After travelling eastbound down the Columbia River last night, the National Geographic Sea Bird reached Astoria this morning, and headed towards the Columbia River Bar, a churning surge of water at the confluence of river and sea, where silt and sand are continuously displaced, making ship navigation challenging and often dangerous. Later at the museum we would see a huge wall chart pinpointing the dozens of shipwrecks over the years. The Captain brought us within viewing of the infamous Bar, but there was no need for our crossing. Though the tide had begun flooding, conditions were quite calm, as they have been for many days here, and fog obscured any major churning. Early risers on the bow were rewarded with the dawn’s fresh sea air, along with good looks at harbor seals, Caspian terns, Heermann’s gulls, and brown pelicans.
After breakfast we visited Fort Clatsop, a National Park Service site where the Lewis & Clark Corps of Discovery spent the winter of 1805-06. Thus began our discussion of this famous expedition, a discussion which will continue throughout our voyage upriver, facilitated by our onboard historian and the many sites and museums to be visited along the way. The latter part of the morning was spent at the Columbia River Maritime Museum.
The afternoon offered a variety of ways to continue exploring this area rich in history and natural beauty. Many chose to go to the Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center at Cape Disappointment, which provides a beautifully laid out chronological overview of the Corps of Discovery for Lewis and Clark enthusiasts. As well, due to its cliff-top location, the center also offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean, Columbia River, and the Cape Disappointment lighthouse. Upon arrival a light mist hung over the scene, though from this vantage the churning of the Columbia River bar waters was clearly evident, as were brown pelicans flying in a little squadron over the water. An osprey was sighted diving down for a fish. During the course of our stay, the mist thickened and rolled inward, enveloping views around the Interpretive Center.
A dozen or so hearty explorers chose to spend their afternoon on the water, via kayak or expedition landing craft tours. Rewards included: looks at California sea lions and a variety of birds including eagles, osprey, great blue heron, and belted king fisher. Some people chose to stay aboard the ship to enjoy some relaxed personal time. At this writing all are back on board beginning to convene in the lounge with loved ones and newly made friends, for our first Recap of the voyage.
