Our passage through the Georgia Strait and into Canada has been a good introduction to the welcoming nature of these beautiful fjords. Just as the pink moon set, the sun rose, bathing the National Geographic Sea Bird in golden light. This protected stretch of ocean isn’t just calm, it’s like floating across a mirror.
We stopped at Nanaimo to pass through customs, and while the agents sorted through our paperwork downstairs, we enjoyed the warm sunshine out on the decks. Truly a smoother immigration could not be found. As we untied from the dock to continue north, harbor seals greeted us, seeming to welcome our entry into Canada.
The coast of British Colombia has been kind to us today, offering temperatures in the upper 70s and clear blue skies. Mike Nolan shared an inspiring presentation about digital photography and tips for our photo expedition. Afterwards, everyone divided into groups for hands-on sessions to build confidence and become better acquainted with their cameras.
The afternoon has been equally relaxing, with guests lounging on deck, or joining in the adventure of discovering the animals passing by. We encountered a huge flock of snow geese flying north, and saw many other beautiful bird species like rhinoceros auklet, common murre, pigeon guillemot, and pelagic cormorant. Harbor seals were not the only marine mammals to grace us with their presence, but also a pair of harbor porpoises, passing along on their way south.
Naturalist David Stephens shared a wonderful presentation to prepare us for the incredible honor coming our way tomorrow. We will share in celebration with Native people of Alert Bay on Vancouver Island, becoming immersed in local tradition. We may be the luckiest travelers in British Columbia these days.
