Our first day aboard National Geographic Sea Lion was filled with excitement and wonderment. Not wasting any time, we headed south towards Tracy Arm Fjord to South Sawyer Glacier. Cruising past icebergs, bergy bits, and growlers, everyone got to see the immensity of Southeast Alaska as the fjord’s steep granite walls rose around us. For the day’s first expedition, we loaded into Zodiacs to get a closer look at the face of South Sawyer, a tidewater glacier. We observed numerous harbor seals and even some bald eagles perched on the ice. In the afternoon, we cruised south in hopes of spotting some other charismatic megafauna, specifically humpback whales, as we sailed through Stephen’s Passage. It felt like we were in whale soup, as we became totally surrounded by humpbacks. Spouts and flukes were seen everywhere.
7/24/2024
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National Geographic Sea Bird
Misty Fjords National Monument
Misty Fjords National Monument, administered by the United States Forest Service, is a region of stunning natural beauty, abundant wildlife, and temperate rainforests. These fjords offer ample opportunities to spot a wide variety of animals in their natural habitats. We began the morning with a double bear sighting at the head of Behm Canal. Zodiac cruising in Walker Cove is an ideal way to experience the beauty and tranquil waters of this fjord. Gliding past sedge meadows and salmon streams while keeping an eye out for seals, eagles, and even bears is an unforgettable thrill. The region's diverse marine life and pristine waterways make it a wildlife enthusiast’s paradise. Our cameras and binoculars continue to search for bears, whales, and beautiful light in the waning hours of our voyage. Exploring the untouched wilderness of Southeast Alaska has provided us with a chance to witness nature at its most raw and majestic.