After a stretch of incredibly good weather, we woke this morning to typical Southeast Alaska weather with overcast skies and cool temperatures. This is what makes this place so special and allows the conditions of these spectacular temperate rainforests. Today’s destination was Thomas Bay on the mainland but not before transiting the Wrangell Narrows between Kupreanof and Mitkof Islands. This shallow, winding waterway has about 60 lights and marker poles used by ships to safely navigate the strong currents that often run in both directions each day. Today’s passage was very scenic with lots of bald eagles and glassy waters. In Thomas Bay, we disembarked to enjoy a variety of hikes, including a long aerobic hike and photo and nature walks. Once back on the ship, we sailed to the back of Thomas Bay and were treated to drinks on the bow by our hotel team as we entered Scenic Cove. It was another wonderful day in Southeast Alaska.
4/24/2024
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National Geographic Sea Lion
Old Massett, Haida Gwaii
Back to Daajing Giids! After an incredible day in SGang Gwaay visiting an ancestral village with still-standing historic totem poles, our Haida hosts thought it appropriate to bring us to Old Massett – and what a joy it was! This remarkable township is home to two master carvers responsible for sharing their culture far and wide. Jim Hart showed us his home studio where we got to meet his mother and his son. Together, Jim and his son shared the stories of the three totem poles outside of their home, each with a unique story regarding close family members. Another master carver some 5 minutes down the road, Christian White, beckoned us into his carving shed where he and his apprentices were actively shaping a canoe out of red cedar. Christian and Jim honor their ancestors’ legacies by training young Haida as carvers, each having several apprentices. In both workshops, the smell of newly carved cedar brought a sense of purpose and hard work; wood shavings danced in the air like the Haida dancers would just after lunch today. It was another wonderful day of sharing, dancing, singing, and laughing.