Embark on one of our luxury wine cruises, a unique blend of relaxation, exploration, and immersive wine experiences. American Queen Voyages offers some of the most enriching wine river cruises in the USA, providing wine enthusiasts and casual sippers alike an opportunity to explore the vine-clad valleys of North America, one sip at a time.
River wine cruises make for excellent getaway options for wine-loving couples. Besides, what seems more romantic than sipping on some vino while watching the sunset over the river with the person you love most?
What time of year should you take a River Cruise? Well, the most popular season is during the summer months when visitors can enjoy warm weather, longer days, and breathtaking skies. That’s not to say of course that the other seasons should be overlooked. Taking a river cruise during the spring will marvel at the onset of wildflowers from late April through June. If you’re looking for a less crowded option, do not underestimate the beauty of fall-the crowds are gone and the rain hasn’t started yet. The fall foliage is perhaps one of the most stunning around! There is no bad time to take a river cruise, even in winter, although cold-the spectacular views and waterfalls will amaze you.
In case you might need a little more convincing, this post will dive into five reasons (just to name a few), you and your partner should consider embarking on a river wine cruise for your next romantic vacation.
Where Can I Find a River Wine Cruise?
Before we review the reasons why you should take a river wine cruise, let’s discuss where to find the perfect one.
American Queen Voyages offers some of the best wine cruises in North America, providing guests with all-inclusive overnight accommodations and various luxe amenities. Travelers depart from Portland or Spokane, exploring the Columbia River, Snake River, and Washington state’s wine country aboard the beautiful American Empress.
We also gift you with a complimentary bottle of vino upon arrival for those with our commodore services. In addition, many of our port destinations have wineries and vineyard tours nearby, such as Maryhill Winery’s waterfront tasting room in Vancouver, Washington. When you visit Maryhill Winery, you can take in the magnificent and highly anticipated redeveloped waterfront district. There are 7.3 acres for wine enthusiasts to soak in and discover.
Reasons Why You & Your Partner Should Go on a River Wine Cruise with American Queen Voyages
1. Our River Wine Cruise Features All-Inclusive Accommodations
One of the most practical reasons to embark on a river wine cruise with American Queen Voyages is to take advantage of all-inclusive accommodations. This means that all meals are included whether it be in-room dining or in the on-board dining area, -acclaimed cuisine will please your palate. All alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages are included at the open bars or lounges, and hotel-to-vessel ground transfers, lively daily entertainment, expertly guided tours, and a one-night pre-cruise overnight hotel accommodation are covered in your initial rate. Exquisite amenities and luxurious spacious staterooms await you to make you feel at home. Furthermore, you can choose to go on other specialty excursions like the Red Mountain Vine To Wine Experience at an additional cost.
Red Mountain: A Vine-to-Wine Experience:
In the neighborhood of the Columbia, Snake, and Yakima Rivers rests the Red Mountain American Viticultural Area (AVA). This small region began its journey to a premier grape-growing site in the 1970s, when two engineers from the Hanford Site hung up their hard hats and invested in Red Mountain real estate where they found the perfect place for a vineyard venture.
From the very beginning, the vineyards of Red Mountain were based on a close-knit community of friends and family. Sip on the robust and vibrant wine selections of Kiona Vineyards, as you soak in the stunning scenery surrounding the vineyard. This family-owned vineyard and winery has been a Williams family operation for three generations. To the family, wine-making isn’t simply a career, but a way of life. Kiona is estate-run, meaning the grapes they grow in their vineyard are used in their own wines. However, using its expertise, Kiona can supply and advise many other regional wineries. At the vineyard, you will learn that the Williamses are truly passionate about farming, family, and creating great wine.
Terra Blanca Winery & Estate Vineyard:
Meander through the enchanting wisteria walkway to meet your expert ambassador who will guide you through Terra Blanca’s winemaking process. Soak in the awe-inspiring views of Red Mountain and enjoy a short walk into the vines to discover the intricacies of growing each Terra Blanca grape. During this behind-the-scenes experience, you will have the rare opportunity to explore the estate’s underground cave system where the wines are fermented to gain a full appreciation for how wine is produced. With your newfound knowledge of Terra Blanca’s production, savor a tasting curated by owners Keith and ReNae Pilgrim that will flaunt the flavors of Terra Blanca and Red Mountain.
2. You Can Learn More About Different Wines
Undoubtedly the best reason to embark on a river wine cruise is to learn more about vino. We visit The Dalles and Clarkston wine regions throughout our voyage, both known for having an ideal temperate climate to produce some of the highest quality Reds and Rieslings in the nation.
Clarkston’s Lewis-Clark Valley Wine Region, nestled in the Bitterroot Mountains, is home to sixteen vineyards growing red and white grape varieties. We always recommend that our guests check out the award-winning Basalt Cellars and Parejas Cellars in Downtown Clarkston.
The Dalles, a city in Oregon, right off the Columbia River, is known for its natural beauty and blossoming wine region. We suggest visiting the Jacob Williams Winery, which offers breathtaking views of the Columbia River Gorge, and the Sunshine Mill, a 130-year-old former snack factory turned winery hosting daily tastings and weekend drive-in movie nights.
3. You Can Learn About Wine and Food Pairings
One must be careful when drinking wine, that they are eating plenty of food! American Queen Voyages takes culinary and wine cruises to the next level, offering in-room dining, an onboard dining room, and the opportunity to enjoy off-site meals at acclaimed restaurants when ported. As we mentioned earlier, the cost of these onboard meals is already covered by your all-inclusive river wine cruise rate.
4. You Have Plenty of Time for Sight Seeing In Between Wine Tastings
When you are not indulging in food and vino, you and your partner can spend your free time exploring the boat or noteworthy sights when docked at different ports. American Queen Voyages works hard to plan exciting itineraries for all our cruises, special themed voyages like wine cruises.
5. You May Relax and Unwind
Lastly, the best part about taking an American Queen Voyage river cruise is that you can rest, relax, and rejuvenate before heading back to dry land. Plus, relaxation is much easier to achieve paired with your partner, great wine, even better food, and spectacular river views.
Cruise Details
Onboard Wine Selection
Our wine cruises are a celebration of fine wines. We offer a wide variety of wines onboard, from robust reds to crisp whites, curated from the vineyards we visit along our journey. Whether you are a seasoned connoisseur or a wine newbie, you’ll find something to tantalize your taste buds.
Dining and Wine Pairings
Dine in style with our specially curated menu designed to complement the wines we serve. Our onboard dining experience takes culinary and wine cruises to the next level, offering in-room dining and an onboard dining room. Enjoy off-site meals at acclaimed restaurants when ported, all meticulously paired with wines to enhance your dining experience.
Amenities and Entertainment
Your comfort is our priority. Luxuriate in our spacious staterooms and enjoy a plethora of amenities, including hotel-to-vessel ground transfers, lively daily entertainment, and guided tours. Unwind at our open bars or lounges, where all alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages are included in your all-inclusive river wine cruise rate.
How Do I Book a River Wine Cruise?
If you are itching to embark on a wine cruise after reading this post, we are happy to share that you can reserve your stateroom on our website. All-inclusive rates for our river wine cruise begin at $4,119 per traveler. Feel free to contact us directly if you come across any questions or concerns when completing your booking.
(Original Publish Date: September 13, 2022)
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