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.
5/12/2025
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National Geographic Sea Lion
Haines, Alaska
The fastidious crew of National Geographic Sea Lion tied off their dock lines in beautiful Haines, Alaska, at 0700. Surrounded by snowcapped peaks, Haines offered a postcard-perfect welcome. Guests had their pick of daily adventures, from scenic bike tours to immersive hikes into the surrounding wilderness. Eager to make the most of the day, we fueled up with breakfast and set off for Mount Riley by 0800. The 5.6-mile out-and-back trail challenged us with a 1,500-foot elevation gain, but each step brought greater reward. Along the way, we spotted Devil’s Matchstick lichen—an iconic burst of black atop slender stalks, resembling burnt match sticks. As we climbed higher, breathtaking views of the Chilkat Mountains and Lynn Canal revealed themselves. At the summit, we paused to take in the sweeping vistas, humbled by the scale and silence of Alaska’s wild spaces. It was a moment of shared awe and camaraderie, the kind that forges lasting connections. Afterward, returning to the charming town of Haines felt like re-entering a quiet storybook. This blend of rugged adventure and small-town warmth made the day truly extraordinary.
