From Petersburg the National Geographic Sea Lion traveled north and then westward across Frederick Sound and Chatham Strait. This morning we poked our bow into several scenic inlets on the east side of Baranof Island. There were many photographic opportunities as we passed waterfalls and snow-patterned mountains, encouraged by warming sunshine.
After breakfast, whale researcher Dr. Andy Szabo, from the Alaska Whale Foundation, joined us and gave a presentation about humpback whales and the research he is involved in. Tamsen kept the young people busy with coloring activities.
Cruising northward toward our afternoon destination, we found a brown bear foraging along the shore. Through cameras, binoculars, and spotting scope most guests had a chance to see the bruin before it disappeared into the forest. A pair of eagles posed for us on a rocky headland.
There was a shopping opportunity in the lounge after lunch and we arrived in Hanus Bay (Baranof Island) for kayaking and forest hikes along the Lake Eva trail. The weather cooperated as we participated in the various activities in this lovely spot. Signs of bears along the trail kept us close together in our groups. Wildflowers still lingered in the forest and meadows.
After dinner we noticed mother and calf humpback whales traveling along the shoreline as we cruised northward in Chatham Strait. We watched from a respectful distance until we broke off and continued on our way. It is nice to see the young calves, born last winter in Hawaii, show up after their long migration. They will nurse through the summer and then be on their own.
Tamsen showed video footage from her afternoon dive to round out another wonderful day aboard the National Geographic Sea Lion in Southeast Alaska.
