How could we possibly be disappointed with today? Gloriously sunny skies, the growing friendship of new shipmates, and a full day to explore the historic area at the confluence of the great Columba River and the Pacific Ocean proved to be a perfect combination.
At first light, National Geographic Sea Bird was on the Astoria approach downstream passing under the Astoria-Megler Bridge on her way to the Columbia River Bar. By the time the sun rose, we were treated to a magnificent view of the bar with ocean swell crashing in the form of thunderous waves across the sandy shallows. The otherwise calm conditions that prevailed in advanced of the next storm front allowed us to sail further down river than had been accomplished before—it was the proverbial ‘calm before the storm’!
After breakfast, we set off to explore the shore-side by motor coach on the northern river shore in Washington. Following in the footsteps of Lewis and Clark and the Corps of Discovery, we found their Station Camp at the Chinook Middle Village. Following ‘The Boardwalk’ of the sculptress Mya Lin at Waikiki Beach, we made our way to the Pacific Ocean as the Corps had done two centuries ago. And finally, following the chronological timeline of exhibits at the Lewis & Clark Interpretive Center, we tried to grasp the enormity of their accomplishments.
After a welcomed lunch aboard ship, we set off once again visiting the Columbia River Maritime Museum to learn of shipwrecks, heroism on the Columbia River Bar, and the demise of the salmon fishing and cannery industries at Astoria. Later in the afternoon, our guests and staff went off in a multitude of directions following their interest in exploring either photo opportunities, Astoria history, searching for wildlife, or plying the waters of the John Day River by kayak. There was truly something for everyone!
How could this day be topped? We’ll all get a good night’s sleep and find out tomorrow!
