They say you only get one chance to make a good first impression. Here in Southeast Alaska that is all we need. Setting the tone of the expedition we began by exploring Williams Cove by foot or paddle, after the first of many delicious breakfasts on board.
For those that had never kayaked before it would be hard to even design a more ideal location, calm serene waters, gently rising forested slopes and lots of wide open space with nothing to bump into! Hikers were able to begin to introduce themselves to the wonders of the temperate rain forest that we will be surrounded by all week, immersing ourselves into a vibrant world of deep glowing green.
After these delightful morning pleasantries the National Geographic Sea Bird made her way up the breathtaking Tracy Arm fjord. This stretch of wilderness is perhaps the most stunning commute on the planet as we made our way to the main event of the day. The glacially carved granite valleys towered above leading to the sources of such exquisite geologic artistry, Sawyer and South Sawyer Glaciers. Scope and scale were soon surrendered as we smoothly sidled up to the face of these massive walls of ice. Whether watching from the comfort of the bow or proximity of a rubber inflatable boat the sheer presence of these blue and white rivers of tightly compressed snow is awesome in the true sense of the word. To feel the chilled wind on your face or hear the deep rumble and cracks truly does inspire a great sense of admiration while still leaves one feeling slightly daunted. The almost chaotically random formations of pinnacles, (known as seracs) gives an otherworldly feeling that enhances the sensation that to be here is truly special.
Floating and watching the harbor seals and icebergs bob around us it’s safe to say that this first impression will assuredly also be a very long lasting one.
