As we awoke to rain and fog, National Geographic Sea Bird was making her way toward the town of Alert Bay. As we cruised, we watched humpback whales fluking and lunging all around the ship. We spotted killer whales in our vicinity and watched as they approached us, swimming just off our bow. Steller sea lions called out to us from rocky points on the shoreline. We reached Alert Bay just as the first half of the day wound down. We went ashore and learned about the culture of the First Nations people here, of their plight and culture, past and present. As we left Alert Bay, we looked toward the horizon and new adventures.
10/2/2024
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National Geographic Venture
Alert Bay
This morning, National Geographic Venture cruised north to the tip of Vancouver Island through Seymour Narrows. It was a misty morning full of birds migrating south and Pacific white-sided dolphins bow-riding the ship. It was a great start to the morning. After a delicious brunch, guests disembarked to walk along the bay to the U’mista Cultural Centre. This is the First Nation’s homeland of the ‘Namgis Nation, who welcomed us with their regalia and museum, gifted with rich history and culture. It’s always a blessing to be welcomed into the hearts and spirits of this community and to witness their dances and songs in their big house potlatch ceremonies. After leaving the dock, National Geographic Venture cruised back south and saw humpback whales off in the foggy afternoon, along with gulls and seabirds galore. Thank you for joining us on another great day in the Pacific Northwest!