Lewis & Clark, is on offer. If you’re up for a challenge, then take a 7-mile, one-way hike on the Fort to Sea Trail through forest, fields, and dunes. Whichever you opt for, everyone will experience Ft. Clatsop and a walk on the beach. Back downtown, you can explore on your own; walk the waterfront trail, and/or visit the Astoria Column (a 600-ft tower built-in 1926). Afterward, you will set sail upriver and see what delectable treats your chef and crew have in store for the evening. (BLD)Day 3: Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area / Hood River Valley
You will make your way through the Bonneville Dam locks - the gateway to the Columbia River Gorge - where you head behind the scenes of the visitor’s center. A private tour will showcase the massive turbines and fish ladders of this engineering feat. The Multnomah Falls - the tallest waterfall in the state - is the next stop with a chance for you to explore the area on foot. Then it’s onto the Columbia River Gorge: a real Pacific Northwest gem. The dramatic walls of the Columbia River Gorge expose the tremendous geologic history of the region as they rise up to over 4,000 feet where they meet Larch Mountain. There are two guided hiking options to choose from: a low elevation option or a trek upwards to a waterfall amidst towering trees. Back on board, your onboard sommelier has a “Best of Hood River Valley” wine tasting dialed in. All you have to do is take a seat in the lounge and sip on wine! (BLD)Day 4: Walla Walla, Washington
Start the day cruising through the famed Wallula Gap: a gaping void across the Horse Heaven Hills. The theme for today is all things Walla Walla, including nibbles from visits with an olive oil maker, a local chocolatier, and makers of hand-cured meats and sauces. For lunch, you will sample regional culinary delights at the historic Gesa Power House Theatre. With local bites come local sips and time to stretch your legs. The family-owned Dunham Cellars will welcome you to tour and taste their wines before you head downtown to historic Walla Walla. Here, you will visit the multi-media artist Squire Broel’s studio and stroll downtown with your guides where boutique shops and over 30 tasting rooms await. Your guides will then give interpretive presentations of a land rich in history. (BLD)Day 5: Palouse River / Snake River
You will wake up at the mouth of the Palouse River, where a day of kayaking, swimming, and paddleboarding await. Your binoculars will come in handy as well as you head out on an early morning skiff boat ride for some great birding of hawks, herons, grebes, and other birds. At the confluence of the Palouse and Snake rivers, your crew has everything set with a beach party at Lyons Ferry State Park. Back on board, you can order a cocktail and wind up the afternoon cruising one of the most scenic stretches of the Snake River. (BLD)Day 6: Columbia Hills
The impressive sheer cliffs, basalt landforms, and wide-stretching plateaus of Rowena were formed by lava flows, floods, and volcanic ash deposits. At Rowena Overlook, you will have the chance to explore the area on foot. You can opt for a 2-mile roundtrip hike to the crest of Tom McCall Nature Preserve. Your reward will be expansive views in every direction, including the Columbia River far below. Or, you can choose the steeper, 3.6-mile roundtrip Tom McCall Point trail. On a cloudless day, your effort gaining 1,000 feet of elevation pays off with views of Mt. Adams, Mt. Hood, and the Columbia River Gorge. Afterward, sip on a well-deserved drink on board as you toast the end of your adventure. Cruise through the Columbia River Gorge as you enjoy a farewell dinner with your fellow travelers. (BLD)Day 7: The Dalles
It’s all about adventure on the river today. You will start with a shallow wet landing onto the beach before heading out on a thrilling whitewater rafting adventure on the Deschutes River. You will raft class II and III+ rapids which come with names like Elevator and Surf City. Your experienced rafting guides will provide all the gear (including optional wetsuits) and your ship’s chef, the picnic lunch. There are also winery tours, park walks, and museum tours on offer.. Then you can finish off the day with a dip in a lazy section of the river, and let the sunshine dry you off after a swim. Before boarding the boat, you can swap stories with your shipmates over sunset cocktails and appetizers along the river’s edge. (BLD)Day 8: Portland, Oregon
Today your tour comes to an end. Savor your last breakfast aboard as well as the surrounding scenery as you cruise into Portland where you will disembark for your airport transfer or onward arrangements. (B)Tempted by outdoor adventure? Take a look at our other Alaska and Pacific Northwest small ship cruises here.
