Once again we awoke pleasantly surprised by clear skies and glassy water, which certainly isn’t the norm for southeast Alaska. National Geographic Quest entered the northwestern most waters of the region during the early hours of the morning. The day was about as full as can be with hiking, kayaking, paddleboarding, Zodiac cruising and of course enjoying fine meals. The Inian Islands are always nature-rich due to the tumultuous currents churning up nutrients to be feasted upon. Bald eagles, gulls, and cormorants were out in abundance as well as the curious Steller sea lions. The wildlife highlight actually took place in an unexpected location, a small bay below the historical 18-ton, 6-foot-long 50 caliber WW2 emplacement. There in the bay, a lone humpback fed for over an hour with the most spectacular backdrop you could ever wish for. Casual hikers, moderate hikers as well as Zodiac cruisers were able to observe this beauty from all angles.
7/18/2024
Read
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.
