Early in the morning National Geographic Quest whirled and stirred, and then came alive with activity as guests, staff, and crew awoke from a very peaceful night’s rest at anchor, just off the town of Pasco, Washington. Right in front of the ship was a very active train bridge over the Columbia River, with seven large freight trains passing over it before breakfast was finished! Once we got to shore, about 9 a.m., it was off in two bus groups toward the city of Walla Walla, Washington for our full day of activities! The two groups took turns going to the Fort Walla Walla Museum, the Whitman Mission and tour of the Tree Rivers Winery. We also joined up at the winery for a group lunch. Late afternoon it was back to the ship, cocktail hour and recap, dinner, and a post dinner lecture. Another full day on the Mighty Columbia!
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