Tolmie Channel, Green Inlet, and Butedale, 5/6/2022, National Geographic Venture
Aboard the
National Geographic Venture
Alaska
During the first half of the day, we cruised through narrow waterways between countless forested islands. It was a landscape of deep green, with few signs of people. In the afternoon, we investigated Green Inlet by kayaks, Zodiacs, and on bushwhacking walks in the lush forest. After dinner, the ship paused at the site of an abandoned cannery, and a spirit bear walked in front of one of the old wooden buildings.
Photographers (unless specified otherwise): Berit Solstad and Tara Kaestner
Berit grew up on the rocky shores of Marblehead, Massachusetts. In the tidal cove behind her family’s home she found horseshoe crabs, eels, and feeding frenzies of fishes and birds. Low tides exposed clam flats, crabs, mussels, and snails. She explor...
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The morning sun found a few early risers scanning the sea for birds as National Geographic Venture made its way up Johnstone Strait towards Alert Bay. The first sighting of marine mammals occurred just before breakfast as a trio of sea otters were relaxing together midwater. We noted that these otters were surprisingly south of their expected location. At Alert Bay, our guests were shuttled to the cultural center and given a tour of sacred artifacts, which we weren’t allowed to photograph. Later, we were welcomed into the Big House for an inspired ceremony featuring traditional music and dance. At the request of the performers, no photos have been shared. You will have to take my word for it that it was a truly spectacular experience.
This morning, we cruised into the protected and awe-inspiring waters of Desolation Sound Marine Provincial Park. This protected marine park is home to immense coastal mountains, a plethora of marine life, and a number of coves for exploring. In the afternoon, we did exactly that as we poked and prodded our way through this boreal rainforest. Others cruised by Zodiac looking for wildlife along the shore and in the water, and the dive team even splashed in to observe the subtidal splendor of this area.
Today, National Geographic Venture set sail for the storied shores of Victoria, British Columbia, a city steeped in history and embraced by the wild beauty of the Pacific Northwest. As we approached the harbor, the silhouette of the Parliament Buildings emerged from the mist, casting a spell of wonder upon all who beheld them. Stepping ashore, we were greeted by the rhythmic bustle of the city, where the echoes of the past danced with the melodies of the present. From the colorful blooms of Butchart Gardens to the quaint charm of Bastion Square, every corner whispered tales of bygone days. Strolling along the Inner Harbour, we marveled at the graceful arc of the Johnson Street Bridge, a testament to Victoria's enduring spirit of innovation. The aroma of freshly baked pastries mingled with the salty tang of the sea, creating a symphony of scents that filled the air with anticipation. As the day waned and the sun dipped below the horizon, we bid farewell to Victoria, knowing that its timeless allure would linger in my heart forevermore.