Daily Expedition Reports
11 Aug 2022

Tracy Arm-Fords Terror Wilderness, 8/11/2022, National Geographic Sea Bird

Aboard the National Geographic Sea Bird
Alaska

What a glorious day in Tracy Arm-Fords Terror Wilderness on our final day of this journey. We woke to beautiful clear skies as we passed Sumdum Glacier in Endicott Arm on our way to Dawes Glacier. As we sailed up the fjords towards the tidewater glacier, we were treated to spectacular waterfalls cascading into the blue water. Our first stop was a very low tide in Fords Terror. We could see rushing currents of the water exiting this fjord, making it impossible to proceed upriver due to the current. After lunch, we made it to Dawes Glacier, where we had our day’s activities. All guests were treated to a close-up view of this spectacular tidewater glacier with calving ice and plenty of harbor seals hauled out on ice floes. What a perfect way to end this epic expedition.

Article by

Rich Reid, National Geographic Photography Expert

Award-winning photographer and filmmaker Rich Reid has specialized in environmental and adventure photography for over two decades. On assignment with National Geographic Adventure magazine, he cycled Alaska’s Inside Passage by ferry and explored Cal...

Bartholomew Island and Chinese Hat Islet

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Please note: All Daily Expedition Reports (DERs) are posted Monday-Friday, during normal business hours. DERs are written onboard the ship only and do not apply to land-based portions of expeditions.

Daily Expedition Reports

5/20/2023

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National Geographic Sea Bird

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Daily Expedition Reports

5/20/2023

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National Geographic Sea Lion

Tracy Arm-Fords Terror Wilderness Area

Today's expedition took us deep into stunning Tracy Arm, a fjord renowned for its magnificent ice formations. Our mission was to explore the unique and captivating world of ice, documenting its mesmerizing beauty and uncovering its secrets. Little did we know that our day would also include an exhilarating afternoon polar plunge, adding an extra element of adventure to our icy exploration. Filled with anticipation, our expedition team got started early in the morning. Tracy Arm greeted us with breathtaking views of towering glaciers and pristine blue waters. The air was crisp, carrying a hint of excitement as we set sail towards our icy destination. As we ventured into the fjord, the presence of ice became increasingly apparent. Massive icebergs, sculpted by the forces of nature, dotted the icy waters. Their varied shapes and sizes created a surreal landscape that glistened under the sunlight. The hues of blue radiating from the ice formations cast a magical ambiance, captivating our senses. Our expert glaciologists provided invaluable insights into the formation of these ice structures. They explained that the ice originated from the Sawyer and South Sawyer Glaciers, slowly calving over time and giving birth to the majestic icebergs that grace Tracy Arm. The process of calving, where chunks of ice break off from the glacier's edge, is a mesmerizing sight that constantly shapes and reshapes the environment. As we ventured deeper into the fjord, our captain skillfully navigated the vessel through a labyrinth of ice formations. We marveled at the intricate patterns carved by nature with each iceberg displaying its unique artistry. The silence was occasionally interrupted by distant crackling sounds as the ice shifted, reminding us of the dynamic nature of this frozen landscape. In the afternoon, our expedition took an unexpected turn as we offered our guests the opportunity to partake in a polar plunge—an invigorating experience that would forever be etched in their memories. Adventurous individuals, equipped with proper gear and under the supervision of our experienced staff, voluntarily dove into the icy waters of Tracy Arm. The guests, with a mix of excitement and trepidation, braved the cold and immersed themselves in the frigid depths. Their courageous leap into the icy embrace of nature served as a testament to the indomitable spirit of exploration. While the guests reveled in their polar plunge experience, our team continued documenting ice formations and its intricate details. Using specialized equipment, we collected data on the ice's composition, temperature, and characteristics, contributing to ongoing glacial research efforts. Understanding these frozen giants is essential for comprehending the complex dynamics of our planet's changing climate. As the day drew to a close, we bid farewell to Tracy Arm, leaving behind a captivating world of ice. Guests were satisfied and exhilarated. Our expedition had unraveled the beauty and grandeur of this icy realm, highlighting the delicate balance of nature and the endless wonders it holds. In conclusion, today's expedition to observe Tracy Arm's ice formations provided us with an extraordinary opportunity to witness the marvels of nature. The captivating beauty of the ice, combined with the adventurous spirit of a polar plunge, created an unforgettable experience for all involved. As we continue our journey, we are reminded of the importance of preserving these icy landscapes and understanding their role in the larger tapestry of our planet's interconnected ecosystems.

Daily Expedition Reports

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National Geographic Sea Bird

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Tracy Arm-Fords Terror Wilderness, 8/11/2022, National Geographic Sea Bird