This morning the National Geographic Sea Lion awoke to but another stellar bluebird day in Southeast, Alaska. Tail slapping and breaching humpback whales in calm waters off Chichagof Island were foretokens for the day and it wasn’t long before we were rewarded with our next incredible sighting of the voyage. Orca whales were spotted not far south of Iyoukeen and swimming right off the port side of the ship we were honored with an incredible view of this species of toothed whale and resident matrilineal group.  As we continued cruising south through Chatham Strait we learned a little about the history of Alaska in a lecture and after lunch headed ashore for an outing on Baranof Island. The Hanus Bay and Lake Eva area rewarded both kayaker and hiker alike as we penetrated a forest primordial and learned more about the amazing intricacies of the temperate rainforest. Meadows of marigolds and shooting stars bloomed brilliantly in the shadow of huge Sitka spruce and western hemlock as the presence of brown bear and tree squirrels left their mark in a forest not long ago inhabited by the Tlingit. The beautiful waterfall descending from Lake Eva was a great destination and for those feeling the need to stretch their legs, the lake was a welcomed walk in the woods. After dinner the ship pulled in close to Kasnyku Falls and we had fun on the bow taking “selfies” and enjoying the spring melt coming from Kasnyku Lake 600 feet above. As the sun set over Baranof Island we reveled in the beauty of Alaska and the amazing trip we have shared thus far.