riverboat cruises lewis and clark

Columbia & Snake Rivers Cruise

September 5, 2025 thru september 14, 2025.

Embark on a journey through history on the American Harmony, tracing the path of Lewis and Clark from Clarkston, WA to Portland, OR. Experience breathtaking landscapes, from forested mountains and cascading waterfalls to rocky shores, as you sail through the intricate lock and dam system. Explore iconic landmarks like Mount St. Helens and enjoy a tour and tasting at Maryhill Winery. With towering trees, soaring eagles, and majestic mountains, this region offers an unforgettable adventure aboard the American Harmony.

Transportation

Roundtrip Air Transportation

9 Days, 8 Nights aboard ship

10 Days, 9 Nights

Activity Level 3

All meals onboard

Availability

Tour highlights.

• Hells Canyon
• Clarkston, OR
• Snake River
• Pendleton, OR
• Richland, WA
• Columbia River Gorge
• The Dalles, OR
• Astoria, OR
• Portland, OR

• Roundtrip air transportation from ABQ
• All airport/hotel/ship transfers
• 8-night cruise with all meals onboard
• 1 night pre-cruise lodging
• Baggage handling (for one piece)
• Shipboard  gratuities (except optional activities)
• Your SUN TOURS Escort (with 20 or more travelers)
• Government fees, port and air taxes

DAY 1 - Arrival in Clarkston

Depart on your flight and enjoy your complimentary stay at the pre-cruise hotel in the Hells Canyon area.

This area is filled with untamed wilderness and canyon hillsides. Keep your eyes peeled for the inhabitants of this pristine landscape – from the graceful white pelicans to the playful river otter.

Clarkston, was named in honor of William Clark from 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. Prepare for a voyage into the heart of Hells Canyon, North America’s deepest gorge.

DAY 2 - Embark in Clarkston

Embark on your cruse journey and board the American Harmony.

Meals included: (B, L, D)

DAY 3 - Cruising the Snake River

Sail through Hells Canyon, take the time to witness a diverse array of wildlife while you cruise the Snake River. As you glide along its winding course, you’ll be greeted by breathtaking vistas of towering cliffs, emerald forests, and rolling hillsides. Be sure to notice the bald eagles soaring overhead and ospreys diving into the water in search of fish.

DAY 4 - Pendelton, OR / Richland, WA

Richland stands boldly at the intersection of the Yakima and Columbia Rivers, inviting exploration and discovery. Our ship docks mere steps from the serene waterfront, where trails wind alongside charming shops and local wineries beckon with their unique flavors.

Guided excursions promise a journey through time and landscape. At the REACH Museum, uncover the history of Eastern Washington, from the ancient Ice Age to the modern Atomic Age. Sacajawea State Park offers a glimpse into the past, where the Corps of Discovery—led by Lewis and Clark—once camped amidst a thriving Native American community in October 1805.

A full-day adventure to Pendleton, Oregon unveils the essence of the Wild West, with its rich blend of Western heritage and Native American culture. Explore the intricate network of underground tunnels, witnesses to a century of legal trade and clandestine activities alike.

DAY 5 - Cruising the Columbia River Gorge

Get ready to seize the day on your private balcony and watch the Columbia River Gorge develop. Behold the majestic bluffs cloaked in greenery, while hillsides reach for the sky. The dynamic landscape is truly a wonder, catch the best views up on the sun deck.

But that’s just the beginning, as the ship sails along, get ready for a range of exhilarating activities tailored just for you. Engage in destination-focused enrichment programs featuring guest speakers exploring all things regional and port-related. From captivating Art Classes to mastering the latest tech with our App-titude sessions, sizzling Cooking Demonstrations, Mixology magic, and brain-teasing Trivia– there is so much to discover on board.

DAY 6 - The Dalles, OR

Welcome to The Dalles, the final frontier of the iconic Oregon Trail! With the towering Mount Hood and Mount Adams as your stunning backdrop, each reaching over 11,000 feet, this stop possesses all the natural beauty the Pacific Northwest is known for.

For an extra dose of excitement, opt for guided excursions that promise unforgettable experiences. Like a visit to Multnomah Falls, the largest waterfall in the state of Oregon, is a true wonder of nature. The 620-foot fall fills the world with its rushing sounds. Or paddle on the quiet river on a guided Gorge kayak tour where you can be one with the eagles, herons, osprey, and occasional otter that call this river home. Don’t forget to participate in expert-led wine tastings and sample the finest wines from the fertile Columbia Valley.

DAY 7 - Kalama, WA

Our brand-new private dock in Kalama, Washington allows you to go where most cruises can’t. Take in the stunning Cascade Mountains as you drive to view the remnants of nearby Mount St. Helens.

Guided by a knowledgeable local, delve into the gripping tale of the volcano’s cataclysmic eruption in 1980 and its profound impact on both the environment and the lives of those in the surrounding area.

Right off the ship’s dock, step into the beauty of an expansive city park, adorned with captivating local artwork that adorns the impressive adjacent hotel. Learn more about other wonders of the region at the fascinating interpretive center.

Explore a charming family vineyard nearby for an afternoon of wine tasting, where you can savor the finest local varietals amidst stunning vineyard landscapes.

DAY 8 - Astoria, OR

As the oldest American settlement west of the Rockies, this port is adorned with charming Victorian homes that cascade down the hillside, this town has earned the lively nickname of “The Little San Francisco.”

Embark on your own adventure or choose from a selection of thrilling excursions that will allow you to see this city from its shore where mountains paint the sky to the cliff where the Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center is perched above the Pacific.

Immerse yourself in history with a guided tour of the National Park Service replica of Fort Clatsop, the very winter camp where Lewis and Clark hunkered down during their legendary expedition. Wander through the town’s charming shops, galleries, wineries, and brew pubs, or lose yourself in the captivating exhibits of the nearby Columbia River Maritime Museum.

DAY 9 - Cruising the Colombia River

Along the riverbanks, you may spot deer grazing or river otters frolicking in the shallows. As you pass through locks and dams, experience the engineering feats that tame this mighty river. Don’t forget to look out for historical points of interest!

DAY 10 - Disembark in Portland, OR

Arrive in Portland and say farewell to your ship. Nestled between the serene waters of the Columbia and Willamette Rivers, this city tells the stories of the many Pioneers that traveled through, discovering the great American West.

Continue on your journey back home.

Meals included: (B)

Itinerary subject to change.

Package Pricing

Early booking special until september 30, 2024, $8,025* per person, category arr - private balcony.

Deposit: 20% holds your space!

$8,535* per person

Category aal - private balcony, $8,815* per person, category aac - private balcony, $9,335* per person, category aam - veranda room, $10,715* per person, veranda suite, $11,915* per person, owner's suite, single occupancy upon request, limited availability., *price per person, including air from abq, double occupancy., final payment due:, may 28, 2025.

