This staff members’ favorite activity in Southeast Alaska is cruising through the Inian Islands. An incredibly special place with biodiversity so rich, it borders on extraordinary. Directly in the middle of the entrance to Icy Strait, and thus, all the inland waters of Southeast Alaska, a huge amount of water rushes past this small archipelago with every tide. Our morning activities were full of marine mammals of all descriptions hunting in the incoming tide and enjoying the late salmon run. For our afternoon, we moved back inland just a few miles to Port Althorp and a nearby salt chuck. Kayaking and hikes of all durations and speeds were offered. A highlight day of any expedition.
9/3/2022
Read
National Geographic Quest
Ushk Bay and Peril Strait
National Geographic Quest arose amidst light clouds within the protected waters of Ushk Bay. This area is known for a salmon stream and yields plenty of opportunity for kayaking and exploring the vast meadows of its inner waterways. On this day’s occasion, guests were able to hike and paddle their way along the coast of Ushk Bay and witness firsthand the life cycle of Pacific salmon making their way upstream. As we transited through Peril Strait, we were lucky to see humpback whales. These immense mammals were “lunge feeding” very near our ship. Being able to witness this event was unique for guests and staff. Lunge feeding is process through which individual whales push their gaping mouths through the surface and collect any fish or planktonic invertebrates in the process. Witnessing this behavior was truly a remarkable experience for all. We will cherish this moment for a lifetime.
