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2011 Testimonials
“I shall remember a magical time and a magical place. I shall hold dear the serenity, the magnificence, the beauty, and the moments of a special place. I shall recall a fit crew, delightful new friends, delicious and attractive meals, walking with the bears, kayaking over icy waters of blue and green, the rhythmic chug-chugging engine of the mighty Catalyst, learning daily lessons about the glaciers and other interesting notes…but mainly I shall recall Capt. Bill reading “The Night the Bear Ate Goombaw.”
DW and LW, 2011 Glacier Bay
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“So many high lights! Today we were surrounded by humpbacks and we heard them sounding off. We shared the wonder on deck and it was glorious. Thank you so much.”
JS, 2011 Glacier Bay
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This land of water – flowing, dripping, ebbing, flooding, coursing.
Water falling, tumbling, floating down –
In waterfalls, raindrops, rivers and mists.
Water as the artist – carving, smoothing, sculpting, painting, using a palette of greens.
Water as the life-giver, for fern and moss, cedar and hemlock,
Bear and river otter, salmon and sea star, eagle and kingfisher, murrelet and merganser.
Water as our transport that opens this magical world to our wondering eyes.
Thank you Catalyst for taking us along for the ride!
GS, 2011 Misty Fjords
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“Wow!!!!” “That’s amazing!!!!” If you all had a dollar for the number of times I said these two phrases this week, you would all be very, very, very rich people! Seriously, for the person of –too-many-words that I am, I found myself speechless and awestruck on countless occasions this last week journeying on the Catalyst with you. What a truly profound privilege it has been to venture deep into the Misty Fjords, exploring some of the most pristine, exquisite, dramatic and truly “off-the-beaten-path” landscapes I’ve ever scene (No, that’s not a typo…you know that pun was fully intended). Thank you, Bill, Shannon, Cap and Tracie for everything you guys have done, working tirelessly to provide a seamless travel experience with wonderful personal touches like the slideshow, kayaking, and of course fantastic culinary indulgences, noting every last detail (like accommodating-going above and beyond actually-my gluten sensitivities). This week was truly a slice of heaven.
MP, 2011 Misty Fjords
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To the incredible crew of Catalyst:
It’s very difficult to even begin to express appreciation for the many wonders of this trip. The breathtaking beauty around us in unforgettable and the absolute devotion to answering our every need has been way beyond expectations. I feel extremely fortunate to have experienced all of this with such knowledgeable, congenial people. Thank you so much, Shannon, Bill, Tracie and Cap !
EP, 2011 Misty Fjords
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Bill and Shannon, It was a great 2-week adventure! We would sail anywhere, anytime with you and your crew. The skill and knowledge you demonstrate in sailing these waters – and your understanding of the natural world found there – is truly amazing. Unti the next time, happy adventures. Carpe diem.
SS, 2011 SE Alaska and Misty Fjords
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Bill and Shannon, I can’t come up with a word to describe our 2week experience that expresses all we have felt (scrabble overload!!). The solitude, serenity, and yet excitement of each new day. This beautiful boat and gourmet meals. Most importantly the warmth and humor of you two. We came on the boat as strangers and in 10 days leaving as friends – who I feel like we’ve known a lifetime. Thank you so very much for everything. Until we meet again and we will.
RB and DB, 2011 Southbound Southern Inside Passage
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Life sometimes takes you somewhere extraordinary. These past ten days traveling slowly down the Inside Passage have become one of the truly special times of my life. I’m taking home a heart and soul full of memories of mountains, fjords and wilderness that will last forever. To be able to experience all of it day after day from the comfort of the Catalyst, has been a real privilege. It’s good to see a beautiful old boat in such good hands. Thank you, Bill, Shannon, Cap and Tracie for turning a ‘trip’ into a lifetime experience, for making the wilderness of the Passage accessible to us and for looking after us so well. Thanks Tracie for the incredible food – a gluten free diet doesn’t have to be second rate after all! You’ve all made this voyage instructive, fascinating – and so much FUN! I’ve never enjoyed a holiday so much, and I leave knowing (my husband and) I have made some good friends. With love and best wishes.
