Gathering on deck this morning the unspoken gratitude is evident in the eyes of all that are sharing in the last morning stretch class of the voyage. Looking out on the breathtaking vista builds the enthusiasm for today’s explorations. We eagerly don our layers and assemble on the stern of the National Geographic Sea Bird for the morning expedition landing craft cruise into Fords Terror. The enormity of the glacial rock formations and the briefly obscured waterfalls, which reveal themselves as we move closer into the fjord, are breathtakingly gorgeous. As we near the rock walls we are delighted by the sea life clinging to the pink algae that blankets the lower portion; muscles, limpets and sea urchins to name a few. The rough waters transiting into the fjord is exhilarating, enhancing the spirit of adventure in all.
This afternoon we are awe struck by the beauty of the Dawes glacier. The deep crevasses and indescribable blue is a site to behold. While cruising through the glacial ice we are visited we are visited by a Dall’s porpoise. While majestic bald eagles soar overhead crying out to one another the harbor seals haul out on the floating burgs below. Completely steeped in the majesty of Alaska, we are certain it will be forever etched in our hearts.