Columbia and Snake Rivers by Cruise

You will be met this afternoon and transferred to the yacht. Upon boarding the vessel, your Captain and crew will greet you with smiles and appetizers as you begin your journey. Relax on deck, enjoy the sunset, and round out the day as you slip into the top-deck hot tub before turning in.

Join your expedition leader on deck this morning as you enter the striking Columbia River Gorge. This spectacular canyon cuts the only sea-level route through the Cascade Mountain Range and is a designated National Scenic Area. You’ll leave the yacht for a private tour of the impressive Bonneville Dam, the first dam on the Columbia River as you head east. View the massive turbines that produce enormous amounts of hydropower and step outside to view the fish ladder. Later, explore the town of Hood River—windsurfing capital of the world—and browse the boutique shops. You’ll stay dockside in Hood River for the night.

Today’s cruise itinerary enters a stretch of wilderness which is home to northern harriers, cliff swallows, osprey, mule deer, and coyotes. After transiting the Dalles Lock and Dam, you’ll drop anchor to visit the Maryhill Museum and Maryhill Winery. The museum's collections are housed in a castle-like chateau situated on a bluff overlooking the Columbia River Gorge. The museum offers an eclectic collection of Native arts, European paintings, and the Queen of Romania's personal effects. The winery visit includes a tasting from a special tasting list. Back onboard, make your way through the John Day Lock and Dam. Learn more about the different appellations along the Columbia River during a Sommelier-hosted wine tasting. And later, take the opportunity to relax in the hot tub or sauna.

The next two days will focus primarily on winery tours and tastings. Enjoy breakfast on board before traveling to Hedges Family Estate Winery. The family estate’s Chateau is known for their Cabernet Sauvignon. Enjoy an exclusive tasting in the estate’s private family library. Later, explore the adjacent vineyard and European-styled courtyard garden. At the conclusion of the tour, travel a short distance to Terra Blanca Winery and Estate Vineyard. Join the winemaker for an exclusive tour before enjoying a romantic luncheon in the caves of this bold Tuscany-style winery. Upon exiting the winery’s caves, stroll the cobbled walkways to explore the meticulously landscaped grounds and reflecting lake. Later this afternoon, rejoin the yacht for sunset cruising along the Columbia River. End this day of remarkable wines with a quiet dinner and relaxing in the yacht’s cozy salon.

Travel by executive coach to the Walla Walla appellation. Tour family-owned Dunham Cellars, an unusual winery located in a rustic, remodeled World War II era airplane hangar. Join your winemaker on a private tour and tasting of prized reserve wines, such as their exceptional Cabernet Sauvignon and consistently award-winning Syrah. A short distance away is Northstar, a unique destination winery known for their ultra-premium Merlot wines. Learn about their handcrafted limited production award-winning reserve wines during a private tasting and wine production tour. Blend your own complex Merlot creation under the tutelage of world-class winemakers. Return to the yacht and relax on deck as it cruises along the rolling Columbia River. Enjoy the hot tub, read a book, or join the Captain on the bridge to watch the sunset as you cruise into the Snake River portion of your adventure.

Enjoy breakfast onboard the yacht, as you cruise the cliff-lined Snake River. You’ll pass through three of the four Snake River dams: Lower Monumental, Little Goose, and Lower Granite. You’ll be on deck with the expedition leader as you “lock through,” watching the mechanics of these massive structures. Lunch includes a special cooking demonstration. You’ll also anchor in the Palouse River and set off by kayak and skiff for a look at a magnificent canyon formed by Ice Age floods.

Enjoy a morning hike after breakfast before getting underway. After docking at the Port of Clarkston, join your Jet Boat Captain for an invigorating excursion into Hells Canyon. Protected as a National Recreation Area since 1975, Hells Canyon preserves a world of fascinating natural and cultural elements. Lunch is included in the excursion, and this afternoon you’ll reboard the yacht where a festive farewell dinner and wine event awaits.

Your crew serves you one final delicious breakfast this morning before bidding you "adieu". At 9:00 am, you'll disembark the yacht and receive a transfer in Lewiston.