Discover the stunning Columbia River on a private boat tour with Columbia Gorge Sternwheeler. This scenic cruise offers a unique perspective of Vancouver, Washington’s natural beauty and rich history—perfect for outdoor adventure seekers.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
1.5–3 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; standing or sitting for extended periods is typical.
Wildlife
History
The Columbia Gorge has been an important transportation route and cultural site for indigenous peoples for thousands of years.
Conservation
Columbia Gorge Sternwheeler actively participates in environmental stewardship, promoting sustainable tourism and wildlife preservation.
Columbia Gorge Sternwheeler
Discover the stunning Columbia River on a private boat tour with Columbia Gorge Sternwheeler. This scenic cruise offers a unique perspective of Vancouver, Washington’s natural beauty and rich history—perfect for outdoor adventure seekers.
Columbia Gorge Sternwheeler operates out of Cascade Locks, Oregon, offering scenic river cruises and related experiences on the Columbia River. The company runs a range of scheduled trips including expedition cruises that loop the gorge, sunset cruises, dinner cruises, brunch cruises, lockage tours through the Bonneville Dam locks, and special event sailings such as Independence Day fireworks cruises. Onboard narration is provided by seasoned captains who share local history, river facts, and natural highlights like Multnomah Falls and Beacon Rock. The Sternwheeler features spacious outdoor decks, a full-service dockside bar for guests 21 and over, and accessible boarding where available. In Cascade Locks Marine Park, the business also provides reliable, fully charged golf cart rentals for exploring the park on one-hour, half-day, or full-day reservations with pickup and drop-off service. Reservations and online booking are recommended because popular cruises and rentals often fill in advance. Safety is maintained through experienced crew, standard vessel inspections, and adherence to local regulations for passenger vessels. The variety of offerings suits families, couples, and groups seeking scenic sightseeing, dining cruises, narrated history tours, or private events. As a locally based operator in the Columbia Gorge National Scenic Area, the Sternwheeler connects visitors with the river’s natural beauty and engineering landmarks while providing hospitality, narration, and convenient booking options.
Certain lockage tours feature Captain Tom sharing locks and dam insights; onboard offerings include snacks, local craft beer and wine, signature cocktails at the Dockside Bar, buffet options for special events, and private charters by request.
Tours Offered
9 experiences
Cruises, lockage tours, rentals, and events
Location
Cascade Locks, OR
On the Columbia River in the Gorge
Group Friendly
Families & Groups
Ideal for celebrations and private charters
Rental Options
1hr–Full Day
Golf cart rentals with pickup/drop-off
Book sunset cruises, lockage tours, dinner sailings, or golf cart rentals now — popular trips fill quickly.
Dress in Layers
Temperatures can vary on the water, so wearing layers will keep you comfortable throughout the cruise.
Bring Binoculars
Enhance your wildlife viewing experience with binoculars, especially for spotting eagles and waterfowl.
Arrive Early
Arriving 15 minutes before departure ensures enough time for boarding and settling in.
Protection From the Sun
Wear hats, sunglasses, and apply sunscreen—especially during summer months when UV exposure is higher.
Layered Clothing
Layered clothing keeps you comfortable as weather conditions change on the water.
spring|summer|fall|winter|null
Binoculars
Useful for wildlife viewing and appreciating distant scenery.
Sun Protection
Hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen shield you from UV rays during sunny days.
summer
Camera
Capture stunning vistas and wildlife encounters along the river.