National Geographic Sea Lion cruised northward from Petersburg through Frederick Sound and Stephens Passage and early this morning turned eastward into the Tracy Arm-Fords Terror wilderness area. We chose Endicott Arm to spend the morning cruising toward the impressive Dawes glacier, which tumbles from the Coast Range Mountains down to sea level at the end of the 30-mile long fjord. We found photo opportunities with the sparkling icebergs of all sizes and shapes and beautiful shades of blue. Stately bald eagles perched atop some of the bergs. Harbor seals use the ice as safe pupping habitat. We witnessed some drama when an eagle flew by the ship with seal afterbirth dangling from its talons. Arctic terns, black-legged kittiwakes, and other gulls also rest on the icebergs. Later in the morning we were back near the entrance channel, with swirling waters bringing food to the surface. Hundreds of Pacific loons, marbled murrelets, various gulls, and other birds were taking advantage of the productive situation. It was quite a spectacle!
While in transit, Jason gave a presentation to tell us more about glaciers—their formation, features, processes, and dynamics.
We spent the afternoon exploring the water and landscape of Williams Cove by kayak and afoot. Everything was fresh and bright after some moisture. As a final “hurrah” some intrepid guests plunged into the 39 degree Fahrenheit water, only to scramble out as fast as possible. It was an invigorating grand finale.
At our final cocktail hour the guest slideshow played on the lounge screens, showing memorable photographs from our voyage. The images and memories will stay with us for a very long time.
But wait…the day was not over! After dinner, guests on deck were treated to great views of a pod of killer whales that came very close to the ship as the light faded and we cruised northward toward our final destination of Juneau.
