With much anticipation and nail biting, the Bonneville Lock reopened in the past two days. A failure of some concrete on a sill necessitated a shutdown of the lock and some fast track repairs. None of this hullabaloo was apparent as we calmly and uneventfully transited the lock this morning. At Cascade Locks, we took off for our morning adventure to Stevenson, Washington and the Columbia Gorge Interpretive Center. An eclectic mix of displays and a very enthusiastic docent kept our attention and assisted us in learning more about this pocket of the Pacific Northwest. A scrumptious lunch was served at Mountain View Orchards and the pear and apple bins were brimming full with this year’s crop. A walk at the Mosier Tunnels finished off the afternoon for some of us while others investigated the Western Antique Aeroplane and Automobile Museum. Altogether a diverse and interesting day in the Columbia River Gorge.
10/23/2024
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National Geographic Sea Lion
Walla Walla
We awoke anchored at the confluence of the Snake and Columbia Rivers, National Geographic Sea Lion perfectly framed by the Ed Hendler and Pioneer Memorial Bridges. Departing shortly after breakfast, everyone headed to shore for a full day of adventure, education, and indulgent wine tasting. Once ashore, some of us headed to Seven Hills Vineyard for an exclusive tour while others explored the rich cultural history of Fort Walla Walla. We reconvened at the stunning Seven Hills Tasting Room in downtown Walla Walla for a spectacular lunch and our first tasting of the day. After lunch we split up again, with options for excursions ranging from wine tasting to ice cream sampling, shopping, and a visit to the Whitman Mission National Historic Site. Our Zodiac rides back to the ship were perfectly timed with the sunset, making for a beautiful end to a busy day exploring the Pasco and Walla Walla area. After yet another exceptional wine and dinner pairing by Wine Specialist Kristine, a sporty game of Pacific Northwest Trivia ensued!