We began our Epic Alaska voyage in Misty Fiords National Monument—a vast wilderness area about 20 miles from our embarkation port of Ketchikan, Alaska. We spent our day exploring several different fjords by various watercraft. We woke to a beautiful overcast morning, reminding all why the area is named Misty Fiords. We spent the pre-breakfast hours watching birds and the occasional Steller sea lion or harbor seal sneak a glance of us from the water. Our intrepid bow watchers were rewarded when they spotted a harbor seal feeding on a salmon it had caught.
Post-breakfast, National Geographic Sea Bird anchored in Walker Cove and launched our various watercraft for expedition landing craft tours, kayaking, and stand-up paddleboard adventures. Those who opted for the cruises learned of the natural wonders of the area while getting photography instruction from the naturalist teams. Those who went for the self-powered vessels enjoyed the serenity Walker Cove offered.
After lunch and our first photography lecture, we departed the ship for expedition landing craft tours of Owl Pass in Rudyerd Bay. All who joined witnessed the grandeur of the granite walls and domes—thousands of feet high—as well as waterfalls, birds, and harbor seals sunning themselves on logs. A truly spectacular first day.
