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Columbia & Snake Rivers Cruise – American Harmony

Discover the legendary waterway tracing the route of Lewis and Clark, passing through an ever-shifting landscape. Be amazed as you travel through the high desert, past vineyards and orchards, through the Cascade Mountain Range past snow capped mountains and towering waterfalls as carved stone cliffs line the river. Travel on through lush forests teeming with wildlife and on to the edge of the continent where the river meets the Pacific Ocean. The Columbia River Gorge is an American experience like no other.

The American Harmony is a modern new riverboat cruising the Columbia and Snake Rivers between Washington and Oregon offering iconic NW cruises.

Cruise Details

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*Per person/double occupancy. Special single rates apply where listed. Excludes port fees. Itineraries may operate in reverse.

Your Itinerary

1 Portland, OR (Pre-Cruise Hotel) Arrive in Portland and settle into your hotel, located right at the ship’s dock for a seamless boarding process. Situated between the waters of the Columbia and Willamette Rivers, the area's history is forever entwined with the fortunes of these great rivers.

2 Portland, OR Welcome to the City of Roses! Portland's history and culture has forever been entwined with the two rivers that flow around and thru it: the Columbia and Willamette Rivers. If you're planning to arrive early into Portland, talk to our agents about putting together a city tour, crossing many of Portland's beautiful bridges, and even stopping at the International Test Garden featuring over 6800 rose bushes!

3 Astoria, OR Astoria is the oldest American settlement west of the Rockies, close to where Lewis & Clark wintered at Fort Clatsop during their Corps of Discovery expedition. Just stepping off the boat you'll have access to the city trolley - a quaint ride along the waterfront that will explain all the highlights of Astoria - and the Columbia River Maritime Museum, examining the history of crossing the bar and the actual ships and artifacts of ships that found the crossing too dangerous. Other options from here: Fort Clatsop Tour & Astoria Experience, or Lewis & Clark Interpretive Center at Cape Disappointment.

4 Kalama/Mount St. Helens, WA There is nothing more magnificient or eye-catching than the beautiful Mount St. Helens. She is a local treasure, despite her grumblings and 1980 eruption. Everyone should take this complimentary excursion to Johnston Ridge Observatory. Make sure to watch the film, where you can hear Johnston call out: "Vancouver! Vancouver! This is it!" His last transmission before perishing in the eruption.

5 The Dalles, OR The Dalles, the last stop on the historic Oregon Trail, nestles along the Columbia River with a beautiful view of both Mount Hood and Mount Adams, each towering more than 11,000 feet above your cruise ship. To the pioneers of the 1800s, this rugged terrain was treacherous, but to today's visitors, it is fascinating. Venture ashore on your own to explore the historic downtown, steps from the ship, featuring fascinating museums, intimate cafes, local pubs, and a collection of historic murals which embellish the streetscape. Or enjoy guided excursions to learn about the area’s rich history, view a unique art collection in a magnificent building perched on a bluff above the river, or spend an afternoon with expert sommeliers enjoying the bounty of the fertile Columbia Valley.

6 Cruising the Columbia River Gorge Enjoy a nice day on the river cruising through the Columbia River Gorge national scenic area.

7 Pendleton, OR/Richland, WA The Hanford Reach Museum in Richland is an amazing option for your fun today. Or book the Pendleton Signature Tour: underground city tour, BBQ lunch at Hamley's Restaurant, and visits to the Tamastslikt Cultural Institute and Pendleton Woolen Mills.

8 Clarkston, WA At the border lies Clarkston, WA and Lewiston, ID - I wonder how they got their names? There's so much history and culture to explore here, including the complimentary excursion to the Nez Perce National Historic Park. But the Hells Canyon Jet Boat Signature Tour is always a hit. Be sure to sign up for this one in advance - it fills up!

9 Disembark in Clarkston, WA Talk to our agents about travel arrangements, or lengthening your stay with a hotel in Spokane, WA.

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*Prices may vary due to seasonality

Onboard Experience

The American Cruise Line fleet of ships are the newest and most environmentally friendly small ships in the US. The cruise line prides itself on their hospitable staff, and that you’ll be graciously received no matter which ship you cruise on. The large staterooms with interior entrances ensure you have a relaxed, private area to watch the river from, or visit any of the many onboard lounges. Daily entertainment will be brought onboard, including musicians, historians and naturalists.

