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Whales And Sea Lions! Exploring Wildlife At Kenai Fjords National Park

Whales And Sea Lions! Exploring Wildlife At Kenai Fjords National Park

Jul 29, 2024

Last Updated on: Jun 13, 2025

Kenai Fjords National Park is a place rich in biodiversity. Like the Dry Tortugas National Park, it also harbors a diverse marine ecosystem and a wide range of birds.

Further, it is an elusive land of glaciers, icy lands, rocky mountains, and green canopies. It is also the park where you can take part in activities like hunting, fishing, petting at Exit Glacier, boating, and kayaking. However, the most fascinating activity to do here is watching wildlife.

Here, I will be your entourage in finding how the wilderness becomes alive at the Kenai Fjords National Park.

Exploring Kenai Fjords National Park Wildlife

The Kenai Fjords National Park has one of the highest footfalls among the national parks of America. In 2023, 387,525 people visited this National Park thanks to its wildlife and the most dramatic landscape with glaciers, mountains, ocean, and valleys. (Source)

Further, the Alaska Department of Fish and Game explains why and how the geographical features of the National Park make it rich in wildlife and biodiversity. About the habitat, it says,

“The park contains shallow bays and estuaries, and deeper marine habitats. Regional currents drive nutrients into outer Resurrection Bay, making that area especially rich in fish and an early location for spring bloom of plankton and algae. Cliffs and rocky shores create nesting sites for birds and haul-out areas for marine mammals.”

Do you want a slice of wildlife at this park where whales and mountain goats cohabit in the most amazing way? Let’s explore.

However, if you are more interested in amphibians and reptiles, the Everglades National Park will be your go-to destination.

Whales At Kenai Fjords National Park Wildlife

Watching the whales is one of the best activities to do at Kenai Fjords National Park. You can see the whales here throughout the year.

The table below presents a sneak peek into the different species of whales and their best viewing time.

Type of Whale	Best Viewing Time
Humpback Whale	Mid-May to August
Orca or Killer Whale	Mid-May to June
Gray Whale	Mid-April to May
Fin Whale	May to September

You can easily spot whales on the surface of the water. As they spout, fluke dive, breach, or spy hop in the water, you will get to know about their playful nature.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) ensures that cruising companies and visitors maintain respectful behavior when they are on whale-watching trips.

Other Sea Mammals At Kenai Fjords

Kenai Fjords is home to many sea mammals along with various species of whales. Don’t forget to catch a glimpse of Dall’s Porpoises, harbor seals, sea otters, and sea lions.

Dall’s Porpoise

Dall’s Porpoises look like orcas but are faster. They eat lanternfish, octopus, and squid.

Harbor Seals

You will find these cute sea mammals resting around active glaciers. They also stay on ice floes. They love to eat shellfish and fish.

Sea Otters

You will spot the playful sea otters swimming on their back in the water. They love fish, crabs, sea urchins, and squids.

They are furry, and the funniest thing is to see them using their bellies as tables. For sure, you will want to grab a soft toy version of these sea mammals.

Stellar Sea Lions

Stellar sea lions are an endangered species, and they stay on the icy shore of the sea. They have reddish fur, and they are 6-8 in height.

These mammals survive on fish and mollusks.

Birds At Kenai Fjords

From the NPS archive, a historical document on Kenai Fjords National Park says,

“Kenai Fjords provides habitat for at least 191 species of birds. The black oystercatcher spends most of its time feeding in the rich intertidal zone. Tufted and horned puffins nest in rock crevices along the coast. Bald eagles patrol the waters in search of salmon and other fish.”

It’s time we meet the birds and learn briefly about them.

Horned Puffins

These beautiful birds have unique black horn-like markings over their eyes. The touch of red on the tip of their beaks further makes them easily distinguishable.

You must visit the Kenai Fjords from mid-May to August to catch a glimpse of these birds.

Bald Eagles

You may catch bald eagles preying on fish and waterfowl. They get their name from their white-feathered head.

Peregrine Falcons

Known for excellent hunting abilities, peregrine falcons have a vibrant touch of yellow around their eyes and on their beaks.

