Travels N'at 2015: Monday, 15 June 2015

It wasnt a very restful night because of the time change and fearful that we wouldn't be up at the time we need to be to get breakfast and be ready for our excursion to the Saxman Native Village, an authentic Tlinglet. Ketchikan is a small town and island that really hasn't changed in its appearance from days of yore. There are some new shopping venues, but it has retained the aura of days gone by.

Fishing is the industry that keeps the town moving, in addition to tourism with the arrival of cruise ship upon cruise ship. The views of the mountains and trees did not disappoint.

At the Saxman Village we were treated to a native song and dance show at the Beaver Clan House. Legends and tales were told to explain the totem carvings and dances. Some of the totem poles surrounding the clan house dated back to the 1880s. One pole even had a carving of Abraham Lincoln at the top.

We then proceeded to the carving studio to see a master carver and how the poles are carved and erected.

Back to the ship to drop off jackets before taking our Duck Tour. The day was beautiful and very warm. Ketchikan gets 13 feet of rain a year and it rains nearly every day. But today was bright sunshine.

The duck tour took us on a tour of the town oon land and water. We saw Creek Street, the red light district and the famous Dolly's House, the home of the most famous madam.

Then it was into the water and the bay views of Ketchikan. We learned about the 3 different kinds of fishing boats and how each was used and what fish they brought in. We saw a juvenile eagle, one who has not grown his white feathers and also the way fish were vacuumed into the cannery.

Notice the long hose at the side of the building

Back to the ship for lunch. Spent the greater part of the afternoon giving moral support to Sharon as she tried to find her errant luggage. It was supposed to be delivered today, but from the info she was given, it could still be in Vancouver. Maybe it will arrive in Juneau tomorrow.

Up to the promenade deck to enjoy the sun and scenery as we set sail north.

A drink in the piazza and then getting ready for dinner. Spied many blow holes outside our cabin window, but we didn't actually seeTonight was Italian night and dinner was delicious. A peach bellini soup, veal scallopine, and an ice cream similar to spumoni.