Seldom Seen Alaska: July 2023 Trip Highlights
Days 1 and 2 – Sitka: Unveiling the Wonders of Southeast Alaska
The kickoff of our 12-Day Seldom Seen Alaska Tour marked the beginning of an extraordinary journey. These initial days in Sitka set the stage for an adventure filled with breathtaking sights, captivating wildlife encounters, and cultural revelations. With newfound friends by our side, we couldn’t wait to see what the rest of the expedition held in store.
Exploring Sitka’s Marine Treasures: Our voyage commenced with two enchanting nights in Sitka, where the wonders of Sitka Sound awaited us. Day one gifted us a spectacular spectacle – the graceful breach of a majestic humpback whale, a sight that left us spellbound by nature’s grandeur. Continuing our journey, we were treated to a heartwarming encounter – a group of approximately 10 otters, including three adorable pups snugly nestled against their mothers’ bellies. Witnessing this tender moment was a true highlight of our tour.
A Sojourn to St. Lazaria for Seabird Delights: The following day, we set sail for St. Lazaria, a sanctuary for seabirds that delighted bird enthusiasts and photographers alike. Amidst the multitude of avian wonders, we encountered charming Tufted Puffins, elegant Rhinoceros Auklets, enchanting Ancient and Marble Murrelets, graceful Pigeon Guillemots, majestic Glaucous Winged Gulls, and amazing Common Murres. These seabirds graciously posed for our cameras, allowing us to capture their splendor in stunning photographs.
An Educational Tide Pooling Adventure: The afternoon brought us an enlightening tide-pooling expedition guided by a knowledgeable local naturalist. As we explored the intertidal zone, we uncovered a mesmerizing world of marine life. Fascinating creatures such as chitons, anemones, urchins, and crabs unveiled themselves, showcasing the diverse and thriving coastal ecosystem.
A Glimpse into Sitka’s History and Culture: In addition to the captivating wildlife encounters, we delved into Sitka’s rich history and culture. Our visit to the Sitka Historical Park, affectionately known as Totem Park, immersed us in the captivating stories and traditions of the indigenous people. To our delight, we were treated to an enlightening cultural dance performance by the Sitka tribe, adding authenticity and a profound connection to the land.
Anticipating the Journey Ahead: With these remarkable experiences etched into our memories, we couldn’t help but look forward to the adventures that lay ahead. The 12-Day Seldom Seen Alaska Tour promised more incredible encounters, breathtaking landscapes, and the camaraderie of fellow travelers. Stay tuned for further updates on our expedition, as we continue to unveil the hidden gems of Southeast Alaska.