Cascade Creek and Petersburg, 6/13/2017, National Geographic Sea Bird
Aboard the
National Geographic Sea Bird
Alaska
As we were enjoying our daily stretch class on the upper deck, we pulled into Thomas Bay and anchored for our morning at Cascade Creek.
In the afternoon we went to Petersburg, where some of us discovered the beautiful muskeg on Kupreanof Island. Others took a floatplane over the LeConte Glacier, before exploring the quaint Norwegian town of Petersburg.
Michelle grew up in France and found “home” upon her arrival in California in 1985. In 1987, a near death experience opened the doors to the deep connection between Body Mind Spirit and she became fascinated with the human body. Instead of furthering...
Today aboard National Geographic Venture , we explored the northern entrance to the Inside Passage. Our day began with a visit to George Island where we hiked to an old World War II-era gun emplacement. Later, we enjoyed a Zodiac cruise around the Inian Islands. The powerful tidal currents in this area create ideal feeding grounds for marine mammals, and we were fortunate to get excellent views of sea otters.
Glacier Bay National Park…words that, I believe, should be spoken with reverence. As a national park, this area belongs to all Americans. As a World Heritage Site, this park belongs to all global citizens of Earth and yet, it belongs to no one at all. Designated wilderness further elevates the sanctity of the wild places in this bay. Today we will see hundreds of miles of coastline, but never will we see a permanent human structure; no villages, no cabins, no old canneries or docks. Yet tens of thousands of visitors may journey to the very heart of this park every year, primarily on ships, boats, and kayaks. That is the magic of this place, to enchant our senses, lift our hearts, and heal our souls with simply the vision of these tidal waters brimming with mountains, ice, wildlife, and wildness. Nature and wilderness have always been there for us when we need it most.
Aboard National Geographic Venture , the day began with a scenic sail into Basket Bay on Chichagof Island. Guests embarked on a morning Zodiac cruise, where they were treated to sightings of harbor seals and a curious mink. Following that, they explored the dramatic rock walls and rich intertidal zones by kayak, enjoying close encounters with sea stars and jellyfish. As the ship repositioned to Pavlof Harbor over lunch, excitement built quickly—upon anchoring, three brown bears were spotted on the beach. After lunch and bear viewing, guests disembarked for forest hikes along a salmon-spawning stream. Although it was too early in the season for salmon, the group was rewarded with sightings of two beavers and the tranquil beauty of the lush Alaskan wilderness. It was a day full of wildlife, adventure, and unforgettable moments in the remote corners of Southeast Alaska.
