The very first day of our sure-to-be-epic adventure from Southeast Alaska down the inside passage to Seattle was beautiful. A mostly sunny day began by introducing the expedition staff and the expedition plan. We learned about Zodiacs, how to avoid bear contact, and the proper way to paddle a kayak or stand-up paddleboard. After lunch, National Geographic Venture sailed into Takatz Bay and deployed small boats and kayaks for an afternoon of watersport activities.