British Columbia, 9/6/2022, National Geographic Venture
Aboard the
National Geographic Venture
Alaska
It is the first day of our journey here in British Columbia. As we entered Canadian waters, we first stopped in Prince Rupert to explore the town and to familiarize ourselves with the history and people who create the rich fabric of diversity that is British Columbia today. Some of the history seen today, fittingly the day after Canada’s Labour Day, included the history of the canneries that once existed here and the workers who operated them.
Kayvon Malek is an underwater videographer whose work as an expedition guide and in the wildlife documentary industry have taken him pole to pole. After taking a scuba course on a whim in college, Kayvon’s newfound obsession led him to working as a r...
This morning, we realized we were on a true expedition. Our Expedition and Bridge teams worked together to find an area that National Geographic Venture , or any of our vessels for that matter, had never been. Therefore, every hike we did this morning was exploratory. We found beaches where the intertidal was explored, beds of rivers and streams to trudge through, and sharp inclines perfectly suited for bushwhacking. In the afternoon, we took all our guests on a 2-hour long Zodiac ride through an unbelievably stunning salmon river. We were surrounded by lush forest, ice capped mountains, and dramatic waterfalls. A truly spectacular day.
Today was our first day away from civilization, delving into the wilderness of the Great Bear Rainforest. National Geographic Venture gently entered the mirror-like waters of an inlet. Surrounded by mountains covered in cloud-topped trees, we deployed our expedition crafts: Zodiacs, kayaks, and stand-up paddleboards. It was a gorgeous morning experiencing the intertidal areas of this rainforest. In the afternoon, we put in the time to search for marine mammals. And wow! Our time spent searching was rewarded. We encountered around a dozen humpback whales. Watching their behaviors and even being close enough to hear them breathe was an experience none of our guests will forget. It was an awesome day here in the Great Bear Rainforest aboard National Geographic Venture .
Today, National Geographic Venture docked in Prince Rupert, British Columbia, offering guests a choice of engaging activities throughout the day. Guests had the flexibility to choose their preferred activities, ensuring a day tailored to their interests and preferences. On the North Pacific Cannery tour guests explored this historic site, gaining insights into the salmon canning industry’s impact on the region through guided tours of preserved machinery and exhibits. While on the Echoes of Time tour, participants visited a local Tsimshian longhouse, where they learned about the rich traditions, art, and cultural heritage of the Tsimshian people through interactive storytelling, elaborate song, and dance displays. On this guided tour, guests also visited the Museum of British Columbia. The museum provided a comprehensive look at the province’s natural and cultural history, featuring exhibits on indigenous cultures, maritime heritage, and environmental aspects of British Columbia. Those that wanted a bit of movement in the day, a walk along the Rushbrook Trail offered scenic waterfront views and a peaceful experience amidst the natural beauty of the area.
