Day 1: Arrive in Portland, Embark

Welcome! You will be met at the airport this afternoon and transferred to the Safari Explorer . The crew greets you with champagne and hors d’oeuvres. Meet your onboard guest vintner during cocktail hour and be sure to visit the Wine Library after dinner for an introductory wine tasting. Relax on deck and enjoy the sunset as we begin our cruise. To round out the day, slip into the top-deck hot tub before turning in.

Day 2: Columbia Gorge and Bonneville Dam

Join your Expedition Leader on deck this morning as we enter the striking Columbia River Gorge. This spectacular canyon cuts the only sea-level route through the Cascade Mountain Range and is a designated National Scenic Area. We’ll leave the yacht for a private tour of the impressive Bonneville Dam, the first dam on the Columbia River as you head east. View the massive turbines that produce enormous amounts of hydropower, and step outside to view the fish ladder. Later, we’ll make a port call at Hood River, the windsurfing capital of the world, to explore the town and browse the boutique shops. This evening’s dinner is presented by a culinary arts presentation hosted by an accompolished Guest Executive Chef. We’ll stay dockside in Hood River for the night.

Day 3: Maryhill Museum and Winery/ Columbia Gorge Appellation

Today’s cruise itinerary enters a stretch of wilderness which is home to northern harriers, cliff swallows, osprey, mule deer and coyotes. After transiting The Dalles Lock and Dam, we’ll anchor and visit Maryhill Museum followed by a visit to the Maryhill Winery . The museum’s collections are housed in a castle-like chateau situated on a bluff overlooking the Columbia River Gorge. The museum offers an eclectic collection of Native arts, European paintings and the Queen of Romania’s personal effects. Our winery visit will include a tasting from a special tasting list. Back onboard, we’ll make our way through the John Day Lock and Dam. Durring a Sommelier-hosted wine tasting during cocktail hour, learn more about the different appellations along the Columbia River. Later, take the opportunity to relax in the hot tub, sauna or with a complimentary massage.

Day 4: Red Mountain and Yakima Valley Appellation

The next two days will focus primarily on winery tours and tastings. Enjoy breakfast onboard the Safari Explorer before traveling to Hedges Family Estate Winery . The family estate’s Chateau is known for their Cabernet Sauvignon. Enjoy an exclusive tasting in the estate’s private family library. Later, explore the adjacent vineyard and European-styled courtyard garden. At the conclusion of the tour, travel a short distance toTerra Blanca Winery and Estate Vineyard . Join the winemaker for an exclusive tour before enjoying a romantic luncheon in the caves of this bold Tuscany-style winery. Upon exiting the winery’s caves, stroll the cobbled walkways to explore the meticulously landscaped grounds and reflecting lake. Later this afternoon, rejoin the Safari Explorer for sunset cruising along the Columbia River. To end the day of sampling this region’s remarkable wines, relax with a glass of fine wine in-hand during a quiet dinner or afterwards in the yacht’s cozy salon.

Day 5: Walla Walla Appelation

Travel by executive coach to the Walla Walla appellation. TourL’Ecole Nº 41 , an unusual winery located in an historic 1915 Frenchtown schoolhouse. Join your wine “scholar” on a private tour and tasting of prized reserve wines such as an Estate Syrah from the winery’s acclaimed partner, Seven Hills Vineyard. As you sip vibrant, aromatic wines surrounded by nostalgic remnants of school classes of long ago, you’ll encounter “high marks” with their wine reviews consistently scoring in the 90′s. A short distance away is Northstar , a unique destination winery known for their ultra-premium Merlot wines. Learn about their handcrafted limited production award-winning reserve wines during a private tasting and wine production tour. Additionally, you will have the opportunity to blend your own complex Merlot creation under the tutelage of the world-class winemakers. Upon returning to the yacht, relax on deck as we cruise along the rolling Columbia River. Enjoy the hot tub, read a book, or join the Captain on the bridge to watch the sunset as we cruise into the Snake River portion of our adventure.

