The first evening and full day of our voyage were full of learning, adventure, and exploration. We began with time on the bow to watch for wildlife, and we discovered our first coastal brown bear just before sunset. Our morning viewings revealed many birds and misty scenery all around. After breakfast and safety briefings, our photo instructor presented tips for photographing with smartphones and photography overall. Immediately after, we were treated to a humpback whale not far from the ship. After a delicious lunch, we made a wet landing on shore near Lake Eva, where we spent the afternoon kayaking and hiking in the rainforest. A fun start to our trip!
7/22/2024
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National Geographic Sea Lion
Sitka Sound
Early risers aboard National Geographic Sea Lion were treated to a stellar show of humpback whales this morning as we made our way south down the mountain-studded coast of Baranof Island. The long, lazy swell that lulled us to sleep overnight contrasted spectacularly with the fast breaches, tail slaps, and fluking displays that surrounded us as we rounded Cape Edgecumbe and entered Sitka Sound. Sea otters and fishing boats galore greeted us as we slipped into the calm waters of the sound, bound for Magoun Islands State Marine Park for an afternoon of Zodiac cruising and hiking. The hikers found ample evidence of recent bear presence in the form of fresh scat and tracks, but no bears were to be found. Most of us were quite relieved not to surprise a bear! The Zodiac cruisers were treated to gorgeous intertidal habitats littered with mussels, barnacles, sea stars, and clams. After warming up a bit at lunch, a record thirty-one brave souls jumped into the frigid waters for our polar plunge! As we arrived in Sitka this evening, we admired the snow-capped mountain tops normally shrouded in mist. Steller sea lions cavorting around the dock served as reminders of our adventures.
