Today, guests aboard National Geographic Sea Lion enjoyed a more relaxing day. We traveled from Sitka toward Lake Eva. On our way, we spotted some humpback whales and Steller sea lions. Guests had the option to embark on one of three different hikes, each catering to various fitness levels and allowing everyone to explore the natural beauty of Lake Eva. They also had the opportunity to kayak. The tide was high enough that some of our guests were able to paddle a bit further than usual into the island. After their excursions, guests attended an engaging presentation about plankton and jellies.
5/7/2025
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National Geographic Sea Lion
Inian Islands, Port Althorp
The Inian Islands invoke sheer joy and excitement among the naturalists, which in turn, is transferred to the guests. We set out in Zodiacs, traversing in nearly unprecedented calm conditions through the narrow Mosquito Pass, then around North Inian Island. We observed over a dozen bald eagles and sea lions waiting for the inrushing tide to bring fish to the surface for easy pickings. We also saw a couple of male sea otters peacefully lying on the surface while fluffing up their fur to introduce air for insulation (they don’t have blubber). The weather was classic Alaska…sun grading to rain…then to partly cloudy. In the afternoon, we traveled to Port Althorp for kayaking and hikes. Again, very calm conditions with intermittent sun and rain. The hikes were beautiful, winding across the mud flats and into the thick rainforest painted with several shades of green. Bear trails were observed and used by us as convenient paths to follow. Kayakers slowly paddled across glassy water to enjoy the peace and solitude. The day ended with soft sun.