Day 6: The Palouse Canyon

Enjoy breakfast onboard the Safari Explorer , as we cruise the cliff-lined Snake River. We’ll pass through three of the four Snake River dams: Lower Monumental, Little Goose, and Lower Granite. We’ll be on deck with our Expedition Leader as we “lock through,” watching the mechanics of these massive structures. Lunch includes a cooking demonstration with our specially-invited Guest Chef presiding.We’ll also anchor in the Palouse River and set off by kayak and skiff for a look at a magnificent canyon formed by Ice-Age floods.

Day 7: Hells Canyon by Jet Boat

Enjoy a morning hike after breakfast before getting underway. After docking at the Port of Clarkston, we’ll join our Jet Boat Captain for an invigorating excursion into Hells Canyon. Protected as a National Recreation Area since 1975, Hell’s Canyon preserves a world of fascinating natural and cultural elements. Lunch will be included in our excursion, and this afternoon we’ll reboard theSafari Explorer where a festive Farewell Dinner and Wine Event awaits.

Day 8: A Fond Farewell

Your crew serves another excellent breakfast this morning before bidding you “adieu.” At 9:00 am you’ll be transferred to the Lewiston, Idaho, airport for connections home.

Day 1: Lewiston, Idaho, board the Safari Explorer

Welcome! You will be met at the airport this afternoon and transferred to the Safari Explorer . The crew greets you with champagne and hors d’oeuvres. Meet your onboard guest vintner during cocktail hour and be sure to visit the Wine Library after dinner for an introductory wine tasting. Relax on deck and enjoy the sunset as we begin our cruise. To round out the day, slip into the top-deck hot tub before turning in.

Day 2: Hells Canyon by Jet Boat

After breakfast this morning we’ll transfer to a jet boat for an invigorating ride into Hells Canyon. Vertical cliffs carved by the river now hem in the rushing waters that we travel upon, and we’ll watch some of the most dramatic scenery unfold as we jet upriver. We’ll watch for Bighorn sheep and hawks throughout the day. After our excursion we’ll cruise the Snake River, passing through our first lock and dam called Lower Granite. This evening’s dinner is presented by a culinary arts presentation hosted by an accompolished Guest Executive Chef After dinner our Expedition Leader will provide a brief orientation to the journey.

Day 3: The Palouse Canyon

We’ll pass through the Little Goose lock and dam first thing this morning then anchor at the mouth of the Palouse River. The kayaks and skiff will be lowered for an up-close exploration of the pristine and lovely Palouse canyon. Watch for hundreds of cliff swallows that nest on the canyon walls, and for Northern harriers and osprey hovering above the still waters as they hunt.

Day 4: Walla Walla Appelation

Travel by executive coach to the Walla Walla appellation. TourL’Ecole Nº 41 , an unusual winery located in an historic 1915 Frenchtown schoolhouse. Join your wine “scholar” on a private tour and tasting of prized reserve wines such as an Estate Syrah from the winery’s acclaimed partner, Seven Hills Vineyard. As you sip vibrant, aromatic wines surrounded by nostalgic remnants of school classes of long ago, you’ll encounter “high marks” with their wine reviews consistently scoring in the 90′s. A short distance away is Northstar , a unique destination winery known for their ultra-premium Merlot wines. Learn about their handcrafted limited production award-winning reserve wines during a private tasting and wine production tour. Additionally, you will have the opportunity to blend your own complex Merlot creation under the tutelage of the world-class winemakers. After a specially prepared lunch, savor some of the Walla Walla Appellation’s finest Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot as you stroll the grounds. Upon returning to the yacht, relax on deck as we cruise along the rolling Columbia River. Enjoy the hot tub, read a book, or join the Captain on the bridge to watch the sunset.

Day 5: Red Mountain and Yakima Valley Appellation

The next two days will focus primarily on winery tours and tastings. Enjoy breakfast onboard the Safari Explorer before traveling to Hedges Family Estate Winery . The family estate’s Chateau is known for their Cabernet Sauvignon. Enjoy an exclusive tasting in the estate’s private family library. Later, explore the adjacent vineyard and European-styled courtyard garden. At the conclusion of the tour, travel a short distance toTerra Blanca Winery and Estate Vineyard . Join the winemaker for an exclusive tour before enjoying a romantic luncheon in the caves of this bold Tuscany-style winery. Upon exiting the winery’s caves, stroll the cobbled walkways to explore the meticulously landscaped grounds and reflecting lake. Later this afternoon, rejoin the Safari Explorer for sunset cruising along the Columbia River during a Sommelier-hosted wine tasting during cocktail hour. To end the day of sampling this region’s remarkable wines, relax with a glass of fine wine in-hand during a quiet dinner or afterwards in the yacht’s cozy salon.

