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.
4/24/2024
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National Geographic Sea Bird
Walla Walla
The spring campaign for the Columbia and Snake Rivers Journey made its final visit of the season to the wine-loving Walla Walla Valley. Nearly 20 of our guests spent the morning tasting and touring Dunham Cellars, Walla Walla’s ninth-oldest winery. Others visited the Whitman Mission National Historic Site. Guests met for lunch at Three Rivers Winery, which is owned by California businessman/philanthropist, William Foley. Bon Appétit Management of Whitman College handled the catering which made for a very tasty meal. Next was a self-guided walking tour of downtown Walla Walla that featured Lindblad-arranged tastings at Bergevin Lane Vineyards, Browne Family Vineyards, Mark Ryan Winery and Rasa Vineyards as well as shopping at the many small businesses along Main Street. Among those favored by guests were Bright’s Candies, Hot Poop Record Store, Pinecone Creamery, and Colville Street Patisserie. Upon returning to National Geographic Sea Bird , after-dinner education featured a presentation titled, ‘Down the Rivers with the Lewis & Clark Expedition’ by historian Robert Heacock.