We had a wet but exciting morning on National Geographic Quest. Stretch class was drippy, but Robin found ways to make us gently pull on muscles and tendons while sitting down on chairs. In the dim morning light, we could see channel markers light up in whites and reds as we cruised past. After more cruising and briefings, we set off for Crag Rat’s for a catered lunch. This building is home to the brave search and rescue team that serves Mt. Hood. Reading about their history was inspiring. We moved on to the Draper Girls’ produce stand within the “Fruit Loop” of the gorge. It’s apple and pear season now. The stand amazed us with the variety of jams and jellies offered. Their goats, colorful pumpkins, and blooming dahlias welcomed us with gusto. Next, we were off to the impressive WAAAM Museum (Western Antique Aeroplane and Automobile Museum) with over a hundred working antique vehicles and planes. To finish our activities, we stopped at Multnomah Falls for a quick walk in the light rain. This waterfall is the highest continuous waterfall in Oregon with a picturesque bridge. Tonight, our historian will guide us through the Lewis and Clark historical expedition as we sit warm and cozy in our lounge.
4/24/2025
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National Geographic Sea Bird
Hood River
Unseasonably warm and dry weather continued to grace us as we proceeded with our expedition down the Columbia River. The morning was crisp as we disembarked in Hood River, Oregon, but quickly warmed up as we boarded our coaches. Our explorations began at Multnomah Falls, the number one tourist attraction in the state of Oregon. After we experienced this astounding cascade, some of our guests proceeded to Beacon Rock for a scenic climb up this 800-foot tall, aged lava plug. Others went to the Bonneville Fish Hatchery where we visited a local icon, Herman the sturgeon. Then both groups of explorers met at the Columbia Gorge Interpretative Center for Syncline wines and an overflowing helping of intriguing local history. As the superb weather continued, we voyaged back to National Geographic Sea Bird for a lovely afternoon of classic cruising down the Columbia River. Guests enjoyed the sun on deck or an engaging presentation on how climate change is affecting migratory birds. Complimentary water-level views of Multnomah Falls followed, and our last transit through a lock of this trip – a lovely passage through the Bonneville Lock and Dam. Photos by Doug Crispin and Alex Rubenstein