We began our first full day aboard National Geographic Venture by sailing through beautiful Holkham Bay into Endicott Arm. This narrow fjord southeast of Juneau is marked by cascading waterfalls and breathtaking indicators of glaciation and ecological succession. The icebergs, bergy bits, and turquoise, glacial silt-fed waters of the fjord sparkled in the unexpectedly bright sun as we spent our morning navigating towards Dawes Glacier. We received basic mandatory training on hiking in bear country and safely loading Zodiacs and kayaks, and we were introduced to our Expedition Team. We spent the rest of our morning and early afternoon in Zodiacs, exploring the fjord and the towering, active Dawes Glacier! Throughout the journey, we spied curious harbour seals, watched glaucous-winged gulls forage, heard the rumbling of calving ice off the tidewater glacier, and found our Zodiacs boarded by benevolent Vikings! Guests warmed up after their time on the water with hot cocoa and a hearty lunch of chili. We spent late afternoon preparing for a day in Petersburg tomorrow, and we learned new photography skills from our certified photo instructor. After a lively cocktail hour, recap, and dinner, we ended our night by watching Petersburg: The Town that Fish Built in preparation for an exciting and packed day in Petersburg.
7/11/2024
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National Geographic Sea Lion
The Inian Islands and George Island
Today aboard National Geographic Sea Lion , we embarked on an incredible journey through the Inian Islands, known for their rich and diverse wildlife. Our morning was spent in awe as we watched sea otters playfully float by, Steller sea lions lounge on rocky outcrops, and bald eagles majestically soar overhead. The abundance of wildlife in this region left us all captivated. In the afternoon, we hiked George Island, where trails led us through lush green landscapes and offered breathtaking views of the surrounding waters. The hike was a refreshing way to experience the island’s natural beauty up close. The highlight of the day was undoubtedly the polar plunge. With a mix of excitement and trepidation, we took the plunge into the icy waters, emerging exhilarated and invigorated by the bracing cold. Today’s adventures, from wildlife watching in the Inian Islands to hiking George Island to braving the polar plunge, made for an unforgettable day. The beauty and thrill of Alaska’s wilderness continue to amaze and inspire us, deepening our appreciation for this remarkable region.