Misty Fjords National Monument, 5/7/2023, National Geographic Venture
Aboard the
National Geographic Venture
Alaska
Today we entered back into American waters and crossed into Alaska. We went through Customs and headed up the Behm Canal and into Misty Fjords National Monument. We spent the day doing Zodiac tours and kayak ops inside Punchbowl Cove.
Nathan Kelley developed his love for nature as a kid at his family’s cabin in Northern Wisconsin. Family fishing trips, camping, hiking and a trip to his first National Park in the Everglades, all vigorously shaped his passion for the natural world. ...
After clearing customs, National Geographic Quest made its way deep into the stunning and massive fjord walls of Misty Fjords, en route through Behm Canal and Rudyard Canyon towards God’s Pocket. We had a delicious brunch and then disembarked for kayaking and Zodiac tours. We enjoyed the lovely and serene views, including waterfalls, lush landscapes, and many ducks. You could say it was very…gneiss! On our way north, we ran into an unexpected visitor… the sun! While it didn’t last long, it did mean we had a full bow of guests enjoying the day. Onwards towards Petersburg!
National Geographic Quest arrived at Green Inlet in brilliant sunshine this morning. All onboard enjoyed arriving accompanied by rays of sunshine pouring through the forest that blanket the steep hills. Guests spent the morning kayaking and touring the local area by Zodiac. Zodiac cruisers found a variety of birds and tumbling waterfalls.
Billowing wisps of fog ribboned their way among the drooping bows of Sitka spruce as our ship cut through Johnstone Straight. Uncle Jim showed us many of his priceless treasures. Marveled by the craftsmanship of cedar spoons and intricate beadwork, the highlight was the opportunity to lay hands on a Chilkoot blanket, only ever seen behind protective panes of glass. The rain showers slowed as the gangway was lowered, and we took to the streets of Alert Bay. On foot or by bus, we made our way to U’mista Cultural Center. Enriching artifacts lined the walls for us to see, while outside we heard tales from a master carver and got to witness the artist in his element. A truly unique experience awaited us in the big house. Dancers in well-detailed regalia stomped and twisted in concert while the white smoke wisps weaved in the spaces between us and a nearly forgotten culture. The tribe invited us down for one last dance, and as we walked out the doors of the big house, wonder and joy reflected on our smiling faces.
