Today we find ourselves in the lovely hamlet of Hood River, in the Columbia River Gorge. Some of us travelled by coach to the Western Antique Aeroplane and Automobile Museum while others stretched our limbs with a brisk walk along a restored portion of the Historic Columbia River Highway and through the Mosier Tunnels. After lunch, we journeyed to the Draper Girls Country Farm where we sampled the local produce and had a stunning view of snow-covered Mount Hood. Toward sunset, we made our final lock transit at Bonneville Dam.
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!