The sound of the engines and the anchor chain's rattle woke some of us at 0600. But we cruised for just a few short minutes before slowing and stopping, a sure sign that there was something to see on deck. We were in Idaho Inlet at the north end of Chichagof Island and in the water ahead of the Sea Lion were a dozen or more sea otters. We whispered and walked softly so as not to frighten them. These small marine mammals are both curious and wary. They constantly preene as they paddled on their backs and rolled on the surface. We continued to watch and photograph until breakfast was called.

While positioning west through the Inian Pass we spotted the distinctive dorsal fins of killer whales, and altered our schedule to follow three animals as they moved north towards Icy Strait. When we dropped our anchor just outside the tiny community of Elfin Cove the morning had developed into the most perfect Alaskan summer day. We could see the Brady Glacier and the Fairweather Range across Icy Strait. Jackets were shed and sunscreen applied. Three young residents of Elfin Cove came aboard to introduce us to their boardwalk village. We spent the remainder of the morning exploring it on our own. Many returned with souvenirs or gifts. While we were visiting, the crew were all busy setting up a barbecue on nearby George Island. After lunch we opted to hike the interior of the island, walk the beach on the far side or just relax on the warm, round, granite stones. Our colorful kayaks came and went all through the afternoon as many explored the coast. More otters were seen, as well as eagles and sea lions. The sun grew low; the cumulus clouds reached higher. We ached for this day to go on and on. All agreed that this day was a gift of special experiences magnified by fine weather.