Last night as we left Vancouver and were sailing on the open ocean Kim captured the sunset....
We woke up this morning and were still several hours out from Astoria. We could see the Washington state coast line as the sun came up to greet us.
We woke up this morning and were still several hours out from Astoria. We could see the Washington state coast line as the sun came up to greet us.
After breakfast with Karrie and Peggy we all went our separate ways. While Kim worked out and enjoyed the steam room I went on the top deck and enjoyed hot chocolate as I watched the coast line pass by.
Far and away the highlight of the morning came as we got close to Astoria. We've been to Astoria twice on an American Cruise Line Columbia River Cruise. Both times we were in Astoria we / I went on the excursion out to Cape Disappointment to see where the Pacific Ocean meets the Columbia River. As the two waterways collide the waves are immense and have led to countless vessels crashing. I was anxious to see Cape Disappointment from the water side instead of being on shore. I knew we must be getting close but when I felt the ship's movement significantly change I KNEW we must be close!
Our previous visit to Cape Disappointment
Soon we crossed into the Columbia River and were docking near the Astoria Bridge.
This afternoon the excursion was to a local restaurant where Chef Chris Holen was going to prepare, from scratch a seafood dish (with sides) and have us taste some local wines. The experience was one of those that are the reason I love to travel so much! As I told Kim afterwards the two things I love so much about traveling are when (a) we go somewhere that is iconic, like last spring to the Roman Colosseum and you look around and say "Wow, we're at the Colosseum!" and (b) days like today where it is such a great surprise and is such a great taste of local flavor. I couldn't describe to you everything that Chef Chris Holen said - not only about cooking, but his life's journey to get where he is, and even more importantly his passion for Astoria and the community. Truly, if you ever visit here, to spend a few hours with him like we did today is worth the price of the trip. Just an amazing afternoon. The photos only capture some of the great moments.......
The whole salmon, ready to begin the process
Cutting the filets
Wine tasting with the food
Sauteing the veggies
Food's ready!
The fully prepared salmon dish
Walking back along the waterfront - a mile plus "hike"
Selfie in front of the restaurant, The Baked Alaska
While we were on this excursion, Karrie and Peggy went on an excursion to Canon Beach and had a wonderful time!
Tomorrow is a full day at sea....not sure how many, if any photos we'll have tomorrow. But I know we'll enjoy a very relaxing day on the ship!
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