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.
5/15/2024
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National Geographic Sea Bird
Inian Islands, AK
The drizzling rain of the early morning cleared off for the start of our Zodiac tours through the dazzling Inian Islands. The Islands are incredibly special due to their geographic location. As the northernmost opening to the Inside Passage, tons of billions of gallons of water funnel in from the Pacific Ocean and cause an oceanic phenomenon called upwelling, where cold, nutrient dense water rises to the surface. Marine animals flock to these waters for the availability of food and resources. We were able to view sea otters, sea lions, and many bird species. The Zodiac tours had some of the most amazing views of the coastal waters, spruce covered islands, and wildlife. We ended the morning with a visit to the Tidelines Institute, a non-profit educational institute founded by Lindblad Naturalist and PhD in climate science, Zach Brown. The afternoon was filled with presentations, briefings, and our guest slideshow to end the evening during our transit up to Sitka. It was a fantastic ending to a great trip.