Today was our last cruise of the caravan, and we again were blessed with good weather. Our trip took us from Skagway to Juneau and back again on the catamaran Fjordland.
We left early, probably about 8 am, and were immediately captivated by the beautiful scenery of Lynn Canal where Skagway is located. Lynn Canal is the longest and deepest glacial fjord in North America. Soon we were seeing humpback whales, eagles, harbor seals, and orcas. Our captain pointed out rushing waterfalls, like Long Falls and Sawmill Falls, and hanging glaciers as well as Davis Glacier that extends down to the water. We passed Haines and picturesque Eldred Rock lighthouse, the site of several disastrous shipwrecks.
On our arrival in Yankee Cove some 20 or so miles from downtown Juneau, we were picked up by bus and driven into town. There we had about 2 ½ hours to fuel the economy by having lunch and shopping. Next, our bus took us to Mendenhall Glacier to see the most visited glacier in the world up close and personal. This is by no means the largest or most beautiful glacier, but it is spectacular. It is receding like many glaciers, this one about 60 feet per year.
Soon we were back on our catamaran and headed to Skagway. We saw all the sights we’d seen on the way to Juneau, but this time in different lighting. We stopped in Haines to let off a few passengers, then cruised into Skagway. A lovely day in a perfect setting.
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