Lake Eva, Sitkoh Bay and Peril Strait
In the early morning hours of Saturday July 9th, National Geographic Sea Bird traveled between Baranof and Chichagof Islands into Hanus Bay. Our stretch class participants not only got a windy wake up and smoothies, but they were visited by a breaching humpback whale, who came to join in and steal the show.
Anchored in the bay, everyone gathered on the shore of Baranof Island to partake in various activities. Friendly forest service rangers met us as we arrived with news of a mama bear and two baby cubs that were recently sighted. Needless to say, there were watchful eyes while hiking to Lake Eva, awaiting bear encounters. No close up meetings, but all the groups on foot enjoyed ferns, mosses, dwarf Canadian dogwood plants, a variety of flower species, and large old growth Sitka spruce trees. There was a plethora of wildlife to see, including red squirrels and various birds.
The more ambitious fast-paced hikers made it to Lake Eva, which round-trip totaled almost four miles. The kayakers entered into the inland areas where Lake Eva empties out into the cove, exploring the rich growth along the shoreline and riverbanks.
But the highlight of the morning for the kids turned out to be the Zodiac driving lessons by our boatswain, Adam. Fun for all! Then we bid farewell to the rangers, piled back into the Zodiacs (driven by staff members) and departed Hanus Bay, just before our last lunch and Global Market.
With much talk of bears, the afternoon started with three brown bear sightings from the ship, just in time for Linda’s presentation of “Alaska’s bears: from cute to ferocious.” Afterwards there was a sneak peek showing by Steve of the film documenting our weeklong stay aboard National Geographic Sea Bird, which promised to be a great summary of all our exciting events. Overall, the guests shared smiles and laughter rethinking the excitement of once in a lifetime events that made the trip so memorable. The evening ended with recaps and cocktails on deck as we transited through Sergius Narrows at slack tide. A wonderful farewell dinner followed as we embarked on a slow cruise to Sitka for departure in the morning.
