Desolation Sound was named by Captain George Vancouver when he first surveyed the area in 1792. Now a very popular place for boating in the summer months, the sound is quite the opposite of “desolate” and teeming with life—both in the water and on the shore.
Plentiful harbor seals were basking in the sunshine. Their mottled patterns matched the rocky intertidal perfectly, and all we could see were big, circular eyes staring at us intently. Large aggregations of moon jellies gracefully pulsed through rich marine waters, and purple sea stars stuck to submerged rocky walls. We spotted several oystercatchers, gulls, and a great blue heron plus a couple river otters scampering around on shore. What a gorgeous day to enjoy this picturesque landscape!
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!
