The final full day of our voyage began in the calm, reflective waters of Ushk Bay. Murrelets, eagles, and great blue herons flew over the intertidal grasses and rocky beach. Hikes in the forest of cedars and spruces smelled fresh and clean. Clear water rushed out the stream we followed into the shaded wood. We walked along a bear trail to a bordering meadow of wildflowers. Yarrows, wild irises, cow parsnips, unalaska paintbrushes, lupines, beach peas, and western buttercups created a display of colors. Back on the exposed beach, we looked for animal tracks and debris left by the sea.
On board during lunch, a mother-calf pair breached near the boat. The yearling calf launched itself dozens of times, stunning us all and helping us capture great photographs. What an end to the activities during a fabulous week together.