Along with these birds, you can also see birds like the common murre, black-legged kittiwake, and cormorant at Kenai Fjords National Park.

Land Mammals At Kenai Fjords

Mountain goats and brown and black bears are common at Kenai Fjords. The mountain goats have split hooves for a better grip on the mountains and on the snowy land.

Further, many people visit the Kenai Fjords only to meet black and brown bears. These bears love eating fish, berries, and other vegetation.

Final Words

Global temperature changes and glacier melting have challenged the vast wilderness at Kenai Fjords National Park. Further, the movements of crustal plates beneath the Earth’s surface make the landscape and its ecosystem volatile.

So, there is nothing permanent about the animals found in this park, stretching over 1000 square miles of water and land. Also, it is impossible to know about all the species habituating here thanks to the geographical nature and dramatic differences in weather conditions across seasons.

Nevertheless, as you take a tour of this rich national park on a cruise or explore its various parks, make sure to abide by the safety norms. Respect nature and its inhabitants! This is the best way to experience the natural abundance the park is known for.

Do you have plans to visit the Kenai Fjords anytime soon? What do you find the most amazing thing about it? Don’t forget to share your ideas with us!

Wildlife At Kenai Fjords National Park: FAQs

What Animals Can You See In Kenai Fjords National Park?

Kenai Fjords wilderness is vivid. As you take a cruise trip or explore the National Park, you will notice the seals first, comfortable on the floating ice in the sea. Further, the male and female sea lions make their presence felt on the icy seashore.

Kenai Fjords is home to many notable species of marine and land mammals. Also, you will find various birds here.

Whales, sea otters, Dall’s porpoise, gray wolves, minks, and mountain goats are common animals here.

Birds such as puffins, bald eagles, and peregrine falcons will greet you as you visit this beautiful national park.

Can You See Bears In Kenai Fjords National Park?

Located at the edge of the Kenai Peninsula, Kenai Fjords has black and brown bears. Black bears are easily spotted, and they are more timid than brown bears.

The National Park Service has a set of safety guidelines, including not attracting bears with food and garbage and avoiding their personal spaces. Follow the norms to make your interaction with the bears delightful.

Can You See Northern Lights In Kenai Fjords National Park?

Yes, you can see the Northern Lights in Kenai Fjords National Park during the autumn and winter seasons. The night sky of Kenai Fjords looks like the most amazing melange of green, purple, blue, and green shades.

If you are a religious soul, you must visit the Virgin Mary Russian Orthodox Church with the Northern Lights dancing in the sky. It’s the most divine experience.

For a spiritual journey, watch the lights over the Seward boat harbor.

When To See Whales In Kenai Fjords National Park?

You can see whales in Kenai Fjords National Park throughout the year. However, if you want to watch a specific species of whale among the varieties seen here, you must plan a trip according to the right season.

The best time for watching gray whales is March and April. In these months, gray whales migrate to this part of the world through the Gulf of Alaska.

Do you want to watch the humpback whales? You can see them from May to October. They flock in large numbers from Mexico and Hawaii. They live in the water here as they can find nutrient-rich food for them throughout the summer.

In addition, Orcas or the killer whales are seen in mid-May and June. Moreover, if you are lucky enough, you will also see minke whales and fin whales in this area.

What Is Special About Kenai Fjords?

Your Alaska trip is incomplete without a visit to Kenai Fjords National Park, where you can see the best of the marine world. Also, it is the home to Northwestern, Aialik, and Holgate tidewater glaciers. Glaciers move relentlessly into the sea.

Further, it is the most picturesque landscape where mountains, an ancient icefield, valleys, cascading falls, forest canopies, and the great Pacific Ocean coexist. Thanks to this coexistence, Kenai Fjords National Park is rich in biodiversity. You will find humpback whales, sea otters, mountain goats and many species of birds in the National Park.

Designated as a National Park in 1980, Kenai Fjords National Park also protects various archeological and historical remains. The park has many prehistoric, protohistoric, and historic sites.

Archeologists still conduct surveys in this park to learn more about the human way of living and why it has changed over the years.

