July 11, 2014 – Kenai Fjords

We left the RV Park at 6:30 this morning for the 2½ hour drive to Seward. It was raining when we left Anchorage and we experienced rain, wind, fog, and sun while enroute.

When we arrived at Seward, the weather was fairly calm and the fog surrounded the mountains. The harbor was full of large “tour” boats.

The boat tour “Orca” departed sharply at 10:00 AM. This boat is about 70' long and has a catamaran-type hull.

Were informed as we got our tickets that the sea at the outlet of Ressurrection Bay is a little rough this morning. The Captain also announced that it will be his decision whether or not to proceed with the voyage once we reach the rough water. As we proceeded towards waters of the Gulf of Alaska, the ride got significantly rougher. The Captain announced that the swells were 12'-15' (not only that, they were also extremely choppy and the wind was blowing strongly) and that we would proceed to the Fjords. Shortly after that announcement, the boat was pitching and bobbing over and through the waves. Many of the land lubbers were utilizing the little white bags conveniently provided to the passengers by the crew.

We finally reached the Aialik Fjord and were able to view the Holgate glacier from about 300 yards away. The noise that the glacier continually emits as it moves toward the water is amazing. The glacier calves continually and mini-icebergs peppered the water. We tried to get pictures and video of the calving, but it always happened when were not prepared. Even at that, the glacier was magnificent.

As we returned, the sea was a little calmer and we were cruising with the wind. We did see some spectacular scenery and stopped at a Fox Island resort for a salmon bake and prime rib dinner. It was excellent!!

While on the cruise, we got to see a bunch of wildlife including: sea otters, harbor seals, sea lions, piffins, muirs, grey whales, a mountain goat, and several porpoises.

On the way back from Seward, we took a side trip to Whittier, AK, Until about 25 years ago, this community was only accessible via boat or train via a 2½ mile tunnel. The Federal Highway Administration coordinated with the Alaska Railroad company to upgrade the floor of the tunnel to accommodate cars and trucks. And we actually got to see the “light at the end of the tunnel”!

Although the weather could have been better, overall, we had a great day. A long day (16 hrs), but a great great day.