We woke up to a beautiful crisp sunny day in Haines, ready for a day of adventure and exploration. We all headed off to enjoy different morning activities, including a river float through an eagle preserve, a visit to a traditional Tlingit village, a guided cycling tour, a fly-fishing trip, and a hike up a large mountain nearby.
After this adventurous morning, some of us went out on a second round of activities while others chose to wander the quaint streets of the small Alaskan town. We returned to the ship for dinner, pulled anchor, and headed south along the Lynn Canal to continue our trip.
5/12/2025
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National Geographic Sea Lion
Haines, Alaska
The fastidious crew of National Geographic Sea Lion tied off their dock lines in beautiful Haines, Alaska, at 0700. Surrounded by snowcapped peaks, Haines offered a postcard-perfect welcome. Guests had their pick of daily adventures, from scenic bike tours to immersive hikes into the surrounding wilderness. Eager to make the most of the day, we fueled up with breakfast and set off for Mount Riley by 0800. The 5.6-mile out-and-back trail challenged us with a 1,500-foot elevation gain, but each step brought greater reward. Along the way, we spotted Devil’s Matchstick lichen—an iconic burst of black atop slender stalks, resembling burnt match sticks. As we climbed higher, breathtaking views of the Chilkat Mountains and Lynn Canal revealed themselves. At the summit, we paused to take in the sweeping vistas, humbled by the scale and silence of Alaska’s wild spaces. It was a moment of shared awe and camaraderie, the kind that forges lasting connections. Afterward, returning to the charming town of Haines felt like re-entering a quiet storybook. This blend of rugged adventure and small-town warmth made the day truly extraordinary.
