When we woke up on National Geographic Sea Lion this morning, we were completely covered by fog as we sailed through British Columbia’s waters. Clever and adorable sea otters inspected us curiously as we sailed by. We also saw a humpback whale. It came up close to us, and many delighted guests captured photos and beautiful memories. We sailed into the protected harbor of Alert Bay. Guests then made their way to the Umista Cultural Center, a museum where we observed and appreciated cultural masks and regalia from Alert Bay. Guests later took a hike where they experienced the cultural spirit of the land. Simultaneously, the underwater dive team was busy capturing footage right under the harbor’s docks. Next, we were able to go to the Big House for a rare opportunity to spend time learning about the culture of the area with local people and with guests from our sister ship, National Geographic Venture, which was alongside in the bay. A wonderful day was had by all as we experienced the wonders of Alert Bay.
5/5/2024
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National Geographic Sea Bird
Calvert Island
Early this morning, National Geographic Sea Bird anchored inside a deep protected channel of Calvert Island. The morning hours brought a slip of light, as we were immersed in the customary weather of the Pacific Northwest…a constant spring drizzle. Our morning destination would be the Hakai Institute, which is dedicated to long-term scientific research of the coastal ecosystems of the Pacific Northwest. The research focuses on understanding the intricate relationships between land, sea, and human activity. Their studies include interdisciplinary research spanning marine biology, ecology, archaeology, and climate science. Their findings and research are open to the public and shared with local communities, including fifty different Indigenous nations. Their goal is the building of relationships and, as of this year, includes Lindblad Expeditions! 2024 marks the first year our entire fleet of American flagged ships will visit the Hakai Institute while traveling through the Inside Passage on their way to Southeast Alaska. After a morning of visiting the Institute and kayaking, we divided into several different levels of hikes and went out into the constant soft rain, enjoying the chance to explore Calvert Island, definitely a unique island along the Northwest Coast.