The forecast called for rain all day in Astoria, so it was a surprise to see the sun peak out from behind the clouds. As everyone disembarked National Geographic Quest to explore the oldest European settlement west of the Rockies, the sky cleared further.
The day was split with two great adventures. For half the day guests had the chance to explore the small northwestern coastal town, including the Astoria Column and the Columbia River Maritime Museum. The museum follows the history of ships on the Columbia River and the treacherous Columbia River Bar. “The Bar” as it is known is the most dangerous river entrance into the Pacific Ocean and has claimed over 2,000 ships. The other half of the day was spent in Washington. The historian Jim Rawls brought the early nineteenth century to life, transporting everyone back to the Station Camp of Lewis and Clark. There was also a chance to hike in the largest temperate rain forest on earth and to see Washington’s version of Waikiki Beach. The day ended with a brief downpour, fulfilling the weather channel’s prophecy and the ship began its way up the Columbia.
