We rode the water taxi (catamaran) down to Haines, which was an interesting experience in itself. Along the way we saw a whale do a full breach (completely
out of the water), but it happened only once so no one got a picture. ("Nuts!")

Buses were waiting at the pier in Haines so there is only a minimum of walking for those with mobility problems. 

Saw Harbor Seals, numerous bald eagles, and some bears, along with pink salmon
jumping out of the water at Chilkoot Lake.

Although the bear viewing wasn't optimum (i.e. They weren't standing in the middle of the river pulling salmon out with their great timing. Rather, they were lazy bears who were standing at the weir and picking the salmon off as they got hung-up. Oh well, who are we to judge?), bears are bears and are impressive creatures no matter how you see them.

We were delighted at the spectacle.

Weather was magnificent.

Took off between 8-8:30am while there was still some cloud cover in the Monument.
(After all, who wants to see "Misty Fjords" without the "Misty"?)

The classic DeHavilland Beaver was a joy to fly in and the 450hp P&W radial just
purred like a kitten. Surprised at how close to the cliffs our bush pilot, Dan,
came at times, but it just made the experience that much more memorable.

The brief land in "The Amphitheater" and getting out on the pontoons was an
added treat.

Our first ride in a float-plane...

Spectacular Alaskan scenery, great pilot, great aircraft!

Probably will never get the chance to do it again, but so pleased we got to do
it once!

Quiet location, good ride, easy access to central elevators/stairs.

Comfortable bed.

Fully-obstructed view (Lifeboat #17).

Good climate control...

(We found this
to be true even in the Horizon Court, where my wife preferred to eat breakfast, as did the vast majority of passengers, or so it seemed.)We found our 4 pieces within 5 minutes of arriving at the area, were in line for
Customs/Immigration and out the terminal front door no more than 10 minutes
later.

Golden Princess Review

Golden Princess - Alaska

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