Media Contact: Olga Kaganova – 541.374.8619

The Sternwheeler Columbia Gorge has completed its 2022 Holiday Excursion Schedule in Portland and returned to its home in Cascade Locks where it will winter for the next two months.

In March, the vessel will move to Vancouver for its scheduled dry docking to complete its U.S. Coast Guard Hull and Paddle Wheel Inspection. While there, new port and starboard grid coolers, piping, grounding guards, and transducer will be installed. The vessel will be painted from the waterline to the deck edge. The Port also is considering the addition of bow thrusters to improve mobility when docking the vessel.

The Port’s procurement of new engines – paid for with American Rescue Plan Act funds directed to the project thanks to Hood River’s State Senator Chuck Thompsen – has been completed. Scheduling for the port-funded repower project is underway.

As it has since 1983, the Port maintains its commitment to keep the sternwheeler operating in Cascade Locks and supporting its mission of drawing tourism, preserving local history, creating jobs, and enhancing the region’s economic development.