This morning the early risers awoke to calm seas and abundant sunshine in Tebenkof Bay as we explored the many small bays and multiple islands. Numerous sea otters were spotted amongst the kelp along with a few humpback whales as we made our way out of Tebenkof and headed west across Chatham Strait.
After breakfast, we set out to explore by way of Zodiac in Paterson Bay. With the jagged backdrop of Baranof Island, many unique and surprising encounters of wildlife were made. There were smacks of tens of thousands of moon jellies, a mink swimming, and Dall’s porpoises. This morning was truly memorable.
Back on board for a tasty chili lunch, we crossed over to Bay of Pillars where shore hikes on Kuiu gave us more insight into the largest intact coastal temperate rainforest in the world. On a warm and sunny day, it was nice to step into the shade of the deep green forest. Following bear trails and slowly weaving our way through hemlock and spruce forests, with the occasional devil’s club, made for an adventurous afternoon.
Once again, we were left with an impression of the vast wilderness and sense of wonder around the corner of each bay, cove, and inlet as we explored Southeast Alaska aboard National Geographic Sea Bird.