Map
Boats
- Wilderness Legacy
Comfort Class Boat
Fondly nicknamed the ‘Whale Whisperer’, this small boat is geared to adventure and expedition cruising. Taking on the appearance of an early 20th-century coastal steamer, Wilderness Legacy, not only exudes vintage charm but is a stalwart vessel in the fleet, capable of sailing remote waters. Equipped with a portable activity launch platform - aka Sea Dragon - taking part in kayaking, paddle boarding, and skiff rides is a breeze. Read More
Inclusions
What’s Included
- Accommodation for 7 nights in selected cabin
- Onboard meals
- Onboard spirits, wine, beer, non-alcoholic beverages
- Transfers & baggage handling between airport/vessel
- Entry fees to parks/preserves/winery
- All from-the-vessel activities & equipment
- Expedition/heritage guides & guest experts
- Wellness amenities: hot tub, fitness equipment, & yoga mats
What’s Not Included
- Travel to/from the start/finish
- Excursions not mentioned in the itinerary
- Port taxes/fees
- No onboard wifi
- Gratuities
- Travel Insurance
Dates & Pricing
Dates & Pricing
Saturday departures
September 2, 9 16, 23 & 30, and October 7, 14, 21, & 28, 2023
All seasons Navigator cabin $ 8392 £ 4417 $ 7,294 € 5069 kr 737703 ₪ 20583 ¥ 801602 Mex$ 106000 NZ$ 9072 NOK 58280 kr 60206 $ 5,300 Trailblazer cabin $ 9342 £ 4917 $ 8,120 € 5643 kr 821216 ₪ 22913 ¥ 892349 Mex$ 118000 NZ$ 10099 NOK 64878 kr 67022 $ 5,900 Pathfinder cabin $ 10133 £ 5334 $ 8,808 € 6122 kr 890811 ₪ 24855 ¥ 967972 Mex$ 128000 NZ$ 10955 NOK 70376 kr 72702 $ 6,400 Admiral (Explorer) cabin $ 11400 £ 6000 $ 9,909 € 6887 kr 1002162 ₪ 27961 ¥ 1088968 Mex$ 144000 NZ$ 12324 NOK 79173 kr 81789 $ 7,200 Junior Commodore cabin $ 13142 £ 6917 $ 11,423 € 7939 kr 1155270 ₪ 32233 ¥ 1255338 Mex$ 166000 NZ$ 14207 NOK 91269 kr 94285 $ 8,300 Commodore (Owner) cabin $ 15675 £ 8251 $ 13,625 € 9469 kr 1377973 ₪ 38447 ¥ 1497331 Mex$ 198000 NZ$ 16946 NOK 108864 kr 112460 $ 9,900 Single Navigator cabin $ 14725 £ 7751 $ 12,799 € 8895 kr 1294460 ₪ 36117 ¥ 1406584 Mex$ 186000 NZ$ 15919 NOK 102266 kr 105645 $ 9,300 Charter On request Port fees/taxes (add to above price) $ 594 £ 313 $ 516 € 359 kr 52196 ₪ 1456 ¥ 56717 Mex$ 7500 NZ$ 642 NOK 4124 kr 4260 $ 375 Triple rates are available in designated cabins (refer to deck plan). On request.
