Columbia river landscape

Columbia River Cruises

Pacific Northwest scenery, history and wine country

Americas · United States

Discover the Columbia

The Columbia River cuts through the Pacific Northwest, linking dramatic gorge scenery with small river towns and agricultural landscapes. Many cruises combine the Columbia with the Snake River. This is the Columbia River in the United States, not Colombia in South America.

Cruise routes

Cruise itineraries often travel between the Portland or Vancouver area and inland ports on the Columbia and Snake rivers. The Columbia River Gorge is a scenic highlight; the exact endpoint and excursions vary by operator.

Shore highlights

Columbia River Gorge

Basalt cliffs, forested slopes and wide river views define this celebrated stretch of the Pacific Northwest.

River history

Shore visits can explore navigation, settlement and Indigenous history through museums and locally guided interpretation.

Wine country

Some itineraries include vineyards or tastings in the region; check the actual excursion programme before choosing a sailing.

When to travel

Spring through autumn is a common cruising period. Spring brings greener landscapes and cooler conditions, while summer is usually warmer and drier. Autumn can suit wine-country visits. Conditions differ between the coast, gorge and inland basin.

Planning your journey

Check the embarkation port, included excursions, walking requirements and transfer arrangements for your chosen itinerary. Entry requirements depend on your nationality and every country visited. River levels and local conditions may change the sailing programme.

Ask about Columbia cruises

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