Zipping along in our Zodiac through the narrow pass of Misty Fjords below the watchful eyes of the “stone owl,” we passed numerous waterfalls that seemed to descend from the sky. As we entered the punchbowl bay, the vista opened up to a snow-capped peak peeking through the mist above a wide, fresh green meadow of sedge grass. Our Zodiac slowly approached the meadow for some bear and bird spotting. Just when we thought the moment could not get any better, our Zodiac driver turned off the engine. As we floated, listening to the wild sounds of the Tongass National Forest, it became clear — the gift of the day was the present moment.
5/11/2024
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National Geographic Quest
Calvert Island
The Hakai Research Institute is a former fishing lodge that was converted to an ecological observatory in 2009. Nestled in beautiful coastal British Columbia, it is surrounded by pristine old-growth forest, white sand beaches, and tidal inlets. A gem of the Pacific Northwest, the Institute invited Lindblad Expeditions and our guests to visit and explore the remarkable ecology of her mountains and shores. National Geographic Quest made her maiden landing at the Institute today, and it was an incredible day. Guests were able to choose from a variety of casual, moderate, and aerobic hikes, traversing through temperate forest, muskeg, beaches, and tide pools along the way. For those interested in marine exploration, Zodiac cruises probed the glacially-carved edges of the island. All were then invited to explore the grounds of the Institute and talk with the directors, who were happy to share their passions and history with us.