It seems like every day we hint at just how eventful, exciting, and busy life aboard is, but today was truly exceptional based upon the amount of activities completed. As far as weather is concerned it was a classic Alaskan summer day…confusing. A calm and sunny morning followed by clouds, wind, rain and returning to the initial conditions of calm water and clear skies.
We awoke slightly earlier than normal thanks to a couple of confident humpbacks that felt no threat from National Geographic Sea Bird, which they approached within 20ft from the bow. We remained around them until breakfast when we relocated to our first of three anchorages; George Island. A protected pebbled beach was a perfect launching point for a couple rounds of kayaking, expedition landing craft cruises, and great entry for the trails leading into the Sitka spruce and hemlock forest. The most unique feature of George Island is the naval pedestal gun that weighs 18 tons, has a six-inch barrel, and at one time discharged 105-pound shells. It was put in place August of 1942 along with some 20mm anti-aircraft guns. It was decommissioned soon after, but the rusty colossal weapon still stands to remind us of WWII.
Just after lunch we had the rare opportunity to enter the shockingly small fishing community of Elfin Cove. The town is linked by a wooden boardwalk and surrounded by multiple docks that accommodate all the fishing vessels and visiting craft. When it comes to population, the seasonal fluctuation is tremendous, a couple hundred summertime residents to just around 10 permanent winter residents. All who ventured into town enjoyed the main boardwalk, scenery, and local shops.
The highlight of the day undoubtedly was the two rounds of inflatable boat cruises through the biologically abundant waters of the Inian Islands. This is repeatedly a staff, crew, and guest favorite for the consistently impressive wildlife encounters. Tidal fluctuations here result in strong currents and upwelling, which bring multitudes of fish close to the surface. The disrupted fish attract hundreds of Steller sea lions and seabirds to the area. We saw over 15 bald eagles more than 12 sea otters, and on a few occasions even watched as Steller sea lions tossed and ripped apart fish into swallow-able pieces. Days like this remind us of just how wild and special Alaska truly is.
