The seasonal progression springs into summer aboard Jupiter. Then, when least expected, the impossibly long days of the short Alaskan summer fade into nautical twilight, reminding the crew to plan the voyage down-chart.
But not before the arrival of son Ben and grandson Benji, aboard for the last leg of Jupiter’s Alaskan escapade.
Joys of signing on shipmates is amplified when the crew is family. Ben, a photojournalist, brings his eye and lens to record the animation of life aboard Jupiter. Benji, a curious second grader, brings his interest in untangling all floating mysteries.
Ben the photographer, and Benji the cosmographer, are convivial and focused during a five-day cruise from Wrangell to Ketchikan.
Benji remembers every detail from the voyage, learns safety protocols, shipboard systems, operation of equipment, vessel anatomy, navigational devices, and many maritime wonders. The Q and A runs from the morning watch until the second dog watch and involves everyone and everything aboard.
Kayaking becomes a routine activity with Locator beacon, GPS and VHF radio within reach. Father and son are soon paddling calm anchorages together.
Three generations man two helms over five days of southbound cruising.
During our landing at charming and remote Myers Chuck, we scout forest trails and rocky shores, flexing, imaginations, and unearthing curious finds. During days at sea a “devilishly difficult” puzzle is completed.
Jupiter points southeast, her crew yet unsated by summer feasts of friends aboard, the abundance of creatures from the watery world, and the unexpected.
The satisfaction of voyaging is great. After nearly three thousand miles during five months at sea, losing ourselves along rocky shores, up and down inlets, among islands, and within scores of solitary anchorages, we are grateful for friends and family, viewfinders aboard our little ship.
Most photos by Ben
Thrilling post with Ben and Benji. Looks like beautiful memories made.
Thank you, Stacy! It was a thrill to have them both aboard.
How delightful having the Bens aboard, three generations together for five days. Perfect.
Nice to see Ben as a dad!
@Fiona and Randy: Enjoy Benji!
@Stacy (I saw your comment): Hope you had a nice birthday, you are still on our birthday calender in the bathroom!
Happy Birthday Stacy! Thanks Helmie. You both had a hand in the making of the man. đ
The blog âviewfindersâ is just wonderful. I loved sharing Benjiâs curiosity and discoveries! And Benâs photos are exquisite. Thanks for sharing your family with us!
Thanks Denise. Benji would have found even more to play with aboard Blue Pearl where you have all the cool toys!
Priceless !!!!
Three generations! What a joy to be together on the water for 5 days. The memories made will be indelible. Benjiâs smile is infectious. Benâs photography is beautiful!
Thanks Heather! Very kind. I can’t wait to get them back again.
Love these photos of Ben and Benji. Our 7-year-old grandson Viggo is also missing teeth but in different places :~) . It’s a great age for exploring and adventuring.
A great age! Such curious minds.