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Sibashree Bhattacharya

Meet Sibashree Bhattacharya, a travel enthusiast who has a decade-long experience in transcending virtual barriers with her words! Her deep love for travel is apparent from her travel escapades to the mountain, often taking her readers on a journey, her words acting as Portkey! Fun fact: Sibashree loves to dive deep into the history of the places she is about to visit, making her travels even more wholesome. If you were wondering how her articles are not short of time travel, this answers it!

The Ultimate Guide To Becoming A Disney Travel Agent

BY Ankita Oct 24, 2023

Becoming a Disney travel agent might be your dream job if you're a Disney enthusiast and love planning trips. Imagine combining your deep knowledge and passion for all things Disney with the rewarding opportunity to help others create magical memories that will last a lifetime. This comprehensive guide is designed to provide you with everything you need to know to embark on your exciting journey as a travel agent for Disney. From understanding the intricacies of Disney destinations to mastering the art of creating personalized itineraries, you'll gain invaluable insights and practical tips that will set you up for success in this magical career path. Get ready to unlock a world of possibilities and make dreams come true as a travel agent for Disney. Understanding the Role of a Disney Travel Agent Discussing from the tour operators’ perspective, the travel agents establish coordination with the other stakeholders, like the hotel owners, so that the clients do not have to take any responsibility for the same. Besides these two major ones, they make the reservations, suggest the upgrades, and deal with the complaints most calmly and diplomatically. At the same time, they ensure that they keep the product and brand knowledge up to date. It is an impotant part of the service. Now, when you narrow the discussion down to Disney travel agents, they are on the same line. A Disney travel agent is a specialist who plans and books Disney vacations for clients. They have an in-depth understanding of Disney experiences, including theme parks, cruises, resorts, and other offerings. They use this knowledge to help clients choose the best options based on their budget, preferences, and desired experiences. What Does a Disney Travel Agent Do? Disney travel agents provide personalized service to their clients. They handle everything from advising on the best time to visit, selecting the right resort, securing dining and FastPass+ reservations, and planning daily itineraries. Their goal is to make the planning process as stress-free as possible for their clients, ensuring they have a fantastic Disney vacation. How to Become a Disney Travel Agent This section discusses some ways you can become a disney travel agent. Let's discuss some of the points that offer you an idea in this section. 1: Immerse Yourself in All Things Disney The first step to becoming a travel agent for Disney is to understand all things Disney deeply. Visit the parks, stay at the resorts, dine at the restaurants, and immerse yourself in the Disney experience. This firsthand knowledge will be invaluable when advising your clients. 2: Complete Disney's Training Program Disney offers an online training program called the College of Disney Knowledge. This program provides comprehensive training on all Disney destinations, including Disneyland, Walt Disney World, Disney Cruise Line, and Adventures by Disney. Completing this training is a crucial step in becoming a Disney travel agent. 3: Join a Travel Agency Once you've completed your training, you can join a travel agency specializing in Disney. Most agencies provide excellent commission splits. Benefits of Being a Disney Travel Agent Being a travel agent for Disney comes with several benefits. 1: Flexible Schedule You can set your hours and work as a Disney travel agent anywhere. This makes it an excellent career option for those seeking work-life balance. 2: Potential Earnings The earnings potential as a Disney travel agent can vary greatly depending on the volume and type of bookings you make. However, you can earn a substantial income with dedication and hard work. 3: Exclusive Information and Discounts Disney travel agents often have access to exclusive information and discounts not available to the general public. This can benefit your clients and allow you to enjoy discounted trips to Disney destinations. Tips for Success as a Disney Travel Agent 1: Stay Updated Disney travel agents must stay updated with new attractions and promotions regularly introduced. This will ensure you provide the best service to your clients. 2: Prioritize Customer Service Top-notch customer service is critical in this field. Be responsive, and attentive, and go the extra mile to ensure your clients have a memorable Disney vacation. 3: Network Networking with other travel agents and industry professionals can provide valuable insights and opportunities. It's also a great way to stay informed about industry trends and developments. The Ultimate Guide To Becoming A Disney Travel Agent - In Conclusion Becoming a travel agent for Disney can be a gratifying and fulfilling career for those who have an unwavering passion for Disney and derive joy from assisting others in planning their dream vacations. By combining your deep love for all things Disney with the proper knowledge, comprehensive training, and unwavering dedication, you can transform your affinity for the magical world of Disney into a prosperous career. So why not embark on this enchanting journey and make dreams come true for Disney enthusiasts around the globe? Start your path to becoming a travel agent for Disney today and unlock a world of endless possibilities. Read Also: 10 Best Places To Travel In January – Travel Guide 2024 10 Things To Do In Madeira Beach In 2022- Tour And Travel Guides The Perfect Getaway: Discovering The Closest Beach To Disney World!