Regionally-Inspired Menus

American Cruise Lines uses fresh, local ingredients to show off the culinary glory of the region you’re cruising in. On the Mississippi River, that could mean Andouille Gumbo, a po’boy with red beans and rice, and bourbon pecan pie. In New England, you could find Littleneck clam ceviche on the menu followed by a spiced apple pudding with maple whipped cream. In the Pacific Northwest, you’ll find fresh fish on the menu, including shrimp bisque or Dungeness Crab cake, and a marionberry cheesecake that’ll make your mouth water! Your ship will provide you with a list of all the locally-sourced ingredients when you unpack.

Eagle Society

Once you’ve cruised aboard any American Cruise Line ship, you are an Eagle Society member. It’s free to be a member, but your loyalty to American Cruise Lines is greatly rewarded. You’ll receive Eagle Society luggage tags, and member-only gifts when you board each cruise. After 3 cruises, you’ll receive complimentary premium shore excursions. After 10 cruises, you’ll get a complimentary 11th cruise. There are special Eagle Society cruise dates every year. Plus all Eagle Society member benefits can be used when booking with USA River Cruises, plus you’ll still be eligible for our loyal customer benefits as well.

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AMERICAN CRUISE LINES 8 Days | Columbia & Snake River Voyage Westbound

CLARKSTON TO PORTLAND Day 1 | Clarkston, Washington. Lewiston, Idaho. The twin cities of Lewiston, Idaho and Clarkston, Washington, are known as the Northwest's most inland seaports. Here, along the Snake River, you'll find Hells Canyon, the deepest canyon in North America. This canyon is known for its pristine wilderness and breathtaking scenery. View ancient Indian petroglyphs and magnificent wildlife. Hells Canyon Jet Boat Tour.* Prepare yourself for an fascinating ride across pristine wilderness. Climb aboard a jet boat for a safe, yet exhilarating adventure into Hells Canyon National Recreation Area. Your United States Coast Guard certified captain will narrate as you travel across the Snake River through the pristine wilderness of Hells Canyon, the deepest canyon in North America. Along the way, you'll stop to view 7,000-year-old petroglyphs, foraging big horn sheep and rock formations sculpted over a million years ago. (*This is a premium tour. Please call 855-255-1200 for more information. Tour only offered on cruises ending in Clarkston, WA.) Nez Perce National Historic Park.* Learn about the rich history of the Nez Perce Native American tribe. Located in Spalding, Idaho, the Nez Perce National Historic Park commemorates the contributions the tribe has made. It also helps preserve the sites, stories and artifacts associated with their history and culture. At the park, you will learn about the rich history of the Nez Perce Native American tribe, also remembered for having saved the Lewis and Clark expedition team from starvation following its harrowing journey through the Bitteroot Mountains. (*Tour only offered on cruises ending in Clarkston, WA.) Day 2 | River Cruising. Enjoy an authentic Columbia River Valley wine tasting along the Snake River. After the wine tasting, head to the top deck of Queen of the West where you will have a front row seat as we cruise past rugged mountains and rolling plains. Relax in a lounge chair with a good book or grab a pair of binoculars and search for bald eagles and other wildlife that may be lurking on the river's edge. Today is a day devoted to total relaxation and enjoying the simple pleasures that come with a river cruise. Day 3 | Pendleton, Oregon. Richland, Washington. Journey to Pendleton and get a taste of the real West watching working cowboys at the world-famous Pendleton Roundup and learn about the pioneers from the perspective of the Native Americans at the Tamastslikt Cultural Institute. Pendleton Underground Tour. Experience a trip underground and into Pendleton's intriguing and entertaining past. The Pendleton Underground Tour shows you the secrets that lie beneath the streets of this lively town. A network of hidden basalt-rock tunnels link restored buildings, allowing you to see the way they were constructed in the 19th century. Tamastslikt Cultural Institute. Experience the storied past and bright future of the Umatilla, Cayuse and Walla Walla Indians Visit the Tamastslikt Cultural Institute, which plays tribute to the Umatilla, Cayuse and Walla Walla Indians. These three distinct peoples have melded together over the past 150 years in an alliance called the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation. The facility also includes interactive exhibits, significant artwork, a living culture village, and a raptor program about birds of prey. Pendleton Woolen Mill. Visit the Pendleton Woolen Mill and Museum to learn about the town's renowned weaving process during a guided tour. Pendleton Mills has been producing world famous woolens since 1901, including Native American blankets inspired by ancient designs and legends. There will be time after the tour to visit the gift shop where you can purchase woven goods produced on site. Winery Tour. Sample award winning wines and enjoy breathtaking views of beautiful vineyards on this narrated winery tour. nown as "The Heart of Washington Wine Country," the Tri-Cities region houses more than 160 wineries within a 50 mile radius. Sample award-winning wines and enjoy breathtaking views of beautiful vineyards on this narrated winery tour. Sharing the same latitude as the world-famous Burgundy and Bordeaux regions of France, the Columbia Valley has the perfect soil conditions and temperatures for producing great wines. The Tri-Cities' area wineries offer a comfortable setting to experience world-class wines. Visit the Columbia Valley and discover the Heart of Washington Wine Country. Day 4 | Stevenson, Washington. In the heart of the Columbia