Guests awoke to National Geographic Quest surrounded in fog as we pulled into the quaint town of Petersburg. As breakfast was served, the fog slowly lifted into low clouds with the hint of potential sunshine. The day began with a plethora of activity choices, from a long, adventurous, all-day hike up Petersburg Mountain to a cultural immersion hike. Guests also had opportunities to bike around town, explore a muskeg, and take harbor tours. The long hikers were the first to start off. They donned their hiking boots and grabbed walking sticks, water, and lunch, and off they went on a short Zodiac cruise over to Kupreanof Island to begin their long trek.

With the exception of the all-day hike, guests were able to choose two options for the morning, and off they went. Some took off on bikes, others on hikes, and a few made their way around the harbor for tours. Muskeg hikers made their way towards the Raven Roost. They learned about unique muskeg ecosystems as they got up close and personal with the many plants that have adapted for life in specialized ways, including the beautiful sundew. Other guests joined a local guide who dove into the cultural side of the native Tlingit people, explaining and pointing out edible and medicinal native plants. Guests who chose the harbor tour learned about the history of fishing in Petersburg, the processing plants, and various types of fishing boats as well as how to identify them. Back on board after lunch, guests swapped activities and went out for an afternoon packed full of adventure and learning.

As the sun peeked through and the clouds lifted, some guests were offered the opportunity to go on flightseeing tours to LeConte Glacier. Many guests enjoyed ariel views far above the clouds of the Stikine Icefield, as well as of Petersburg, Kupreanof, and KuIu Islands. Other guests chose to spend the afternoon strolling through the town and checking out local shops. The Global Explorers conducted a plankton tow from the dock and spent some time identifying their catch. Overall, it was a fun filled, activity packed day in the town that fishermen built, Petersburg, Alaska.