The first day of our expedition was spectacular! We awoke in a small passage between two of the largest islands in the Southeast Alaska Archipelago, Baranof and Chichagof. The names of these islands deriving from the figures related to the Russian history of the area. While trying to educate people about the area, a few humpback whales made their presence known, including one young animal that consistently breached or broke the surface waters. Why—we don’t know. We made our way on deck to enjoy these amazing denizens of Alaska. Later in the morning the captain spotted killer whales off the bow. These wolves of the sea are seen up and down the coast of Alaska and British Columbia. There are distinct population groups that will be reclassified into separate species in the next few years. For now they are all known as Orcinus orca, but that will change. The killer whales were heading in the opposite direction that we wanted so we broke off pursuit and headed to a great spot for our afternoon activities.
Lunch was an amazing—a make-your-own taco and burrito bar with fresh ingredients provided by our talented and efficient galley team. At the end of lunch, we approached Pond Island in Kelp Bay on the east side of Baranoff Island. This secluded bay was the perfect spot to enjoy the spectacular bright blue skies and sunshine. There were several offerings for our first exploration of the incredible environments of Southeast Alaska’s’ temperate rainforest. A long exploratory hike was offered as well as medium walks up to a beaver dam that gives the island its name. Beavers create dams to artificially kill trees by drowning them, therefor causing new younger tress, their preferred food source, to thrive. Kayaks were also available to view the intertidal zone as the tide ebbed throughout the afternoon, exposing 15 feet of vertical tide.
Humpback whales, killer whales, Dall’s’ porpoise, harbor seal, bald eagle, amazing forests, and beautiful weather—what else would be expected here in one of the most sublime places to make an expedition worthwhile?
