Alaska 2011

22 June, 2011 is the start of our trip to Alaska to take in a local ferry trip along the Aleutian Islands from Homer, Alaska.  Prior to departing Christchurch there were a few possible impediments to manage.  The ash cloud from the South American volcano eruption a week previous had returned to lie over south eastern Australia and was threatening to enter New Zealand (NZ) airspace later on 22 June.  Our afternoon departure from Chrischurch was brought forward to 5.40am requiring us staying in Christchurch the night before.   The friendly motel proprietor had no sooner directed us to our room and we moved out baggage to the door when the ground shook, lights of the Avonhead area went out, however the door was open and with the use of a torch it was to bed for the night.  Without further drama we rose at 4am and were taken to the airport for the early flight to Auckland and after the day at the airport, boarded the overnight flight to Vancouver.  The day in Auckland gave a chance to catch up on a few things deferred due to the early departure and we still arrived in Vancouver mid afternoon "the same day" due to time zones.  The first night we stayed in North Vancouver and next day proceded up Highway 99, near the coast, stopping at Squamish to shop for food supplies.  Yes, we brought our camp cooking gear.  Highway 99 joined 97 north of Cache Creek, where Highway 1 turns east to Kamloops, and we stayed at Williams Creek, a few hours further to the north.
The photo journal will now follow our progress