One of Alaska’s most active tidewater glaciers.
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Overview
Hubbard Glacier is a colossal tidewater glacier located in eastern Alaska, near Yakutat. It holds the distinction of being the largest tidewater glacier in North America, stretching an astounding 76 miles (122 km) long and over 7 miles (11 km) wide where it meets the ocean in Disenchantment Bay. What makes Hubbard truly unique among glaciers worldwide is its consistent advancement and thickening, earning it the nickname "The Galloping Glacier," in stark contrast to the vast majority of receding glaciers.
This immense natural wonder is a spectacle of shifting ice, with towering ice cliffs that can reach up to 400 feet (122 meters) high above the waterline. Its active nature leads to dramatic calving events, where immense chunks of ice break off and crash into the frigid waters, creating thunderous roars and powerful waves. Hubbard Glacier is a raw, untouched display of nature's power and grandeur, accessible almost exclusively by sea.
The ultimate experience at Hubbard Glacier is witnessing a dramatic calving event. Listen for the tell-tale "white thunder" as immense pieces of ice, some as tall as a 30-story building, break off the glacier face and plummet into the sea.
Tip: Position yourself on an open deck of your cruise ship for the best views. Have your camera ready, but also take time to simply absorb the monumental sight and sound.
Enjoy hours of dedicated scenic cruising as your ship navigates Disenchantment Bay, bringing you close to the magnificent 7-mile-wide face of Hubbard Glacier. Your ship will typically perform a 360-degree turn to ensure all passengers get unparalleled views from every angle.
Tip: Find a prime viewing spot on deck early, or if you have a balcony stateroom, enjoy the private show. Onboard naturalists often provide live commentary.
Keep a keen eye out for Arctic wildlife in the nutrient-rich waters around the glacier. Common sightings include harbor seals lounging on icebergs, sea otters frolicking, and various seabirds like gulls and kittiwakes. You might also be lucky enough to spot humpback whales or orca (killer whales).
Tip: Bring binoculars to enhance your wildlife viewing experience. Listen for the onboard naturalist's announcements about sightings.
Capture the incredible scale and mesmerizing blue hues of the glacier through photography. The sheer size of the ice formations and the contrast with the surrounding mountains offer endless photographic possibilities.
Tip: A polarizing filter can help reduce glare from the ice and water. Experiment with different angles and zoom levels to convey the glacier's immensity. Be prepared for mist from calving events.
Take advantage of the onboard naturalists or park rangers who often provide educational talks and live commentary during your scenic cruise. They can offer fascinating insights into the glacier's geology, its unique advancement, and the local ecosystem.
Tip: Tune into the ship's public address system or in-stateroom TV channel for the narration. Attend any pre-glacier viewing lectures to enhance your understanding.
Beyond the visual spectacle, take a moment to simply experience the profound silence and immense grandeur of this remote Arctic environment. The occasional crack of ice breaking or the roar of a calving event only punctuates the otherwise overwhelming peace.
Tip: Dress warmly in layers, even on a sunny day, as temperatures near the glacier are always cold and winds can be strong.
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