JVO, 2011 Southbound Southern Inside Passage
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I came to Alaska and the Inside Passage to see a wilderness on the far side of the Earth. It had long been my dream to do so. I saw the hills, mountains, waterways and Alaska and British Columbia. I experienced as almost overpowering, the power of this place, its all pervading silence, its beauty, its solitude, its wildness. I saw in this wildness humpback whales bubble-feeding, rolling and displaying the identifying markings of their tail flukes. And dolphins, seals, porpoises, sea-otters, sea lions and even a sleeping elephant seal. The idea of wilderness remains in our consciousness and in our culture. We must see it remains in our hearts – for future generations. Bill, Shannon, Tracie and Cap, the crew of Catalyst, have made possible a wilderness experience beyond comparison; beyond expectation; beyond imaginings.
I saw a wilderness and re-found myself. I saw a wilderness and made new friends. I saw a ship, sailed by a master and Captain of his soul. I sailed with folks who are connected to the whole. Thank you so much.
LS, 2011 Southbound Southern Inside Passage
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Jolly Captains, a lovely naturalist who joyfully shared her awareness and appreciation of the natural world, and a worldly woman who created a never ending spread of culinary delights made for an inspiring, memorable and much needed dose of the bounty and beauty of this treasure that Mother Nature has provided for us. Everyday has been a total joy. Thanks to all of you for sharing it with me.
CB, 2011 San Juan Islands
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Bill, Shannon, Chris and Tracie, Words cannot express the incredible time spent with you and all the guests. You offer a wonderful opportunity to not only be on a World Class wooden boat but also to share your knowledge of the San Juan Islands. I can’t think of any other group that offers what you do. The meals were creative, healthy and fabulous. Thanks again for the beautiful time.
KK, 2011 San Juan Islands
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Thank you! Your skill, humor and grace made us feel at home. Bill’s wit, Shannon’s grace, Cap’s launch skills and Tracie’s outstanding cuisine made our trip a once-in-a-lifetime experience ---at least until the next time we sail with you. May the wind always low your way and bring you home safely.
SO and SO, 2011 San Juan Islands
Where to start? And now we are at an end. What a team!! Humor, naturalist talent, over-the-top gourmet fare and purring engine. I have loved every moment and thank you for all that you have shared. I hope to travel with you again on the M/V Catalyst –jewel of the sea.
LC, 2011 San Juan Islands
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“I have nothing but praise for the crew and the boat. There was complete creature comfort and consideration for our every need. The level of knowledge, experience, and ability of each crew member was amazing, and one could only come away inspired to learn more (even my desire to be more adventurous in the culinary area!). My particular personal satisfaction came from the best kayaking experience I have ever had, due to warm encouragement from our guide and my co-paddlers. I have pleasant memories of the most congenial group one could wish for (crew and fellow passengers) and of a beautiful, historic vessel – history of which I frequently and proudly recount to friends. Bon voyage, Catalyst. Sail on for many years.” EP
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“This was an amazing trip! It exceeded our expectations in every area. The entire crew went above and beyond. We feel that we truly experienced the ‘heart’ of Alaska – from whales and porpoises to marine life in tidal pools, glaciers, and geology. And we learned so much from the naturalist. The food was phenomenal! Thank you so much.”
DA and NA 2011
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“Dear Crew….thank you…thank you…thank you…for all the TLC. We have enjoyed being your ‘guests’ and feel we have learned so much about this beautiful part of our country. We know there is more to see, and when we can, we will be back to visit you again. You are all very special.”
AM and MJM 2011
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“Catalyst Crew – Thank you for all your efforts on our behalf and most importantly your sunny smiles, humor and calm. We both have had a lovely time.”