Saturday departures
Season 1: October 19 & 26, 2024
Season 2: October 5 & 12, 2024
Season 3: September 21 & 28, 2024
Season 4: August 31, and September 7 & 14, 2024Season 1 Season 2 Season 3 Season 4 Navigator cabin $ 7600 £ 4000 $ 6,606 € 4591 kr 668108 ₪ 18641 ¥ 725979 Mex$ 96000 NZ$ 8216 NOK 52782 kr 54526 $ 4,800 $ 8392 £ 4417 $ 7,294 € 5069 kr 737703 ₪ 20583 ¥ 801602 Mex$ 106000 NZ$ 9072 NOK 58280 kr 60206 $ 5,300 $ 9183 £ 4834 $ 7,982 € 5548 kr 807297 ₪ 22524 ¥ 877224 Mex$ 116000 NZ$ 9928 NOK 63779 kr 65886 $ 5,800 $ 9975 £ 5250 $ 8,670 € 6026 kr 876892 ₪ 24466 ¥ 952847 Mex$ 126000 NZ$ 10784 NOK 69277 kr 71566 $ 6,300 Trailblazer cabin $ 8550 £ 4500 $ 7,432 € 5165 kr 751622 ₪ 20971 ¥ 816726 Mex$ 108000 NZ$ 9243 NOK 59380 kr 61342 $ 5,400 $ 9342 £ 4917 $ 8,120 € 5643 kr 821216 ₪ 22913 ¥ 892349 Mex$ 118000 NZ$ 10099 NOK 64878 kr 67022 $ 5,900 $ 10292 £ 5417 $ 8,946 € 6217 kr 904730 ₪ 25243 ¥ 983096 Mex$ 130000 NZ$ 11126 NOK 71476 kr 73838 $ 6,500 $ 11084 £ 5834 $ 9,634 € 6696 kr 974324 ₪ 27185 ¥ 1058719 Mex$ 140000 NZ$ 11982 NOK 76974 kr 79517 $ 7,000 Pathfinder cabin $ 9183 £ 4834 $ 7,982 € 5548 kr 807297 ₪ 22524 ¥ 877224 Mex$ 116000 NZ$ 9928 NOK 63779 kr 65886 $ 5,800 $ 10133 £ 5334 $ 8,808 € 6122 kr 890811 ₪ 24855 ¥ 967972 Mex$ 128000 NZ$ 10955 NOK 70376 kr 72702 $ 6,400 $ 11242 £ 5917 $ 9,771 € 6791 kr 988243 ₪ 27573 ¥ 1073844 Mex$ 142000 NZ$ 12153 NOK 78074 kr 80653 $ 7,100 $ 12192 £ 6417 $ 10,597 € 7365 kr 1071757 ₪ 29903 ¥ 1164591 Mex$ 154000 NZ$ 13180 NOK 84672 kr 87469 $ 7,700 Admiral (Explorer) cabin $ 10292 £ 5417 $ 8,946 € 6217 kr 904730 ₪ 25243 ¥ 983096 Mex$ 130000 NZ$ 11126 NOK 71476 kr 73838 $ 6,500 $ 11400 £ 6000 $ 9,909 € 6887 kr 1002162 ₪ 27961 ¥ 1088968 Mex$ 144000 NZ$ 12324 NOK 79173 kr 81789 $ 7,200 $ 12667 £ 6667 $ 11,010 € 7652 kr 1113514 ₪ 31068 ¥ 1209965 Mex$ 160000 NZ$ 13694 NOK 87971 kr 90877 $ 8,000 $ 13617 £ 7167 $ 11,836 € 8226 kr 1197027 ₪ 33398 ¥ 1300712 Mex$ 172000 NZ$ 14721 NOK 94568 kr 97693 $ 8,600 Junior Commodore cabin $ 11875 £ 6251 $ 10,322 € 7174 kr 1043919 ₪ 29126 ¥ 1134342 Mex$ 150000 NZ$ 12838 NOK 82472 kr 85197 $ 7,500 $ 13142 £ 6917 $ 11,423 € 7939 kr 1155270 ₪ 32233 ¥ 1255338 Mex$ 166000 NZ$ 14207 NOK 91269 kr 94285 $ 8,300 $ 14567 £ 7667 $ 12,661 € 8800 kr 1280541 ₪ 35728 ¥ 1391460 Mex$ 184000 NZ$ 15748 NOK 101166 kr 104509 $ 9,200 $ 15675 £ 8251 $ 13,625 € 9469 kr 1377973 ₪ 38447 ¥ 1497331 Mex$ 198000 NZ$ 16946 NOK 108864 kr 112460 $ 9,900 Commodore (Owner) cabin $ 14250 £ 7501 $ 12,386 € 8609 kr 1252703 ₪ 34952 ¥ 1361210 Mex$ 180000 NZ$ 15405 NOK 98967 kr 102237 $ 9,000 $ 15675 £ 8251 $ 13,625 € 9469 kr 1377973 ₪ 38447 ¥ 1497331 Mex$ 198000 NZ$ 16946 NOK 108864 kr 112460 $ 9,900 $ 17417 £ 9167 $ 15,139 € 10522 kr 1531081 ₪ 42719 ¥ 1663702 Mex$ 220000 NZ$ 18829 NOK 120959 kr 124956 $ 11,000 $ 18842 £ 9917 $ 16,377 € 11382 kr 1656351 ₪ 46214 ¥ 1799823 Mex$ 238000 NZ$ 20369 NOK 130856 kr 135180 $ 11,900 Single Navigator cabin $ 13300 £ 7001 $ 11,560 € 8035 kr 1169189 ₪ 32622 ¥ 1270463 Mex$ 168000 NZ$ 14378 NOK 92369 kr 95421 $ 8,400 $ 14725 £ 7751 $ 12,799 € 8895 kr 1294460 ₪ 36117 ¥ 1406584 Mex$ 186000 NZ$ 15919 NOK 102266 kr 105645 $ 9,300 $ 16150 £ 8501 $ 14,038 € 9756 kr 1419730 ₪ 39612 ¥ 1542705 Mex$ 204000 NZ$ 17459 NOK 112162 kr 115868 $ 10,200 $ 17575 £ 9251 $ 15,276 € 