Overnight, National Geographic Sea Bird brought us through Frederick Sound and Stephens Passage from the Kuiu Islands to Holkham Bay. We crossed the bar–an underwater, terminal glacial moraine–at Holkham Bay in the late morning, and we enjoyed cruising through the tall, glacially carved walls of the dramatic Tracy Arm-Fords Terror Wilderness on a rare blue bird day. As we made our way up the fjord, naturalist and geologist Nicole Yamagiwa taught our guests about the glaciology of Tracy Arm from the bow of our ship. Is there any better way to learn about U-shaped valleys, moraines, cirques, hanging valleys, and roche moutonnée than with a geologist holding a whiteboard whilst sailing through the features you are learning about? I think not! It was incredible! A stop at Hole-in-the-Wall Waterfall was an incredible addition to our day. Upon arrival at our heave to location, our able crew lowered inflatable boats to the water, and our team of naturalists and photographers took our guests out by small watercraft to the South Sawyer Glacier terminus to explore icebergs, seals, glacial calving, and even mountain goats! At the end of our day, our guests enjoyed a last dinner aboard National Geographic Sea Bird, followed by a photography slideshow prepared by our photo instructor Lisa Hornak. It has truly been an incredible journey these last six days!
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.