7 Day Columbia River

Dates:
2005
May 7, 14
Sep. 10, 17, 24
Oct. 1, 8, 15, 22

Price starting from: $1,200

It all begins with a cruise out of Portland on the lazy Willamette River.The journey continues as you navigate the mighty Columbia River and some of its most spectacular tributaries. Watch for wildlife as you kayak on the Palouse River, explore the Hanford Reach and view the impressive scenery along the Columbia River Gorge. Every day is an adventure. Depending on the location and your inclination, you might kayak, bird watch or sample a local winery. At Hood River, the windsurfing capital of the Northwest, you can take a train up the mountain, discover a local museum or enjoy white water rafting. Also join our Naturalists for lively talks and slide shows on Lewis and Clark’s journey, and the natural history, geology and culture of the region.

Inquire now on this Columbia River Cruise...

Itinerary:

Day 1 - Portland Embarkation
Arrive independently to your vessel at a convenient downtown Portland riverfront pier for a late afternoon embarkation. We cruise up the Willamette and enter the Columbia River at Mile 100. Meet your Captain, crew and fellow adventurers at tonight's dinner. Afterwards relax on the top deck and enjoy the impressive views of this famed river valley. D

Day 2 - Kayaking at Miller Island
Our expert Kayak Guides and Naturalist team outfit you with all the gear and training you need for your first foray into river kayaking. You receive a comprehensive orientation and safety training. Our kayak destination today is Miller Island, where you explore alongside its desert terrain. After lunch, the journey continues upriver. BLD

Day 3 - Kayaking or Hiking at Palouse River
We drop anchor at the Palouse River, a tributary of the Snake River and enjoy our lunch on deck. This serene kayaking location is surrounded by dramatic cliffs and bluffs. Those wishing for a higher exertion level can paddle up the river or go ashore for a great hike. There is a chance for close up views of beaver, deer and numerous birds. In this area in 1968, geologists discovered some of the oldest human remains ever found in the western hemisphere. "Marmes Man," the skeletal remains were carbon-dated to be approximately 10,000 years old. BLD

Day 4 - Jet Boat Ride Up Hells Canyon
An exciting jetboat trip takes you 100 miles up the Snake River through Hells Canyon. This spectacular geologic wonder is thousands of feet deeper than the Grand Canyon. Lunch is served at the historic Kirkwood Ranch where you can enjoy a walking tour. See ancient petroglyphs near the water's edge. Your all-day adventure gets you back to the ship in time for dinner. BLD

Day 5 - Kayaking at Blalock Islands
After a morning of cruising, we drop anchor off Blalock Islands near Umatilla. This wildlife refuge area is perfect for kayaking. The wetland and riparian habitats host thousands of migrating and wintering birds. Thirty bald eagles nest in the vicinity. Colonies of great blue herons and black-crowned night-herons are found on the islands. Mule deer, coyote, beaver, muskrat and other small animals are also at home here. BLD

Day 6 - Mt. Hood, Columbia Gorge, Bonneville Dam
Your morning is filled with optional trips (not included in trip price). Is it the historic train ride to the foothills of snow-capped Mount Hood? Or is it whitewater rafting or mountain biking? Or maybe you just want to stroll through this waterfront town and watch the sailboarding action from the Sailpark. Whatever your choice, you are in a picturesque valley filled with fruit blossoms in Spring and dramatic autumn colors in Fall. All aboard for lunch and a cruise through the spectacular Columbia Gorge with its gaunt basalt cliffs and double-decker waterfalls. Next we pass through the massive Bonneville Dam. BLD

Day 7 - Kayaking or Hiking at Lewis & Clark Wildlife Refuge
Today you kayak or hike at the Lewis and Clark National Wildlife Refuge, an amazing estuary on the Columbia River. The refuge includes islands, sandbars, tidal marshes, mudflats and open water. Thousands of waterbirds make their home here, as well as bald eagles. It is also a stopping place for migrating birds such as tundra swans, Canadian geese and countless waterfowl. Harbor seals, California sea lions, and river otter glide through the waters while the islands are home to beaver, weasel, mink and muskrat. At the end of the day's activities, slide into your other pair of blue jeans for the Captain's farewell cocktail party and Captain's dinner. BLD

Day 8 - Portland Disembarkation
After a hearty breakfast, it is final farewells to all your new-found friends and the Crew. Disembark in downtown Portland where your tour ends. B

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All rates are per person, double occupancy. Port charges, Government taxes and fees are additional. Limited availability and based on minimum fares for select departure dates. Other dates may be higher. These rates are for new, individual bookings only. Not responsible for last minute changes of price or itinerary by cruise line, or any errors or omissions in the content of this site. Some restrictions and cancellation penalties may apply.