We arose to a beautiful sunrise as the Sea Bird passed through Wallula Gap on the Columbia River. Just after breakfast, we entered the Snake River and proceeded through the lock at Ice Harbor Dam to Lake Sacajawea. Cliffs along the lakeshore displayed excellent views of lava flows, one on top of the other, of the 16-million-year-old Columbia River Basalts. Apple orchards and vineyards topped the basalt cliffs. On the reservoir shores were huge bars from the 15,000-year-old Missoula Floods, with giant current ripples some 250-feet crest to crest. “Lunch in the lock” (of Lower Monumental Dam) was on the aft deck, blessed by beautiful warm weather. In the afternoon we anchored at the mouth of the Palouse River for kayaking, trips on the expedition landing crafts, and a bus excursion to Palouse Falls. We marveled at the gigantic plunge pool produced not by the modern falls but by the torrents of water that coursed across the Channeled Scablands during the Missoula Floods.
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!