We wanted to see the river and escape our Las Vegas heat. Except for a couple of hot days in the east, mission accomplished. We learned there were terrible forest fires to our south, but we never saw the smoke. The Oregon scenery, seen from the Snake and Columbia Rivers, is spectacular. Passage through locks included. A river cruise is the way to do it, although ACL is still getting its act together, following time off for the pandemic.

Before the cruise, we complied with the Covid tests, vaccine verification, health questionnaire, and masking when required. I will spare you the details because it will change.

The ship was clean and felt new. Cabins are big, much bigger than standard ocean cruise verandas. Consider that when comparing prices. Balcony was big enough for a room service breakfast (More on this topic later) Wifi was weak, TV reception (DirectTV) was strong. The passengers, 140 of us, were experienced and old. The wait staff and housekeeping staff were inexperienced and young. Some were hired along the way. Happy kids in well fitting khakis and polo shirts. We learned there would be a new cruise director on the next voyage. Read more