Gorge National Scenic Area, the ship will move through transit the Bonneville Lock and Dam to reach the port of Stevenson. At the Bonneville Dam Visitors Center, learn about the workings of the massive turbine generators behind this imposing hydroelectric power source. The Columbia Gorge Interpretive Center showcases the area's unique cultural and historical diversity, from the Native American tribes that inhabited the Gorge, to Lewis and Clark and 19th-century loggers. Bonneville Dam and Fish Hatchery. Enjoy a guided tour of the Bonneville Dam to learn about fisheries and hydropower (1 Hour) . After the tour, take a short bus ride to the Bonneville Fish Hatchery, where you can participate in a self-guided tour through the Spawning Room, Adult Fish Holding Ponds, Rearing Ponds, Rainbow Trout Ponds Outdoor Sturgeon Ponds, Underwater Viewing Center and the Gift Shop. While on this tour, be sure to visit Herman the Sturgeon. Herman is 10 feet long, 425 pounds and over 65 years old. Multnomah Falls and Columbia Gorge Interpretive Center. Experience the powerful beauty of nature by visiting Multnomah Falls. Eighty miles long and up to 4,000 feet deep, the Columbia River Gorge is a spectacular river canyon cutting the only navigable route through the Cascade Mountain Range. Visit magnificent Multnomah Falls, one of over 70 waterfalls found along the Gorge. Plummeting 620 feet, it is the second highest waterfall in the United States. You can enjoy the falls from the Visitor's Center, or walk the paved trail to Benson Bridge, where you can get an up close view of the falls. After viewing the falls, visit the Columbia Gorge Interpretive Center, where you will learn about the bountiful life of the Gorge. The Interpretive Center also displays the natural and cultural history of the region. Day 5 | Cruising the Columbia River Gorge. The Columbia River Gorge is a spectacular river canyon cutting the only sea-level route through the Cascade Mountain Range. A popular recreational destination, the gorge holds federally protected status as a National Scenic Area called the Columbia Gorge National Scenic Area and is managed by the United States Forest Service. The cliffs of the awe-inspiring gorge look down on quaint riverfront towns and exhilarating windsurfing waters. Through millenniums of geologic events, waterfalls have found their home in the Columbia River Gorge. Day 6 | Rainier. Cruise through Volcano Alley on the Columbia River with views of Mt. Hood, Mt. Adams and Mt. St. Helens. From Rainier, you will travel to Mt. St. Helens National Volcanic Monument. At the nearby observatory and interpretive center, look right into the volcanic crater with its steaming dome, and witness firsthand the destructive power and damage caused by its volcanic blast in 1980. Mount St. Helens Tour. Get an up close look at this active volcano. A scenic bus ride takes you to the Mount St. Helens Johnston Ridge Observatory. The observatory sits on a bluff overlooking the crater and offers views of Mount St. Helens' lava dome, pumice plain and landslide deposit. Day 7 | Astoria, Washington. A nationally significant historic region at the western end of the Lewis & Clark Trail, Astoria is the oldest American settlement west of the Rockies and today showcases more than 70 Victorian-era homes in its unique historic district. In the winter of 1805-06 the Lewis & Clark Corps of Discovery Expedition was headquartered at Fort Clatsop. In 1955, a replica of the fort was built near the original site was eventually named a National Monument. Get a comprehensive overview of the Corp's entire expedition at Fort Canby and the Lewis & Clark Interpretive Center. Astoria City Tour and Fort Clatsop. Tour historic Astoria, the oldest American settlement west of the Rockies. Learn the history of the area while visiting two historic sites. The first stop will be at the Astoria Column, where you will have the opportunity to climb 164 steps to the top of the column to see the majestic views of the countryside. The tour will then proceed to Fort Clatsop, a replica of the original site where the Lewis and Clark Corps of Discovery camped during the winter of 1805-1806. Columbia River Maritime Museum. The Columbia River Maritime Museum is one of the premier maritime museums on the West Coast and is the official maritime museum of the state of Oregon. As your guide leads you through the museum, experience what it is like to pilot a tugboat and participate in a Coast Guard rescue. The museum features a new exhibit called Crossing the Bar. This exhibit takes a look at the legendary Columbia River entrance, where the forces of the mighty Columbia River and the Pacific Ocean meet. Day 8 | Portland, Oregon. Situated between the sparkling waters of the Columbia and Willamette Rivers, Portland has flourished throughout history with the fortunes of the great rivers. In the golden age of riverboats, sternwheelers crossed Portland's busy waterfront while steam whistles and calliopes rang out across the water. Today, big city excitement combined with small town charm makes Portland one of the favorite destinations in the West. Highlights include the Portland Art Museum, the International Rose Test Garden and famous Powell's Bookstore, filling an entire city block. Narrated city tour of Portland.* Since it was incorporated in 1851, Portland has long been a hub of arts, culture and welcoming residents eager to showcase the city's diverse offerings. Discover "North America's best Big City" on a three-hour motor coach excursion with a local expert guide. Highlights include Portland's exciting downtown, multiple river bridges, the International Rose Garden, and the Japanese Test Gardens. ( *Tour only offered on cruises ending in Portland, Oregon.) NOTE: Itinerary is subject to change without notice. For the most up-to-date information, please refer to the itinerary schedule you receive with your final documents.

