Today was spent exploring the region of the Columbia River Gorge, beginning with shuttles to Oregon’s Cascade Locks. Once everyone was ashore, we boarded buses to take us to our desired locations. Some went hiking at Wahchella Falls, others directly to the Bonneville Fish Hatchery, and then to Multnomah Falls. A delicious lunch awaited us at the Crag Rat Hut, then it was off on a tour of the Fruit Loop Trail, traveling through a variety of orchards, with a stop at The Draper Girls Farm. Due to an incoming storm, we headed back to the ship a little early, and shuttled back to the ship, which had to reposition due to strong winds.
10/23/2024
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National Geographic Sea Lion
Walla Walla
We awoke anchored at the confluence of the Snake and Columbia Rivers, National Geographic Sea Lion perfectly framed by the Ed Hendler and Pioneer Memorial Bridges. Departing shortly after breakfast, everyone headed to shore for a full day of adventure, education, and indulgent wine tasting. Once ashore, some of us headed to Seven Hills Vineyard for an exclusive tour while others explored the rich cultural history of Fort Walla Walla. We reconvened at the stunning Seven Hills Tasting Room in downtown Walla Walla for a spectacular lunch and our first tasting of the day. After lunch we split up again, with options for excursions ranging from wine tasting to ice cream sampling, shopping, and a visit to the Whitman Mission National Historic Site. Our Zodiac rides back to the ship were perfectly timed with the sunset, making for a beautiful end to a busy day exploring the Pasco and Walla Walla area. After yet another exceptional wine and dinner pairing by Wine Specialist Kristine, a sporty game of Pacific Northwest Trivia ensued!