GL and BL 2011
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“To all the Catalyst Crew – Thanks for the great initiation into the wonders of Alaska. For Bill’s expert and skillful leading the rest of the crew as he oversees the whole operation, for guiding the Catalyst through not only the scenic parts but those special experiences of wildlife that makes the Inside Passage so world renown and for always being so welcoming either in the wheelhouse or on board the Zodiac.
For Sarah for being so gracious with me getting in and out of kayaks, etc and for being so willing to share her bountiful knowledge. Thank you also, Sarah, for preparing the photographic and other mementoes which will give us all such a lasting memory with specifics of our journey.
Thank you Erica for not only all the trouble you went to, to give us a fresh culinary delight for each meal, but catering for individual needs in such a caring way. Thank you also for your ever ready cheery greeting.
Last but not least thank you to Zach. Your willingness to perform not only your engine duties, but for your care for us all along the way, gave us the extra ‘zip’. Thank you to you all. It has been memorable.”
JW 2011
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“The ‘Inside Passage’ from Puget Sound to Juneau has been on our “top 100 things to do’ list for years. Although we have enjoyed bits and pieces of BC and Alaskan waters, this 14 day trip gave us the chance to ‘connect the dots’. The scenery was totally spectacular, and even better than our lofty expectations. But what was really wonderful was experiencing this majestic old boat, and the crew of four who worked 26 hours per day to insure the guests maximized every chance of adventure and pleasure.
And of particular note was the over-the-top cuisine; prepared with love and attention to our gastronomic dreams by Tracie. We loved each and every bite. Tragically, now back in the real world! Many thanks for the courtesies too numerous to count.”
JC and JC 2011

Testimonials from 2010:
“Mortal words cannot attest to our many experiences on the Catalyst, but we will give it a go! We have doe our fair share of travel, yet nothing can compare to what has transpired over the last ten days. The heartwarming community of guests and crew coming together as one big happy family was inspiring. The humor and educational aspects of the cruise were enlightening, while the food and wildlife were mind blowing! That being said, the spiritual essence; the calm, the placid, the vastness, the wonder, the oneness was mystical, magical, and godlike. Enough said.”
RS and JS
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“The foundation of discovery is thrust spectacularly upon our soul thru all sources of being! Mysterious clouds touch the sea moving us to look deeper. Verdant mountains and waterfalls draw our souls out into the open with playful exuberance. Like the seals we are ready to dance with nature. Sea Lions will have us laugh with each other in this dance. Patient searching – our inspirations fed with whales’ breath and rewarded with splashdown! Perseverance and curiosity bears know well and offer to us as a gift to be doubled with wonder by the commitment of salmon. The sea reveals its tidal emotions – deep and brooding, soft and colorful – always giving up secrets only to make new ones with the new tide. Glaciers help us feel the timeless passage of time in roars of thunder melted with thundering silence. All of this is made possible with an impetus, and intention…a CATALYST…Intrepid strangers willing to become friends; to share their experience, experiences, to experience with us; to open the door and help us receive this gift of discover, a most heartfelt thanks! Tor our fellow discoverers (who put up with us) and to those who opened the door ( who kept us live and put up with us, so far): Captain Bill, Chef Tracie, Naturalist Shannon and Engineer Alea. The Alaskan Wilderness, thanks for the show! And of course the honorable and intrepid CATALYST, much thanks!”
CW and GW
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“Our Catalyst adventure has surpassed all expectations. The boat is so comfortable with lots of places to go to be with fun people or just space out all alone. Captain Bill, we feel so safe under your trustful watch and fully delighted by your clever and funs sense of humor! Crew: Erica, Sarah and Eric…all experts in their field…(and then some) and clean freaks!...and super funny! All added to the wonderful memorable, fattening experience. Thank you all!”
LW and EM . . . . . . .
“Thank you for this wonderful experience. It was way more than a cruise, it was a guided tour through the Inside Passage really. You went above and beyond to spoil us. Your hospitality and thoughfulness are second to none. Thanks for the great stories, books, history and food. This was one of our most memorable trips and will be one for a long time to come.”