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Join us on this spectacular cruise through the pristine waters of the Pacific Northwest, aboard the 360 foot diesel powered paddlewheeler, the American Empress. We’ll maximize daytime river cruising for the best viewing of the majestic mountains, canyons and open fields. Come aboard with R&J Tours and experience memories to last a lifetime. […]

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Day 1 – Home to Vancouver, WA

Today we fly from Minneapolis to Portland, Oregon and meet our motorcoach for transfer to our overnight hotel in Vancouver, WA. Maybe take some time to explore a little bit of Vancouver tonight before we board our paddlewheeler tomorrow.

Hotel: Hilton Vancouver Hotel

Day 2 – Embarkation Day: American Empress

Today we board the American Empress, proudly serving as the largest overnight riverboat west of the Mississippi River. One step onboard and you will quickly discover that there is far more to this vessel than her welcoming appearance and signature red paddlewheel. Boasting a vast collection of some of the finest historical artifacts and artwork of the Native Alaska, Russian, Gold Rush and sternwheeler eras, the corridors of the American Empress hold nearly as much beauty and intrigue as the dramatic scenery unfolding on the river outside. After settling in our cabins, we’ll enjoy exploring the riverboat, taking in the scenery around us, and having our first dinner onboard.

Included Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Day 3 – Astoria, OR (Full Day)

We anchor in Astoria today, known to be the oldest American Settlement west of the Rocky Mountains. For thousands of years, Clatsop Indians inhabited the lands that are now known as Astoria. In 1805, Lewis and Clark led their expedition through the town and spent the winter at Fort Clatsop. In 1813, a British warship sailed into the Columbia River, gaining possession of the city and holding control until 1818, when they finally agreed to a joint occupation of the land. The British did not fully leave Astoria until 1846. There is no doubting that rich history has deep roots grounded in this Columbia River town. When the history combines with the scenery, it’s perfect harmony! You’ll have an opportunity to walk along the city’s waterfront on the six-mile paved Riverwalk. View the 600 foot Astoria Column, the magnificent monument celebrating early settlers of the area. Tour the historic, Flavel House, built in 1885, and one of the best preserved examples of Queen Anne architecture. You’ll also have a chance to explore both the Heritage Museum and the Columbia River Maritime Museum during our time in Astoria.

Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 4 – Stevenson, WA (1/2 Day)

On the banks of the scenic Columbia River, the city of Stevenson is our launch pad to the Washington side of the Columbia River Gorge. A stroll along the Rock Cove Pathway or the Columbia River waterfront is a great way to take in surroundings. Downtown Stevenson is home to unique shops, art galleries, and restaurants. Stevenson is in the heart of the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area. Explore the eastern entrance to Mount St. Helens or the spectacular Lewis River Valley. Visit the Columbia Gorge Interpretive Center, The Bonneville Dam, and Downtown Stevenson, WA when you utilize the Signature Hop-on-Hop-Off shore pass.

Day 5 – The Dalles, OR (Full Day)

At the end of the overland Oregon Trail, The Dalles holds a unique place in history as a jumping-off spot for pioneers, soldiers, gold miners, adventurers, gun-slingers, floozies, and scallywags. Lewis and Clark camped at this location at Rock Fort Camp during their historic journey in 1805 and 1806. Fort Dalles was established in 1850. Oregon Trail pioneers ended their overland journey at The Dalles, being forced to build rafts and take the “river road” west to Fort Vancouver, then into the Willamette River valley. Ten thousand years of Native American trading took place on the banks of the Columbia River, shaped by the Ice Age Missoula floods. The town is located at the foot of a series of dangerous rapids which the Hudson’s Bay Company fur traders called “The Dalles of the Columbia.” As we dock in this fascinating town today, your Hop-on-Hop-Off pass allows you to explore the Columbia Gorge Discovery Center and Museum, the Original Wasco County Museum, the Fort Dalles Museum, as well as visit The Dalles Area Chamber of Commerce and take in some Downtown shopping.

Day 6 – River Cruising

Behold the beauty of nature as we enjoy a day of scenic river cruising. Picturesque canyon walls and fascinating volcanic formations will keep us guessing as to what lies around the next bend. As we wind through the dramatic mountains and forested ridges of the great Pacific Northwest, join the Riverlorian on-deck for insightful and entertaining narration.

Day 7 – Richland, WA (Tri-Cities) (Full Day)

Today we dock in Richland, located near the confluence of the Yakima and Columbia Rivers, the northern most point reached by the Lewis and Clark Expedition in 1805. First incorporated in 1910, Richland remained a small agricultural community until the Army acquired it and 670 square miles of adjacent land in 1943 as the site of the Hanford Engineer Works which was used to produce plutonium during World War II and the Cold War. Today, the historic B Reactor and other important historical venues are part of the new Manhattan Project National Historic Park. The city is also home to the Pacific Northwest National Laboratory and a branch campus of Washington State University. You can visit the REACH Museum with exhibits that teach the historical ecological and scientific importance of the Columbia River. You can also visit the 284-acre Sacajewea State Park located at the confluence of the Snake and Columbia Rivers where Lewis & Clark arrived in 1805. You will also get the opportunity to tour the Franklin County Historical Society & Museum.

Day 8 – Clarkston, WA (1/2 day)

Our final river destination is Clarkston, nestled at the union of the Snake and Clearwater Rivers in southeast Washington, it’s the gateway to North America’s deepest gorge, Hells Canyon on the Snake River. The picturesque vistas, year-round mild climates, and a deep history make this scenic inland port a more-than-desirable stop! Spend the day following the footsteps of the historic Lewis and Clark journey – where the city received its name. This incredible city is filled with artifacts and stories that depict the journeys of the famous explorers. Clarkston has the ideal climate for visitors to enjoy countless activities including fishing, scenic walks along the trails, shopping, and exploring! Today, your Hop-on-Hop-Off pass allows you to visit Nez Perce National Historical Park, First Territorial Capitol Interpretive Center, the 1906 Bridablik/Schroeder House, and the Nez Perce Historical Society and Museum before heading back to the paddlewheeler for our last evening aboard.

Day 9 – Clarkston, WA-Disembarkation

Enjoy a final breakfast onboard before leaving the Empress behind. Today we board our flight for home and reminisce about our spectacular cruise aboard the American Empress!

Included Meals: Breakfast

Travel Bucks

Deposit due, passport needed, price includes.

RT Airfare including taxes, fuel surcharges, & baggage fees! 21 Meals, Hotels & Activities as stated in brochure, All Onboard Gratuities

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Tour Highlights

7 Night Cruise aboard the lavish American Empress All onboard Meals with multiple Dining Venues 24 hour Room Service Broadway style Entertainment each evening Daily Lectures by the Riverlorian Signature Hop-on-Hop-Off Shore Excursions