Fall Semester

BEGINNING OF FALL SEMESTER
It is the beginning of a new semester and we are leaving Homer, AK. We spent four days here on a quick inport before heading back to Chirikof Island. Our plan is to finish up the last bit of work in Chirikof before heading to our new survey area in the Shumigan Islands. The beginning of the fall semester marks a perfect time for me as I will get to begin work on my assigned sheet in the Shumigan Islands. So, a new project for a new semester.

Sheet assignment in the Shumigan Islands- off of Simeonof Island

HOMER, AK
Homer is a quaint little Alaskan town with a population of 5003. Considering the small population, you would never know how small this town is. There is a constant influx of tourists coming in from the cruise ships. A few of my shipmates went on a bear viewing tour, some went camping (me included), fishing, etc. There is so much to do in these small Alaskan towns. The views were spectacular and it was a nice bit of time off after being on the ship for a three week leg. There are several visitors centers in and around town, providing ample information about the wilderness, animal life, marine life, etc. I also noticed that the people of Homer seem to be very friendly.
A landmark that must be visited is the Salty Dawg Saloon. It is located on the Homer Spit, (which makes it conveniently close to the docked ship).

Arrival in Homer, AK - view of Kachemak Bay

The Rainier S 221 in Kachemak Bay

Homer sunset

Walking around town with a view of a glacier

Deep water dock

Variety of Visitor Centers in and around town

The Homer Spit

DEPARTING HOMER
On our way to Chirikof, I got to see yet another spectacular sunset. I stepped out onto the fantail and saw snow-capped mountains, volcanoes, a huge pod of whales, and this:

The views alone are worth the trip to Alaska.