Day 6: Maryhill Museum and Winery/ Columbia Gorge Appellation

Today’s cruise itinerary cruises through a stretch of wilderness which is home to northern harriers, cliff swallows, osprey, mule deer and coyotes before transiting another series of locks and dams. First we’ll make our way through the John Day Lock and Dam. En route a cooking demonstration with our specially-invited Guest Chef will take place.After lunch we’ll anchor and visit Maryhill Museum followed by a visit to theMaryhill Winery . The museum’s collections are housed in a castle-like chateau situated on a bluff overlooking the Columbia River Gorge. The museum offers an eclectic collection of Native arts, European paintings and the Queen of Romania’s personal effects. Our winery visit will include a tasting from a special tasting list. Back onboard the Safari Explorer we’ll then pass through The Dalles Lock and Dam. After dinner take the opportunity to relax in the hot tub, sauna or with a complimentary massage.

Day 7: Hood River, Bonneville Dam and Columbia Gorge

This morning, we’ll make a port call at Hood River, the windsurfing capital of the world, to visit the town and browse the boutique shops. Back onboard, join your Expedition Leader on deck as we enter the striking Columbia River Gorge. This spectacular canyon cuts the only sea-level route through the Cascade Mountain Range and is a designated National Scenic Area. We’ll leave the yacht for a private tour of the impressive Bonneville Dam, the last dam on the Columbia River as you head west towards the Pacific Ocean. View the massive turbines that produce enormous amounts of hydropower, and step outside to view the fish ladder. After tonight’s Farewell Dinner the Expedition Leader will present a slideshow from our week-long journey.

Day 8: A Fond Farewell

Your crew serves another excellent breakfast this morning before bidding you “adieu.” At 9:00 am you’ll board a coach for a transfer to the Portland, Oregon, airport for your connections home.

Allow us to introduce you to Portland, “The City of Roses.” We offer complete sightseeing packages of Portland and surrounding areas including the Oregon Coast, Mt. Hood, Tillamook Aviation Museum and the Columbia River Gorge. Our tours can be combined the your Northwest cruise vacation or booked as a stand-alone vacation. Below please find our city tours featuring the best of Portland.

_______________________________________________________ 

Portland 3-day Tour Package!

Dates:   Year Round

Start Time:  9:00 am

Pricing:  $250.00 per person

Tour package include:

Portland City Tour (daily)

Wine Tasting Tour (wed & sat)

Oregon Coast Tour (wed & sat)

Mt. Hood Loop Tour (tue & thu & sun)

_________________________________________________________

Itinerary

Day 1

Portland City Tour

Join us for morning sightseeing and touring of Portland. See different areas of the city while enjoying views of Mt. Hood, Mt. St Helen and more.  Starting at the waterfront near OSMI, travel to Pittock Mansion, Portland International Rose Garden and a variety of art galleries. The Portland art scene is widely recognized for talented artists, magnificient galleries, and historic contributions to non-profit organizations.

Portland Wine Tasting Excursion

From its first plantings in 1965 by winemaker David Lett, this sub-appellation in the Willamette valley has slowly established itself as a premium wine growing region. Oregon is home to some of the most scenic vineyards in the world. The heart of these vineyards is located in the Willamette Valley on gentle hills that give way to amazing views of the vines and valley below. Join us on our Oregon Wine Tour and experience wine tasting at some of this area’s best wineries and most unique tasting rooms.

Day 2

Mt. Hood Loop Tour 

Stand above the second highest year-round waterfall in the United States! Drive along the Columbia River Gorge Historic Highway and see waterfalls, viewpoints, lush green forests, and wildlife. Learn, from a geology perspective,how the Columbia River Gorge was formed. Waterfalls may include stops at Horsetail Falls,  Multnomah Falls, Latourell Falls, Crown Point Vista House, Hood River and the amazing  Mt.  Hood Lodge.

