Monday, May 7, 2012

Day 6 - Hubbard Glacier


Today we cruised by the Hubbard Glacier.  Captain Sindre carefully maneuvered us through the ice field and got us as close to the glacier as he could.  He did a fantastic job – we didn’t suffer the fate of the Titanic and we were very close.  The ship that attempted this yesterday wasn’t so lucky – they had to turn back.  Once he got the ship into the bay and near the glacier, he did a slow spin so that everyone had an equal chance to view it.

Of course, I was among many who went to the helicopter pad on the bow and then moved around as I needed to for the best photo shots.  I took a whopping 508.  Boy was that a job to decide which ones to share with you!

I was awestruck from the first glimpse.  It’s so massive and so beautiful. 


Then I saw the first calf break loose.  The large chunks of ice slide down the glacier, hit the water like a diver, and then bounce back up.  They make a thunderous crash that the Tlinget tribe calls “White Thunder”.  It’s a sound comparable to a summer thunder storm in Denver.  I thought we’d be lucky to see just one – but it was more like one every few minutes.  We saw TONS of them, and each one was exciting and spectacular.  I did manage to get up close and personal with one of them – and the pictures are breathtaking.


When our time was finally up, Captain Sindre skillfully guided the ship back out through the ice field.  By then the sun was even out!!  I got my wish. 

I feel so blessed to have had the opportunity to see a glacier.  I wonder if my grandchildren will be so lucky.  They are quickly vanishing.

Now we’re headed through open waters to Juneau.  I’ll be on the lookout for more whales, seals, and such. 

Stay tuned…

2 comments:

  1. your photos are stunning!!!!! wow!

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  2. There are amazing pictures Jan. Hopefully we can join you in your next cruise

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