Wilderness Legacy

Wilderness Legacy is a small paddlewheel steamship operated by UnCruise Adventures, carrying around 92 guests. Originally built as The Spirit of 98 for the now defunct Cruise West, she was acquired and completely refurbished by UnCruise in 2013, earning the name Safari Legacy before later becoming Wilderness Legacy. She cruises roundtrip from Portland, Oregon, on the Columbia and Snake rivers in the Pacific Northwest.

The ship was thoughtfully reimagined as a turn-of-the-century coastal steamer, with wooden cabinetry and design details honouring the region's Gold Rush heritage. Crew members dress in period costume, and guests are encouraged to do the same, adding a playful historical flavour to the voyage. Original architectural touches from her earlier days were preserved, including the layout of the Klondike Dining Room and the western decor of the Pesky Barnacle Saloon.

The Klondike Dining Room sits at the heart of the ship, a spacious venue with broad windows and the atmosphere of a vintage hotel from the early 1900s. A grand salon with a dance floor and full bar creates a social hub for guests in the evenings, while the Pesky Barnacle Saloon wraps around the bow with viewing balconies, serving cocktails with period touches throughout. An intimate library and wine bar add further character, alongside a lounge deck offering fine wines and premium spirits, and a large open bow gives prime viewing for wildlife.

All 44 staterooms face outward with ocean views, spread across four passenger accessible decks. The ship also features a spa with sauna, massage services, and yoga classes, while a sun deck offers a covered seating area, fitness equipment, and two large hot tubs for relaxation between shore excursions. The itinerary is carefully timed to the history of the rivers and the ports along the route, making each stop feel connected to the wider story of the Columbia and Snake.

Wilderness Legacy appeals to mature travellers with an adventurous streak who want to explore the Pacific Northwest at a leisurely pace while staying aboard a vessel with strong historical character.

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