What an incredible day immersed in local culture and history at Old Masset on the island of Haida Gwaii. We were immediately welcomed into the homes and lives of native Haida, local artists, expert carvers, dancers, and chiefs. Jim Hart shared with us his passion for carving and his plans for particular projects that are currently in the process of becoming finished works. Christian White led us into his workshop where canoes rested, workbenches were full of used tools, and poles were coming to life. The afternoon came to its crescendo with a bountiful feast of native foods, including herring roe, salmon, fry bread, fish chowder, sea asparagus, and soap berries with cream for dessert. The dance performers gave everyone a feel for what a potlach would be like, and many guests joined in on the men and women’s dances. What a privilege to learn from the Haida people and share in this magical experience with them.
5/7/2025
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National Geographic Sea Bird
Daajing Giids, Haida Gwaii, Hecate Strait
After an evening cruising from SG̱ang Gwaay, National Geographic Sea Bird made one last stop this morning in Daajing Giids to drop off our cultural interpreters, DeeDee Crosby and Grace Garvie. At dock, we had two unique opportunities. The first, our daily morning stretch class had the opportunity to meet on land, and second, we welcomed the incredible artisan, Aay Aay, aboard. We were familiar with Aay Aay, who we had met two days prior as an interpreter at the Haida Heritage Center. His specialty is a revival of traditional Haida weaving. During Aay Aay’s time on board, he shared with us his personal story about discovering and mastering his art with spruce root, cedar, and wool weaving. He taught us how to hand spin the warp threads that would be the beginnings of a wool piece. After an artistic morning, we embarked on our journey across Hecate Strait to reach our next destination along our expedition, Alaska. This evening, I write as we make our way into Dixon Entrance preparing to wake up to the scenery of the famed Misty Fjords in the morning.







