Columbia and Snake Rivers Cruise | Oct 18-27

Step into the intrepid shoes of Lewis and Clark and embark on a riveting journey through history on the Columbia & Snake Rivers. Setting sail from Clarkston, WA to Portland, OR, get ready for all this legendary waterway has in store for you. Admire the ever-shifting landscapes, from lush, forested mountains to cascading waterfalls and rocky shores, each turn offers a breathtaking spectacle unlike any other in America. Watch as the ship passes through the intricate lock and dam system, witness firsthand the marvel of human engineering that tames these mighty rivers. Led by our local guides, discover the captivating stories behind iconic landmarks like Mount St. Helens, renowned for its explosive 1980 eruption, and enjoy a tour and tasting at Maryhill Winery, one of Washington State's largest wineries. Watch as the scenery switches from the towering peaks of the Cascade Range to the misty veil of Multnomah Falls, standing proud at a staggering 620 feet. This region, with its waterways lined by the tallest trees you can imagine, mountains that blend into the uninterrupted sky, and eagles soaring above you is a truly remarkable sight. Experience America like never before, aboard an authentic paddle-wheeler. 

Oct 18 – 27, 2025

Itinerary

Embrace dramatic scenery and relive the daring exploits of Lewis & Clark on the Snake and Columbia Rivers for the trip of a lifetime.

Oct 18 | Home to Clarkston, WA 

Upon arrival at the Spokane airport you will be met  and assisted with your transfer to Clarkston, named in honor of William Clark from the renowned Lewis and Clark expedition. Upon arrival in Clarkston, you’ll check in to your hotel for overnight. The  remainder of the evening is at your leisure.

Overnight: Holiday Inn Clarkston – Lewiston 

Oct 19 | Clarkston, WA Embarkation 

After a leisurely morning, meet in the hotel lobby and schedule your transfer to the ship around lunch time. All luggage will be brought directly from the hotel and placed in your stateroom aboard the ship.  At your scheduled departure time, you’ll walk just a cross the street to embark on the beautiful American Pride, your luxurious floating hotel for the next 7 nights. As you embark upon your journey, enjoy a Welcome Aboard Reception with cocktails, hors  d’oeuvres and entertainment. Meet the crew, your onboard experts, and fellow guests. Learn more about the wonderful adventure ahead of you. The American Pride was build in 2012 and has a passenger capacity of only 150. The Paddle-wheeler not only boasts the largest, most well-appointed staterooms but also offers private balconies and unobstructed views. In addition to the amazing scenery, the cruise lines master chefs have been busy preparing menus that are tailored specifically to the Pacific Northwest region!

Overnight: American Pride             (B,D)

Oct 20 | Cruising the Snake River 

Take this time to witness a diverse array of landscapes and wildlife. As you glide along its winding course, you’ll be greeted by breathtaking vistas of towering cliffs, emerald forests, and rolling hillsides. Be sure to notice the bald eagles soaring overhead and ospreys diving into the water in search of fish. What you won’t see are snakes, as the river doesn’t actually have snakes in it, but rather an abundance of salmon. While some believe the river was called the Snake is because its shape has many twists and winds, it is actually believed to have received its name from a Native American hand symbol.

Overnight: American Pride                  (B,L,D)

Oct 21 |  Pendleton, OR & Richland, WA

Your ship docks mere steps from the serene waterfront, where trails wind alongside charming shops and local wineries beckon with their unique flavors. Guided optional excursions promise a journey through time and landscape. At the REACH Museum, uncover the history of Eastern Washington, from the ancient Ice Age to the modern Atomic Age. A full-day adventure to Pendleton, Oregon unveils the essence of the Wild West, with its rich blend of Western heritage and Native American culture. Explore the intricate network of underground tunnels, witnesses to a century of legal trade and clandestine activities alike. Complimentary Excursion to the Sacajawea Interpretive Center: Explore this fascinating destination, located at the very place where Lewis and Clark Expedition camped for two nights, amidst a thriving community of Native Americans. Learn about the activities that took place at the site through interactive exhibits about the Corps of Discovery and Sacagawea, woman known for her helping the Lewis and Clark Expedition Team.

Overnight: American Pride               (B,L,D)

Oct 22 |  Cruising the Columbia River Gorge

Get ready to seize the day on your private balcony and watch the Columbia River Gorge develop. Behold the majestic bluffs cloaked in greenery, while hillsides reach for the sky. The  dynamic landscape is truly a wonder. There are a variety of activities scheduled on board today. Enjoy destination-focused enrichment programs with special guest speakers who present topics related to the region, including Art Classes, App-titude Classes (Tech Made Easy), Cooking Demonstrations, Mixology Trivia, Game Shows, and more.