Deposit: N/A

Price Includes

• Roundtrip air transportation from ABQ • All transfers • 8 night cruise with all meals aboard • 1 night pre-cruise lodging • Baggage handling (for one piece) • Shipboard gratuities (except optional activities) • Your SUN TOURS escort • Government fees, port and air taxes

Booking Policy

FINAL PAYMENT DUE: May 28, 2025

CANCELLATION FEES:

• None through May 28, 2025
• 50% – May 29 – July 2, 2025
• 100% – After July 2, 2025

TRAVEL PROTECTION IS RECOMMENDED AND STARTS AT $910

ACTIVITY LEVEL RATING

Level 3: Moderate

Expectations: Expect a moderate amount of walking. To enjoy this tour, you should be prepared to walk slightly longer distances, climb stairs and tolerate periods of standing, for example on city walks, sightseeing stops or ship excursions. The daily pace and timing can fluctuate significantly between longer and shorter travel days, with additional activities possibly occurring in the early morning or evening. There may be some changes in altitude or temperatures.

Appropriate for: Most travelers beginning with those who are moderately fit, lead semi-active lives, are comfortable participating in long days of activities and expect some physical exertion.

For your reference, we send to you a detailed itinerary approximately 3-4 weeks prior to the scheduled tour departure. This has day-by-day times and events, hotel information where you can be reached in case of an emergency, and airline information.

The times listed on the itinerary are all approximate. We cannot be held responsible for schedule changes due to unforeseen circumstances with the weather, transportation agents, highway conditions, hotels or contracting agents.

AIRLINE TICKETS

You will be issued your boarding pass the morning of our departure, after your arrival at the Albuquerque International Sunport. If you have an American Airlines frequent flyer number, or a TSA number, please call our office at least 3 days prior to the tour to ensure we can note these in your reservation.

If you are joining the tour from locations other than Albuquerque, we make other arrangements for you to join the tour. Please call our office for more details.

AIRPORT SECURITY

Do not forget to bring your government issued picture ID to show at the airport. A Driver’s License or Passport is preferred. If you do not have the proper ID, the airline will turn you away.

We have arranged for handling for one piece of luggage per person regarding the skycaps (where available) and hotels. If you check through luggage note that the maximum weight for the checked piece of luggage is 50 pounds and maximum size is 62 inches (length + width + height). If your bag weighs over 50 pounds the airlines will levy an extra fee that you will be responsible to pay. If you feel the need to lock your checked through luggage and your bag is searched, your lock could be damaged in the process. You can purchase a TSA (Transportation Security Administration) accepted and recognized lock at any luggage store. Make sure you ask for a TSA approved lock. These locks are the kind that TSA screeners can open by using a special tool without breaking. Passengers can carry-on 1 bag (dimensions are limited to 10x16x24 inches), plus a personal type bag, like a purse. We advise that you pack your carry-on lightly. There are restrictions regarding your carryon baggage and contents due to enhanced security measures. If you have further concerns, please visit the TSA's Web-site at www.tsa.gov. There is room inside the motorcoach for your hand carried bag.

CHECKED BAGGAGE FEES

On our airline for this tour, passengers are assessed a fee per checked in bag, by the Airlines, upon checking in for the flight.

EMERGENCY CONTACT

It is always a good idea to carry on your person a list of medications that you are taking and an emergency contact phone number while you are traveling. And we suggest making a copy of the itinerary and provide it to a friend or family member.

GRATUITIES/ITEMS INCLUDED IN PRICE

The traditional end-of-tour gratuity is included on this tour. All hotel porterage and airport skycap (when available) fees are included. We also include the gratuities for the coach drivers. Hotel housekeeping tips are not included. Tips for guides/services on optional excursions or individual on-ship services are not included.

LODGING REQUESTS

If you would like to request special accommodations at the hotel(s) where we are lodging, please call us as soon as possible and we will forward these requests for you. The phone numbers of the hotel(s) where we are staying are listed on the itinerary.

Many hotels around the country have instituted a "reconditioning fee" of $300 or more that is levied upon a guest that smokes in a non-smoking room. If this occurs during our tour you will be responsible for paying this fee to the hotel prior to check-out.

TRAVEL REQUESTS

We pay close attention to your requests but please realize that these are merely requests and cannot be guaranteed.

RESPONSIBILITY

SUN TOURS acts solely as an agent in arranging hotels, transportation, sightseeing, baggage-handling, and other services and does not assume any liability for injury, damage, loss or delay due to any act or default of any company or person. We, along with our subcontractors, reserve the right to make changes to an itinerary if it is necessary for the proper handling of a tour.

WEATHER AND CLOTHING/MISC. SUGGESTIONS

The temperature and weather in Washington and Oregon during our scheduled cruise is generally pleasant. Storms can come through the area. Prepare yourself by bringing clothing for a lot of sunshine and the possibility of precipitation. There are no dress codes where we dine or visit on this tour.

Inquire About This Tour

Submit your inquiry for more information about a tour. We will get back to you with a (human) response as soon as possible. During the week that’s usually within a couple of hours. Evenings and weekends may take us a little bit longer. Please note that this is an inquiry for tour bookings only and does not constitute or confirm a reservation on a tour.

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Call 505.889.8888 to Book Today!

If you aren't ready to inquire by email or would rather call and speak to a team member, we look forward to hearing from you.

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Clarkston, Washington

Columbia river gorge.

What better way to honor Lewis & Clark on your Columbia & Snake Rivers cruise than to spend some time exploring the twin cities named for them: Lewiston, Idaho and Clarkston, Washington. Clarkston is the innermost port of the Snake River, and home to North America’s deepest gorge, Hell’s Canyon. Not all of the cruise ships give you enough time. Consider planning an extra day in your vacation to properly explore the region.

Things to Do

Nez Perce National Historic Park

The park has thirty-eight visitor sites in four states – this is a non-traditional National Park. The Spalding Area Visitor Center lies east of Lewiston/Clarkston, a great place to start. North of Lewiston is the Confluence Overlook; the Hasatino Village Site and Buffalo Eddy are to the south. There are many other sites for anyone who wants to venture even further from the city limits.

Ghost Tours of Lewiston

Take a walking tour of historic downtown Lewiston! Explore areas that have remained unchanged for 100 years. Go below and explore the passageways under the sidewalks. And ghosts? Lewiston is home to historic buildings with documented paranormal activity.

The Lewis-Clark Valley has such a mild winter climate, you can golf all year round! Choose from four golf courses in the area: Lewiston Golf and Country Club; Bryden Canyon Golf Course; Quail Ridge Golf Course; and Clarkston Golf and Country Club.

