Day six of our Alaskan cruise was a sea day, but it was anything but ordinary. We spent the day sailing through the breathtaking Glacier Bay National Park, surrounded by towering glaciers and stunning natural beauty. The day was filled with awe-inspiring sights and serene moments, making it one of the highlights of our journey.

We woke up early with a mission: to spot mountain goats on Gloomy Knob. The anticipation was high as we made our way to the observation deck, scanning the rocky cliffs for any signs of movement. Despite our efforts, nobody but Greg could spot any mountain goats. His eagle eyes caught glimpses of these elusive creatures, while the rest of us marveled at the beautiful, rugged landscape.

After our unsuccessful goat-spotting expedition, we headed to the buffet for a hearty breakfast. With our plates piled high, we found a spot near the windows, enjoying the panoramic views of Glacier Bay as we ate. The excitement for the day ahead was palpable, and we quickly finished our meal to get back outside.

Bundled up against the cold, we made our way to the front of the boat to catch our first glimpse of a glacier. The cruise staff offered blankets, which were a godsend in the chilly weather. As the ship approached the massive ice formations, we were struck by the sheer size and beauty of the glaciers. The crisp air and the sight of the glacial blue ice created an unforgettable scene.

Otters!

Someone told me these were puffin. I’m going with it, they were so far away it was hard to tell what they were.

Saw a few eagles on icebergs.

We saw several glaciers and icebergs throughout the morning, but none compared to the magnificent Margerie Glacier. Standing in front of this colossal ice formation was a humbling experience. The glacier’s face, towering 250 feet above the water, stretched over a mile wide. As we stood in awe, we were fortunate enough to witness chunks of the glacier calving into the bay. The sound was like thunder, echoing across the water and leaving us speechless.

Margerie Glacier

By lunchtime, we had seen enough of the glaciers and were ready to warm up. We headed back inside the ship, peeling off layers and savoring the warmth. Lunch was a relaxed affair, giving us time to reflect on the incredible sights we had witnessed that morning. The views from the dining area were still spectacular, even as we moved away from the glacier-rich area.

The rest of the afternoon was spent in leisurely activities. Some of us took naps, while others watched tv or simply enjoyed the ship’s amenities. The serene environment of Glacier Bay provided the perfect backdrop for a restful and reflective afternoon.

The day ended on a high note with a fantastic comedy show in the ship’s bar. The comedian had us in stitches, providing the perfect end to a day filled with natural wonders. Laughter echoed through the theater, and we left with smiles on our faces, grateful for the wonderful day we had experienced.

Our sea day through Glacier Bay National Park was a day of awe and relaxation. From the early morning goat-spotting attempts to the thunderous calving of Margerie Glacier, every moment was memorable. As we sailed away from the park, we felt a deep appreciation for the beauty and power of nature. This day, filled with stunning vistas and shared moments, will remain a cherished memory of our Alaskan cruise.