Clarkston to Portland or reverse (9 nights /10 days)
Experience the same sense of excitement and wonder as your journey begins in Spokane near Clarkston to find the Pacific Ocean, the objective of Lewis and Clark’s expeditionary party, the Corps of Discovery. You will visit many historic, scenic and enjoyable sites along your Columbia and Snake River voyage to Portland. If you’re looking for something tailored more to a specific interest, you might enjoy the Premium Experience Excursion to the Walla Walla Wine Trail or a trip to the Western Antique Aeroplane & Automobile Museum. As you relive the daring exploits of Lewis and Clark, you are treated to many natural wonders. Columbia Gorge cuts through the Cascade Mountains thanks to the Missoula Floods of the last Ice Age. At Multnomah Falls, snowmelt streams plunge over 600 feet in two tiered cascades down a sheer cliff face. Deeper than the Grand Canyon, Idaho’s Hell’s Canyon is a dramatic crack in the earth with raging waters best explored on an exciting jet boat ride. Near Portland, understand the raw power of nature in the collapsed volcanic crater of Mount St. Helens. Along the Columbia River, fish ladders help salmon swim upstream and bison, deer and elk graze freely.
Day 1 - Arrive Spokane, USA
Fly from London to Spokane, USA
Make your own way from Spokane Airport to the Historic Davenport for an overnight stay.
Day 2 - Clarkston, Washington
Today is the big day! Spend a few hours before your departure exploring the beautiful city of Spokane before travelling to Clarkston, Washington, where you will board the American Empress on the Columbia River.
You will board the American Empress this afternoon, settle into your spacious stateroom and get to know your new home.
Day 3 - Clarkston, Washington
Nestled at the union of the Snake and Clearwater Rivers in southeast Washington, Clarkston is the gateway to North America's deepest gorge, Hells Canyon on the Snake River. The picturesque vistas, year-round mild climates, and a deep history make this scenic inland port a more-than-desirable stop! Spend the day following the footsteps of the historic Lewis and Clark journey – where the city received its name. This incredible city is filled with artifacts and stories that depict the journeys of famous explorers. Clarkston has the ideal climate for visitors to enjoy countless activities including fishing, scenic walks along the trails, shopping, and exploring.
Day 4 - Richland (Tri-Cities), Washington
Richland is located at the confluence of the Yakima and the Columbia Rivers. The town has become an important hub for produce and local food and products. Visitors can enjoy the scenic beauty of tis stunning and unique river-town. Spend the day exploring the many attractions and shops that line the streets of the city. Richland is weaved with history and filled with a culture that is unlike other northwest cities. Experience a place that thrives on the community and utilizes the support from each other to sustain a strong, intertwined city.
Day 5 - Scenic River Cruising
Behold the beauty of nature as you enjoy a day of scenic river cruising. Picturesque canyon walls and fascinating volcanic formations will keep you guessing as to what lies around the next bend. As you wind through the dramatic mountains and forested ridges of the great Pacific Northwest, join our Riverlorian on-deck for insightful and entertaining narration.
Day 6 - The Dalles, Oregon
At the end of the overland Oregon Trail, The Dalles holds a unique place in history as a jumping-off spot for pioneers, soldiers, gold miners, adventurers, gun-slingers, floozies, and scallywags. Lewis and Clark camped at this location at Rock Fort Camp during their historic journey in 1805 and 1806. Fort Dalles was established in 1850. Oregon Trail pioneers ended their overland journey at The Dalles, forced to build rafts and take the “river road” west to Fort Vancouver, then into the Willamette River valley. Ten thousand years of Native American trading took place on the banks of the Columbia River, shaped by the Ice Age Missoula floods. The town was located at the foot of a series of dangerous rapids which the Hudson’s Bay Company fur traders called “The Dalles of the Columbia.”
