The first day of the trip started out with a high-speed trip up Hells Canyon. Everyone hopped on jet boats and the adventure began. Hells Canyon is a narrow section of the Snake river that winds through Oregon, Idaho, and Washington. The jet boat sails over rapids and flies through turns on the river, giving everyone the excitement they are looking for. The shoreline is dotted with mule deer, wild turkeys, and Rocky Mountain bighorn sheep. Bald and golden eagles soar overhead at the rim of the canyon. The six-hour expedition ends back in Clarkston, Washington and the day ends with wine tasting and enough food for a week!
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!