Overcast skies did not slow down our Petersburg activities. Among other events, Global Explorers had an exclusive hike in the muskeg with only their guide and the ship doctor. Fairy barf lichens and British soldier lichens were fun finds in the forest. Up in the bog, the challenge was to touch the edge of a sundew to feel the sticky bits that capture small insects. Muskeg soil is nutrient poor, and one way this plant obtains fertilizer is by killing insects and letting them nourish the roots they drip upon. Activities continued after lunch with a guided hike to Raven’s Roost through the muskeg and the forest where wildflowers were abundant.
6/14/2025
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National Geographic Quest
Southeast Alaska
On the last full day of our voyage, we woke in Endicott Arm near the Dawes Glacier. We spent the morning enjoying Zodiac tours to the face of Dawes Glacier and watched multiple calving events. We were also able to spot several harbor seals, waterfalls, and a couple harbor porpoises on the way. After lunch we had the opportunity to participate in a polar plunge. Forty people decided to brave the frigid water for a short swim. Those of us not eager to jump into glacier water were able to watch from the bow. After the polar plunge, we warmed up on board as we started transiting towards Juneau. On the way, we stopped at a beautiful waterfall to once again admire the amazing natural beauty of Alaska. During our farewell recap, we were treated to a quick visit by a humpback whale. We ended our day with a slideshow made up of our favorite photos and memories of an amazing week on board National Geographic Quest .