Basalt Cellars

Wineries in the Lewis-Clark Valley produced award-winning wines until prohibition destroyed the local business. In the last ten years, the valley has begun to reclaim its place in the world wine industry. Basalt Cellar wines have been winning gold and platinum medals, and offer you a chance to come in a taste their latest offerings. The tasting room is open Monday thru Saturday afternoons.

PAC Seaplanes – Hell’s Canyon Tour

Lots of people see Hell’s Canyon by jet boat – it’s a fun tour. But if that’s just not for you, perhaps you want to see the top rim of the canyon from a seaplane! Look down on the deepest gorge in North America, as well as the Seven Devil Mountains and the Eagle Cap Wilderness Area.

Places to Eat

Bojack’s Broiler Pit $$

The Lewis Clark Valley is famous for bite-size steak! Bojack’s is one of four restaurants that serve these steak bites small enough to pop in your mouth. Of course, you can always get a larger steak!

Roosters Waterfront Restaurant $$

This menu is as unique as its name. Their bite-size steak is grilled. This is a great place if you want to try something new – or something spicy! Also, sit on their deck and watch the river go by (and watch for your ship!). Open daily for lunch and dinner.

Hells Canyon Smokehouse $$

Ready for homemade barbeque? A local couple started this restaurant out of a passion for flavor, and that is reflected in their original recipes for seasoning and barbeque sauce. Open for lunch and dinner daily.

Fazzari’s Finest $$

In the mood for pizza? Fazzari’s is the place to go in Clarkston. They’re known for quality toppings, even making their own crust and Italian sausage. Open daily for dinner, and lunch on Saturday and Sunday.

Simple Eats $

Great place for sandwiches, salads, and homemade soup. Stop in for a bite, or get a sack lunch to go as you head off to your next activity! Vegan and vegetarian options. Open for lunch, Monday thru Saturday. Looking for the same creativity in a dinner menu? The owner of Simple Eats also owns Brock’s in Towne Square, formerly Jazzy’s. Open for dinner Wednesday thru Saturday.

Book a Columbia River Cruise today!

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SIGHTSEEING BOAT CRUISES

Experience the natural and scenic wonders of the Columbia River Gorge and learn about the Lewis and Clark Expedition by taking a boat cruise aboard an authentic triple deck sternwheeler. Watch Native American tribes fish from their legendary platforms as they have for centuries. Scenic rides, brunch and dinner cruises and interpretive tours provide 360-degree breathtaking vistas.

The Sternwheeler’s historic-looking interior and exterior along with its historic setting in the scenic Columbia Gorge makes it a wonderful experience for tourists and history enthusiasts. It has seating for 232 passengers for plated meals, an on-board galley, two full-service bars and is licensed to carry 599 people. The Columbia Gorge Sternwheeler was built in Hood River, Oregon by Nichols Boat Works and was launched in 1983. On April 19, 2006, the Columbia Gorge Sternwheeler became the first and only paddle-boat leased by American Waterways, Inc.

Enjoy exploring the Gorge from the Columbia River and plan a boat cruise today!

Columbia Gorge Sternwheeler

Experience the heart of the gorge.

Surround yourself in the beauty and history of the Columbia River by sailing through the Heart of the Gorge aboard the impeccably restored, iconic 145-foot triple-decker Columbia Gorge Sternwheeler. The 360-degree panoramic scenic views, coupled with locally sourced craft beer, wine and mouthwatering cuisine make for an unforgeable experience you can only get aboard the Sternwheeler!

For more information and ticket purchase visit   sternwheeler.com

Lewis and Clark Riverboat

Information

Enjoy a different vantage point of Bismarck, from the river! Come aboard the Lewis and Clark Riverboat and experience the Missouri river at its finest, with sweeping views of the river and surroundings. Cruises last one to one and a half hours with lunch and dinner cruises offered for the public, as well as opportunities for private functions. Make sure to secure reservations online, as onsite tickets sell out fast!

Nearby Attractions

Distance Unit:

Keelboat Park

Keelboat Park, 1605 River Rd, Bismarck, ND 58503, USA Distance: 0.01 Away

Arts and Culture City Park Outdoor Adventure Sports & Recreation Native American Culture and Experiences

Huckleberry House

1700 River Rd, Bismarck, ND 58503, USA Distance: 0.11 Away

Food and Drink Resturant

Northern Plains National Heritage Area

1700 River Road, Bismarck, ND, USA Distance: 0.11 Away

Guides and Tours History Native American Culture and Experiences

North Dakota’s Gateway to Science

1600 Canary Ave, Bismarck, ND 58501, USA Distance: 0.12 Away

Family Fun Museum, Theatre, or Interpretive Center

Chief Looking’s Village

2023 Burnt Boat Rd, Bismarck, ND 58503, USA Distance: 0.53 Away

History Native American Culture and Experiences Vista/Overlook

Steamboat Warehouse State Historic Site

444 River Rd, Bismarck, ND 58504, USA Distance: 0.66 Away

History City Park

Midway Lanes

Midway Lanes Club & Trophy, Memorial Highway, Mandan, ND, USA Distance: 1.04 Away

Family Fun Food and Drink Resturant

Raging Rivers Waterpark

Raging Rivers Waterpark, 46th Avenue Southeast, Mandan, ND, USA Distance: 1.41 Away

The Paddle Trap

2500 Pirates Loop Southeast, Mandan, ND 58554, USA Distance: 1.46 Away

Super Slide Amusement Park

Super Slide Amusement Park, Riverside Park Road, Bismarck, ND, USA Distance: 1.78 Away

Family Fun Amusement Park

Dakota Zoo, Riverside Park Road, Bismarck, ND, USA Distance: 1.91 Away

Family Fun Food and Drink Outdoor Adventure

North Dakota State Capitol

600 E Boulevard Ave, Bismarck, ND 58501, USA Distance: 2.19 Away

Arts and Culture Guides and Tours

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AMERICAN CRUISE LINES 8 Days | Columbia & Snake River Voyage Westbound

