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| Robert and Bet |
Friday, July 29, 2011
Day 51
Skagway, Alaska
By: Robert and Bet Delcuze
Up early this morning to be at the boat dock at 7:30 for the ferry to Juneau.
Upon arrival at the dock Ron Robinett shared a proclamation from the authorities in Skagway relative to Gil, a stop sign, and his Jr. Ranger Certificate. Seems he may be on probation if he is to remain a Jr. Ranger. Big brother is watching.
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| We all get comfortable on the Catamaran |
The ferry is really a 65 foot catamaran powered by two 600 HP diesels, cruises at 28 knots (about 30 mph), was constructed in Washington State and put in service April Fool’s Day 2001. A crew of two, Captain Glenn and his able deckhand, Christy. Christy did everything except drive the boat. She prepared and served brunch handled all the lines (ropes) and runs the 400m low hurdles at the college she attends in Ohio.
We stopped to view a sea lion on the rocks; he had arrived early for the mating season in April 2012.
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| Lonely young bull waiting for the females to arrive IN APRIL |
Capt. Glenn chased several pods of hump back whales, which at best you can get a picture of the blow, and maybe the tail flip, but it was exciting to see.
Humpback showing us his tail
Capt. Glenn, who is an experienced whale guy, got this picture……….
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| WOW! |
Juneau has 30 miles of roads, none of which lead out of town. John Hanson, bus driver and narrator, never stopped talking the whole trip; even recites original poetry.
We had 3 hours to spread the wealth around Juneau, i.e., buy food, jewelry, or candy. Boat tourists everywhere.
Mendenhall Glacier and the visitor’s center completed the trip back to the ferry.
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| Mendenhall Glacier |
The return boat trip was delayed 30 minutes while Capt. Glenn replaced the port engine cooling water pump impeller.
Highlight of the return trip was viewing of a grizzly mom and cub catching salmon.
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| Mama and baby bear having a snack |
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| Eldridge Rock Lighthouse with sea lions and otters all around |
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