Frequently Asked Questions

What can we expect from the weather?
Temperatures of course vary by season, and whether you are east or west of the Cascade mountain range. In the Spring and Fall, expect moderate temperatures in both areas that range from 50’s at night to 70’s during the day. Showers are also possible. In the summer, expect temperatures that range from the 80’s-90’s. For Winter, temperatures range from the 40’s-50’s.

How much baggage can I bring?
Baggage should conform to airline standards. We recommend no more than two pieces of luggage per person. Storage is available underneath beds and on luggage racks.

What should I pack?
Dress is casual. Pack layers to be prepared for ranges in temperatures. Comfortable shoes are recommended. For the Captain’s Reception and the Farewell Dinner, most guests choose attire that is a little more dressy- sport coats for men and cocktail dresses or pant suits for ladies.

Are Shore Excursions included? Do I have to participate in all shore excursions?
Yes, creative and interesting shore tours are included every day of the cruise. If guests do not want to participate in a particular shore excursion, they are welcome to stay onboard the vessel, or visit the port call for that day on their own (subject to docking itineraries).

What else is included?
Our cruise vacation includes one pre-night hotel stay in downtown Portland; porterage, hotel taxes, evening reception and breakfast at the hotel; all meals (including house wine with dinner), shore excursions, and entertainment onboard; Naturalist and Historian talks; and transfers if airline tickets were purchased through GARJ.

What is NOT included?
Port charges, air transportation, crew gratuities, alcoholic beverages, and items of a personal nature.

How are Gratuities handled?
Gratuities are not included in the fare and are at the discretion of the passenger to show their appreciation for service at the end of the cruise. As a service to passengers, Tipping Guidelines will be distributed onboard prior to the last night of the cruise. Tips are generally awarded in cash and given directly to the individual staff member. Travelers and personal checks can be cashed at the Purser’s Office.

Can I request a special meal?
All meals include both vegetarian and heart-healthy selections. Additionally, we will make every effort to accommodate special dietary requirements, however those requests must be made upon booking.

Is smoking allowed?
Smoking is not allowed inside the vessel or in staterooms at any time. Ashtrays are provided on outside decks for those wishing to smoke. Guest who smoke may be more comfortable with an outside stateroom with access to the deck.

What conveniences will I find in my stateroom?
In addition to Northwest style décor and storage space for clothing and personal items, each stateroom features a TV/DVD player, ship-to-shore telephone, individually controlled heat and air, a writing desk, an iron and ironing board, hairdryer, luggage rack, ice bucket, soap, shampoo and lotion.

What about time and electricity?
The entire cruise route falls within the Pacific Standard time zone. Outlets are included in each stateroom and sockets are standard 110 volts.

Will I have access to Internet and cell coverage?
Cellular coverage varies by provider, but most areas of the river receive signals. The Purser’s Lobby features email terminals for guest use.

Can I make other calls from the ship?
Every stateroom includes a ship-to-shore telephone. Instructions for use are provided onboard.

How will I pay for items onboard?
At the hotel guests will check in and be asked to provide a major credit card and to sign a charge slip. This way, guests will need only to sign for any purchases, and a detailed statement will be delivered to each stateroom at the end of the Cruise for review.

Do you have a doctor onboard?
Because of the intimate size of the vessel, we do not have a doctor or medical facilities onboard. However, we are usually close to medical care and are able to pull to shore in an emergency. Passengers with serious medical issues should consult their physician to ascertain whether travel is appropriate.

How are dining arrangements made?
For breakfast and lunch, guests will not be assigned seating in the dining room. For dinner, dining room seat assignments and times will be printed on each boarding pass, which guests will receive at check-in. To request a change of seating, guests should see the maitre d’ on the day of embarkation.

What about transfers?
If guests purchase airline tickets through GARJ, transfers are provided to the hotel or the vessel round-trip. Otherwise, when arriving, guests need to make their own transportation arrangements to the hotel or the vessel. Complimentary transfers to the airport only are provided at the end of the cruise.

What if my flight is delayed?
In the final documents, guests will find an emergency contact number, which may be used in the event of a flight delay or other problems reaching the vessel on the day of embarkation. Any expenses incurred due to flight rescheduling, hotel accommodations or transportation to the next port will be the guests’ responsibility.