CLARKSTON TO PORTLAND Day 1 | Clarkston, Washington. Lewiston, Idaho. The twin cities of Lewiston, Idaho and Clarkston, Washington, are known as the Northwest's most inland seaports. Here, along the Snake River, you'll find Hells Canyon, the deepest canyon in North America. This canyon is known for its pristine wilderness and breathtaking scenery. View ancient Indian petroglyphs and magnificent wildlife. Hells Canyon Jet Boat Tour.* Prepare yourself for an fascinating ride across pristine wilderness. Climb aboard a jet boat for a safe, yet exhilarating adventure into Hells Canyon National Recreation Area. Your United States Coast Guard certified captain will narrate as you travel across the Snake River through the pristine wilderness of Hells Canyon, the deepest canyon in North America. Along the way, you'll stop to view 7,000-year-old petroglyphs, foraging big horn sheep and rock formations sculpted over a million years ago.  (*This is a premium tour. Please call 855-255-1200 for more information. Tour only offered on cruises ending in Clarkston, WA.) Nez Perce National Historic Park.* Learn about the rich history of the Nez Perce Native American tribe. Located in Spalding, Idaho, the Nez Perce National Historic Park commemorates the contributions the tribe has made. It also helps preserve the sites, stories and artifacts associated with their history and culture. At the park, you will learn about the rich history of the Nez Perce Native American tribe, also remembered for having saved the Lewis and Clark expedition team from starvation following its harrowing journey through the Bitteroot Mountains. (*Tour only offered on cruises ending in Clarkston, WA.) Day 2 | River Cruising. Enjoy an authentic Columbia River Valley wine tasting along the Snake River. After the wine tasting, head to the top deck of Queen of the West where you will have a front row seat as we cruise past rugged mountains and rolling plains. Relax in a lounge chair with a good book or grab a pair of binoculars and search for bald eagles and other wildlife that may be lurking on the river's edge. Today is a day devoted to total relaxation and enjoying the simple pleasures that come with a river cruise. Day 3 | Pendleton, Oregon. Richland, Washington. Journey to Pendleton and get a taste of the real West watching working cowboys at the world-famous Pendleton Roundup and learn about the pioneers from the perspective of the Native Americans at the Tamastslikt Cultural Institute. Pendleton Underground Tour. Experience a trip underground and into Pendleton's intriguing and entertaining past. The Pendleton Underground Tour shows you the secrets that lie beneath the streets of this lively town. A network of hidden basalt-rock tunnels link restored buildings, allowing you to see the way they were constructed in the 19th century. Tamastslikt Cultural Institute. Experience the storied past and bright future of the Umatilla, Cayuse and Walla Walla Indians Visit the Tamastslikt Cultural Institute, which plays tribute to the Umatilla, Cayuse and Walla Walla Indians. These three distinct peoples have melded together over the past 150 years in an alliance called the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation. The facility also includes interactive exhibits, significant artwork, a living culture village, and a raptor program about birds of prey. Pendleton Woolen Mill. Visit the Pendleton Woolen Mill and Museum to learn about the town's renowned weaving process during a guided tour. Pendleton Mills has been producing world famous woolens since 1901, including Native American blankets inspired by ancient designs and legends. There will be time after the tour to visit the gift shop where you can purchase woven goods produced on site. Winery Tour. Sample award winning wines and enjoy breathtaking views of beautiful vineyards on this narrated winery tour. nown as "The Heart of Washington Wine Country," the Tri-Cities region houses more than 160 wineries within a 50 mile radius. Sample award-winning wines and enjoy breathtaking views of beautiful vineyards on this narrated winery tour. Sharing the same latitude as the world-famous Burgundy and Bordeaux regions of France, the Columbia Valley has the perfect soil conditions and temperatures for producing great wines. The Tri-Cities' area wineries offer a comfortable setting to experience world-class wines. Visit the Columbia Valley and discover the Heart of Washington Wine Country. Day 4 | Stevenson, Washington. In the heart of the Columbia Gorge National Scenic Area, the ship will move through transit the Bonneville Lock and Dam to reach the port of Stevenson. At the Bonneville Dam Visitors Center, learn about the workings of the massive turbine generators behind this imposing hydroelectric power source. The Columbia Gorge Interpretive Center showcases the area's unique cultural and historical diversity, from the Native American tribes that inhabited the Gorge, to Lewis and Clark and 19th-century loggers. Bonneville Dam and Fish Hatchery. Enjoy a guided tour of the Bonneville Dam to learn about fisheries and hydropower (1 Hour) . After the tour, take a short bus ride to the Bonneville Fish Hatchery, where you can participate in a self-guided tour through the Spawning Room, Adult Fish Holding Ponds, Rearing Ponds, Rainbow Trout Ponds Outdoor Sturgeon Ponds, Underwater Viewing Center and the Gift Shop. While on this tour, be sure to visit Herman the Sturgeon. Herman is 10 feet long, 425 pounds and over 65 years old. Multnomah Falls and Columbia Gorge Interpretive Center. Experience the powerful beauty of nature by visiting Multnomah Falls. Eighty miles long and up to 4,000 feet deep, the Columbia River Gorge is a spectacular river canyon cutting the only navigable route through the Cascade Mountain Range. Visit magnificent Multnomah Falls, one of over 70 waterfalls found along the Gorge. Plummeting 620 feet, it is the second highest waterfall in the United States. You can enjoy the falls from the Visitor's Center, or walk the paved trail to Benson Bridge, where you can get an up close view of the falls. After viewing the falls, visit the Columbia Gorge Interpretive Center, where you will learn about the bountiful life of the Gorge. The Interpretive Center also displays the natural and cultural history of the region. Day 5 | Cruising the Columbia River Gorge. The Columbia River Gorge is a spectacular river canyon cutting the only sea-level route through the Cascade Mountain Range. A popular recreational destination, the gorge holds federally protected status as a National Scenic Area called the Columbia Gorge National Scenic Area and is managed by the United States Forest Service. The cliffs of the awe-inspiring gorge look down on quaint riverfront towns and exhilarating windsurfing waters. Through millenniums of geologic events, waterfalls have found their home in the Columbia River Gorge. Day 6 | Rainier. Cruise through Volcano Alley on the Columbia River with views of Mt. Hood, Mt. Adams and Mt. St. Helens. From Rainier, you will travel to Mt. St. Helens National Volcanic Monument. At the nearby observatory and interpretive center, look right into the volcanic crater with its steaming dome, and witness firsthand the destructive power and damage caused by its volcanic blast in 1980. Mount St. Helens Tour. Get an up close look at this active volcano. A scenic bus ride takes you to the Mount St. Helens Johnston Ridge Observatory. The observatory sits on a bluff overlooking the crater and offers views of Mount St. Helens' lava dome, pumice plain and landslide deposit. Day 7 | Astoria, Washington. A nationally significant historic region at the western end of the Lewis & Clark Trail, Astoria is the oldest American settlement west of the Rockies and today showcases more than 70 Victorian-era homes in its unique historic district. In the winter of 1805-06 the Lewis & Clark Corps of Discovery Expedition was headquartered at Fort Clatsop. In 1955, a replica of the fort was built near the original site was eventually named a National Monument. Get a comprehensive overview of the Corp's entire expedition at Fort Canby and the Lewis & Clark Interpretive Center. Astoria City Tour and Fort Clatsop.  Tour historic Astoria, the oldest American settlement west of the Rockies. Learn the history of the area while visiting two historic sites. The first stop will be at the Astoria Column, where you will have the opportunity to climb 164 steps to the top of the column to see the majestic views of the countryside. The tour will then proceed to Fort Clatsop, a replica of the original site where the Lewis and Clark Corps of Discovery camped during the winter of 1805-1806. Columbia River Maritime Museum. The Columbia River Maritime Museum is one of the premier maritime museums on the West Coast and is the official maritime museum of the state of Oregon. As your guide leads you through the museum, experience what it is like to pilot a tugboat and participate in a Coast Guard rescue. The museum features a new exhibit called Crossing the Bar. This exhibit takes a look at the legendary Columbia River entrance, where the forces of the mighty Columbia River and the Pacific Ocean meet. Day 8 | Portland, Oregon. Situated between the sparkling waters of the Columbia and Willamette Rivers, Portland has flourished throughout history with the fortunes of the great rivers. In the golden age of riverboats, sternwheelers crossed Portland's busy waterfront while steam whistles and calliopes rang out across the water. Today, big city excitement combined with small town charm makes Portland one of the favorite destinations in the West. Highlights include the Portland Art Museum, the International Rose Test Garden and famous Powell's Bookstore, filling an entire city block. Narrated city tour of Portland.* Since it was incorporated in 1851, Portland has long been a hub of arts, culture and welcoming residents eager to showcase the city's diverse offerings. Discover "North America's best Big City" on a three-hour motor coach excursion with a local expert guide. Highlights include Portland's exciting downtown, multiple river bridges, the International Rose Garden, and the Japanese Test Gardens. ( *Tour only offered on cruises ending in Portland, Oregon.) NOTE: Itinerary is subject to change without notice. For the most up-to-date information, please refer to the itinerary schedule you receive with your final documents.

