The Pilot Comes Aboard

Our third ... or is it fourth? ... day at sea, with one more still to go.  This morning we crossed over the border from Canada into the United States, and we are now cruising along the Alaskan coast. 

This afternoon we took a pilot on board -- he will be with us until we reach Nome in four days time.  Here he is, about to jump from his little boat onto our big ship -- I must say he was very nimble, and wasted not one moment in the execution of his duty.  I have a feeling that the very cold water temperature may have had something to do with his speedy embarkation!

EXTRA:  Just after I posted this entry, an announcement was made that the Pilot had spotted Polar Bears on nearby Cross Island.  The Captain made a detour there, and opened up the bow so that we passengers could get a closer look.  This is definitely not a National Geographic worthy photograph, but hopefully you will be able to count at least six bears on the beach!!!