We started our misty morning by exploring a very special location known as the Inian Islands. This spot is incredibly unique and exciting to both guests and staff, due to its location which creates a phenomenon known as upwelling. Upwelling is when cold, nutrient-rich water is forced from the bottom of the ocean up to the top. This happens in the Inian Islands because they are situated in the northernmost point of the Inside Passage in Southeast Alaska, where the waters of the Pacific Ocean rush in from the Gulf of Alaska at high tide. The influx of nutrients is like a dinner bell that brings all the critters, from sea lions and otters to whales and puffins, out of their homes to have a big, rippin’ and roarin’ meal!

In the afternoon we scooted on over to George Island for some hiking, kayaking, and photo walks. We explored the beaches and learned about the rich World War II history of this particular island. Hiking through the beautiful temperate rainforest brought us up to a vantage point where an 18-ton historical gun guarded a stunning cove from an enemy that would never arrive.