Astoria, Oregon
Mysterious Columbia River fog banks greeted guests this morning. Mild Astoria temperature and the enthusiasm of the guests countered that momentary condition. The Columbia River Maritime Museum opened a few minutes early to accommodate Sea Lion guests. This world-class facility smoothly and colorfully outlined the dramatic history of the river and Astoria – the oldest American city west of the Rocky Mountains. After an hour in the hands of a well-versed curator, guests climbed aboard the motor coach headed for Fort Clatsop, the farthest reach of the Corps of Discovery during the winter of 1805-1806.
Fort Clatsop's bookshop holds the best Lewis & Clark collection on the river. Already primed by the historian on the best L&C materials, guests spent time browsing and buying. Besides the Park Ranger's pleasant demeanor, guests were greeted by a large black Newfoundland dog – the image of Meriwether Lewis's companion, Seaman. After looking at the reconstructed fort, guests followed paths to the canoe landing on the Lewis & Clark (once called Netul) River and then returned to the Reception building.
The return to Astoria – 12 miles distant – offered a view of wild Roosevelt Elk, grazing in a field next to highway 101, the Oregon coastal route, plus Young's Bay and the Columbia River mouth to the west. A quick stop at Astoria's Commercial Street enticed us with many shopping opportunities. After lunch (some guests dined aboard ship, others tested downtown restaurants) an open afternoon was offered for the enjoyment of old Astoria. One of the town's newest and most interesting attractions is a waterfront streetcar operated by volunteer citizens. The drivers provided narration about the onetime wild days of early Astoria salmon canneries. By mid-afternoon, the motor coach took guests to Coxcomb Hill for look at the Astoria Column. Several sturdy guests climbed the 164 steps to the top. Fortunately, the skies began to break so the views were spectacular.
After an exciting cruise toward the Columbia River mouth, with narrations by the ship's historian, guests joined the staff for Captain's cocktails and dinner.
Mysterious Columbia River fog banks greeted guests this morning. Mild Astoria temperature and the enthusiasm of the guests countered that momentary condition. The Columbia River Maritime Museum opened a few minutes early to accommodate Sea Lion guests. This world-class facility smoothly and colorfully outlined the dramatic history of the river and Astoria – the oldest American city west of the Rocky Mountains. After an hour in the hands of a well-versed curator, guests climbed aboard the motor coach headed for Fort Clatsop, the farthest reach of the Corps of Discovery during the winter of 1805-1806.
Fort Clatsop's bookshop holds the best Lewis & Clark collection on the river. Already primed by the historian on the best L&C materials, guests spent time browsing and buying. Besides the Park Ranger's pleasant demeanor, guests were greeted by a large black Newfoundland dog – the image of Meriwether Lewis's companion, Seaman. After looking at the reconstructed fort, guests followed paths to the canoe landing on the Lewis & Clark (once called Netul) River and then returned to the Reception building.
The return to Astoria – 12 miles distant – offered a view of wild Roosevelt Elk, grazing in a field next to highway 101, the Oregon coastal route, plus Young's Bay and the Columbia River mouth to the west. A quick stop at Astoria's Commercial Street enticed us with many shopping opportunities. After lunch (some guests dined aboard ship, others tested downtown restaurants) an open afternoon was offered for the enjoyment of old Astoria. One of the town's newest and most interesting attractions is a waterfront streetcar operated by volunteer citizens. The drivers provided narration about the onetime wild days of early Astoria salmon canneries. By mid-afternoon, the motor coach took guests to Coxcomb Hill for look at the Astoria Column. Several sturdy guests climbed the 164 steps to the top. Fortunately, the skies began to break so the views were spectacular.
After an exciting cruise toward the Columbia River mouth, with narrations by the ship's historian, guests joined the staff for Captain's cocktails and dinner.
