National Geographic Sea Bird started its morning by traveling through the Columbia River, heading east, and was met by the sun shining on the hills. The day’s activities began with walks – both a long and a short option – along the Historic Columbia River Highway State Trail. Guests were greeted with wonderful views of the river while they wandered through tunnels that were carved to create what was once the most expensive road constructed. Prior to the walk, guests stopped to take photographs and take in the views along Rowena Crest, a wonderful scenic outlook along the river. After a break for lunch, guests had the opportunity to visit the Columbia Gorge Discovery Center and were treated to a presentation about raptors. Guests even got to meet a rehabilitated hawk, a 15-year-old red-tailed hawk named “Killer.” In the evening, guests were treated to sangria on the bow while passing through the Dalles Dam lock, followed by wonderful recapitulations by the field staff.
4/24/2025
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National Geographic Sea Bird
Hood River
Unseasonably warm and dry weather continued to grace us as we proceeded with our expedition down the Columbia River. The morning was crisp as we disembarked in Hood River, Oregon, but quickly warmed up as we boarded our coaches. Our explorations began at Multnomah Falls, the number one tourist attraction in the state of Oregon. After we experienced this astounding cascade, some of our guests proceeded to Beacon Rock for a scenic climb up this 800-foot tall, aged lava plug. Others went to the Bonneville Fish Hatchery where we visited a local icon, Herman the sturgeon. Then both groups of explorers met at the Columbia Gorge Interpretative Center for Syncline wines and an overflowing helping of intriguing local history. As the superb weather continued, we voyaged back to National Geographic Sea Bird for a lovely afternoon of classic cruising down the Columbia River. Guests enjoyed the sun on deck or an engaging presentation on how climate change is affecting migratory birds. Complimentary water-level views of Multnomah Falls followed, and our last transit through a lock of this trip – a lovely passage through the Bonneville Lock and Dam. Photos by Doug Crispin and Alex Rubenstein