A day of exploration and learning will put you right in the middle of the Alaskan marine ecosystem. From the nutrients and microscopic organisms that form the base of this rich ecosystem to the magnificent whales and other marine mammals that rule the waters, a cross-section of this unique environment will be experienced in a day of hands-on activities. In the company of lifelong residents and certified teachers as interpreters, your day will be filled with the wonders of the sea and shore.

General Itinerary:

Pick up at airport or cruise ship port:

Depart harbor aboard Glacier Wind:

Plankton Survey:

-Phyto and zooplankton species will be collected at various depths and studied. A variety of microorganisms will be documented and their role in the ecosystem discussed.

-Microscopes will be available for study of the specimens.

Live fish and crab species collection and study:

-Benthic and Pelagic organisms will be collected for study on board.

-Dissection of select species is possible as is observation of the specimens in onboard live tank.

Inter-tidal beach exploration:

-If there will be a significantly low tide, the lower inter-tidal zone may be explored. An amazing variety of mollusk, arthropod, annelid, echinoderm, algae, eels and fish may be collected, photographed and identified.

Marine mammal and sea/shorebird survey:

-Throughout the day's cruising and other activities, the plentiful marine mammal and bird population will be studied and photographed. Expect humpback and possibly killer whales, porpoise, seals, sea lions and more birds than you can count to cross our path. We will stop and enjoy them all as we move through the waters of Icy Strait and Port Frederick.

Seafood Snacks:

-Onboard the boat we will enjoy some of the local seafood. Dungeness crab in season and some smoked salmon, cream cheese and crackers.

Return to Port:

-Upon arrival at the docks, we will transport you to the ship or your local accommodation . The field notebook provided each guest is yours to take with you and we hope it will serve as a pleasant reminder and record for you to remember your visit. Any samples you have chosen to take home as a souvenir will be packaged and prepared for transport. We guarantee that you will have seen more in this one day than you could imagine possible.

 

Mailing Address:

Glacier Wind Charters P.O. Box 184 Hoonah, Alaska                    99829

Captian Shawn's Cell Phone: (907) 978-9651

Please leave a message if we are not home. We will respond promptly.

email : gwind@acsalaska.net

When preparing for your visit to Southeast Alaska, plan on spending part of it with us!!

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