We found ourselves shrouded in fog this morning as the ship cut peacefully through glassy marine waters. As the mist lifted, we clambered into our inflatable boats and began exploring the churning waters of the Inian Islands. At the northern most extent of the inside passage, these islands act as a sieve when the tides change and create a significant amount of mixing and upwelling. This brings nutrients and fish to the surface providing diving birds, sea otters, and sea lions with ample foraging opportunities. On our cruises, we spotted bald eagles snatching rockfish from the water’s surface, Steller sea lions thrashing salmon into smaller bites, and sea otters wrapping themselves in the kelp. In the afternoon, we stretched our legs at Fox Creek and walked the natural bear trails amongst devils club, Sitka spruce, mushrooms, and salmon streams. Our gorgeous day came to a close near the entrance to Glacier Bay National Park, with its towering mountains clinging to white clouds in the sky.
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!