Just as the sun rose in the eastern sky, the National Geographic Sea Lion started its approach to Ice Harbor Lock. Our transit through the lock was the first of a number of activities for the day. About mid-morning, we approached Lower Monumental Lock, with the option of going through in our Zodiacs, which was a unique experience, and enjoyed immensely by all that participated! Continuing our morning cruising the Snake, we approached the Palouse River, the site of our afternoon activities: Zodiac tours, kayaking, and the chance to go to Palouse Falls for a very scenic overlook. Finally, after all guests and staff were back on board, the Sea Lion continued on her way up the Snake, going through our last two locks of the journey, and ending the next morning at Clarkston, Washington.
4/17/2024
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National Geographic Sea Bird
Crow Butte and Cruising the Columbia River
National Geographic Sea Bird sailed into Crow Butte in the early morning while guests on the bow enjoyed viewing the Columbia River, which forms the border between Washington and Oregon. Guests had the option of an aerobic hike, nature hike, photo hike, and history walk around Crow Butte and Crow Butte Campground. The beauty of the area awed guests, sporting views of local vineyards, dams, wildlife refuges, and the dry sagebrush-step ecosystem that dominates the area. Guests spied a variety of wildflowers and birds of prey, including spotting a golden eagle. After hiking, guests enjoyed a hot beverage on shore brought by National Geographic Sea Bird’s hospitality team, followed by an informal chat on food, wine, and energy by Naturalist Patrick MacQuarrie and Wine Expert Eric Degerman. After lunch, the ship transited the McNary Dam and Lock, the last one on the Columbia River. Guests were treated to an expert presentation on geology by Naturalist Kyle Bowman, and ‘Lewis and Clark Lead to World’s No.1 Wine’, presented by Wine Expert Eric Degerman. The evening concluded with cocktail hour, traditional recap, and dinner while sailing through the Wallula Gap.