Morning mist reveals a broadly tiered waterfall, and early risers are rewarded with a brief observation of two black bears at the edges of the cascade. Ethereal mist persists as we venture into Green Inlet for a paddle and Zodiac cruise in these placid waters. Reflections of cedar paint the still coves, and the chatter of a kingfisher brings our attention back to the boughs draped in dew. In the afternoon, Chief Mate Sean Kummer spies a peculiar creature drifting at the ocean’s surface. Expedition diver Amy Malkoski quickly identifies it as a Mola mola, or ocean sunfish. It’s fair to say that it’s unusual to see this fish in these waters, yet over the next hour of cruising two more are spotted! A breaching humpback whale rounds out our afternoon of wildlife encounters.
- Daily Expedition Reports
- 08 Sep 2019
Green Inlet & Queen Charlotte Sound, 9/8/2019, National Geographic Quest
- Aboard the National Geographic Quest
- Alaska
Sarah Keefer, Naturalist
Sarah’s fondest memories of nature are experiences she’s shared with friends—especially when those experiences involve spotting wildlife from the bow of a ship! She’s captivated by the wonders of the natural world, and it was the lure of expansive wi...
Read MoreAndrew Peacock, Naturalist/Certified Photo Instructor
Andrew was born in Adelaide, South Australia and (mis)spent his youth surfing and kayaking in the ocean, as is the case for many Aussies! After graduating from medical school, he spent a year working as a surgical resident in Santa Barbara, Californi...
Read MoreShare Report
Treasures of the Inside Passage
VIEW ITINERARYRelated Reports
5/23/2025
Read
National Geographic Quest
Inian Islands and Port Althorp, Southeast Alaska
As we made our way out of Glacier Bay, we turned towards the mouth of the Inside Passage to take in the splendor of the Icy Strait. First, we Zodiac cruised around the Inian Islands, one of the most spectacular cruises in Southeast Alaska. Then we turned into Port Althorp where we made landfall to hike and kayak in the protected arm outside the massive tidal swings.
5/22/2025
Read
National Geographic Quest
Glacier Bay National Park, Alaska
Glacier Bay National Park pulled out all the stops for the guests of National Geographic Quest today. We started our day with four brown bears before enjoying a fantastic brunch. As the day went on, we were treated with calving glaciers, fantastic terns, brilliantly sunny skies for a watercolor workshop on the sun deck, and more animals than we could count. 10/10 expedition day!