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Columbia River Gorge
Cruise through a spectacular corridor of steep cliffs, forests and waterfalls as the Columbia cuts through the Cascade Range.
Cruise With Us • May 14–22, 2027
Columbia & Snake Rivers
American Encore | Clarkston to Portland | 8 Nights
Join Suzanne and Steve as we follow the path of Lewis and Clark through the Pacific Northwest, sailing past dramatic river gorges, vineyards, waterfalls, historic towns and some of the most beautiful scenery in the American West.
May 14, 2027Departure
8 Nights9-Day Journey
American EncoreModern Riverboat
Clarkston → PortlandPacific Northwest
A Legendary American River Journey
Follow the rivers that shaped the American West
The Columbia and Snake Rivers offer one of the most distinctive small-ship journeys in the United States. Instead of crossing an ocean to find dramatic scenery and fascinating history, this voyage explores the landscapes of Washington and Oregon from the water.
Along the way, the scenery continually changes—from the rugged country surrounding the Snake River to eastern Washington wine country, the towering walls of the Columbia River Gorge, the maritime history of Astoria and finally Portland.
It is a journey filled with Lewis and Clark history, Native American heritage, pioneer stories, regional food and wine, waterfalls and extraordinary Pacific Northwest scenery.
Why This Journey Stands Out
Scenery, history and the spirit of exploration
This is much more than a river cruise. The route connects some of the defining landscapes and stories of the Pacific Northwest.
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Lewis & Clark Country
Follow portions of the Corps of Discovery route and explore communities shaped by Native American history, pioneers and westward expansion.
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Wine Country & River Towns
Discover eastern Washington vineyards, historic towns, maritime communities and the distinctive flavors of the Pacific Northwest.
May 14–22, 2027
Our Columbia & Snake Rivers itinerary
Travel from Clarkston in eastern Washington to Portland, following the Snake and Columbia Rivers west across the Pacific Northwest.
Clarkston, Washington
Arrive in the region and begin the journey with the included pre-cruise hotel experience.
Snake River
Begin cruising through the dramatic landscapes of the Snake River country.
Pendleton & Richland
Discover Old West heritage, regional history and the agricultural heart of eastern Washington.
Columbia River Gorge
Enjoy one of the great scenic cruising days of the trip as the river cuts through the Cascade Range.
Hood River, Oregon
Explore this scenic Columbia River community surrounded by mountains, orchards, vineyards and outdoor beauty.
Kalama, Washington
Experience a welcoming riverfront town with ties to Pacific Northwest history and the lower Columbia.
Astoria, Oregon
Reach the mouth of the Columbia and explore one of the Pacific Northwest's most historic maritime communities.
River Cruising
Relax aboard American Encore and enjoy another day of Columbia River scenery.
Portland, Oregon
Conclude the journey in Portland after breakfast aboard.
Itinerary, docking locations and individual excursions are subject to change. We will provide the most current American Cruise Lines information as the sailing approaches.
American Encore
A new generation of American riverboat
American Encore launched in 2026 as part of American Cruise Lines' modern riverboat fleet. Designed specifically for cruising America's waterways, the ship combines the intimacy of small-ship travel with unusually spacious accommodations.
Every guest accommodation has a private balcony, while the ship's four-story glass atrium, lounges, outdoor spaces, walking track and multiple dining venues provide plenty of room to enjoy the scenery along the way.
180Guests
5Passenger Decks
100%Private Balconies
4 StoriesGlass Atrium
Cruise With Us
Call for current availability and pricing
Interested in joining us on this May 2027 Columbia and Snake Rivers journey? Let us check the latest cabin availability and current pricing for you.
Availability May Be Very Limited
Please contact us before making plans
Cabin inventory for this sailing is currently very limited and may change quickly. We will check directly for the latest availability and current pricing based on the stateroom category you prefer.
If your preferred category is not available, we can also review any other options that may still be open.
Availability and pricing are subject to change until a reservation is confirmed.
Watch Anytime
Get a closer look at the Columbia & Snake Rivers
We previously hosted a webinar devoted to this journey. Watch the recording for a deeper look at American Cruise Lines, the Pacific Northwest itinerary and what makes this part of the country so interesting to explore by river.
Questions
Columbia & Snake Rivers FAQ
Will Suzanne and Steve be sailing with the group?
Yes. This is one of the cruises on our personal 2027 travel calendar, and we will be aboard American Encore with our clients.
Do I need a passport for this cruise?
This itinerary operates entirely within the United States, so a passport is generally not required for U.S. citizens. Appropriate government-issued identification is required. We will confirm the current documentation requirements before travel.
Is there a pre-cruise hotel stay?
Yes. American Cruise Lines includes a pre-cruise hotel stay as part of the cruise package, helping guests arrive in the region a day early and begin the journey without rushing directly to the ship.
Are shore excursions included?
Featured excursions are included in the cruise fare. The exact selection and schedule can vary by sailing, and additional options may also be offered.
Is this a good cruise for someone who does not normally river cruise?
Absolutely. This itinerary combines small-ship cruising with dramatic scenery, American history, regional food and wine, and the convenience of domestic travel. It is a very different experience from both a large ocean cruise and a traditional European river cruise.
Come explore the Pacific Northwest with us
Sail the Columbia and Snake Rivers aboard American Encore in May 2027 and experience one of America's great river journeys alongside Suzanne, Steve and fellow travelers.
