The day dawned warm and cloudless, aside from the morning mist that hung over the mountains surrounding Chatham Strait, as we made our way to Pavlof Harbor. Even before the morning announcement at 6:55 a.m., whales were spotted near the ship as they gorged themselves on an early breakfast of forage fish and phytoplankton. After anchoring in Freshwater Bay, guests enjoyed their first activities off the ship, then ventured out into bigger water after lunch. More active humpback whales in the strait derailed our plans for an afternoon of hiking and instead, we spent the rest of the day onboard with new and old friends and family, watching the abundant marine wildlife and learning why Southeast Alaska is such a wonderful place to visit.
5/14/2024
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National Geographic Sea Lion
Cascade Creek and Frederick Sound
Today was classic southeastern Alaska. A light rain greeted us as we woke and continued until we retired to bed. But rather than being annoying, it magically transformed the jaw-dropping landscape to a higher level. Three hikes were offered: casual, moderate, and strenuous. No one stayed aboard, all donned appropriate gear and humbly walked through the majestic coastal rain forest, closely observed by stately centuries-old Sitka spruce and western hemlock, as well as a diverse assemblage of understory shrubs, mosses, lichens, and fungi. Many of us also saw the often-overlooked rough skinned newt. The afternoon consisted of cruising for wildlife through Fredericks Sound and briefly watching a single humpback whale. During the mid-afternoon, we listened to two presentations on whales. Of course, a pod of Dahl’s porpoises ‘interrupted’ one of them, but in a most welcome manner. Several swam alongside the ship, affording a great view for those watching out the lounge windows. And before cocktails and recap, we encountered a solitary humpback that was actively diving and showing its distinctive fluke. After dinner, we participated in a trivia contest with subjects ranging from Alaskan history, natural history, ship characteristics, and the staff. It was a lively way to end the day.
