Columbia River Cruising Guide
Practical answers for your Columbia River cruise, from rain gear to locks.
Get Columbia River Cruise QuotesA Practical Columbia River Cruising Guide
This Columbia River cruising guide covers the questions people ask once they have picked a sailing: weather, packing, life on board, mobility and money.
| Topic | What to know |
|---|---|
| Weather | Wetter and cooler in the west, hot and dry in summer east of the Cascades; wind is common in the Gorge. |
| Locks | Ships rise and fall through several large locks; some passages happen at night, and the crew announces daytime ones. |
| Shore excursions | Many are included; jet boats, helicopters and special tastings may cost extra. |
| Money | U.S. dollars and cards everywhere; ask whether gratuities are included in your fare. |
| Connectivity | Phone coverage is good along most of the route but can drop in the deeper canyons. |
Choosing the Right Sailing
- Want waterfalls at their fullest? Look at spring departures.
- Short on time? The 7-day Gorge cruise round trip from Portland avoids a one-way flight.
- Want Hells Canyon? Choose a sailing that reaches Clarkston.
- Prefer kayaks and naturalists? Compare the expedition-style sailings on ColumbiaRiverCruising.com.
- Traveling as a family or group? Ask about connecting cabins and group space early.
Life on Board
Days follow a gentle routine: breakfast, a morning ashore, lunch on board while the boat moves on, an afternoon talk or free time on deck, then cocktails and dinner. Evenings bring local musicians, historians or a quiz night. Riverboat cabins are generally larger than on ocean ships, and many have balconies; meals are open seating on most sailings. Because the river is sheltered, seasickness is rarely an issue, though the Gorge can be breezy on deck. Our sister site Accessible River Cruises has tips for guests who need step-free access.
Want to make a living planning trips like this? Learn how at beatravelagent.com. Our travel network also includes the Official Travel Directory, the Official Cruise Directory and Best of the USA.
Frequently Asked Questions
How far ahead should I book using this Columbia River cruising guide?
Popular spring and autumn dates sell well ahead, and the boats are small compared with ocean ships. Booking six months to a year ahead gives the widest choice of cabins; later bookings can work for flexible travelers.
What should I pack for a Columbia river cruise?
Layers and a rain jacket for the western Gorge, sun protection for the dry east, comfortable walking shoes with grip for waterfall trails, and binoculars for eagles, osprey and bighorn sheep. Dress on board is casual.
Is this a good cruise for seniors?
It is one of the most popular river trips for older travelers: no passport, English-speaking crews, elevators on newer riverboats and plenty of included touring.
Talk Through Your Columbia River Cruise
Our cruise advisors at Mister Cruise answer the practical questions and quote the sailing that fits, free.
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