Columbia River Sailing

Here's a little information about the Columbia River boating area. Some information contained here is from my experience and much more is from other folks. I've not cruised the full navigable length of the river myself though I'd like to. You'll notice that I've mentioned places where someone liked the food or the service or they actually had what was needed. A good job may be its own reward but I like to give credit where credit is due. If you have any additional information or differing opinions I'd be HAPPY to receive it, send me some email at chaos5@viclink.com. I'll do my best to work your information into this page as expeditiously as I can. Thanks for cruising by and remember to check current publications and local advice BEFORE you set out.

REMEMBER: The Oregon Boater Education Card is mandatory for Oregon Boaters with cards required to be carried by younger boaters beginning in 2003. There are changes in the boating rules for Oregon. Check the link for all the answers. Get your card now and avoid the rush.

BOATING REGISTRATION CHANGE IN OREGON: Registration rules have changed for boats moored in the water but not showing current registration. Boats must now be currently registered if they are IN THE WATER. This means no more letting the registration slide if you aren't taking the boat out. The rule on this was clarified as of 8 OCT 02.

What you can find here

• So where the heck is the Columbia River? (some maps)
• References that will help you when you boat the Columbia
• Weather Underground (Weather in Astoria and around the country)
• Towns and other Places on the River along with my (or someone else's) opinions of them.
• Local knowledge - tips and hints.
• Info about the Local Racing scene.
• A list of Boating Links being updated as I go.
• Some boating and other poetry at Paul's Poetry Corner.

Pages about the area

U.S. Coast Guard Marine Safety Office/Group, Portland Oregon

This includes Oregon, Southern Washington and Western Idaho. Information and reporting on Oil Spills, Marine Emergencies, Safety Bulletins, Maritime Law Enforcement and much more.

Oregon State Marine Board

Where you can find all you need to know or do to obtain your new Boater Education Card which is becoming mandatory for Oregon Boaters.

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers

North Pacific Division, Portland District runs the Columbia River's dams. Their pages have information on all the dams and transiting the locks. Additional information about river activity is available at Bonneville Lock and Dam which has current info on navigation restrictions on both the Columbia and Willamette rivers as well as the Bonneville Dam.

Vancouver Lake Sailing Club

Small boat sailing in Vancouver, Washington

Cruising the Columbia River - Cascade Locks to the Dalles by N. Mark Wiltz.

He discusses Wind, Current, Navigation, and Anchoring in the Columbia River Gorge area and east to the Dalles.

A Pictorial of the Bridges of Portland, Oregon and excellent information about them.

Capt. Brent O. Forsberg of Northwest Yacht Deliveries

This has some good piloting and navigation information

Port of Ilwaco Web Page The town of Ilwaco, Washington is behind Cape Disappointment very near the mouth of the

Columbia River. This site includes web cams of Ilwaco and the Columbia River Bar.

 

 

 

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Last Updated on Nov 5, 2002