Day 3

Oregon Coastal Tour

Your tour of the coast will begin in Cannon Beach where you will have time to explore the many wonders of this world reowned coastal city.  At Cannon Beach enjoy a short hike along cliffs, walking along the sandy beach, viewing lighthouses and shopping. Also, Cannon Beach boasts of many scenic views including beautiful shorelines, cliffs, and an up-close view of the famous Haystack Rock.

_________________________________________________________

Group Rates: Group rates for 6 or more people available for most tours.

Customized and Private Tours: All tours can be customized and/or made private. Please contact us for details and pricing.

Tour Departure/Pick Up: Complimentary pick up from select area hotels. Please call for other arrangements and corresponding fees. Customers will be notified prior to any cancellation 24-hours in advance when possible. Departure times may vary.

Tour Price Includes: Van, tour guide and gas. All applicable fees, unless otherwise stated. Lunch and Gratuity NOT included.

Requirements: Tours require 4 person minimum for confirmation. Please contact us for current status of tour.

Payment: Please call our professional Pacific Northwest tour experts to make your reservations. Payment will be processed immediately to secure your reservation. Payment on day of pick up will not guarantee your reservation.

Solo travelers, looking to meet visitors from around the world? Contact us

Portland City Tour/Waterfalls Combo

Dates: Daily
Departures: 9:00am until 5:30pm
Pricing: $88 per person

Portland City Tour

Discover Portland’s Living Legacy.100 years old. 1000 feet up. 23 treasure-filled rooms. A French Renaissance Chateau listed on the national registry of historic places. Enjoy the spectacular views over Portland from the grounds of the mansion. Explore early mountaineering, with all of its risks and glory. With artifacts, photographs, and film footage of Henry Pittock and friends on a 1912 Mt. Hood climbing expedition.

1.      Downtown Portland: Heart of the city “Pioneer Square”, plus the Park blocks, VOO DOO DONUTS, Willamette River Waterfront, historical information and more.

2.      OMSI: Enjoy evening views along the Portland waterfront and across the Willamette River from the east side location of the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry. This is a great location for a romantic photograph with the Portland city skyline in the background.

3.      Portland International Rose Garden: Enjoy a stroll through the world’s largest rose test garden with over 500 varieties of roses on 5.5 acres.

4.      The Pearl District and Nob Hill shopping- Boutiques, art galleries, coffee shops, fine dining and more. This part of Portland is popular with residents and visitors alike.

Columbia River Gorge Waterfalls

We’ll introduce you to the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic area, a geologic wonder that forms the border between northern Oregon and southern Washington. Let us guide you with a fun and educational tour of basalt cliffs, year round waterfalls, and the charming Historic Highway and epic views.

1.  This 3.5 hour tour begins with a short, 20-minute drive along I-84 east where the guides share information about Portland and the geology of the gorge. Follow the Sandy River to the Crown Point Vista House, a unique visitor’s facility built in 1916 situated 733 feet above the Columbia River, offering phenomenal views and photo opportunities of the gorge.

2.  We’ll continue along the Historic Highway where guests will have an opportunity to get out of the van and view Latourell Falls. Bridal Veil Falls and Horsetail Falls

3.  There will be a half hour stop at Multnomah Falls to view the 620 foot falls, with time to visit the gift shop and visitor’s center in the historic lodge. Other waterfalls that may be seen from the Highway route include Sheppard’s Dell Falls, and Wahkeena Falls.

_______________________________________________________
Group Rates: Group rates for 6 or more people available for most tours.

Customized and Private Tours:  All tours can be customized and/or made private. Please contact us for details and pricing.

Tour Departure/Pick Up: Complimentary pick up from select area hotels. Please call for other arrangements and corresponding fees. Customers will be notified prior to any cancellation 24-hours in advance when possible. Departure times may vary.

Tour Price Includes: Van, tour guide and gas. All applicable fees, unless otherwise stated. Lunch and Gratuity NOT included.

Requirements: Tours require 4 person minimum for confirmation. Please contact us for current status of tour.

Payment: Please call our professional Pacific Northwest tour experts to make your reservations. Payment will be processed immediately to secure your reservation. Payment on day of pick up will not guarantee your reservation.

Traveling alone, looking to meet visitors from around the world? Contact us!