On the first full day of our expedition aboard National Geographic Sea Lion we entered Endicott Arm early and sailed toward our destination, Dawes Glacier. It was an uncharacteristically warm and beautiful blue-sky day in southeast Alaska. The fjord was littered with ice sculptures that had calved from the glacier and were melting in the water. Huge icebergs were evidence that there had been several large calving events in the recent past. A visit to the tidewater glacier in our Zodiacs was an exciting and new experience for most. After the visit we sailed back down the fjord to Stephens Passage and were treated to an exuberant humpback that breached. Continuing south, we were in Frederick Sound when we ended our day with a great encounter with a pod of killer whales.
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.