They lived up to their name, but not so much we couldn't get out and enjoy them. Still sunny when we entered the narrow channel, the weather declined to stay that way for the duration of our visit. We should count our blessings - in mid afternoon it actually got a bit choppy and might have been a bit more "fun" in the zodiacs. As it was we went out late in the afternoon by which time the sun had gone, but so had the wind. Given the rainfall in excess of 1400mm annually we were lucky enough to have it in the dry - almost.
So here the difference between a cruise and an "expedition" starts to become clearer. The boat itself may well be luxurious, with some spectacular food, but come the time to get off the boat and explore, it's on with the life jackets and onto the zodiacs - basically propelled inflatable ribs, I am more used to diving from. How exciting.
Ready for action!
Cole, our guide, was gentle with the old timers onboard, despite my encouragement to go faster (for which I got a deserved kicking from my wife).
A tour of the many geological features of the place followed - mostly amazing waterfalls, cascading down hundreds of metres from the snow caps melting above.
That and the geologic features of glacial action - examples of sheered rock - that's a highly geological term that only us experts know!
And metamorphic rock, polished by eons of flowing water. I hope I remembered that correctly. Cousin Gordon will doubtless correct me!
All in all a magical excursion, followed by another fabulous meal, this one feeling almost deserved. And I have now established that the absolutely charming Filipino bar steward knows how to make hot toddies so I have one lined up for after the next zodiac adventure!
Almost unbelievably, earlier in the day we were actually sunbathing on the top deck of the boat. The phrase round here is: "If you don't like the weather, just wait 5 minutes and it will change". I think that might be rather apposite. We've been on the boat for less than 60 hours and have already seen a variety of climates, and an amazing array of scenery. This afternoon we get to depart the boat and stand on dry land for a few hours and explore the isolated town of Wrangell. To be reported later, if I can tear myself away from the restaurant or the hot toddies! Last few pics for now.
There is a narrow channel there, we are just about to go through.
Up close and personal with some magnificent waterfalls.
Looking for bears (we haven't seen any ... yet)
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