Lewis and Clark Tour: Undaunted Courage

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On our Lewis and Clark: Undaunted Courage Tour you will experience jaw-dropping vistas in every bend of the trail as you relive the dramatic story of Lewis and Clark. As part of Stephen Ambrose’s research for his best-selling book, Undaunted Courage: Meriwether Lewis, Thomas Jefferson, and the Opening of the American Wes t, the Ambrose family spent vacations traveling the Lewis and Clark Trail on foot, canoe, and horseback. Our Lewis and Clark Tour is based on his journey following the path of Lewis and Clark from Great Falls, Montana, to the Pacific Coast of Oregon. The authenticity of this Lewis and Clark Tour is unrivaled.

Great Falls, Montana

Explore The Lewis and Clark Train Interpretive Center and the C.M. Russell Museum: Center has indoor and outdoor exhibits that Stephen Ambrose called “the best anywhere;” Russell painted 4,000 works of art depicting the American West

Lemhi Pass on the Continental Divide

Walk over the Divide in Lewis’ footsteps and down to where he first drank from the waters of the Columbia River

Old Fort Benton

Stop at the trading post for Native American tribes and trappers and endpoint of steamboat travel between St. Louis and the west

Camp Fortunate

Visit the camp where Lewis and Clark made critical first contact with the Shoshone—Sacagawea’s own people

See where the Corps encamped on their return trip to wait for better traveling weather at the Nez Perce Indian Reservation in Idaho and be awed by the “Heart of the Monster,” a rock formation that was part of Nez Perce folklore

Hell’s Canyon National Recreation Area

Explore this national landmark that commemorates great moments in the exploration of the West

Fort Clatsop

End where the expedition did, at the winter camp on the Pacific Ocean

Day 1 • Flight to Great Falls, Montana

After arrival at your hotel in the historic town of Great Falls, Montana, our own Corps of Discovery will gather to discuss our upcoming activities and the history of the Lewis and Clark Expedition. You will enjoy a Welcome Reception and group dinner at the hotel.

Day 2 • Great Falls and Fort Benton

After breakfast, you will stop at a Lewis and Clark monument overlooking the Missouri River, and then you are on our way to Fort Benton, often called “The Birthplace of Montana.”

From there, you will go to Decision Point at Loma, a pivotal location on the Corps of Discovery Trail. Here, Lewis and Clark made the crucial choice about which river to follow to reach the Northwest Passage — take the Marias or continue on the Missouri.

You will visit historic Old Fort Benton, the trading post for many Native American tribes and trappers, as well as the Missouri River levee. Fort Benton was the endpoint of steamboat travel between St. Louis and the west. You will also stop at the Agriculture Museum to view the Hornaday Bison.

You then return to Great Falls and The Lewis and Clark Trail Interpretive Center. Situated beside the Missouri River, the Center features indoor and outdoor exhibits that Stephen Ambrose called “outstanding—the best anywhere.” They include dioramas that depict the explorers, Sacagawea and her son Pomp, an Indian village, and many artifacts. A drive along the river end at Giant Springs, where you will see a stunning view of the Falls.

Day 3 • Helena, Montana

You will begin the day with a visit to the C.M. Russell Museum. Russell was a world-renowned artist whose intimate knowledge of the American West informed his art during his lifetime. He was the first artist who actually lived most of his life in the Cowboy West and created approximately 4,000 works of art that inspired the work of many artists who took the West as their muse. Afterwards, you will visit the First Peoples Buffalo Jump, a site of prehistoric bison hunts.

In the afternoon, the group travels by bus to the five-mile canyon that Meriwether Lewis christened the “Gates of the Rocky Mountains.” You will take a boat ride into the magnificent Gates of the Mountain, where you can spot bighorn sheep, deer, bald eagles, and osprey, who still call it home.

Day 4 • Helena and Three Forks, Montana

You will begin the day at the Montana State Capitol in Helena, an outstanding example of architecture at the turn of the 20th century. The building, recently refurbished, features a beautiful stained-glass skyline in the rotunda and a great deal of artwork, including Russell’s mural depicting Lewis and Clark and the Flathead Indians at Ross’ Hole, Montana.

You will then visit the Three Forks Headwaters State Park, where upon arrival, Meriwether Lewis recognized it as “an essential point in the geography of this western part of the Continent.” You will end the day with a visit to the renowned Museum of the Rockies in Bozeman to take in the excellent exhibit on Crow Indian culture, Apsáalooke Women and Warriors.

Day 5 • Lemhi Pass on the Continental Divide and Salmon, Idaho

Our Corps’ day begins with a drive to Whitehall, Montana, and its marvelous murals of the expedition, and on to the Beaverhead Rock, which Sacagawea recognized as a landmark close to Shoshone tribal lands. You will then head to Camp Fortunate, where Lewis and Clark made critical first contact with the Shoshone—Sacagawea’s own people.

