Around six o’clock this morning the National Geographic Sea Lion cruised into the upper reaches of Thomas Bay, a beautiful inlet just north of Petersburg. This is a mainland Alaska area, just off of Frederick Sound, and just below the coastal mountain range that separates Alaska from Canada. We traveled past the Baird Glacier to a lovely little inlet called Scenery Cove, where early risers were treated to some great scenic photo opportunities, as well as action shots of gulls and murrelets feeding on a mass of small baitfish.
Just as breakfast was starting, we reached our anchorage near Cascade Creek, our destination for the morning’s activities. This is a beautiful boardwalk and earthen trail that follows along a very high volume, and fast-flowing, stream with an impressive waterfall, near the head of Thomas Bay. There was the usual assortment of strenuous, moderate, and leisurely walks offered, as well as some short “small boat” cruises.
Eventually, it was “all aboard,” and we made our way toward Petersburg, the sight of our afternoon activities.
Just as we were finishing lunch, the National Geographic Sea Lion arrived at the dock, and with some skillful maneuvering by the bridge, she settled into her birth for the afternoon!
Almost immediately, guests started disembarking for the “Muskeg” walk, which with a short boat ride across Wrangell narrows to Kupreanof Island, takes you to a different habitat type, along with a unique set of plants that live there. Next the long Petersburg Mountain hike left for Kupreanof Island. And finally, a “dock” walk was offered to learn more about the fishing industry in Southeast Alaska. Some guests took the time to just explore this lovely fishing community, either by foot, or by bicycle.
Soon it was time to return to the ship and depart, but there was still one last activity, the “Crab Feast.” As much Dungeness crab, ribs and other goodies that anyone could possibly eat! Another “full” day, so-to-speak, in Southeast Alaska!
