A Chilly Welcome to Mountain Point

As someone who has spent countless hours riding the warm waves of the Caribbean, the idea of snorkeling in the frigid waters of Alaska was both thrilling and a bit daunting. But the allure of exploring a seldom-seen underwater world was too tempting to resist. So, I found myself at Mountain Point, ready to dive into an adventure that promised a unique glimpse into the vibrant marine life of Southeast Alaska.

Upon arrival, I was greeted by Fred and his team, who exuded a calm confidence that immediately put me at ease. They provided us with 7mm wetsuits, hoods, boots, and gloves, ensuring we were well-prepared for the cold. As we drove to the changing building, Fred explained the process in detail, making sure we were comfortable with every step. His expertise was evident, and it was clear that this was a finely tuned operation.

Diving into the Unknown

Once suited up, we entered the water from a rocky beach, the rain adding a dramatic touch to the already exhilarating experience. The wetsuit did its job, and the water wasn’t as cold as I had feared. In fact, it was quite refreshing. The guides had timed our excursion perfectly with the low tide, allowing us to see an incredible array of colorful sea stars scattered across the ocean floor.

The underwater world was teeming with life. Schools of fish darted around us, and I even had the chance to hold the largest sea star I’d ever seen. The experience was surreal, with baby jellyfish bobbing by and sea urchins nestled among the rocks. It was a reminder of the ocean’s endless wonders, a feeling I know well from my time in the Caribbean, yet this was a new and exciting chapter.

A Warm Farewell

After an hour of exploring, we emerged from the water to be greeted by the team with a bucket of warm water, which we poured down our wetsuits. It was a small gesture, but one that spoke volumes about their dedication to ensuring a memorable experience. Once changed and showered, Fred surprised us with his homemade smoked salmon, a delightful treat that rivaled anything I’d tasted back home.

As we drove back into town, the camaraderie among the group was palpable. Fred’s recommendation to visit a local bar for the best burgers and halibut sandwiches was the perfect end to an unforgettable day. Ketchikan had indeed been a highlight of my Alaskan adventure, a place where the ocean’s magic was as alive as ever, even in the chilly embrace of the north. This experience was a testament to the fact that no matter where you are in the world, the ocean has a way of bringing people together and creating memories that last a lifetime.