We've been discussing the problem of overindulging our sensory organs. After a few weeks in the splendor of Prince William Sound and the Kenai Coast (both on Alaska's "Panhandle") we had a definite hangover. As a result, by the time we got to the west coast of Baranof Island, which we used to think was special, it was starting to look somewhat dull.

We're not surrounded by glaciers or spectacular mountain ranges. Just ordinary wilderness.

Of course there is lots of wildlife to observe along the shore.

And you cannot fail to be impressed by the local humpback whales.

If you come into a pod of these giants feeding or just chilling, they will serenade you with their blows.

There are sea-lions to observe while they keep an eye on you.

The anchorages have streams or waterfalls, and when the salmon start their migration these will be prime bear-watching locations.

And the light at the beginning and end of the day is equally spectacular to what we saw further north. It just doesn't last quite as long.

If there is just a hint of sunshine to mix with the clouds, the local colors will pop out.

Lower terrain means a better view of the sunrises and sunsets.

Inside the anchorages there are still waterborne surprises.

A few days ago we found several huge jelly fish. This one was at least two feet (60cm) across with tendrils which extended ten feet (3m).

This chap was quite a bit smaller, with thicker but shorter tentacles.

The charts in this part of the world have to be taken with a grain of salt. It is best to come in slowly, feeling your way with the depthsounder, watching the surface for signs of underwater obstacles. The chart above is of Still Harbor. It shows we are anchored in a clear spot. Range rings on the boat image are 150 feet (45m), equivalent to the range rings on the 1/8th nautical mile setting of the radar.

Here are the SONAR (left) and radar (right) images. As these are taken at low tide, the tip of a very large rock is sticking out of the water 150 feet (45m) from us.

This photo will put things into perspective. Notice the growth on top of the rock, indicating it is submerged most of the time. This is one of the reasons it is often better to approach a new anchorage during the lower part of the tidal cycle, as more of the uncharted risks will be visible.

It's been ten days now since we left the Panhandle. We've gotten over the hangover, and decided it is not so bad here after all.