Despite a delayed start, the spirits of YPO Global One charter guests remained high as they finally set sail this morning. The lounge was abuzz with excitement after the last of the travelers arrived, equally enthusiastic despite their travel hurdles.
Cruising through Gastineau Channel near Juneau, guests enjoyed their first taste of the trip’s breathtaking scenery and charismatic wildlife. Bald eagles dotted the shoreline at low tide, harbor seals fished in the brilliant blue waters, and towering mountains pierced the low grey clouds, creating a picturesque rainforest fjord.
We spent the morning preparing for the adventures ahead, with briefings from our expedition team on kayaking, Zodiacs, and hiking in bear country. Guests donned their muck boots in anticipation of exploring the Tongass National Rainforest. Naturalist Tim delivered an engaging presentation on the geology of Southeast Alaska, while Certified Field Educator Jeff delighted our Global Explorers with an educational and delicious activity, building a glacier out of ice cream.
After lunch, National Geographic Quest sailed into Tracy Arm Fjord for an awe-inspiring close-up view of South Sawyer Glacier. Guests were thrilled by sightings of mountain goats, harbor seals, and a variety of birdlife thriving near the stunning blue glacier, capping off an exhilarating day of exploration.
