This morning National Geographic Quest was making its way down the Columbia River toward the city of The Dalles, our destination for the afternoon activities. On the way, we navigated through two locks, John Day and The Dalles, before anchoring just off the city. Once everyone was on shore, two different groups headed off to their destinations. One left for Rowena Crest and the Columbia River Gorge Discovery Center, and the other toward Maryhill Museum and Stonehenge. From the Discovery Center, we were given several options besides exploring the museum, biking back to the ship, a naturalist-led or photo walk around the Center’s grounds. We all would meet back at the ship for our evening recap, and cocktail hour, before another superb dinner!
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!