Fabulous report, heroic effort. Were the lodges full . . . any guest interaction . . . were bear sightings only at Tutka Bay . . . and any midgee problems? Pleased to see the high level of rusticity at all the lodges rather than the Beverly Hills-style lodges in South Africa and some other parts of East and Southern Africa. I still have a hunch that given the right ship, a cruise might be the best way to see Alaska with wondrous scenic opportunities, heli-excursions, and wildlife spotting, especially birds and whales, and none of that checking-in and checking out and small flight hassle. However, the flights do give you awesome views if the insects aren't plastered across the windows.