How Much Does Yacht Crew Make

BY Arnab Jun 30, 2023

Embarking on a luxurious yacht journey is an experience like no other, and behind the scenes, a dedicated crew works tirelessly to ensure guests have an unforgettable voyage. You're not alone if you've ever wondered how much these hardworking yacht crew members make. In this comprehensive guide, we'll delve into the fascinating world of yacht crew salaries, exploring factors influencing their income, such as yacht size, experience, location, and various roles within the crew. From captains to deckhands, we'll uncover the earning potential in this alluring industry and shed light on additional compensation, like tips and bonuses. So, you may start to rent a yacht and set sail with us as we navigate the rewarding waters of yacht crew salaries. Yacht Staff Departments Their Roles and Salaries Luxury yachting is synonymous with opulence, relaxation, and unforgettable experiences. However, behind the scenes, a dedicated team of yacht staff members works tirelessly to ensure that every aspect of the voyage runs smoothly. This article will explore the various departments on a yacht and each staff member's vital role in creating a seamless guest experience and their salaries. 1. Deck Department The deck department is responsible for maintaining the yacht's exterior, ensuring its safety, and assisting with navigation. Key roles within the deck department include: Captain The captain is in charge of the overall operation and safety of the yacht. They oversee the entire crew, manage the yacht's itinerary, and ensure compliance with maritime laws and regulations. Their salaries can range from $48,000 to $180,000 annually, depending on yacht size, experience, and location. Small yachts (up to 24 meters or 79 feet): $48,000 - $84,000 Medium yachts (24-50 meters or 79-164 feet): $72,000 - $120,000 Large yachts (over 50 meters or 164 feet): $96,000 - $180,000 First Officer The first officer, the chief mate or chief officer, assists the captain with navigation, safety procedures, and crew management. They are second-in-command and assume the captain's responsibilities in their absence. The size of the yacht is a significant determinant of the salary range for Chief Officers and First Mates. Small yachts: $3,100 - $6,500 per month Medium yachts: $5,000 - $9,800 per month Large yachts: $7,000 - $14,200 per month Deckhands Deckhands are responsible for the upkeep of the yacht's exterior, including cleaning, painting, and varnishing. They also handle docking procedures, assist with water sports activities, and help with tender operations. Their estimated salaries range from $24,000 to $48,000 annually. Small yachts: $24,000 - $30,000 Medium yachts: $30,000 - $42,000 Large yachts: $36,000 - $48,000 2. Engineering Department The engineering department ensures the smooth operation of all mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems on board the yacht. Read this article if you are an engineer and are interested in becoming a yacht engineer. Key roles within the engineering department include: Chief Engineer and Assistant Engineer: The chief engineer is responsible for maintaining and repairing the yacht's engines, generators, air conditioning systems, and other critical equipment. They also oversee fuel consumption and ensure the yacht complies with environmental regulations. Assistant engineers support the chief engineer by performing routine maintenance tasks and assisting with necessary repairs. The estimated salaries for engineers can range from $36,000 to $120,000 per year, depending on their role, yacht size, experience, and location. Small yachts: $36,000 - $60,000 (Assistant Engineer) Medium yachts: $48,000 - $84,000 (Assistant Engineer); $60,000 - $96,000 (Chief Engineer) Large yachts: $72,000 - $120,000 (Chief Engineer) 3. Interior Department The interior department is responsible for providing exceptional guest service and maintaining the cleanliness and presentation of the yacht's interior spaces. Key roles within the interior department include: Chief Steward/Stewardess: The chief steward or stewardess leads the interior crew and ensures that guests receive top-notch service throughout their stay. They oversee housekeeping, laundry, and meal service, as well as manage inventory and provisioning. Stewards and stewardesses assist the chief steward/stewardess in providing exceptional guest service. Their duties include serving meals, cleaning guest cabins, and attending to guests' needs. Their estimated salaries can range from $37,000 to $84,000 annually. Small yachts: $37,000 - $48,000 Medium yachts: $42,000 - $60,000 Large yachts: $48,000 - $84,000 4. Galley Department The galley department is responsible for preparing delicious and visually appealing meals for guests and crew members. Key roles within the galley department include: Executive Chef/ Sous Chef The executive chef oversees menu planning, preparation, and ensuring that all meals meet guests' dietary requirements and preferences. They also manage the galley staff and maintain food safety standards. The sous chef assists the executive chef in preparing meals and managing the galley staff. The crew cook prepares meals for the yacht's crew members, ensuring they have nutritious and satisfying meals. Their estimated salaries can range from $36,000 to $96,000 annually. Small yachts: $36,000 - $60,000 Medium yachts: $48,000 - $72,000 Large yachts: $60,000 - $96,000 It's essential to note that these salary estimates are subject to change based on market fluctuations, individual performance, and other factors. Yacht crew members may also receive tips, bonuses, and other benefits that can significantly boost their overall income. Final Thoughts In conclusion, the estimated salaries of yacht crew members can be rewarding and vary based on factors such as experience, yacht size, and location. With the potential for additional compensation through tips and bonuses, a career in the luxury yachting industry can be financially lucrative while offering the opportunity to work in a unique and exciting environment. Read Also: Yachting In Dubai – A Memorable Experience 10 Reasons Why You Should Get A Yacht In 2022 Entertain Your Guests By Choosing A Private Yacht Charter In Maldives

