The rich feeding waters off of Pt Adolphous in the Icy Straight attracts many whale speciecs. Humpbacks, Orcas, Gray and several other types are frequently spotted. A perfect place for a kayak trip. This trip started in Juneau where we boarded a sea plane headed to the point. Our plan was simple; paddle from Point Adolphous to Hoonah where we can catch the ferry back to Haines. We have two days, two nights and twenty miles to cover. We arrived at the drop off at 5:00 pm. The plane floated to within 50 yards of shore and from here we had to hoof it, not an easy task when the water is about 40 degrees and you have gear. Our kayaks were waiting for us there. We set up camp here and went out for an evening paddle. Later that evening we were accompanied in camp by two young brown bear. After checking out the area they hastily left. We turned in early that night without spotting any whales but their presence would soon be known. At 2:00 in the morning, I was awakened by sounds like none I've ever heard. High, piercing crys echoed off the mountains in the narrow channel.  Return crys echoed back. This continued for hours during the night. Serenaded by whales while camping on a beach, only in Alaska. The next morning a humpback is spotted off shore. We quickly board the kayaks for a closer look. This humpback was about 40 foot in length and gentile has a lamb. He was alone and didnt seem to mind the attention of the kayaks though we kept some distance to avoid disturbing the giant. We returned to shore to have some breakfast and plan our departure. Travel through the straights must be carefully planned and  timed with the local tides. One can only paddle during the incoming tide (about 6 hours). Tides change 10-16 feet daily. Paddling against the outgoing tide is a futile effort as well as dangerous. In certain areas in the straights, standing wave, 2-4 feet high are frequent. These waves are caused when the swift moving water in the straight collides with the still open water. Kayaks should avoid these areas. After breakfast we head out during slack tide.Our plan is to paddle about 10 miles until  we find a suitable island to camp on. This should put us just over half way to Hoonah. During our paddle south we spot many more humpbacks as well as a multitude of other wildlife. Seals, sea lions, and puffins are just some of the wonderful creatures abundant in the area. The seals are curious as dogs. They follow the kayaks for long distances poking there heads out of the water. We paddled until 3 that afternoon as the tide started to recede. Below a curious humpback takes a  peak at the strange visitors.
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