Our day began with an on board stretch class on the sun deck led by our wellness specialist. Not only is this a great way to prepare for the day's activities, but participants have a pretty good chance of seeing wildlife amongst the beautiful Alaskan backdrop. Fresh smoothies were offered at the end as a reward!
Later that morning, our team embarked on an extraordinary Zodiac expedition to the breathtaking Inian Islands, situated off the coast of Alaska. Nestled within the Gulf of Alaska, these pristine islands are home to a diverse array of wildlife. Under the captivating sunshine, we encountered an awe-inspiring ecosystem teeming with sea lions, otters, humpback whales, and eagles. Join us as we delve into the fascinating world of these magnificent creatures and unveil the wonders that May brings to this marine wonderland.
Sea lions, Rulers of the Rocky Shores: As we approached the rocky shores of the Inian Islands, we were greeted by a boisterous chorus of barks and growls emanating from the colony of Steller sea lions. These massive creatures can grow up to 11 feet in length and weigh over a ton, and they rule over the rocky outcrops with their majestic presence. We marveled at their agility as they effortlessly navigated the treacherous terrain, leaping from one rock to another. Males, with their impressive manes and formidable size, asserted their dominance, while playful pups engaged in spirited frolicking nearby. These intelligent and social animals reminded us of the intricate dynamics of their society, where hierarchy and vocalizations play a significant role.
Otters, Mischievous Guardians of Kelp Forests: In the tranquil kelp forests surrounding the Inian Islands, we had the privilege of observing the enchanting behavior of sea otters. These charismatic creatures, renowned for their playful antics, floated on their backs and used rocks as makeshift anvils to crack open their favorite meal—abalone and sea urchins. Their thick fur, composed of up to one million hairs per square inch, kept them warm in the chilly waters. We were enthralled by their dexterity as they groomed their fur meticulously, almost as if performing an underwater ballet. It was truly a delight to witness these mischievous guardians of the kelp forests; their presence is vital to maintaining the delicate balance of the ecosystem.
Humpback whales, Singers of the Sea: Our journey took a momentous turn as we encountered the gentle giants of the deep—humpback whales. May marks their arrival in the waters surrounding the Inian Islands after they migrate from their tropical breeding grounds. These magnificent creatures, measuring up to 50 feet long and weighing up to 40 tons, graced us with their majestic presence. With each exhalation, towering spouts of mist pierced the air, announcing their presence in a grand spectacle. We were enthralled by their acrobatic displays as they breached and slapped their tails against the water, seeming to celebrate their arrival in these abundant feeding grounds. The air was filled with the haunting melodies of their songs, a testament to their extraordinary communication skills. It was a truly humbling experience to witness these gentle giants in their natural habitat.
Eagles, Lords of the Skies: As we explored the rugged cliffs and towering trees of the Inian Islands, we couldn't help but notice the commanding presence of bald eagles. With their iconic white heads and piercing eyes, these majestic raptors soared effortlessly through the skies, embodying the spirit of freedom and power. Their sharp talons and keen eyesight enabled them to spot fish swimming near the surface of the water. We watched in awe as these formidable hunters swooped down with incredible precision to snatch fish from the water's surface. The presence of these magnificent birds added a touch of regality to the already awe-inspiring landscape.
