We were one of the first 6 to board this ship in Lewiston. Warner kindly let us on a bit earlier as we waited in the lounge area for our rooms to be ready. Warner knew his job and we were disappointed to see him go after day one. He just had a way with him that made you feel special, the lass that took his place was not as confident and we found she just didn't have that personable ability that Warner had. The faux enthusiasm reminded of us of a UK comedy TV program," Hi de hi." Gladys, who had a similar job of gathering the groups to impart information to holiday makers, also spoke through a microphone with similar gusto. The rooms, although smaller than other river cruises in Europe were of a similar standard, as was the food. The Americans on board were all part of the great experience we had on this cruise. We were travelling with friends, a Texan couple, so were weren't strangers to the ways of the locals!!! Having said that, we became of interest to some Americans as we were yet again, the only New Zealanders on board.

As Kiwis we are well travelled and enjoyed very much the history of the Colombia Snake river and excursions. I would like to mention Cindy one of the tour guides and driver of bus 1. What an amazing lady, so entertaining and a wealth of knowledge, and (some made up nonsence which had us in hysterics). She has the gift of the gab as we would say back here at home, and although she is contracted to do this job, don't let go of this lady, such a huge asset to have. It was a ship shape affair with all staff tending to our needs of feeding and cleaning our rooms, they must be exhausted each night, but they just carried on like troopers.

All in all a most successful and interesting look into Pacific North West Area of the USA. We would highly recommend this particular boat cruise to anyone interested in the history and scenery of this area. We finally finished this trip in Portland, refreshed and satisfied with our choice. Will definitely be interested at another cruise at some stage.