Your next stop is Lemhi Pass on the Continental Divide and the Missouri River headwaters. You will walk over the Divide in Lewis’ footsteps and down to where he first drank from the waters of the Columbia River.

The day ends with a dinner cruise on the “River of No Return” at Salmon, Idaho.

Day 6 • Missoula, Montana

The day begins with a short drive along the Salmon River, exploring the route that William Clark found too wild to navigate.

You will continue with a visit to the Big Hole Battlefield National Monument, where in 1877, Chief Joseph and the Nez Perce put up a fierce defense in one of the battles between the tribe and U.S. Cavalry troops. You then travel north to Ross’ Hole, where Lewis and Clark encountered the Montana Salish Indians. You end your day at Traveler’s Rest on Lolo Creek, where Lewis and Clark camped, traveling west in 1805 and again in 1806, where they split up to explore Montana further.

Day 7 • Lewiston, Idaho

Your day will begin with a stop atop Lolo Pass and the Corps’ Glade Creek Campsite, which Stephen Ambrose helped to preserve in its wilderness condition. After brief stops at the DeVoto Cedar Grove and Heart of the Monster, a key Nez Perce cultural site, we will proceed to Kamiah, where the Corps camped on their return trip to wait for better traveling weather.

You will then head to the “Canoe Camp” in Orofino, Idaho, where the Corps built five dugout canoes for their downstream journey to the Pacific Ocean. Your last stop is a visit to the Nez Perce National Historical Park, dedicated to the tribe’s rich culture.

Day 8 • Walla Walla, Washington

This day will start at the Hells Gate State Park on the border of Idaho and Washington. The park commemorates several pivotal moments in the history of the American West through interpretive signage and hiking trails.

You will then proceed to Walla Walla, stopping along the way at three important Lewis and Clark sites: the Alpowai Village site at Chief Timothy State Park, the Patit Creek campsite near Dayton, Washington, and the Touchet River campsite near Waitsburg.

Your day ends at the Whitman Mission National Historic Site, a 19th-century memorial to the unique challenges presented by the cultural divide between Christian missionaries and Native American tribes.

Day 9 • Hood River, Oregon

The morning will start at Sacajawea State Park, where the Snake River meets the Columbia, and a major site where Lewis and Clark encountered the Yakama and Wanapum Indians. From there, it’s down the Columbia, stopping along the way at Hat Rock State Park, near where the Corps met the Walla Walla Indian people, and then to Celilo Falls and the start of the Long Narrows – among the most important ancient fishing sites of the Columbia River basin. You’ll visit the Rock Fort Camp in The Dalles, Oregon, and then the Columbia Gorge Discovery Center, with its excellent Lewis and Clark exhibit. You will finish the day with a short trip along the original U.S. Highway 30 with spectacular views of the Columbia River Gorge.

Day 10 • Astoria, Oregon

We’ll begin the day in the Cascades section of the Columbia River and the remnants of the immense 17th century landslide which caused the Bridge of the Gods, a geological phenomenon correctly observed by Lewis and Clark. You’ll visit the Bonneville Dam, constructed as part of FDR’s “New Deal” program of the 1930s, and then move downstream to the Sandy River, Lewis and Clark’s “Quick Sand River” and a landmark of major importance in both the 1805 and 1806 voyages on the Columbia. From there, you’ll head on to the river’s massive estuary, and finally the Pacific Coast, stopping along the way at Dismal Niche, the Station Camp site where Lewis and Clark encountered bands of eager Chinook Indian traders, and finally Cape Disappointment, where the captains beheld the Pacific Ocean.

Day 11 • Portland, Oregon

Your final day will begin at the Astoria Column, where a towering observation deck allows visitors breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and the Columbia River. You will then visit the Columbia River Maritime Museum, dedicated to artifacts related to the exploration of the Pacific Northwest. Then it is on to Fort Clatsop, the reconstructed 1805-06 winter encampment of the Corps of Discovery, and the terminus of Corps’ westward expedition. From there, you will continue to Seaside, where you will enjoy the sights of beautiful coastal town and visit the Salt Works National Historic Site, where men of the Corps spent six weeks boiling sea water for 28 gallons of needed salt.

Your final stop will be in Cannon Beach, site of the famous beached whale which provided the Corps with a welcome winter diversion from the dreary chores at Fort Clatsop.

The evening ends in Portland, Oregon, where we will salute our trip with a farewell dinner.

Day 12 • Flight Home

This morning, our Corps will say goodbye to the Pacific Northwest and our Lewis and Clark adventure.

Historians on this tour

Dates & Prices

• 2025 Dates & Prices

Tour Includes

• Itinerary designed by Dr. Stephen E. Ambrose
• Professional historian traveling with you throughout the tour, lecturing and answering questions
• Tour manager to handle guest needs and on-the-ground logistics
• Educational road book of maps and historical information
• 3- and 4-stary hotel accommodations
• Hotel taxes and service charges
• Touring by private first class, air-conditioned motor coach
• 10 breakfasts, most dinners, many lunches
• Entrance fees to all museums, sites and parks

Flights are not included in the cost of the tour.

Activity Level

The main Lewis and Clark Tour requires some walking.

The pre-tour includes canoeing (usually 3 days), living in tents, camping and outdoor eating and toilet facilities (2 nights), and some mountain walking and hiking. Weather conditions may be very hot and humid, cold and/or wet. Please be sure that you are in good physical condition to be able to enjoy and fully participate in the activities of the trip.

If you use a wheelchair, please read our Wheelchair Policy .

Recommended Reading

Undaunted Courage: Meriwether Lewis, Thomas Jefferson, and the Opening of the American West by Stephen E. Ambrose

Customize this Tour

If you would like to customize this itinerary for your alumni travel association, educational organization, high school, family or other private group, please see our custom tour page .

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Guest Reviews

3 reviews for ' Lewis and Clark Tour: Undaunted Courage '

THE TOUR for those interested in the Lewis and Clark Expedition

I second all the comments made so far about this tour. Starting in Great Falls, MT, was a perfect beginning. We got to experience the plains, the Missouri above the falls, the Rockies, the valleys in between, the arid plateaus of Washington and Oregon, the temperate rainforests of the Cascades, and the broad Columbia river emptying into the Pacific. Dams and other modernizations may have changed the landscape somewhat, but we still were able to get a good feel for what Lewis and Clark recorded in their journals. Our historian, Dr. Don Snow, was tireless in telling us the complicated story of the expedition, and the tour director, Nick Scramuzza, shepherded us through all the tour logistics with aplomb and humor. This is a unique tour and fulfilled a dream of mine to see what Lewis and Clark saw.

