columbia snake rivers pacific northwest expedition guide Columbia & Snake Rivers Expedition Cruise Guide: Lewis & Clark | Vincent Vacations

In the Wake of the Corps of Discovery: Cruising the Pacific Northwest

In 1805, Meriwether Lewis and William Clark led the Corps of Discovery down the turbulent waters of the Columbia and Snake Rivers, completing the first overland American expedition to reach the Pacific Ocean. Today, cruising these historic waterways aboard National Geographic Sea Lion or National Geographic Quest allows travelers to experience the dramatic geological transformation of the American West—from the arid basalt canyons of eastern Washington and Idaho to the lush, temperate rainforest waterfalls of the Columbia River Gorge.

Why Sail the Columbia & Snake Rivers with Lindblad Expeditions?

Unlike standard river paddlewheelers that stay tied to highway docks, Lindblad’s expedition approach gets you actively onto the water and into the wilderness:

• Intimate American-Flagged Ships (62–100 Guests): Nimble vessels like National Geographic Sea Lion and Quest drop Zodiacs and sea kayaks directly into secluded river inlets such as the Palouse and Hood Rivers.
• Jet Boat Exploration of Hells Canyon: Board high-powered jet boats to roar through Hells Canyon—North America’s deepest river gorge (nearly 8,000 feet deep)—viewing ancient Nez Perce petroglyphs and Rocky Mountain bighorn sheep.
• National Geographic Historians & Geologists: Gain deep historical insights into the Lewis and Clark expedition, Native American tribal trade networks, and the cataclysmic Ice Age Missoula Floods that carved the gorge.
• Culinary & Wine Immersion: Taste internationally acclaimed vintages during private tours of Walla Walla Valley AVA wineries, paired with locally sourced Columbia River salmon and artisanal regional produce.

Day-by-Day Expedition Highlights & Itinerary

Day 1: Portland, Oregon / Embarkation / Columbia River

Arrive in Portland and transfer to the ship docked on the Columbia River. Meet your expedition team, naturalists, and fellow travelers during a welcome dinner featuring Oregon Pinot Noirs.

Day 2: Astoria & Fort Clatsop

Sail west to historic Astoria, the oldest American settlement west of the Rocky Mountains. Visit Fort Clatsop, a replica of the winter encampment where the 33 members of the Lewis and Clark expedition endured 106 days of relentless rain in the winter of 1805–1806. Climb the Astoria Column for breathtaking views of the Columbia River Bar and the Pacific Ocean.

Day 3: Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area

Navigate eastward through the dramatic cascade breach of the Columbia River Gorge. Walk behind the mist of towering Multnomah Falls (620 feet) and hike along tranquil forested trails. Learn how massive basalt lava flows were sheared away by prehistoric Missoula Floods.

Day 4: Hood River & Bonneville Lock and Dam

Transit the massive navigation locks of the Bonneville Dam. In Hood River, explore local fruit orchards and lavender farms nestled in the shadow of snow-capped Mount Hood. Kayak along the tranquil estuary waters of the Hood River.

Day 5: Cruising the Snake River & Palouse Falls

Leave the verdant rainforest behind as the scenery transitions into the golden, arid sagebrush coulees of the Columbia Plateau. Board Zodiacs to navigate the dramatic canyons of the Palouse River, hiking to viewpoints overlooking the thunderous 198-foot drop of Palouse Falls.

Day 6: Clarkston, Washington & Jet Boating Hells Canyon

Arrive in Clarkston at the confluence of the Snake and Clearwater Rivers. Board specialized jet boats for a thrilling ride deep into the roadless wilderness of Hells Canyon on the Oregon-Idaho border. Spot bighorn sheep clinging to sheer canyon walls, golden eagles soaring overhead, and inspect ancient Native American pictographs.

Day 7: Walla Walla Wine Country

Drive into the rolling wheat hills of the Walla Walla Valley. Enjoy private vineyard tours and tastings at premier estate wineries known for world-class Syrahs and Cabernet Sauvignons. Visit the historic Whitman Mission National Historic Site.

Day 8: Clarkston / Disembarkation

Disembark in Clarkston for your scheduled flight from Lewiston, Idaho or Spokane, Washington, or connect to private Pacific Northwest touring arranged by Vincent Vacations.

Pacific Northwest Wildlife & Natural Highlights

• Wildlife: Rocky Mountain bighorn sheep, mule deer, coyotes, bald eagles, ospreys, great blue herons, and white sturgeon.
• Geological Wonders: Columnar basalt formations, Missoula flood coulees, Hells Canyon, and Multnomah Falls.
• Regional Gastronomy: Fresh Pacific salmon, Dungeness crab, Hood River cherries, and boutique Walla Walla and Willamette Valley wines.

The Expedition Vessels: National Geographic Sea Lion & Quest

Purpose-built for shallow coastal and river exploration, Lindblad’s American fleet provides unparalleled comfort and viewing access:

• Open Bridge Policy: Spend time on the bridge with the captain watching the vessel navigate through massive river lock systems.
• Complete Gear Locker: Fleet of Zodiacs, single/tandem sea kayaks, and stand-up paddleboards deployed directly from the ship’s transom.
• Intimate Atmosphere: No more than 62 to 100 guests, fostering warm camaraderie with naturalists and fellow guests.

Why Book Your Pacific Northwest Cruise with Vincent Vacations?

As a certified Lindblad Expeditions partner and premier member of the Signature Travel Network, Vincent Vacations delivers exclusive client privileges:

• Exclusive Onboard Shipboard Credits: Complimentary spending credits applied directly to your onboard account.
• Custom Pre/Post Wine & City Tours: Bespoke coordination of boutique hotel stays in Portland, Willamette Valley luxury wine resorts (The Allison Inn & Spa), and scenic Oregon coast driving extensions.
• Dedicated Concierge Travel Advocacy: Seamless booking of flights, premium seat assignments, and 24/7 client advocacy.