This morning National Geographic Sea Lion was in a shroud of fog as we steamed toward the Inian Islands, the area that our early activities would take place. Luckily, as we anchored our vessel, the fog lifted, visibility increased, and we had great conditions for exploring this scenic and wildlife rich area by our inflatable boats! Even though we had some light rain, the incredible wildlife we encountered made for an exciting adventure. We had humpback whales resting on the surface close by our boats, as well as Steller sea lions busily feeding out in the very strong current that this area is noted for! Many bald eagles, sea otters, tufted puffins and a variety of other birds were also enjoyed by all! During lunch we repositioned National Geographic Sea Lion just a short way to George Island where we had a variety of different activities for the afternoon, including learning about World War II history in this area of Southeast Alaska.
9/9/2023
Read
National Geographic Quest
Ushk Bay
Morning fog swallowed the Southeast Alaskan wilderness. As we cruised into Ushk Bay, anticipation seized the vessel. This morning’s hikes and Zodiac cruises were to be our final operations of the trip; every last one of us was eager to be ensconced in the wonders of the Tongass once again. Following a delicious breakfast — prepared by head chef Paul Cotta and his dedicated team — we set out for shore. Through a light rain we cruised on Zodiacs toward our landing, scattering bald eagles and common mergansers that had congregated along the shore. Ushk Bay’s annual salmon run was nearing its conclusion —and we could smell it. The shoreline was littered with rotting carcasses of pink and chum salmon, many of which were picked apart by corvids, gulls, and bears. Whether or not any of these individuals survived long enough to spawn is a mystery, but there is one certainty amidst this carnage — their sacrifice is not in vain. Their carcasses will enrich this place, injecting the forest with nutrients from the sea. Our last afternoon was spent cruising toward our anchorage near Sitka. The final day of a Lindblad Expeditions cruise is always a hard day. We have all forged new bonds in the fires of wilderness. Every one of us has found ourselves challenged and rewarded, humbled and humored, inspired and inspirational throughout this week. Our new bonds will, thanks to modern technology, be preserved in photographs and videos. Many will be carried on through photos and emails, but this group will never be reconstituted. Though it’s hard to say goodbye, the impermanence of this troupe makes the experience all the more poignant. These adventurers will surely be missed.
