UNGA VILLAGE

A photographer’s paradise. Other than the bears this was my favorite day. This was a wet beach landing (very easy) and then a grassy knoll with many dilapidated buildings. This was a gold mining town in the early 1900s. The area was covered with wildflowers and even yellow raspberries that I have never seen before. One couple said they can get them in California but that they are very expensive.

The church was so interesting. With most of the building looking like it had sunk into the ground, the steeple was proudly still resting on the top of the building like a landmark. Some of the buildings had corroded old machinery inside.

On one vantage point overlooking a beautiful beach with rocks and hills in the background and under a very large tree was a grave. 1911 – 1916 – Morna Wilson – Rest in Peace our Darling Child. That kind of got to me to think they had a child in this remote place who died at such a young age.

The scenery from the island was spectacular. Gorgeous in every direction. Ken will post some pictures.

The town had obviously planted trees as there were no trees anywhere except the village. At the very top of the hill there was Great Horned Owl in a tree. He was big and very visible. The cameras were clicking away all morning.

Just a wonderful place to visit. We ended up missing the hike or the beach walk as we were so busy just exploring. The day finished with a zodiac ride to the bird cliffs that were very close by. This is the most puffins we have ever seen. The other birds were at the bottom of the cliff and the top of the cliff was just covered in puffins. Problem is they were flying around but not landing for Ken to take good pictures.

As the ship was to pull anchor and leave the bridge announced there were whales ahead. They were humpback whales. Not good sightings a few flukes and lots of blows.

Then off to lunch I was starving. The food has been so good here. Soups yummy. I did a special order of steamed vegetables each day and they have had a good variety of food. Todays main were Chinook Salmon, Strip Sirlion on the carving, Thai mixed seafood, chicken breasts and a veal dish. They always have a daily pasta. This with vegetables and starch. Yesterday they made fresh panini sandwiches about four different types. Nikon Ken, they appear to have a good selection of cheese at lunch. (not that I am an expert on cheese) and tons of REALLY good fruit. Last night I had lamb chops two double chops (regular order) they were really good. So no problems on the food front.

We have an afternoon at sea and I need that now. Tomorrow we arrive at Dutch Harbor. Ken is working on some pictures hopefully he can get some posted today.