Overnight: American Pride                (B,L,D)

Oct 23 | The Dalles, OR

Welcome to The Dalles, the final frontier of the iconic Oregon Trail! With the towering Mount Hood and Mount Adams as your stunning backdrop, each reaching over 11,000 feet, this stop possesses all the natural beauty the Pacific Northwest is known for. For an extra dose of excitement, opt for guided excursions that promise unforgettable experiences. Like a visit to Multnomah Falls (complimentary excursion), the largest waterfall in the state of Oregon, is a true wonder of nature. The 620-foot fall fills the world with its rushing sounds. Or enjoy a self-guided tour of the Columbia River Gorge Interpretive Center, which showcases the area’s unique history and cultural diversity. From the Native American tribes that inhabited the gorge to the expedition of Lewis and Clark and 19th-century loggers, learn of the bountiful life on the gorge as you explore this amazing museum.

Overnight: American Pride                 (B,L,D)

Oct 24 | Kalama, WA

American Cruise lines brand-new private dock in Kalama allows you to go where most cruises can’t! Take in the stunning Cascade Mountains as you drive on your complimentary excursion to view the remnants of nearby Mount St. Helens. May 18, 1980 is a day etched into the history of the United States, as the powerful eruption of Mount St. Helens drastically changed the landscape of what is now referred to as the National Volcanic Monument. On your scenic journey to the Mount St. Helens, learn about the eruption, how it affected the landscape and surrounding communities, and how the environment has responded naturally to the disturbance. Admire spectacular views of the pumice plain and blast site.

Overnight: American Pride                     (B,L,D)

Oct 25 | Astoria, OR

As the oldest American settlement west of the Rockies, this port is adorned with charming Victorian homes that cascade down the hillside, this town has earned the lively nickname of “The Little San Francisco.” these complimentary excursions: Astoria Local Loop – Explore downtown Astoria on your own aboard this convenient shuttle which makes several stops on a continuous loop throughout the day, or experience the Columbia River Maritime Museum on a self-guided excursion. The Columbia River Maritime Museum is the official maritime museum of the state of Oregon and also prides itself as being one of the finest maritime museums on the West Coast.

Overnight: American Pride                  (B,L,D)

Oct 26 | River Cruising

Along the riverbanks, you may spot deer grazing or river otters frolicking in the shallows. As you pass through locks and dams, experience the engineering feats that tame this mighty river. Don’t forget to look out for historical landmarks and points of interest, such as the towering Mount Hood and the striking Bonneville Dam.

Overnight: American Pride                     (B,L,D)

Oct 27 |  Portland, OR

Early this morning the Pride docks in Portland. After disembarkation board your luxury motor coach for a half day panoramic city tour of Portland. Enjoy windshield views of downtown, traditional neighborhoods, China town and more. Next, stop and stroll through the famous International Rose Test Garden, home to 10,000 blooms during the season. Early this afternoon check in at the  Portland airport for your flight home. The memories of the Snake and Columbia Rivers will last forever.                        (B)

Inclusions:

  • Roundtrip to Spokane and from Portland, OR back home
  • 1 pre-night accommodation in Clarkston- including a welcome dinner and breakfast
  • Panoramic city tour of Portland including a stop at the International Rose Test Garden
  • 8 nights aboard the American Pride
  • All meals, snacks, and alcoholic/non-alcoholic beverages are available 24/7
  • Nightly entertainment ranges from interactive lectures to live musical performances
  • Complimentary Shore Excursion in each port of call (Premium Shore Excursions for more in-depth experiences are available at an additional cost)
  • Free internet while onboard
  • 24 hour Room Service
  • Hotel taxes and Port-charges
  • Porterage of one suitcase per person
  • Prepaid ship gratuities
  • All gratuities for drivers & guides

Payment

$750.00 deposit due at reservation ($250.00 non-refundable)

Final payment due May 21, 2025

Cancellation

50% non-refundable May 25, 2025

100% non-refundable July 1, 2025

 An optional Travel Protection plan is available with coverage  for trip cancellation/interruption, see enclosed product flyer for more information.

A valid passport is required on this itinerary and must be valid for at least 6 month after returning back to the USA.

 

Contact Your Group Leader OR Armonde Maurras at Universal Travel