Sitka, Alaska
What a full and fascinating day we have had. Through the morning mist we spotted transient killer whales off the bow of the Sea Bird. It wasn’t long after when the rain came for a spell and brought with it a magnificent humpback whale. With the expertise of our officers at the helm we were able to navigate and safely view these amazing mammals. Naturalist Steve Zeff, answered all of the lingering questions about the life and habits of whales in the region. However, our guests were not at all shy when given the chance to participate with the whale identification. All those with digital cameras were encouraged to share with the rest of our guests any pictures that may help identify which group of whales we had seen. We called our results into the Killer Whale Hotline of Southeast Alaska.
After a well-deserved lunch, we docked at the small port of Sikta, the capital, of what was once Russian Alaska. We were introduced to the vibrant and rich cultural history from which this diverse community of 9000 people evolved. Our first stop was the Raptor Rehabilitation Center of Sitka for an up-close and somewhat intimidating view of a few bald eagles. The second stop was to the Sheldon Jackson Museum. Among treasured artifacts, a native artisan explained the role of his people as he created before us a treasure of his own. A tour of St. Michael’s Cathedral was steeped in Russian culture and the far reaches of its church’s history. There was a bit of time to explore Sitka’s clever little shops. Our final visit for the day took us to a place where the cultural story of the Tlingit people came to life in dazzling color through drumming and storytelling. At the end of their performance they shared with us some great news. They have received the honor of being the first Alaskan Representatives to participate in the annual 4th of July parade in Washington D.C. We will carry with us the friendship that was shared by the NaaKahidi Dancers, as we cheer them on while they are broadcast to the country, passing in front of the Presidential Box.
Being satisfied with a full day of history, culture, and wildlife we returned to the comforts of the Sea Bird and that beautiful announcement of “Dinner is served.” We will certainly sleep well tonight, and look forward to brand new adventures tomorrow.
What a full and fascinating day we have had. Through the morning mist we spotted transient killer whales off the bow of the Sea Bird. It wasn’t long after when the rain came for a spell and brought with it a magnificent humpback whale. With the expertise of our officers at the helm we were able to navigate and safely view these amazing mammals. Naturalist Steve Zeff, answered all of the lingering questions about the life and habits of whales in the region. However, our guests were not at all shy when given the chance to participate with the whale identification. All those with digital cameras were encouraged to share with the rest of our guests any pictures that may help identify which group of whales we had seen. We called our results into the Killer Whale Hotline of Southeast Alaska.
After a well-deserved lunch, we docked at the small port of Sikta, the capital, of what was once Russian Alaska. We were introduced to the vibrant and rich cultural history from which this diverse community of 9000 people evolved. Our first stop was the Raptor Rehabilitation Center of Sitka for an up-close and somewhat intimidating view of a few bald eagles. The second stop was to the Sheldon Jackson Museum. Among treasured artifacts, a native artisan explained the role of his people as he created before us a treasure of his own. A tour of St. Michael’s Cathedral was steeped in Russian culture and the far reaches of its church’s history. There was a bit of time to explore Sitka’s clever little shops. Our final visit for the day took us to a place where the cultural story of the Tlingit people came to life in dazzling color through drumming and storytelling. At the end of their performance they shared with us some great news. They have received the honor of being the first Alaskan Representatives to participate in the annual 4th of July parade in Washington D.C. We will carry with us the friendship that was shared by the NaaKahidi Dancers, as we cheer them on while they are broadcast to the country, passing in front of the Presidential Box.
Being satisfied with a full day of history, culture, and wildlife we returned to the comforts of the Sea Bird and that beautiful announcement of “Dinner is served.” We will certainly sleep well tonight, and look forward to brand new adventures tomorrow.
