Today was easily one of the very best days of our seven-day expedition on National Geographic Sea Lion. It was filled with challenge and excitement, beauty and inspiration. It was the reason why exploration is irresistible. And it was the reason we must all strive to experience Alaska. We started our day exploring George Island, some enjoying short hikes in lush forest, others getting lost in the wild mosses and flowers on a longer bushwhacking adventure. We then moved our ship into the Inian Islands, an exquisite area frequented by diverse life such as Steller sea lions, sea otters and bald eagles searching for nourishment. Our experiences in the Inian Islands were raw and unexpected. We watched and listened in awe, but the stories will never compare to being truly present in those indescribable moments of pure wild.
7/18/2024
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National Geographic Quest
Freshwater Bay, Chichagof Island
This morning before breakfast, the bridge team of National Geographic Quest spotted orcas in Freshwater Bay. Eager to see this iconic whale species, the bow was quickly occupied by excited guests, staff, and crew. We could not have asked for better conditions. A sunny, calm morning with at least a dozen orcas! Wow! After breakfast we went ashore at Kennel Creek on Chichagof Island and split into aerobic, moderate, and casual walking groups. After yesterday’s wet forest at Fox Creek, we welcomed the firm, dry ground of an old logging road. Along our walks there were abundant signs of brown bears. One of the two aerobic walks had fresh bear tracks on top of their footprints upon their return. In the afternoon cruising down Chatham Strait, we enjoyed time on deck soaking up the sun when an eagle-eye naturalist spotted a group of humpbacks ten miles away! As we approached, we could see that this was no small group, as twenty-three whales were bubble net feeding! This day will long be imprinted in our memories of wild Alaska.
