National Geographic Quest anchored overnight on the Columbia River, just off the city of Pasco, Washington. We awoke to a beautiful morning, with massive freight trains chugging their way east to west and back over the Columbia River via the railroad bridge just ahead of our vessel. After breakfast, it was Zodiac to shore, board our luxury coaches, and spend the day exploring the Walla Walla area! Guests had the choice between visiting the Fort Walla Walla Museum and the Whitman Mission National Historic Site, then switching in the afternoon. But both groups got to go Three Rivers Winery, where we met for lunch, and had a wine tasting and tour before leaving for the other site that they did not see in the morning! Finally, back to the ship, got underway, and headed up the Snake River for our next stop!
4/27/2024
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National Geographic Sea Bird
Astoria, Oregon
We reached the penultimate day of our journey in Astoria, Oregon, where the Columbia River collides with the open ocean. We were met with a typical Pacific Northwest day of gentle rains punctuated by moments of sunshine. The guests were divided to conquer this gem of a city, nestled under bridges; half headed across the river to Washington to visit the Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center at Cape Disappointment, while the other half visited the Columbia River Maritime Museum and Astoria Column. The museum and the interpretive center are both excellent examples of what the west coast can offer with regard to history and culture. Each has thoughtful exhibits that cover broad swaths of topics, and are staffed with informative and helpful faculty. After a hearty lunch on board, the groups swapped in order to have the best of both worlds. Finally, all met back aboard for the week’s final recap and guest slideshow.
