Inian Islands
After a few days exploring the inner waters of Southeast Alaska, today we got a taste of the wilder seas along the outer coast. Here, where the protected channels give way to the open Pacific Ocean, marine life is abundant and conspicuous. Humpback whales fed vigorously around the National Geographic Sea Bird before we had our breakfast, and they were with us again after we had finished dinner.
Our morning Zodiac cruise through the Inian Islands brought further delights. Steller’s sea lions were here in their hundreds and many of the young males were curious enough to approach our boats for a thorough inspection. Those not in the water were piled onto the rocks at a nearby islet, their throaty growls reminiscent of revving motorcylces. The sea lions frequent this area to take advantage of the many salmon and other fish that are funneled through the narrow channels between the islands.
Other “patrons” frequenting this marine cafeteria were humpback whales, pelagic cormorants, horned puffins, and bald eagles. Closer into shore, sea otters floated within the kelp beds, grooming their dense fur as they slowly backstroked along.
In the afternoon we visited the petite village of Elfin Cove before hiking and kayaking at nearby George Island. But, even with such a full and varied day, it was the marine mammal sightings that stole the show.