THESE Romantic Destinations Makes Best Cruises for Couples!

BY Sibashree Feb 18, 2025

As a couple, imagine sitting on the wide deck of the cruise ship, sipping sparking water, staring at the horizon! With your partner right beside you, holding on to your fingers while you both see the sun slowly setting, coloring the sky red! “What a romantic thing to do! To make me think of you!” The line resembles what you feel as a couple when you go on one of the best cruises for couples in the Caribbean! The spectacular turquoise waters create the perfect background for some of the best Caribbean cruises you are on. So, what are your plans to visit the Caribbean? Let's get inspired by the celebrity cruise experiences and share them with your partner. Not just exploring new places but also tasting new cuisines and watching over the horizon, getting to see new migratory birds! Let me share with you some of the most romantic destinations and which cruise packages are perfect to take you there! THESE Romantic Destinations Make Best Cruises for Couples! As a couple, you need to spend quality time with each other. Going on a cruise with beautiful scenery is a perfect date setting! Let me tell you, going on one of the best cruises for couples means you get to spend quality time together. Additionally, you get to do fun activities such as jazz dance, go for spa treatments, fine dining, or watch a movie together. There are a variety of experiences that you will get from one of these romantic destinations that you can visit while on a cruise together. Let us explore more about these cruises, be it the princess cruise package or the sunset cruise package. It will not just relax you and your partner individually but also improve your relationship as a couple. Furthermore, you can also get some February vacation ideas! The Mediterranean The priceless moments that you will experience while romancing your partner on a Mediterranean cruise are unmatched. If you are both huge adventure seekers, this is the perfect cruise to go for you! You can book some of the best Mediterranean cruises 2025 after learning more in this blog! Go through diverse experiences and make memories for a lifetime with your partner. You can go biking across the Tuscan hills or you can walk on the streets of Rome, hand in hand with your lover. You can also see the beautiful leaning Tower of Pisa! Additionally, you can cozy up in a Venetian Gondola, spending beautiful moments of togetherness. If you know how to swim, you can go for a dip in the clean and sparkling waters of Corfu. Hawaii Are you wondering about going on a cruise with your partner? Do you have any idea about some of the best cruises for couples? Of course, how can we forget Hawaii as the paradise of all cruise experiences? You will need at least 19 days to go on this cruise trip! However, if you cannot manage that long, why don’t you choose the 16-Day Hawaiian Islands roundtrip? You can get on the cruise from San Francisco, California. It will cover five ports in Hawaii, Kona, Hilo, Honolulu, Kauai, and Ensenada! Hawaii is known for its nightlife along with entertainment in the Island-inspired activities. Do not miss the world-class cuisine! Enjoy beautiful ocean views. Alaska If you are planning to see beautiful glaciers and check out some of the coolest wildlife, Alaska as a destination offers one of the best cruises for couples. Arctic excursions are not everyone’s cup of tea hence, committing to this cruise is the best way to enjoy Alaska. The beautiful blue of the sky and the lake of the place make a perfect view for you and your partner to enjoy a glass of wine together! Simultaneously, some of the best