Here we are in The Dalles, Oregon. It is not ‘Dalles’ or ‘Dallas,’ but rather ‘The Dalles,’ one of the most historic towns in the state. It was called Le Dalle by the early French trappers, which means flat topped rock or flagstone, as seen in the flat-topped basalt islands that surround the Highway 197 bridge. After dinner last night, we transited two dams, the John Day Lock and Dam and The Dalles Lock and Dam just before sunrise. The Dalles Dam has had the greatest impact on the history and culture of the Pacific Northwest. When it was closed on March 10, 1957, many native locations were submerged behind the dam.
10/23/2024
Read
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!