Early in the morning, the bridge team of National Geographic Sea Bird navigated from The Dalles to Hood River, Oregon along the Columbia River. We spent our morning enjoying the collection at the Western Aeroplane & Automobile Museum followed by a visit to Draper Girls’ Farm in the agriculturally rich Hood River Valley. We headed back to our ship for lunch followed by walks in the afternoon at Beacon Rock, an incredible volcanic plug with stunning views, and Multnomah Falls, one of Oregon’s most beautiful waterfalls. We also had the opportunity to visit the Bonneville Fish Hatchery, featuring the famous sturgeon named Herman who is 89 years old! After a full day of activities and learning, we gathered for cocktail hour on the bow as we watched sunset and navigated the historic Bonneville Lock. After dinner on board our beautiful ship, we were treated to a presentation by historian Doug Crispin. What a fantastic and unforgettable day!
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