ADH
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“It was an amazing journey to see this special place, with you sharing your favorite places. We feel lucky to have traveled on the Catalyst, both classic and comfy. Thanks for taking care of us on this great trip of a lifetime!”
LDH
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“Favorite experience: This is a really hard one. The intimate atmosphere has to be up there. Kayaking through Ford's Terror is also up there. The time the seal bumped my kayak is something I will never forget. Floating in silence while you watch the whales come right up to your boat has got to be experienced to believe. Sitting around the salon in the evening with a glass of wine and listing to stories with Captain Bill made the trip transcendent. Eating limpets from the tidal pool at Ford's terror was very cool. Waking up at the face of Dawes Glacier was breathtaking. S’moors and "amateur joke hour" on East (or was it West) Brother Island was so much fun. The food and the fact that Scott got to work with Erica in the kitchen was also awesome. Watching my son develop an admiration and respect for, and a friendship with, our naturalist, Sarah, was simply priceless. As you can see, it wasn't one thing that was great about the trip on the Catalyst, it was the fact that whole trip was well designed to combine fantastic experience after fantastic experience. A journey on the Catalyst is not a "one trick pony". The journey IS the experience.”
RC and family
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Thanks for the chance to share this magnificent portion of our shared earth with you. We got the chance to breathe, to have our breath taken away, and even to heal a little. Your inspired hospitality, this exceptional craft, your leadership, will be with us long, long time. We will not forget, but we will be back. SS, TS, BS, JS
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The words thank you never seems enough when you had such a glorious experience. You have all gone above and beyond to make us feel so special. So thank you from the bottoms of our hearts. MB and CB
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This trip was a healing time for my soul. I felt like I was able to step out of my self and just be present to the wonder and magic for a week on the Catalyst in Alaska. Thank you. This has been a wonderful week of renewal. God bless you and with much love. BB and JB
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It has been my life long wish to visit Alaska. I hearken back to John Muir’s admonition that one should save Alaska for last…for the simple reason that everything else one has seen, no matter how grand, simply pales into insignificance. I now have a good comprehension of what Muir was trying to convey. See Alaska. See it before you die. Put it in first place on your personal “bucket list”. Thank you to the Catalyst crew for transforming my dreams and aspirations into reality. Thank you to Tracie for providing that world class cuisine. Thank you also for your infectious laugh. Thank you to Steve for guiding us through those mind numbing incredible passages. Thank you for that primer on navigation. Thank you to Alea for the engine room tour. Thank you for making everything work like a fine watch. Thank you to Sarah for your insight into all things natural and beautiful. Thank you for your gentile soul and your artful eye. Thanks to the entire crew fro enabling (us) to realize a life long dream and really truly experience the awesome beauty of this great land. This will not be our last visit…of that I am sure. MB and JB
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Unquestionably the best vacation we’ve had! Thank you so much for everything! DM and AO
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A humbly spectacular boat! (Excuse me, Catalyst, humbly spectacular ship). You (the crew) made this a home for us during our trip! Thank you (the scenery was pleasant as well). Tracie: We could have just had your cooking for a week and we would have had a knockout vacation! Creative, health conscious and amazingly delicious (your cooking, of course). Alea: You must be the kindest, most angelic engineer every (unfortunately we don’t know any other engineers, but we like you); an absolute joy to be around and you kept the toilets running as well as the ship! Shannon: You are a most wonderful host with an infectious passion for nature and even more importantly our experience with nature. Your knowledge inspires us to learn more…we greatly enjoyed your guidance thru SE Alaska. Bill: Your captaincy (is this a word?) makes Catalyst a most comfortable extension of the waters it glides thru. Your sense and knowledge of the area put in locations that gave us life inspiring experiences. To the Catalyst and her Crew, our experience with you has been pure joy! Many thanks. CW and GW
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A wonderful experience getting to know your San Juan Island area of the world. And such fun getting to know the whole crew. My Ancient Mariner hat is off to those who love and take such great care of this fine wooden vessel!!! TW
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From beginning to end perfect! Flowers everywhere, cozy beds, hot water, dry towels, superb food every meal and in-between, excellent planning for every outing, not one but two naturalists. Great and gorgeous engineering expert and engineering tours! We are infinitely, infinitely grateful to all of you for an in depth intro to the San Juans. CD and GD

Testimonials and Recommendations: 2009
Victoria Christmas trip: Friday Harbor to Victoria to Friday Harbor
"This was another especially great trip on your wonderful boat. We really enjoy visiting Victoria, so cruising into the harbor and having easy access to the city was a special delight. We liked spending time with you, your friends, and the other passengers. This was a trip that provided some great conversations and special memories. Thanks a bunch for having us along." Z& R
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“I just wanted to tell you all again, thanks for a wonderful, magical week. Feels like you all are friends we’ve known a long time. We loved our snuggly little room the fantastic food, the tidal pools, rainforest, and bear world, complete with dead fish….We’re recommending the trip to half our friends (the other half are too chicken…). The BEST WAY to see Southeast Alaska.” WP and JP
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“We really enjoyed our time on the Catalyst. We would vacation with you again. What a wonderful experience for our family! We keep talking about it and sharing our photos.”
