Today our guests were treated to an unforgettable experience at Pavlov Harbor. We had a spectacular sighting of coastal brown bears eating salmon, including some cubs getting in on the action. We observed a total of six bears. We marveled at their skill and determination as they packed on the pounds in preparation for winter. The sight of these magnificent creatures in the glistening water was truly a privilege. Guests on Zodiac tours not only got to go upriver to see bears by the waterfall, but they also got to zoom outside the bay to watch humpback whales. Observing whales from a Zodiac is a sight unlike any other. Our guests got to watch them breathe and dive from an eye level view. Their soothing yet explosive exhales were captivating as we sat and listened to them breathe. One of the big highlights was the group’s mass participation in the polar plunge. Our brave and daring passengers ran from the shore into the icy waters as screams and cheers were carried over the water. Tonight, we celebrate our last night together by looking for wildlife in Peril Strait and watching our guest slideshow. Reliving our week through the photos our guests submit is one of the best parts of our trip.
5/7/2025
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National Geographic Sea Lion
Inian Islands, Port Althorp
The Inian Islands invoke sheer joy and excitement among the naturalists, which in turn, is transferred to the guests. We set out in Zodiacs, traversing in nearly unprecedented calm conditions through the narrow Mosquito Pass, then around North Inian Island. We observed over a dozen bald eagles and sea lions waiting for the inrushing tide to bring fish to the surface for easy pickings. We also saw a couple of male sea otters peacefully lying on the surface while fluffing up their fur to introduce air for insulation (they don’t have blubber). The weather was classic Alaska…sun grading to rain…then to partly cloudy. In the afternoon, we traveled to Port Althorp for kayaking and hikes. Again, very calm conditions with intermittent sun and rain. The hikes were beautiful, winding across the mud flats and into the thick rainforest painted with several shades of green. Bear trails were observed and used by us as convenient paths to follow. Kayakers slowly paddled across glassy water to enjoy the peace and solitude. The day ended with soft sun.