Before breakfast, National Geographic Sea Bird slipped through glassy water past Baird Glacier and into the well-named Scenery Cove. Lacey wisps of clouds added a mystical mood to the smooth rocks and densely forested slopes beneath the blue sky overhead.
Our morning anchorage at Cascade Creek offered access to a swift stream that tumbled through a lovely forest. Not far from the landing, a thundering waterfall provided an impressive backdrop for photographers and a highlight for many hikers. From there, several groups ascended a series of steep steps then continued through lush spruces and hemlocks to a bridge that straddled a gushing torrent. It was fun to peer down into the raging water from the safety of the well-constructed bridge.
As we finished lunch, the ship pulled into the small harbor at Petersburg. Even from a distance, the Sons of Norway Hall and a Norwegian flag were visible, reflecting the Scandinavian heritage of this vibrant fishing community. The officers and crew secured the Sea Bird to the dock, and guests scattered in all directions for the afternoon. Many chose to wander through town or to explore by bicycle. The naturalists led a walk to a fascinating peat bog, an informative photo walk, a stroll along the docks to learn about the fishing fleet, and a tour by water in our expedition landing craft to see the harbor. Underneath the floating docks a colorful array of marine life flourished. One could peek over the edge or lie belly down to study the feather-duster worms, mussels, and sea cucumbers. Giant plumose anemones resembled cauliflowers on hose-like stalks. Smaller and more delicate powder-puff anemones came in both orange and white. The anemones in the photo are known as painted, or Christmas-tree anemones, due to the red and green blotches below the mop-like tentacles.
Eventually, everyone was back on board to enjoy smoked seafood appetizers followed by a delicious dinner of ribs and fresh Dungeness crab. At sunset, humpback whales appeared all around us. It was exciting enough just to view these magnificent animals, but it was exceptional to watch Individuals lunge out of the water repeatedly to engulf krill. What a fabulous way to end another day of our voyage in Southeast Alaska!
