Iceberg, Right Ahead!

On Day 3 of our Alaskan cruise, we spent a day sailing through Endicott Arm Fjords toward Dawes Glacier. Endicott Arm Fjord marks the southern edge of the Fords Terror Wilderness area in Tongass National Forest. It is located about 50 miles south of Juneau. Breathtaking, rugged mountains dominate the region with steep valleys sparkling with high waterfalls. There are pieces of ice scattered throughout the water. Mountain goats, eagles, and bears can be seen in the mountains. Seals sunbathe on top of the chunks of ice and whales can be seen swimming in the waters.

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At the head of the fjord is the tidal wave glacier, Dawes Glacier. The glacier is over 600 feet tall and wide. There are approximately 250 feet of ice below the surface of the water.

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Fun fact: Why are glaciers blue? According to the USGS, glaciers are blue because the red (long wavelengths) part of white light is absorbed by ice and the blue (short wavelengths) light is transmitted and scattered. The longer the path light travels in ice, the bluer it appears.

Our boat spent a few hours anchored, enjoying the views. There was hot chocolate served on deck. For the adults, a shot of Kaula could be added. It was yummy! Of course, these views made for some great photos with the family and some special friends.

This was probably my favorite sea day of all the sea days I have done on any cruise. The views were breathtaking. Seeing the glacier brought me back in time. It is an experience I will never forget.