American Cruise Lines Unveils Columbia & Snake Rivers Voyage

The Snake River winding its way through Oregon
The Americas Cruise Industry
By
Updated Published

American Cruise Lines has announced a new 15-night, 16-day Grand Columbia & Snake Rivers Cruise set to launch in May 2027, according to a company press release.

The roundtrip sailing from Portland, Oregon, will take place aboard the American Anthem, a 180-passenger riverboat scheduled to enter service in 2027.

The line said the ship will feature the highest level of amenities and accommodations offered on any riverboat worldwide, following the design concept of its sister vessel, the American Encore, which is expected to debut in May 2026.

The 16-day journey begins with a complimentary hotel stay in Portland before embarkation. Guests will then board the American Anthem in Stevenson, Washington, and initially cruise west toward Astoria, where the Columbia River meets the Pacific Ocean. From there, the itinerary shifts east, traveling to the meeting point of the Columbia and Snake Rivers near Richland, Washington. The voyage continues onward to Clarkston, Washington, and into Hells Canyon before returning to Stevenson.

The extended format of this itinerary provides additional time for in-depth exploration ashore. New ports and destinations included in the program feature Portland, Hood River, and St. Helens in Oregon, along with Burbank/Walla Walla in Washington.

Shore excursions will include visits to natural and historic landmarks such as:

  • Bonneville Dam
  • Mount Saint Helens
  • Cape Disappointment State Park
  • Multnomah Falls
  • Pendleton’s underground city

The cruise will also emphasize regional heritage, with onboard lectures and guided experiences focused on Native American history and the Lewis & Clark expedition. One featured stop includes Fort Clatsop, where the explorers spent the winter of 1806.

In addition to sightseeing, guests can take part in a variety of outdoor activities, including:

  • Rail-bike and e-Bike tours
  • Jet boat excursions in Hells Canyon
  • Hiking and kayaking
  • Scenic flightseeing tours

Wine enthusiasts will have opportunities to sample local vintages at Maryhill Winery, Rivaura Winery, and vineyards throughout the Walla Walla Valley.

The Grand Columbia & Snake Rivers Cruise will operate once per month between May and September 2027. Fares begin at $14,645 per person.