Elfin Cove and Inian Islands, 9/10/2019, National Geographic Venture
Aboard the
National Geographic Venture
Alaska
We spent the day near the northern end of Chichagof Island, where Inside Passage waters meet the Gulf of Alaska. We visited Elfin Cove, a tiny year-round community perched on the rocky fringes of a cozy little harbor. Later we boarded Zodiacs to look for marine life in the rich and productive waters nearby, and we found sea otters, sea lions, humpback whales and seabirds.
Berit grew up on the rocky shores of Marblehead, Massachusetts, where she explored the marine environment through changing tides and seasons, nurturing a love of natural history and marine biology.
We awoke this morning inside Glacier Bay National Park with clouds hanging low over wide expanses of ice. At one point, an eagle landed on an iceberg and was later mobbed by brave gulls. Although the sun made an early attempt to show itself, gentle rain was our near constant companion as we traveled into scenic fjords and circumnavigated storied islands. Sea otters with pups swam alongside us, while sea lions serenaded from rocky shores, and mountain goats traversed high ledges. While the rain kept us largely indoors by mid-afternoon, the atmosphere inside was sunny. With entertaining presentations, good company, and a Bloody Mary bar, our day remained lively.
We began the day cruising into the breathtaking Tracy Arm Fjord surrounded by towering cliffs of rock and beautiful waterfalls. After breakfast, guests set out on two thrilling rounds of Zodiac tours, zipping through a maze of icebergs in all shapes and shades of blue—some small and delicate, others massive and glowing deep blue. After a warming lunch, the bravest among us took the plunge—literally— into the icy fjord waters. Laughter, cheers, and wide-eyed shouts echoed across the deck as guests leapt in and emerged exhilarated. In the afternoon, we made our way back out of Tracy Arm, and just when we thought the day couldn't get better, humpback whales appeared. We were treated to an incredible display of fluking dives and dramatic pectoral slaps, a powerful and graceful end to an unforgettable day in Alaska.
After exploring the remote reaches and quiet majesty of Misty Fjords National Monument yesterday, today offered a shift in rhythm with a full day of adventure in the charming fishing town of Petersburg. Located on Mitkof Island and known for its strong Norwegian heritage, Petersburg is framed by forested mountains and intricate tidal sloughs that teem with wildlife. Guests had a variety of ways to experience the island’s vibrant mix of culture and nature. Some opted for a scenic guided bike tour through quiet backroads and coastal paths, stopping for sweeping views of Frederick Sound and learning about the community’s fishing traditions. Others chose from several beautiful hikes, including a boardwalk trail through muskeg wetlands and a deeper trek into the lush Tongass National Forest. Those craving a slower pace enjoyed unstructured time to stroll through the harborside town, visiting local shops, a bookstore, and museums, or simply soaking up the friendly, lived-in feel of this working waterfront. Bald eagles soared overhead, harbor seals bobbed just offshore, and Sitka black-tailed deer made a few surprise appearances. Back aboard National Geographic Venture , we capped the day with a crab feast and an engaging talk by Naturalist Liz Czok on glaciers.