10617 kr 1545000 ₪ 43107 ¥ 1678826 Mex$ 222000 NZ$ 19000 NOK 122059 kr 126092 $ 11,100 Charter On request On request On request On request Port fees/taxes (add to above price) $ 594 £ 313 $ 516 € 359 kr 52196 ₪ 1456 ¥ 56717 Mex$ 7500 NZ$ 642 NOK 4124 kr 4260 $ 375 $ 594 £ 313 $ 516 € 359 kr 52196 ₪ 1456 ¥ 56717 Mex$ 7500 NZ$ 642 NOK 4124 kr 4260 $ 375 $ 594 £ 313 $ 516 € 359 kr 52196 ₪ 1456 ¥ 56717 Mex$ 7500 NZ$ 642 NOK 4124 kr 4260 $ 375 $ 594 £ 313 $ 516 € 359 kr 52196 ₪ 1456 ¥ 56717 Mex$ 7500 NZ$ 642 NOK 4124 kr 4260 $ 375 Extra Options
Triple rates are available in designated cabins (refer to deck plan). On request.
A 25% deposit based on the cabin price is required at booking.Please Note
- Rates are per person, based on double occupancy
- Tour prices are based on the fuel costs at time prices are set, often months or years in advance. In rare cases, additional fees may apply for fuel cost increases.
- Information to read before you book
- We recommend purchasing trip insurance
- Please see our FAQ
Extra Info
Skill Level — Easy
The cruise has been designed to accommodate a variety of fitness levels. Whether you are looking to take it easy or are up for a challenge, there is something for everyone. Unless the boat is cruising part of the day, there are active adventure options scheduled most mornings and afternoons. Your onboard guides will advise what activities are offered daily and work to include everyone. Kayaking excursions take the form of guided paddles that can last 1-4 hours and open paddling at your own pace. Hiking ranges from rigorous treks over rugged terrain for the fit to easy strolls along the riverbank. Inflatable skiff rides require you to sit back and relax, with little to no effort needed. You will also have the option of rafting grade II and III rapids with your expert guide. These are beginner rapids with moderate strength and will require you to paddle. Classed as an easy activity that is lots of fun! Lifejackets and all other relevant equipment will be provided. Morning yoga classes cater to all levels and relaxing in the hot tub is for everyone.
Airport Info
Fly in/out of Portland International Airport in Oregon State (PDX).
On embarkation day (Day 1) your flight into Portland should arrive no later than 2:30 pm.
On disembarkation day (Day 8) your flight from Portland should leave no earlier than 1:00 pm.Local Travel
Transfers to/from Portland Airport are included in the tour price.
Climate
You can expect a contrast in both climate and scenery on this cruise. Set in the Pacific Northwest, the Cascade Mountains run the entire north/south length of Oregon, resulting in two entirely different areas and climates. On the western side - including Portland and Astoria - temperate rainforest dominates the region, with an oceanic climate that brings rain and milder temperatures. East of the Cascades, desert-like conditions and terrain are found, with dry, sunny days and hot temperatures. Regions that fall to the east include the Columbia Valley, Hood River Valley, Snake River, and Walla Walla in Washington. You can also expect a drop in day and night temperatures heading into the fall months of October and November. The majority of the itinerary takes place on the eastern side of the Cascade Mountain range.