Following Lewis & Clark to the Sea

The tour, which carried our tour group through some of the most scenic terrain in the Great Northwest, was much more than a sightseeing trip over the terrain where the Corps of Discovery passed. Don Snow, our tour guide, covered countless details regarding “the world’s greatest camping trip”, including information about the numerous Native American tribes they encountered. For the first time, I gained an appreciation of how very different the tribes were and how Meriwether Lewis managed to communicate with them – with the invaluable help of Sacajawea and Charbonneau. The hotels we stayed in varied in quality The Whitman Hotel in Walla Walla was at least a four star, and the meals in Helena were particularly outstanding, but all the hotels were satisfactory for sometimes-tired travelers. Nick, the tour manager, is truly a man with HEART. He looked after every person in the group with energy and genuine caring. Because of delays caused by COVID and forest fires, my wife and I waited three years for this tour. It was well worth waiting for.

Wonderful in every way

Marvelous. Terrific combination of history and nature and cultural background. Our historian was full of information and every day had a mix of hiking, viewing artwork, enjoying great food, on and on. Our tour director had a great sense of humor and provided his own lively stories too.

If you’re even moderately active, definitely take the optional 3 day canoeing and camping extension. You see the river from the river. The tents and food are great.

This was our first Stephen Ambrose tour and it won’t be the last.

Write your review

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Don Snow is a Professor Emeritus at Whitman College. The college dedicated the Arnold Endowment funds to bring Snow to the campus for the 2001-2002 academic year as the Arnold Professor of Environmental Studies. In his 21 years there, he helped to develop Whitman’s innovative program in the Environmental Humanities. He taught courses in the British-American nature writing tradition, the literature of place, and creative writing along with the field-based introductory course in Environmental Studies.

Prior to teaching at Whitman College, Snow taught at the University of Montana in both the Environmental Studies Program and the Forestry School. For 18 years, he directed the Northern Lights Research & Education Institute in Missoula and co-edited Northern Lights Magazine , a regional journal of place. He has published six books—most of them collections of essays and articles on environmental history and conflict in the American West.

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Guide to Lewis and Clark Expedition Sites in Idaho

The Lewis and Clark Expedition used the historic Lolo Trail to cross the Bitterroot Mountains (very roughly along US Highway 12), proceeding west to the Clearwater River at modern-day Orofino. From there, they traveled through Idaho via the Clearwater until it flowed into the Snake River at the modern-day border town of Lewiston. The Corps' return trip in the spring of 1806 followed a similar route.

About the Expedition

The 1805 journey through modern-day Idaho was a debilitating ordeal. The Corps began their crossing of the steep, densely-forested Bitterroot Mountains on September 11, 1805. It took them 10 days to travel approximately 150 miles, coming out of the mountains near the modern-day town of Weippe, Idaho. Along the way they suffered from cold and hunger, surviving on travel soup and candles, eventually killing some of their horses for the meat. The snow-covered terrain was difficult, leading to slips and falls.

The Corps followed a similar route through Idaho on their 1806 return journey, stopping to stay with the hospitable Nez Perce in early May. They were forced to wait several weeks for the snow to clear enough to re-cross the Bitterroot Mountains. The Lewis and Clark Expedition passed back into modern-day Montana on June 29, 1806.

The Lolo Trail

The Lolo Trail is actually a network of trails used by the Native American people on each side of the Bitterroot Mountain Range, beginning long before the arrival of Lewis and Clark. It remains a primary route for travel across the Bitterroot Mountains. The Lolo Trail is not only part of the historic Lewis and Clark Trail, but is a section of the Nez Perce Trail. That historic trail was used by Chief Joseph and his tribe in 1877, during their aborted attempt to reach the safety of Canada.

The prairie land on the west side of the Bitterroot Mountains remains home to many of the Nez Perce, who call themselves the Nimiipuu, and is part of the Nez Perce Indian Reservation. The town of Lewiston began in 1861 when gold was discovered in the region. Lewiston, located at the confluence of the Clearwater and Snake Rivers, is now a center of agriculture as well as a popular water recreation destination.

Lolo Pass Visitor Center

While Lolo Pass is located in Montana, the Lolo Pass Visitor Center is a half mile away, just across the Idaho border. During your stop you can check out exhibits on Lewis and Clark and other local history, an interpretive trail, and a gift and book shop.

Lolo Motorway

The Lolo Motorway is a rough, single-lane road constructed with Civilian Conservation Corps assistance during the 1930s. The route follows Forest Road 500 from Powell Junction to Canyon Junction. Along the way you'll enjoy magnificent mountain scenery including wildflower-filled meadows, river and lake views, and jagged peaks. You'll find places to stop and enjoy a hike. What you won't find are restrooms, gas stations, or any other services, so be sure to come prepared.

Northwest Passage Scenic Byway

The stretch of US Highway 12 that passes through Idaho has been designated the Northwest Passage Scenic Byway. This gorgeous drive offers many attractions and activities along the way. You can access some of the Lewis and Clark sites mentioned in this article, as well as sites related to the Nez Perce Trail and pioneer era history. The Clearwater River provides for awesome river recreation, including whitewater rafting and kayaking. Hiking, camping, and winter sports are popular activities in Clearwater National Forest.

Weippe Discovery Center

The town of Weippe is located near the Nez Perce camp where Lewis and Clark and their respective groups reunited after their mountain ordeal. The Weippe Discovery Center is a community facility, housing the public library and meeting space, as well as providing interpretive exhibits regarding the Lewis and Clark Expedition's activity in the area. That story can be seen in murals that wrap around the Discovery Center's exterior. Outside you'll find an interpretive trail that focuses on the plants mentioned in the Corps' journals. Other exhibits at the Weippe Discovery Center cover the Nez Perce people and local wildlife.

Nez Perce National Historical Park Visitor Center

This Spalding, Idaho, facility is the official visitor center for the Nez Perce National Historical Park. This historic preserve, part of the US National Park system, has many units, with sites in Washington, Oregon, Idaho, and Montana. Inside the Visitor Center you'll find a variety of informative exhibits and artifacts, a book store, a theatre, and helpful park rangers. While somewhat dated, the 23-minute film  Nez Perce - Portrait of a People  provides a great overview of the Nez Perce people, including their encounter with the Corps of Discovery. The grounds at the Spalding unit of the Nez Perce National Historical Park are extensive and include a network of interpretive trails that take you to the historic Spalding Townsite, along Lapwai Creek and the Clearwater River, and to a lovely picnic and day-use area.

Orofino Sites

The  Clearwater Historical Museum  is home to artifacts and exhibits covering the full range of local history, from the Nez Perce and the Lewis and Clark Expedition to gold mining and the homestead era.

Canoe Camp is the site along the Clearwater River where the Corps of Discovery spent several days building dugout canoes. These canoes allowed them to return to river travel, ultimately taking them to the Pacific Ocean. The actual site of the Canoe Camp can be visited at US Highway 12 at Milepost 40, where you'll find an interpretive trail. The Canoe Camp site is an official unit of the Nez Perce National Historical Park.

