The final day of our epic voyage through Western Alaska ended with a spectacular visit into Kenai Fjords National Park. We sailed up Northwestern Fjord to the tidewater glacier that flows out from the Harden Ice Field: the largest icefield that exists entirely within the United States. Extended Zodiac cruises were punctuated with visits from hot-chocolate-bearing crew members and throaty calving events from the face of the glacier.

After lunch we sailed out of the fjord and into the sunshine. We spent the afternoon watching humpback and fin whales swim amongst the islets of Kenai accompanied with Steller sea lions and Dall’s porpoise. Sea otters made another appearance as they bobbed peacefully by, and even the elusive harbor porpoise showed itself to the select few who could catch a glimpse.