Day of Rest
Any day can be a day of rest!
Recommended
Charters:
If you have a large group and would like to charter an entire boat, please contact us for available dates and boats. In addition to the scheduled dates listed (please see pricing), further dates may be available on request. All dates are subject to availability at the time of booking. Itineraries can be customized to suit your individual needs and as safety and operational constraints allow. Please send us your preferred destination, dates, boat, and the number of people (adults and children under 13) in your party, and we will work on providing you with the best available options! The relevant charter terms and conditions will apply.Remarks
Walks and hikes:
A range of hikes - of varying difficulty and terrain - are available throughout your tour. Ranging from easy riverbank strolls to harder mountain scrambles, your guides will lead the way. A good pair of hiking boots are recommended. Hiking poles are available.Wine tasting:
The Pacific Northwest is a foodie’s delight. Sample wines and delicacies from the local area - including visits with makers of olive oil, chocolates, and hand-cured meats and sauces. Opportunities range from winery tours of local farms to onboard tastings with a certified sommelier. The area boasts varietals such as Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot of Red Mountain, Chardonnay from Columbia Gorge, craft beer and cider from Deschutes, and Syrah from Walla Walla.Paddleboarding and kayaking:
The boat is stocked with paddleboards and tandem sea kayaks. They are the perfect way to explore the calm Palouse River and the golden hills and basalt cliffs found along the Snake River. Many bird species - bald eagle and ospreys - and wildlife - mountain goat and pronghorn antelope - can also be spotted along the way. Take one of the guided options or explore at your own pace. The river always welcomes you in for a quick dip should you choose.River rafting:
Go on a thrilling whitewater rafting trip on the Deschutes River, a tributary that flows into the Columbia River. Raft grade II and III+ rapids with your expert rafting guide who will instruct you along the way. Lifejackets, optional wetsuits, and all other relevant equipment will be provided. Enjoy a post-adventure picnic lunch prepared by the chef.Lock visits:
Transit multiple lock and dam systems, including Bonneville Lock and Dam. This massive engineering accomplishment was the largest water impoundment project of its type in the United States when completed in 1937. You’ll have a behind-the-scenes look at its huge turbines and fish ladders on a private tour.Northwest arts, history, and geology:
Explore galleries and historic buildings in Astoria and Walla Walla. At Fort Clatsop - a Lewis and Clark National Historical Park - get an insight into the Corps of Discovery and their exchanges with local Native Americans. Learn about the incredible geology of the area from your expert guides: volcanic peaks of Mt. Hood, columnar cliffs in the Columbia River Gorge, and Grande Ronde basalt at Multnomah Falls.Skiff rides:
Take a small inflatable boat ride and discover the surrounding area. Your skiff captains are pros and offer insights into the history, geology, and ecology of each region whilst pointing out any interesting wildlife. Skiff rides are a great way to get up close to birds like ospreys, red-tailed hawks, and white pelicans. Minimal effort is required.Important to know
Covid-19
You will require a Covid-19 booster shot in order to sail.
Travel Documents
It is each traveler's responsibility to ensure that you are in compliance with the country or countries you plan to visit. This includes and is not limited to passport validity, visa requirements and acquisition, blank passport pages required for your destination (s), etc.
For US citizens, documents for travel within the Pacific Northwest are the same for any other U.S. state. If you are flying to Alaska within the United States, you only need a valid government photo ID. A list of accepted forms of ID can be found on the TSA website.
For Non-U.S. citizens a passport is required. Please research documentation and visas needed to enter the United States of America.
Covid-19 Info
Country Entry Requirements
Due to the changing requirements for entry, it is imperative that you stay up to date on requirements set by the country/countries that you are visiting. Please visit our Travel Restrictions Tool page and the country/countries government webpage for this information.
Extra Stay
You can add on extra nights in Portland before or after the tour. Please see pricing.
Tour Operator
This tour is run by UnCruise Adventures.
We value the strong relationship we have with our local partners and the services we provide.
We are not a broker.
We do not inflate tour prices.
We are simply travelers helping travelers.Would you like to learn more About Us? How about What Makes Us Different than other companies?
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