Lewiston Sites

Located within Hells Gate State Park on the Snake River, the Lewis and Clark Discovery Center offers indoor and outdoor interpretive exhibits as well as an interesting film about Lewis and Clark in Idaho.

The  Nez Perce County Historical Museum covers the history of Nez Perce County, including the Nez Perce people and their relations with Lewis and Clark.

Other Attractions in Idaho

These attractions focus on events and places that were part of the Expedition's scouting activity in Idaho. They are not located along the Lewis and Clark Trail.

Located northwest of Lemhi Pass, the town of Salmon is approximately 30 miles from the area where Lewis scouted ahead of the main party, searching for the Shoshone. The Sacagawea Center in Salmon focuses on Sacagawea, the Shoshone people, and their relationship with the Corps of Discovery. This interpretive center provides a variety of outdoor learning experiences as well as trails, indoor exhibits, and a gift store.

Winchester is located 36 miles southeast of Lewiston along US Highway 95. The Museum of Winchester History offers an exhibit called "Ordway's Search for Salmon," which tells the story of Sergeant Ordway's food procurement side trip during their 1806 return journey.

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• Luxury Riverboats Are Giving Superyacht Charters a Run for Your Money

Once the ugly-duckling cousin to oceangoing superyachts, many riverboats now offer similar levels of luxury, comfort, and service. They can also access historic cities or remote deltas where no superyacht can venture.

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With the rise of expedition yachting in remote destinations such as Antarctica , Greenland, and Indonesia’s Raja Ampat, there’s a general belief that all corners of the globe are now accessible by private yacht charter.

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“River cruising is the beneficiary of a larger travel trend in which luxury travelers are looking to do nothing,” Daniel Levine, director of New York consultancy Avant-Guide Institute , tells Robb Report . “By that, I mean they can visit multiple ports and soak up plenty of culture and history, all without changing hotels.”

This new fleet of river cruisers can access inland cities and remote stretches of countryside that are inaccessible to large oceangoing vessels. Plus, Levine says, there’s an added advantage to river travel: no seasickness.

One leader of the new set of purpose-built riverboats is Aqua Expeditions , the luxury river cruise operator whose first vessel, Aria Amazon , set sail on the Peruvian Amazon in 2011. Over a decade later, the fleet has grown to three river ships, none with more than 20 suites, cruising both the Amazon and the Mekong River in Vietnam and Cambodia, along with two oceangoing yachts in the Galapagos and Eastern Indonesia. 

“On my river ships, 30 percent of departures are now private buyouts, similar to traditional charters,” says founder Francesco Galli Zugaro. These clients, mainly multigenerational family groups or large gatherings of friends, are people who tend to vacation on yachts rather than the typical cruise ship crowd. Most of them have come to the riverboats, says Galli Zugaro, after chartering one of Aqua Expeditions’ two yachts.

The desire for off-the-beaten-track travel is fueling this new interest in riverboat charters, says Frédéric Crétin, a Monaco-based charter broker at superyacht brokerage Camper & Nicholsons . “We’ve had a surge in enquiries for the Peruvian Amazon, especially with Americans since it’s not too far from home,” says Crétin, who manages whole-boat bookings for the Aqua Expeditions fleet.

Heritage Line operates five traditionally styled ships along the upper and lower Mekong River and in Vietnam’s Halong Bay and Lan Ha Bay. “Our vessels, particularly our small-ship sailing charters on Halong Bay and Lan Ha Bay, have seen an increase in private stays,” says CEO John Tue Nguyen. “We now average 12 to 15 charters annually, including families, multi-generational bookings and VIP travelers.”

In Egypt, a gap in the market to showcase the country’s temples in a private, exclusive way, was behind the launch of the Nile River’s first luxury charter yacht in 2022, Berge . “Our clients are mostly royal families, politicians, celebrities, and athletes,” says Armen Kazazian of Kazazian Cruises , the yacht’s owner. “They don’t want to share the Egypt experience with hundreds of other people.”

The 180-foot, nine-cabin vessel has recently been joined by a sistership, the 196-foot, nine-cabin Arax . True to superyacht protocol, charters are secured with an official MYBA The Worldwide Yachting Association contract, and in the lead-up to the charter, a preference form is sent out to gather information on dietary preferences and daily routines to ensure everything is ready for your arrival. 

The differences also include having no water toys as one would on a conventional yacht charter. “But we overcome that with the destination and experiences, such as candlelit dinners on private islands,” says Kazazian. Maybe. But being restricted to a single route on a river is also fundamentally different than port-hopping along the Med or Caribbean.

Inland cruising has multiple benefits, insists Matthew Shollar of Transcend Cruises , Europe’s first charter-only, river-cruise company. “You’re not just in coastal locations and you can take your whole group off the boat to a spa, or go biking, or shopping,” Shollar says. “And a riverboat always docks close to your destination.”

In September 2025, the company’s first ship, the 443-foot Transcend , will launch, with a second identical vessel following in early 2026. Penned by Tillberg Design of Sweden, both are built to European riverboat specs but draw inspiration from superyachts for style and amenities, including a 2,600-square-foot indoor/outdoor fitness area that includes a gym, spa, and guest wellness facility. 

“The single most expensive piece of equipment on board is a hot tip from superyachts, a 144-inch C Seed unfolding television,” continues Shollar. “It’s a worthwhile investment for guests to enjoy everything from silent discos to movie nights on the sun deck.”

The company soft-launched Transcend Advance this summer to better examine the private market’s potential. It took over a five-star vessel from Riverside Luxury Cruises. One client, celebrating his 60th birthday party, had never considered a riverboat charter, but was lured by being able to host many more guests. “We designed a six-day itinerary that was flexible and unique,” says Kimberly Daley, Transcend’s chief revenue officer. “It enabled him and his friends to see chartering in a whole new way.”

Transcend will sail “the highest-demand European waterways,” including the Rhine, Danube, and Moselle, offering waterside access to historic cities like Trier, Budapest, and Belgrade.

But a second collection of smaller luxury barges is carrying charter to canals and smaller waterways. Both Belmond’s 128-foot Coquelicot and European Waterways’ Kir Royale launched in France’s Champagne region this year, with a max capacity of six and eight guests, respectively, and the possibility of whole-boat bookings. This combination of space, intimacy, pastoral views and access to exceptional vineyards can’t be replicated on oceangoing yachts.

While luxury riverboats are still a small niche compared to the larger world of superyacht charters, they offer another kind of cruising experience, one that combines slow-moving water with a relaxed lifestyle in some of the most scenic destinations on the planet.

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