Media Contact:  Jeremiah Blue – 541.436.2539

Cascade Locks, OR – The Port of Cascade Locks announced today the signing of a contract with American Cruise Lines (ACL) to construct two new docks at the Cascade Locks Marina Park. The new docks provide a new landing for the Sternwheeler Columbia Gorge and serve ACL's growing fleet of cruise ships operating in the Columbia River system.

The multi-million-dollar project will be engineered and built by ACL and will belong to the Port at the end of the 20-year lease. ACL will also make investments in the Marine area to improve access for cruise ship and Sternwheeler passengers and enhance the waterfront experience for visitors and locals alike.

To respect and support the native fishing rights of the Four Treaty Tribes, the Port has been working with ACL since 2021 to develop the new docks and avoid ship landings in the Lock Chamber. Next steps will involve completing design and engineering and seeking a permit from the Army Corp of Engineers.

"The Port is very excited to begin this partnership with ACL. It will bring a high level of tourism and national exposure to Cascade Locks and be a great boost for our local business and economy," said Port President Jess Groves. "I want to thank the Port staff and community advisory committee members who have worked hard for the last two years to make this project a reality."

The contract with ACL will allow the Port to regain control over the Sternwheeler Cafe and Visitors Center building and maximize its benefits for the community. The Port is working to bring a highly regarded full-service restaurant to that location to provide more exciting dining options for Cascade Locks.

In addition, ACL and the Port are engaged in conversations about the operations of the Sternwheeler. The vessel recently completed a required drydocking for scheduled maintenance, and a complete repowering is underway with new, cleaner operating engines. The Port is committed to offering Gorge excursions on its sternwheeler this season.

As it has since 1984, 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.