16 Day American Cruise Lines River Cruise from Hayden Island to Hayden Island 2029

Day 1 Portland, OR

Arrive in Portland and settle into your hotel room. Explore this city nestled between the serene waters of the Columbia and Willamette Rivers and hear stories of the many Pioneers who once traveled through, discovering the great American West.

Day 2 Day of Cruising

Gather in the lobby and enjoy an excursion to Multnomah Falls, followed by transportation to the ship.

Board your vessel in Stevenson, WA, settle in, and join fellow travelers for a welcome reception to kick off your journey along the Columbia River. Your luggage from the hotel will be waiting in your stateroom when you arrive.

Day 3 Kalama, WA

Our private dock in Kalama, Washington, allows you to venture where most cruises can’t reach. Take in the stunning Cascade Mountains as you journey toward nearby stoic Mount St. Helens. Guided by a knowledgeable local expert, delve into the gripping tale of the volcano's cataclysmic eruption in 1980 and its lasting impact on the region.

Right off the ship’s dock, learn more about other wonders of the region at the fascinating Port of Kalama Interpretive Center. Shop like a local for fresh produce, seafood, and artisan snacks at the Mountain Timber Market. Or you can even try for a bullseye at Castle Rock Axe House for a unique local experience.

Day 4 Astoria, OR

This small port city, known for its charming Victorian homes that cascade down the hillside, has earned the nickname “The Little San Francisco.”

Embark on your own adventure or choose from a selection of curated excursions in Astoria that will allow you to get to know this city. Immerse yourself in history with a guided tour of the National Park Service replica of Fort Clatsop, the winter camp where Lewis and Clark hunkered down during their legendary expedition.

Wander through the incredibly scenic Cape Disappointment State Park where the Lewis & Clark Interpretive Center tells the duo’s story, or lose yourself in the captivating exhibits of the nearby Columbia River Maritime Museum.

Day 5 St. Helens, OR

St. Helens, founded in the mid-19th century, is a charming riverside city that blends history and natural beauty. Its Victorian-era architecture, boutique shops, and vibrant community events reflect time-honored traditions, while scenic walking paths and tranquil parks along the Columbia River provide opportunities for birdwatching, photography, or simply soaking in the river vistas.

History comes alive at the Columbia County Museum, where exploration reveals the area’s pioneer life, local industries, and cultural heritage through historic buildings, artifacts, and immersive exhibits. Back in town, a guided walking tour through the Downtown Historic District highlights St. Helens’ resilience and character. Following a 1904 fire, most commercial buildings were rebuilt in stone, brick, and concrete, creating streetscapes largely untouched by modern urban development. Visitors can stroll these preserved avenues to experience the city’s 1920s boom era and gain insight into St. Helens’ role in regional trade and settlement.

Day 6 Downtown Portland, OR

Admire the scenic Willamette River as you explore downtown Portland, the vibrant gateway to Rose City. Stroll the waterfront paths, relax in nearby parks, and watch boats glide beneath Portland’s iconic bridges. Just steps away, browse local boutiques and craft breweries that showcase the city’s creative spirit, or dive into cultural attractions, galleries, and live music venues.

No visit is complete without stopping at the International Rose Test Garden in Washington Park, where thousands of roses bloom in a stunning array of colors, or visiting Pittock Mansion, which offers panoramic city views and a glimpse into Portland’s history. Science enthusiasts will enjoy the hands-on exhibits at the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry, offering an inspiring glimpse into the wonders of science.

Day 7 Hood River, OR

Hood River stands where the Columbia River Gorge meets the Cascade Range, shaped by centuries of life along the water. Established in 1854, it remains tied to the Native American tribes who first called the region home. Lewis and Clark passed through in 1805, and the town’s riverfront location soon made it vital for trade and agriculture.

Today, Hood River beckons with a tapestry of delights, from quaint shops showcasing local artisanal treasures to some of the Pacific Northwest's finest wineries and breweries. Embark on a guided kayaking expedition through the Gorge's breathtaking waters or visit thefascinating exhibits of The Western Antique Aeroplane & Automobile Museum.

Day 8 The Dalles, OR

Welcome to The Dalles, the final frontier of the iconic Oregon Trail. With towering Mount Hood and Mount Adams as your stunning backdrop, each reaching over 11,000 feet, this destination captures all the natural beauty the Columbia River Gorge and Pacific Northwest are known for.

