Autumn Cruise on the Columbia River

Destination: Oregon, Idaho, Washington, United States

"Day 1: Portland to Astoria
Arrive at the Portland airport by 11:00am and meet your tour representative from Fantasy Cruises. Transfer to you home away from home for the next seven nights as you board the Island Spirit. A box lunch is provided enroute to the ship. After checking in, you are off to visit the Maritime Museum. Return to the ship for cocktails and dinner. (B,L,D)

Day 2: Astoria to St. Helen??
This morning explore the seaport community of Astoria. Start with a riverfront trolley ride. Later visit the site of Lewis and Clark’s winter retreat at Ft. Clatsop. Learn about the trials and tribulations of the men and women of the Corps of Discovery during their epic journey to the northwest coast between 1804 and 1806. The Astor Column offers a stunning view of the area. Return to the ship for lunch. Spend the afternoon cruising the Columbia on the way to overnight anchorage at St. Helen’s, OR. (B,L,D)

Day 3: St. Helen?? to Hood River
After breakfast your waiting coach carries you to Mt. St. Helens. Stop at the Visitor’s Center to see a brief film on the devastation caused by the massive volcanic eruption 20 years ago. You can view the slopes of this active volcano and still see damage to parts of the 230 square mile region of lush forests. Later cruise the scenic Columbia Gorge on your way to the town of Hood River. Tonight enjoy entertainment aboard ship. (B,L,D)

Day 4: Hood River to Bonneville Locks
Views of the Hood River start the day. This is the wind surfing capital of America. You will be amazed at the moves these riders can do as they fly across the bow. Then you will visit one of the most spectacular sights in the area at beautiful Multnomah Falls as well as the Columbia Gorge Interpretative Center. Later visit the massive Bonneville Dam and Locks for a tour of the hydroelectric dam. Travel through the lock system and on to your evening anchorage. Don’t forget about "happy hour" cocktails today. (B,L,D)

Day 5: Bonneville Locks to Arlington
This morning cruise to Arlington, OR. Here you will meet your tour guide and coach for a tour of the area. Constant wind makes the area an ideal location for energy production from wind turbines. You will tour a wind farm and get inside a working turbine to learn about the feasibility of alternate energy production. The afternoon is reserved for relaxing aboard the Island Spirit and watching the shoreline slowly slide by. This evening your captain selects an out of the way and protected anchorage to enjoy the sights and sounds of the river. (B,L,D)

Day 6: Arlington to New York Island
Continue along the mighty Columbia today. The Island Spirit makes her way eastward onto the Snake River. The canyons and bluffs along the way offer remarkable views of the rugged terrain. During the day you will transit through three locks. Then cruise to New York Island for a quiet anchorage for the evening. Your crew provides details on the geography and history of the area. (B,L,D)

Day 7: New York Island to Lewiston
Your journey has brought you from the Pacific Ocean to Lewiston, ID. You have traced many of the steps of the famous Lewis and Clark expedition. Now enjoy a modern marvel as you board your jet boat for a thrilling ride on the fast water of Hell’s Canyon. Tonight enjoy sharing stories with friends at the Captain’s farewell dinner. (B,L,D)

Day 8: Lewiston to Spokane
Bid farewell to the crew of the Island Spirit this morning. From here you will take the short ride into Spokane. Along the way you will see Gonzaga University and the childhood home of legendary crooner, Bing Crosby. Lunch is on your own today. Later check into the lovely Davenport Hotel for the night. Time permitting, management provides a tour of the property focusing on the historic events that have occurred here as well as a behind the scenes look at the operations of the Davenport. Afternoon is free to enjoy a stroll on the riverfront. Tonight dinner is included. (B,D) Davenport Hotel

Day 9: Homeward Bound
After breakfast you are transferred to the Spokane airport for return flights home. Your memorable Autumn Cruise on the Columbia concludes at this time. (B)

Itinerary is subject to change at Captain’s discretion and conditions on the river.
"

Contact Info.:
Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada

Phone: 1.902.423.6242
2631 King Street
Halifax, NS B3K 4T7
Canada