Explore the Pacific Northwest on American Empress’ Adventurous Shore Excursions
Luxury riverboat operator American Queen Steamboat Company announces its lineup of outdoor adventure experiences for passengers on the American Empress. From ziplining, jet boating, hiking and more, thrill seekers are sure to discover an abundance of adventure in exciting ports of call during their journeys this summer.
As the largest, most elegant riverboat in the Pacific Northwest, the American Empress transports guests along the Columbia and Snake Rivers, providing an intimate way to explore the region’s spectacular climates and scenery. Featuring six-, seven- and nine-day voyages between Vancouver, WA and Clarkston, WA, ports of call include: Astoria, WA; Stevenson, WA; The Dalles, OR; and Richland, WA.
Please see below for a selection of 2019 adventure excursions on board the American Empress:
Zip Lining Adventure
Under the guidance of Highlife Adventures, a best-in-class zip lining experience, guests are invited to explore the lush forests and mountains of Oregon from the best vantage point – soaring above the treescape. This family-friendly activity features a course with eight total lines. All ages and skill levels are welcome and extreme adrenaline junkies can zip over lakes and even choose to drop into the water as they fly by.
Duration: 4 hours / Cost: $139 per person / Port: Astoria, OR
The Ultimate Pacific Northwest Experience
This full-day adventure immerses guests in the natural power and beauty of America’s Northwest. Beginning with a trip to Oregon’s tallest waterfall, Multnomah Falls,* guests can take in the water’s rush as it plummets over 600-feet to meet the Columbia River. After, guests will head to the Bonneville Lock and Dam for a tour before journeying through fertile valleys that wrap around the rocky peaks of Mt. Hood on the “Fruit Loop,” a 35-mile scenic route filled with local orchards, vineyards and fruit stands. Following an all-American local lunch in Parkdale Grange, the day will conclude at the Timberline Lodge where guests will receive a tour of the historic hotel.
Duration: 8 hours, 30 minutes / Cost: $149 per person / Port: Stevenson, WA
*Guests looking for a shorter excursion, can select to explore only the Multnomah Falls and Vista House, including the Old Scenic Highway, which is a three-hour, 30-minute experience for $69 per person.
Catch of the Day: Fishing on the Columbia River
Led by a professional fishing guide, the Catch of the Day excursion invites guests to climb aboard a specialized fishing boat and enjoy the scenic views surrounding the Columbia River on this up-close fishing experience. Focusing on freshwater fish native to the Northern United States, guests will have the chance to catch wild Salmon. If a qualified fish is caught, the guide will skillfully filet each one. After which, guests are welcome to bring their catch back to the American Empress, where the boat’s Executive Chef will expertly prepare it as their evening entrée. The ticket price includes an Oregon Fishing License, as well as all other necessary fishing equipment.
Duration: 5 hours / Cost: $249 / Port: The Dalles, OR
Vintage America with Optional Private Plane Ride Enhancement
The perfect experience for thrill-seeking aviation lovers, Vintage America features the Western Antique Aeroplane and Automobile Museum with an added twist – a private ride in a Cessna aircraft over Mt. Hood. The 45-minute private ride is guided by a fully qualified pilot and includes up close views of Mt. Hood, glimpses of Mt. Adams, Mt. Rainer and on a clear day, a peak at Mount St. Helens. This tour is operated with a two-passenger minimum and a three-person, per plane maximum.
Duration: 3 hours, 30 minutes / Cost: $299 / Port: The Dalles, OR
Hells Canyon Scenic Jet Boat Experience
Exclusive to the American Empress, the Hells Canyon Experience offers an unparalleled look at North America’s deepest gorge. Using U.S. Coast Guard approved jet boats, guests will be transported along the Snake River on an exhilarating ride into Hells Canyon. Snake River’s coastline is a sight to behold with breathtaking surrounding mountains featuring bighorn sheep, deer and other native wildlife. Each boat’s knowledgeable captain will share a detailed history and geology of this natural wonder of the world. As an extra bonus, guests will enjoy a stop at the Idaho Garden Creek Preserve, owned by the Nature Conservancy in Hells Canyon. Once a working cattle ranch, the Idaho Garden Creek Preserve is now a facility that welcomes visitors to explore and enjoy this section of the river.
Duration: 4 hours, 45 minutes / Cost: $149 per person / Port: Clarkston, WA
Adventure Pass
Adrenaline seekers looking to upgrade can choose to bundle their excursions with the American Empress Adventure Pass, which includes: Zip Lining Adventure, Vintage America with Optional Private Plane Ride Enhancement and the Hells Canyon Scenic Jet Boat Experience.
Duration: N/A Cost: $575 per person /Ports: Astoria, OR; The Dalles, OR; Clarkston, WA
American Queen Steamboat Company offers the most inclusive river cruise experiences in North America. Fares begin at $1,199 per person. All sailings include a one-night, pre-voyage hotel stay, hop-on hop-off shore excursions in all ports, wine and beer with dinner and a host of other amenities.
(American Queen Steamboat Company)
