Today, most glaciers are slowly receding, with one notable exception. The mighty Hubbard – the continent’s biggest tidewater glacier covering 1,350 square miles and standing 350 feet tall – is growing larger by the day. Traveling by sea, cruisers experience the awe-inspiring sight of the towering frozen river of blue ice. Glacier calving is one of nature’s greatest spectacles, as chunks of melting ice the size of buildings break off and crash into the frigid waters of the bay. The sound of cracking ice is so loud, the native peoples called it “White Thunder”.
Onboard Radiance of the Seas®, you can appreciate this wonder of nature from almost anywhere. The ship is designed for scenic sailing, with a glass-enclosed central atrium, elevators facing out to the sea, floor-to-ceiling windows, and ample outdoor deck space. The captain will slowly turn the ship around in the bay several times to ensure that everyone has the chance to take in the great views. A National Park Ranger, will describe the action as it unfolds – and keep a trained eye out for the humpback and orca whales that often frolic in the surrounding coves.