Paddle the quiet river on a guided Gorge kayak tour, where you can be one with the vast nature that calls this river home. Don’t miss the expert-led wine tastings at Maryhill Winery, where you’ll sample the finest wines from the fertile Columbia Valley.

Day 9 Cruising the Columbia River

Enjoy a relaxing day of cruising and watch the Columbia River Gorge develop from your private balcony. The dynamic landscape is truly magnificent, and you can catch the best views up on the sun deck. Engage in destination-focused enrichment programs featuring guest speakers and onboard activities. From Art Classes to sizzling Cooking Demonstrations, Mixology magic, and brain-teasing Trivia, there is so much to discover on board.

Day 10 Pendleton, OR / Richland, WA

Richland is situated at the meeting point of the Yakima and Columbia Rivers, a place shaped first by Ice Age floods and later by the Atomic Age. Dock right along the waterfront with American Cruise Lines and set out to see how the past continues to shape this part of the Pacific Northwest.

Step inside the REACH Museum to learn about the area’s ancient geology, Native History, and Cold War science. Walk the ground at Sacajawea State Park, where Lewis and Clark camped among Native communities in 1805. Or spend the day in nearby Pendleton, a town where the Old West lives on. Beneath its streets, uncover tunnels that once carried trade, secrets, and survival. From riverside museums to frontier tunnels, this port stop reveals the Northwest’s history in ways both unexpected and unforgettable.

Day 11 Day of Cruising

A day of cruising from Richland to Clarkston offers an amazing journey along the Snake River, winding through picturesque landscapes of vineyards, rural countryside, and riverfront parks. On board, relax on the sun deck with panoramic views or enjoy a leisurely meal as the river currents carry the ship downstream.

Along the way, spot local wildlife, iconic landmarks, and idyllic small towns that line the riverbanks. In the evening, socialize with fellow travelers during our cocktail hour as you watch the sun set over serene waters.

Day 12 Clarkston, WA

Named in honor of William Clark of the renowned Lewis and Clark Expedition, this historic town traces its lineage back to the resilient Nez Perce tribe, the original stewards of this fertile land. Join an excursion to the heart of Hells Canyon, North America's deepest gorge. On a smooth-sailing jet boat, a local guide will highlight notable landmarks as you cruise down the Snake River. Cap off your scenic and historic river cruise sampling wine amongst sweeping views on Clearwater River Valley.

Day 13 Day of Cruising

Savor a day cruising from the scenic Snake Riveras it winds toward its confluence with the Columbia River, arriving in the heart of Washington’s wine country. From the comfort of your private balcony, admire the surrounding farmland and rolling hills, and watch local wildlife along the banks. On board, a leisurely breakfast and lunch allow time to take in the views, while our onboard programs highlight the region’s history, agriculture, and unique river communities.

Day 14 Burbank, WA / Walla Walla, WA

Docking in Burbank, spend a full day exploring Walla Walla, a distinctive small city celebrated for its historic charm and thriving wine culture. Stroll the downtown streets, lined with restored brick buildings housing boutique shops, cafés, and tasting rooms where you can sample locally crafted wines and artisanal foods. Venture into the surrounding countryside for guided winery tours that showcase the region’s vineyards and agricultural heritage.

History comes alive with a visit to Fort Walla Walla Museum, with its immersive exhibits, Pioneer Village, and stories from the Lewis and Clark expedition. Back in town, enjoy a behind-the-scenes guided experience at the historic Gesa Power House Theatre, a beautifully restored 120-year-old building that now serves as a 300-seat performing arts venue. With its mix of wine, history, and culture, Walla Walla offers an enriching day for every visitor.

Day 15 Day of Cruising

The day is yours to enjoy as you cruise along the Columbia River, where forested cliffs and gently undulating hills frame the sparkling water. From the comfort of your private balcony or the sun deck, watch for bald eagles, herons, and other river wildlife as quaint towns and picturesque riverbanks pass by. Along the way, learn about the region’s geology, history, and native cultures from our onboard expert. Arriving in Stevenson, explore the charming waterfront, stroll boutique shops, or take in the nearby trails and river views before settling in for a relaxing evening.

Day 16 Stevenson, WA / Portland, OR

Arrive in Stevenson and savor a final breakfast on board as you take in the river views one last time, reflecting on the landscapes, wildlife, and inviting towns you’ve encountered. Then, disembark and begin your journey home, carrying memories of a relaxing and scenic river voyage.