The 2025 Alaska Flotilla – Leg 1 is officially underway! After a warm and lively orientation and meet-and-greet aboard Bonum Vitae yesterday, the crews were eager to cast off and begin the journey north. Spirits were high as the fleet departed Ketchikan, headed for the wild beauty of Karta Bay.

The day brought an exciting start to the adventure. Early on, Bonum Vitae experienced an engine overheating issue, but thanks to Al, our onboard Marine Service Technician, the problem was diagnosed and fixed quickly, allowing the vessel to rejoin the flotilla without delay. The day’s unexpected hiccup was quickly redeemed with a breaching humpback whale sighting in Kasaan Bay; a spectacular reward for patience and perseverance.

Along the route, several boats caught glimpses of frolicking humpbacks, and the flotilla passed by Kasaan Village, where towering totem poles offered a striking reminder of the area’s rich Indigenous heritage. By early afternoon, we arrived in Karta Bay, with plenty of time for guests to explore the shoreline and waterways by dinghy. One group was lucky enough to spot a bear grazing peacefully along the shore; an exciting first wildlife encounter of many to come.

It was a smooth and scenic cruise, setting a perfect tone for the days ahead. Tomorrow, we’ll travel approximately 37 nautical miles up Clarence Strait to Meyers Chuck, where we’ll anchor for the night and, if all goes to plan, place our orders for the local baker’s famous sticky buns, freshly delivered to our boat the next morning.