Today began the final day for National Geographic Venture’s two-week long journey from Seattle to Sitka. One could not help but feel reminiscent as we cruised the coastline to our final landing at Ushk Bay of Chichagof Island. We peeked our heads into the understory to find remnants of the bears that are out enjoying the sprouts of spring. One last breath of forest air and we were back on the water. We spent our afternoon cruising through narrow passages, admiring the forest and marine life. It has been a full two weeks of wildlife, new friendships, laughter, and intentional moments of silence in appreciation of this humbling landscape.

Photo caption: Map of our journey from Seattle to Sitka. Photo by Shannon Malone