American Cruise Lines is pleased to announce it has finalized the 2010 schedule on the Columbia River for the newly acquired paddlewheel cruise ship, Queen of the West. Beginning August 7, trips will depart weekly, through October, from Portland, Oregon or Clarkston, Washington.

“We are excited to offer passengers a choice of two itineraries this year,” stated Timothy Beebe, Vice President of American Cruise Lines. “First is the Columbia and Snake River cruise that will travel between Portland and Clarkston, while the other, our Great Western Rivers cruise, will be a round trip from Portland.”

Both itineraries will cruise the Columbia River and the spectacular Columbia River Gorge, traversing a number of locks in the Columbia River Lock & Dam System, with stops including Astoria, the home of Lewis and Clark’s winter camp, Pendleton, famous for its cowboys at the Pendleton Roundup, and Mt. St. Helens. The Columbia and Snake River cruise will continue further east to the dramatic Snake River where passengers will have the opportunity to travel through the deepest canyon in North America where the pristine landscape and abundant wildlife are a true American treasure.

American Cruise Lines also stated convenient transportation to and from airports in both Portland and the Clarkston area will be included in the cruise fare. For those passengers on the Columbia and Snake River cruise, who prefer to return to their originating airport, a complimentary post cruise option will be offered which includes transportation back to the embarkation port, a bonus shore excursion with lunch along the route, and an overnight stay in the embarkation city.

2010 Schedule | 7-Night Cruises