Today was what expedition cruising is all about—time for exploring, learning and even doing something that no one else has before! In the morning we could choose to spend time exploring the end of Idaho Inlet in various ways. Some people enjoyed the peace of a kayak, others went searching for wildlife in expedition landing crafts, and the most adventurous joined a walk in the pristine wilderness in a place hardly visited. In the afternoon, we went for exciting expedition landing craft cruises in the Inian Islands to learn about eagles and Steller sea lions. Then it was time for a Lindblad Expeditions first: we went ashore at the Hobbit Hole for the inaugural visit to the Inian Islands Institute. The director and co-founder Zack Brown gave us a tour of the property that will be developed into a teaching center for living and learning in the wilderness of Southeast Alaska. What an exciting opportunity to be some of the first guests to hear about this new project and visit a hidden jewel of Southeast Alaska!
9/18/2024
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National Geographic Sea Lion
Queen Charlotte City, Haida Gwaii
Yesterday was a delightful day spent exploring the rich culture and natural beauty of Haida Gwaii! We began our adventure at the Heritage Center in Queen Charlotte City, where we immersed ourselves in the fascinating history and artistry of the Haida people. The vibrant exhibits and stories brought the local culture to life, setting a perfect tone for our day. Afterward, we hiked the stunning Spirit Lake Trail with our knowledgeable guide, Linda. Her enthusiasm was infectious as she shared captivating tales about the local flora and fauna. We learned how the Haida utilize various plants for traditional medicine, including the licorice root for soothing sore throats. The lush temperate rainforest enveloped us, with towering red cedars and vibrant ferns creating a serene backdrop for our hike. As we reached Spirit Lake, the tranquility of the water mirrored the peacefulness of the surroundings, making it a perfect spot for reflection. The day concluded with laughter and camaraderie as we enjoyed a hearty meal together. With Linda's stories echoing in our minds, we left feeling enriched by both knowledge and experience, eager for our next adventure!