Friday, August 26, 2016

Kenai Fjord Cruise

Kenai Fjord Glacier Boat Tour

26 August 2016
 
We travelled by car from Anchorage to Whittier, where we boarded the boat for the glacier tour. Another phenomenal day on the water. We could not have ordered more spectacular weather.

 
Following an awesome drive along the shores of Turnagain Arm, here we are waiting for our turn to transit the Whittier Tunnel. Single lane traffic only through the tunnel.

 
Our tour boat

 
Departing Whittier Harbor

 
Our Forest Ranger Guide. It was great to have knowledgeable narration throughout the cruise.


 
Whittier Glacier in the background.
 



 
Endless magnificent waterfalls cascading into the fjord.
 

 
 



 
The glaciers were magnificent



 
The glacial silt creates these beautiful turquoise and green waters. The water color changes through out the season due to the concentration of fine silt particles in the water, and the reflection of light.

 
 Up close and personal with the glacier. It is constantly moving (ever so slowly) and if one is lucky, you will hear the thunder and see the splash as huge chunks break away and fall into the water. This is called calving.

 
The wind whistling down the glacier is cold, even on such a perfect day.

 
 
Breezy and cool next to the glacier. The scenery was so awe inspiring, I forgot to put my jacket on.
 







 
The floating ice chunks are the result of glacier calving, which we were fortunate enough to witness, several times.
 


A harbor seal sunning itself on a floating ice chunk.

Scooping glacial ice for special margaritas.

A chunk of pure glacial ice, likely hundreds, maybe even thousands of years old.



 
Another magnificent, memorable day!
 
 


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