Pacific Northwest Cruises

Lewis and Clark country

Cruise the Pacific Northwest by Small Ship

A Pacific Northwest cruise covers three distinct waterways, each with its own character. The Columbia and Snake Rivers form the backbone of the region, carrying small ships from Portland east through the Columbia River Gorge, past basalt cliffs and roadside waterfalls, into the wine country of the Columbia Valley, and up the Snake River into the canyon country of Hells Canyon. This was Lewis and Clark territory, and much of it looks much the same as it did when the Corps of Discovery passed through in 1805.

For island scenery and wildlife, the Puget Sound and San Juan Islands offer a different experience entirely. Sailings depart roundtrip from Seattle through the calm, island-dotted waters of the Salish Sea, where orcas and humpback whales surface alongside the ship and bald eagles watch from the trees. Some itineraries also cross into British Columbia, stopping in Victoria and at the Butchart Gardens in Sidney.

The most expansive itineraries on this page are the National Parks and Legendary Rivers voyages, 14 to 15-night sailings that combine the Columbia and Snake Rivers with overland excursions to Crater Lake, the Oregon Caves, and Grand Teton National Park before ending in Jackson, Wyoming. Sailings run from June through October, with the widest selection in summer and fall.

Pacific Northwest Cruises FAQs

What kinds of Pacific Northwest cruises are available?

Three main cruise types are offered: Columbia and Snake Rivers cruises from Portland to Clarkston (6 to 8 nights), Puget Sound and San Juan Islands cruises roundtrip from Seattle (7 nights), and National Parks and Legendary Rivers voyages from Portland to Jackson, Wyoming (14 to 15 nights). Some itineraries also cross into British Columbia.

Where do Columbia and Snake River cruises go?

Most sail between Portland, Oregon and Clarkston, Washington, following the Columbia River through the Columbia River Gorge and into the wine country of the Columbia Valley, then up the Snake River toward Hells Canyon. The route traces portions of the Lewis and Clark Expedition of 1805. Some itineraries operate in reverse.

What is the National Parks and Legendary Rivers cruise?

A 14 to 15-night voyage that begins on the Columbia and Snake Rivers before transitioning to overland coach excursions visiting Crater Lake National Park, the Oregon Caves, and Grand Teton National Park, ending in Jackson, Wyoming. Multiple ships run this itinerary from June through October.

When is the best time for a Pacific Northwest cruise?

Sailings run from June through October. Spring Columbia River Gorge departures coincide with wildflower season. Summer brings the warmest weather and the most available departures. Fall is popular for harvest and wine-country themes as the vineyards ripen along the Columbia Valley.

How do I book a Pacific Northwest cruise?

Call 800-578-1479. Our agents will help you match the right waterway, itinerary length, and ship for how you like to travel, then handle every detail of your booking.