Alaska cruises will ensure your perfect holiday. You can take princess cruises or celebrity cruises, depending on your requirements, be it a spa, or delicious Italian restaurant! Key West There is no direct cruise line going to the Key West especially because of the increasing risks to the fragile tropical environment. The economy of the place is dependent on tourism therefore, cruise ships dock at the closest piers, be it the Navy-owned Outer Mole pier or the Truman Annex! You have to watch the beautiful sunsets at the Key West cruise lines! Along with that, you get live music and a full bar. You must enjoy the delicious cuisine that is available on these cruises. New Orleans There are some specific activities and elements of cruise travel that you can enjoy when in New Orleans! When you want to go on a romantic date or trip, you have to take one of the best cruises for couples. Starting from stunning views of the city, delicious Creole cuisine, and live jazz music combine to offer you a unique New Orleans experience. The cruises go through the Mississippi River giving you the genuine traditional feel of New Orleans. New England Are you planning to go on a romantic trip to New England on a cruise ride? Let me share with you some of the best cruises for couples such as Boston Harbor Sunset Cruise or Lighthouse Lovers Cruise in Portland. Furthermore, you can go for a whale-watching trip on the cruise in Gloucester. You will get to see pristine beaches while on the cruise along with scenic harbors all around. The CruiseLine can be completed in seven days, going from Quebec to Bar Harbor to Boston. San Francisco For me, one of the best cruises for couples if you want to go to San Francisco. You can go on a romantic sunset Catamaran Cruise where you can go around the Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz Island. You will get a complete view of the city at night, having the perfect date night! Henceforth, you will get guides on these cruises along with those who will give you informative commentary. Simultaneously, you will also experience the beauty of the city with its sky-high buildings and bridges. The Caribbean What is more beautiful than the white sand and turquoise water, bringing you the most peaceful sound ever? Let's not forget the beautiful palm trees lining the beaches! If you are a couple in love, celebrating your wedding anniversary, or want to host your wedding, this is it for you. The cruises are available year-round with five departure ports! The itinerary includes 23 islands covering all the regions. They have 11 ships active on that route and what is a better experience than going on a cruise, having a laidback vibe, enjoying local food, and island hopping? Are you Ready for Some Romance? Now that we have shared with you some of the most romantic destinations that you can cover, I am sure your plans are ready. Get your reservations on one of these best cruises for couples and use the trip packages to the best of your advantage. Most of these cruises are of 5 nights and above! They cover at least 3 to 5 ports when going on the cruise including local cuisine and local Island inspired activities. Comment below on what you think is the best cruise trip that you think of out of the ones I have mentioned. Do let us know some of the best cruises you have gone on with your partner! Also read Top 10 Most Popular Paraguay Food That You Must Try. Top 13+ Famous Wonders Of India That You Must Visit. Top Tips For Motorbike Rental In Phuket – A Guide To Exploring The Island On Two Wheels.

Whales And Sea Lions! Exploring Wildlife At Kenai Fjords National Park

Exploring Kenai Fjords National Park Wildlife