and Karen Duquette's sister Ilse Blahak
took a cruise on the
Columbia Gorge Sternwheeler
in Oregon
July 28, 2013

Karen, Lee and Ilse experienced the history of the Columbia River Gorge and learned about the Lewis and Clark Expedition on a cruise aboard the Columbia Gorge Sternwheeler.

They boarded from Marine Park at Cascade Locks, in the heart of the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area to enjoy the riverboat cruise on an authentic triple-deck paddle wheeler, providing 360 degrees of breathtaking vistas, a 2 hour cruise, bountiful buffet featuring locally sourced breakfast, lunch and dessert items prepared fresh on board, champagne, ever changing views and a narration of the sights.

Below: Lee Duquette on deck and heading for the stairs to go inside - yes, he went down the stairs backwards!

Below: Karen and Ilse met the Captain of the Columbia Gorge Sternwheeler.

Below: Ilse and Karen each got a brief turn at steering the boat.

Below; Karen Duquette thought the paddlewheel, the wake, and the rainbow were wonderful to watch as the Columbia Gorge Sternwheeler made its way down the Columbia River.

Below: Steering into the sun and different views of the Columbia River and surroundings.

Below: It was cold, choppy and windy, and the sailboats were having a race.

Below: A bit of extra entertainment.

Karen, Lee and Ilse had a wonderful time during their cruise on the Columbia Gorge Sternwheeler. They saw and learned much more than they imagined they would. The Captain and his crew were very personable and made the experience rich with historical facts and interesting tidbits. The area was very beautiful. Although it was a bit cold and windy on deck, it was comfortable inside, the food was pretty good, and the champagne was wonderful. This cruise was a very pleasant experience.

After exiting the boat, Karen Duquette and Ilse Blahak saw the statue of Sacagawea, and thought it was one of the best Indian statues they have ever seen.

Below: Silent Descent

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