Today was one of those days you dream about in Southeast Alaska. An early wake-up call invited us out on the deck of the Sea Bird to greet the sunrise. As the ship cruised in Icy Strait, just south of Glacier Bay National Park, the ice-clad Fairweather Range provided a perfect backdrop for the lingering blows of a group of humpback whales. From the bow of the ship we observed the whales from close range until the call for breakfast.
Taking full advantage of the sunny skies and calm conditions, we made forays by Zodiac and kayak around George Island at the entrance to Cross Sound. As we explored the intricate coastline of this scenic little island, a family of curious sea otters floated not far from the ship. Later in the morning, we hiked through the rainforest on the island. When we returned to the beach, a lavish barbecue lunch prepared by the ship's galley crew was presented to us on the beach. With the Fairweather Range looming in the distance, today's photo shows a kayaker in front of the arch on the west side of George Island.
