HappyWanderers38
Jun 2011
We took the 7 hour Glacier Cruise out to Columbia Glacier with the Stan Stephens team.
Incredible is all one can say. The Valdez area, and Prince William Sound is simply one of the most beautiful places on Earth.
The weather on the Sound is very unpredictable and constantly changing. We started out trip from Valdez with gray overcast skies and strong cold winds. By the time we arrived at Columbia Glacier, the weather had changed to warm with sunny skies. Be prepared for anything.
This was an amazing journey. No trip to Valdez would be complete without getting out there on the water in Prince William Sound.
The trip is distinguished by the incredible amount of wildlife you will see. Stellar Sea Lions, Otter, Bald Eagles, Bear, Dall Porpoises cavorting and jumping near the ship, and the highlight of course, the wonderful whales breaching and jumping out of the water!!
This of course, is nature and not a circus show. Nothing is guaranteed. But the Sound is teeming with life owing to the richness of the waters and you're bound to see a lot.
The vessel was very comfortable and a smooth sail all the way. Our captain navigated right up to the ice fields approaching the Glacier. That blue glacial ice is soooooo beautiful.
He would in many instances, sail right up to the shoreline to get better views of wildlife including Puffins and Cormorants.
It was a magical day for us, one will won't soon forget. If you have the time, and you're in the area, you MUST go and Stan Stephens is the company to go with. They have many years of experience out there on the Sound.
Highly recommended!!