After sailing from Haida Gwaii, we reentered U.S. waters and arrived at the northern boundary of Dixon Entrance. The mist and clouds from the day before were gone and we were treated to sunshine on the water as we began our journey in Southeast Alaska. We soon spotted a solitary humpback whale feeding near the shore of a small cove. The whale surface fed for a while, then began slapping its tail on the surface. Some speculate that this is a learned behavior that possibly stuns the whale’s fish prey. After having our fill of the whale, we continued east into Behm Canal, through Owl Pass and the cliff face that gives the pass its name, and into the heart of Misty Fjords National Monument. We set anchor at the head of the canal and spent the afternoon kayaking the quiet bay and shoreline. While guests relaxed on deck with drinks and hors d’oeuvres before dinner, a few staff headed out by expedition landing craft to deploy the remote-operated vehicle into the sea below the Owl Pass rock face.
9/18/2024
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National Geographic Sea Lion
Queen Charlotte City, Haida Gwaii
Yesterday was a delightful day spent exploring the rich culture and natural beauty of Haida Gwaii! We began our adventure at the Heritage Center in Queen Charlotte City, where we immersed ourselves in the fascinating history and artistry of the Haida people. The vibrant exhibits and stories brought the local culture to life, setting a perfect tone for our day. Afterward, we hiked the stunning Spirit Lake Trail with our knowledgeable guide, Linda. Her enthusiasm was infectious as she shared captivating tales about the local flora and fauna. We learned how the Haida utilize various plants for traditional medicine, including the licorice root for soothing sore throats. The lush temperate rainforest enveloped us, with towering red cedars and vibrant ferns creating a serene backdrop for our hike. As we reached Spirit Lake, the tranquility of the water mirrored the peacefulness of the surroundings, making it a perfect spot for reflection. The day concluded with laughter and camaraderie as we enjoyed a hearty meal together. With Linda's stories echoing in our minds, we left feeling enriched by both knowledge and experience, eager for our next adventure!