American West Steamboat offers unique cruises that combine the intimate access, casual ambiance and friendly camaraderie of a small ship with the live entertainment, spacious accommodations and fine dining found on larger ships. Our sternwheelers are not floating cities, but more like a floating family – specifically built for safely cruising Alaska’s Inside Passage or Columbia and Snake Rivers. Plus, an expert onboard historian/naturalist and in-depth shore excursions are included to enhance your understanding of the wildlife, history and cultures of the Northwest. We make your journey as memorable as the destination.