Day 7 - Stevenson, Washington
On the banks of the scenic Columbia River, the city of Stevenson is your launch pad to the Washington side of the Gorge. A stroll along the Rock Cove pathway or the Columbia River waterfront is a great way to take in surroundings. Downtown Stevenson is home to unique shops, art galleries, and restaurants. Stevenson is in the heart of the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area. Explore the eastern entrance to Mount St. Helens or the spectacular Lewis River Valley.
Day 8 - Astoria, Oregon
Astoria is known to be the oldest American Settlement west of the Rocky Mountains. For thousands of years, Clatsop Indians inhabited the lands that are now known as Astoria. In 1805, Lewis and Clark led their expedition through the town and spent the winter at Fort Clatsop. In 1813, a British warship sailed into the Columbia River, gaining possession of the city and holding control until 1818, when they finally agreed to a joint occupation of the land. The British did not fully leave Astoria until 1846. There is no doubting the rich history has deep roots grounded in this Columbia River town. When the history combines with the scenery, the harmony will surely bring you back for more!
Day 9 - Disembark in Vancouver, Washington
Tie up in Vancouver, Washington and bid your steamboat adieu.
Private transfer to Portland Airport or extend your stay by choosing the two night The Ultimate Portland Experience City Stay. Read more....
Day 10 - Arrive London, UK
Flight from Portland arrives London.
Inclusive Pricing - What's Included
Guide Prices are per person based on 2 persons sharing a cabin include:
- Return scheduled flights (Economy Class) from London
- One night pre-cruise stay at a premium hotel including Full American Breakfast
- Premium City Highlights tour on day of embarkation
- Seven nights luxury cruise including all meals
- Unlimited drinks including house wine, beers, non-premium spirits, soft drinks, tea, coffee and filtered water
- Unlimited Wi-Fi
- On board 'showboat' entertainment each evening and daily lectures from the resident Riverlorians relevant to the themed cruise and history of the river
- Complimentary shore excursions in each port of call on the 'Hop On Hop Off' coaches
- Private transfers to and from overseas airports and shared transfer from hotel to vessel
- Gratuities
- All Port Charges
- Full ATOL financial protection
Additional Charges
- Additional Premium shore excursions
- City Stay packages
- Club/Premium Class Flight Upgrades (prices on request)
- Travel Insurance
- Expenses of a personal nature
2022
Clarkston to Portland
| 20 March | 24 July |
| 03 April | 07 August |
| 17 April | 21 August |
| 01 May | 04 September |
| 15 May | 18 September |
| 29 May | 02 October |
| 12 June | 16 October |
| 26 June | 30 October |
| 10 July | 13 November |
2023
Clarkston to Portland
| 26 March | 13, 27 August |
| 9, 23 April | 10, 24 September |
| 7, 21 May | 8 October |
| 4 June | 22 October |
| 18 June | 5 November |
| 2, 16 July | 19 November |
| 06 May | 02 December |
| 30 July |
| Cat D Veranda Stateroom From £3945pp |
| Cat E Outside Stateroom with Window From £3995pp |
| Cat C Deluxe Veranda Stateroom From £4195pp |
| Cat A Suite with Veranda From £5695pp |
2022
Portland to Clarkston
| 13 March | 17 July |
| 27 March | 31 July |
| 10 April | 14 August |
| 24 April | 28 August |
| 08 May | 11 September |
| 22 May | 25 September |
| 05 June | 09 October |
| 19 June | 23 October |
| 03 July | 06 November |
2023
Portland to Clarkston
| 19 March | 06 August |
| 02, 16 April | 20 August |
| 30 April | 03 September |
| 14, 28 May | 17 September |
| 11 June | 01, 15 October |
| 25 June | 29 October |
| 09, 23 July | 12 November |
Other cabin categories are available. Above pricing is per person based on two people sharing a cabin. Pricing may be subject to change based on flight availability. All itineraries can be tailor-made to your specification with cruise only, additional hotel nights, flight upgrades and UK regional airport departures (subject to availability). Single cabin grades available on selected ships and cabins for sole occupancy are available (single supplement applies).
