The dawn of May 13th on board the National Geographic Sea Bird saw a customs and border protection boat pulling up to the stern. After a scenic cruise entering American waters, we were all clear to begin the second half of our adventure in Southeast Alaska. Dixon entrance is the body of water that guards the entrance to a legendary place called Misty Fjord. A National Monument, Misty Fjord is one of the most scenic places in coastal Alaska and a favorite among staff and crew. The afternoon’s program was to explore the waterway by kayak and inflatable boat. After paddling around the corner in the fjord, the ship weighed anchor and made a dramatic entrance thru the channel and around to the next entrance, by a spectacular waterfall. A very scenic Mother’s Day!
5/15/2024
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National Geographic Sea Bird
Inian Islands, AK
The drizzling rain of the early morning cleared off for the start of our Zodiac tours through the dazzling Inian Islands. The Islands are incredibly special due to their geographic location. As the northernmost opening to the Inside Passage, tons of billions of gallons of water funnel in from the Pacific Ocean and cause an oceanic phenomenon called upwelling, where cold, nutrient dense water rises to the surface. Marine animals flock to these waters for the availability of food and resources. We were able to view sea otters, sea lions, and many bird species. The Zodiac tours had some of the most amazing views of the coastal waters, spruce covered islands, and wildlife. We ended the morning with a visit to the Tidelines Institute, a non-profit educational institute founded by Lindblad Naturalist and PhD in climate science, Zach Brown. The afternoon was filled with presentations, briefings, and our guest slideshow to end the evening during our transit up to Sitka. It was a fantastic ending to a great trip.
