Journey through the Columbia Gorge with Lockage Tours and Captain Tom, experiencing the region's stunning waterfalls, cliffs, and historic dams from the water. A perfect way to see the Pacific Northwest's natural and engineering marvels.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
2–3 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels, no strenuous activity involved.
Wildlife
History
The Bonneville Dam, completed in 1937, was a major infrastructure project that transformed the Columbia River into a key resource for hydroelectricity and navigation.
Conservation
The tour promotes awareness of river conservation and sustainable tourism, encouraging visitors to leave minimal impact and respect the natural habitats.
Columbia Gorge Sternwheeler
Journey through the Columbia Gorge with Lockage Tours and Captain Tom, experiencing the region's stunning waterfalls, cliffs, and historic dams from the water. A perfect way to see the Pacific Northwest's natural and engineering marvels.
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.
Book in advance
Secure your spot early, especially during peak season, to ensure availability.
Bring layers
Weather can change quickly on the water, so dress in layers to stay comfortable.
Use sunscreen
Even on cloudy days, UV rays can be strong when you're on the water. Protect your skin.
Bring a camera
Capture the stunning scenery and memorable moments along the cruise.
Layers of clothing
Dress in layers to adapt to changing weather conditions on the water.
spring|summer|fall|winter
Sunscreen
Protect your skin from UV rays during outdoor viewing.
spring|summer|fall|winter
Camera or smartphone
Capture the scenic views and memories from your cruise.
Binoculars
Enhance wildlife spotting along the riverbanks.