Tracy Arm & Sawyer Glacier Cruising
A Journey into an Ice-Carved Wonderland
A Journey into an Ice-Carved Wonderland
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Overview
Tracy Arm is a stunningly narrow and deep fjord located in Southeast Alaska's Tongass National Forest, renowned for its dramatic landscape of towering granite cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and brilliant blue tidewater glaciers. The majestic South and North Sawyer Glaciers, located at the head of the arm, are a spectacular reward for the journey through this ice-filled waterway. As a "scenic cruising" day rather than a port stop, the experience is centered on witnessing raw, pristine nature from the comfort of your ship or a smaller excursion vessel.
Cruising Tracy Arm is an unforgettable immersion into a vibrant, icy world. The fjord's emerald-colored waters are often dotted with icebergs of all sizes and shapes, providing a floating stage for a variety of wildlife. The atmosphere is electric as the ship maneuvers through the ice, with the potential for the thunderous sound of calving ice echoing across the water. This is a day for unparalleled natural beauty and a true highlight of any Alaska cruise.
The highlight of the day is a visit to the twin Sawyer Glaciers at the end of the fjord. These tidewater glaciers regularly shed immense spires and chunks of ice in a process known as calving. Watching and hearing this "white thunder" is a powerful, visceral experience and a testament to the force of nature.
Tip: To get the best views and photographs, find a spot on the outer observation decks as the ship approaches the glacier, and be patient for a calving event.
As your ship makes its way through the fjord, you'll be navigating a veritable maze of floating ice. The waters are often filled with brilliant blue and white icebergs of all shapes and sizes, providing a constantly changing and beautiful panorama.
Tip: The icebergs' intense blue color comes from the dense, air-free glacial ice absorbing all light wavelengths except blue. It's a fantastic photo opportunity.
The ice floes in Tracy Arm are a favorite resting spot for harbor seals, especially mothers with their newborn pups. Keep a sharp eye out for them, as well as for bald eagles soaring high above the cliffs. Mountain goats or brown bears are also occasionally sighted on the rocky slopes.
Tip: Binoculars are essential for spotting wildlife on the distant cliffs and ice floes. The seals are often well-camouflaged against the ice.
The steep cliffs that line the fjord are a canvas for countless cascading waterfalls. Fed by glacial meltwater, these falls plummet dramatically into the fjord, creating a dynamic and misty atmosphere.
Tip: Standing on an open deck lets you feel the cool mist and hear the roar of the falls, enhancing the immersive experience.
An onboard naturalist or park ranger will typically provide live commentary during the scenic cruising day. They offer fascinating insights into the geology of the fjord, the behavior of the wildlife, and the history of the area, enriching your understanding of this unique ecosystem.
Tip: Listen to the naturalist's announcements to know what to look for and when to expect certain events, like an upcoming calving.
Some cruise lines offer the option to transfer to a smaller, more nimble excursion boat. These boats can navigate closer to the glacier face and venture into areas that the larger cruise ship cannot reach due to ice, providing a more intimate and up-close perspective.
Tip: These excursions have limited capacity and are very popular. Book early through your cruise line to ensure you don't miss out.
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