Guests on National Geographic Sea Bird woke to a classically Alaskan morning of mists and light showers cruising the narrow reaches of Red Bluff Bay. Guarding its mouth the great mound of mantle-derived material that gives the bay its name with its iron rich rocks jutted to our starboard. As we reached the end of the bay we nosed up to a massive waterfall thundering down from the forests and glaciers above. After breakfast we worked our way along the east coast of Baranof Island past a multitude of waterfalls of varying size and character amongst the forested foothills. Out to sea, a parasitic jaeger, a seabird not unlike a large gull, engaged in the kleptoparasitic behavior of harrying another bird into regurgitating its fish.
On approach to Warm Springs Bay, a small pod of killer whales appeared out of the gloom. Soon a group of hopeful gulls gathered hovering over the diving orcas in anticipation. Sure enough these resident killer whales proved true to their nature and emerged from the depths with chunks of salmon flesh for the birds to squabble over. As we watched them, local whale biologist Dr. Andy Szabo joined us on his Zodiac to give a scintillating presentation on his work with humpback whales in the area.
In the afternoon at Hanus Bay we went ashore on Baranof Island to explore the forests and creeks near Lake Eva by foot and kayak. While the moss-laden forests revealed a multitude of fascinating plants, lichens, mosses, and fungus, the creek provided the main attraction. Over a small cascade, adult pink salmon coursed through surging waters and guests gathered beside the deep pool above it to watch the impressive fish prepare for their final fatal spawning run to the faster flowing waters above. Drawn to the same attraction, coastal brown bears arrived on the scene to feed on the rich crop of salmon. Two brown bears worked their way along the edge ducking in and out of the forest and even the kayakers got stunning views of these magnificent creatures. After the bears took their leave we soon followed returning to the ship for a feast of our own before heading north overnight for more adventures.