-E family-
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“The trip exceeded expectations. Crew were enthusiastic, capable, personable, flexible, etc. The Catalyst is superior in every way. I would highly recommend this trip.” ML
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“Everything was fabulous!! The trip surpassed my expectations in every way. Thanks to each of you for making this experience so memorable.” PP
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“Great trip, perfect weather, lovely crew and nice fellow travelers, couldn’t really ask for more. Shannon’s knowledge of the environment was extensive and greatly appreciated. I learned a lot. Finally the DVD will give me a lasting memory of this beautiful trip. Thanks for the wonderful time. “ CD
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“Many thanks to Steve, Adrian, Lia and Ensan for such a memorable trip. They all made it look easy. Ensan’s food was extraordinary. Adrian’s passion for engines opened a window into a world I didn’t know existed, and Lia pointed out to us the charismatic mini invertebrates. And finally, thanks again to Steve in his role as Captain Ahab. The whale watching Thursday night at the Brothers and Friday morning in Frederick Sound was unforgettable. Thanks too are due to the cooperative photogenic humpback whales.” CM
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“This was a marvelous trip! The crew were wonderful and extremely knowledgeable. I have been to Alaska on four other trips organized by other groups. This was the best!!! The boat is a unique and beautiful treasure. Steve, Adrian, Lia and Ensan were wonderful in every way.” SD
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Thanks for a remarkable experience. The trip exceeded our
expectations. I loved the flexibility to stop or slow down when
remarkable viewing opportunities presented themselves and now
understand the resultant difficulty in being at the next
destination at the right moment, relative to time and tide.
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Watching
Bill pick his way through the ice floes on Endicott Arm while
appearing calm but wary made me appreciate again how a highly competent
professional can make you feel relaxed and safe in a potentially hazardous
situation. That this was always transparent made us feel very comfortable
though out. You do have the best jobs in the world, but if is the way that
you do them that makes it so very special for us. It was a privilege to
share this week with the crew and other fascinating participants.
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The
Catalyst is a treasure. I felt like I had been given the keys to the museum
for a week. Thanks for everything. PS Erica is amazing!
JD and JD and ED
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This astonishing vessel was only surpassed by the talents, friendliness, humor and expertise of the crew! What a memory I will have for the rest of my life. Captain Bill kept us all laughing, Shannon kept our bellies full and happy and organized our photography efforts into a fabulous CD. Eric kept the engine humming and was always ready to lend a hand for those of us teetering in or out of the skiff. And Sarah! What a wealth of knowledge and talent she possessed! And all without any hint of her genius. So modest! Thanks to each of you and God’s blessings. LR
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This trip was exquisite. Every effort was made to convey comfort, fun, fascinating information, warmth and beauty. We formed community almost instantly, thanks to the crew with whom we felt down-home relaxation. Bill was ever-hilarious and utterly competent. Shannon hard working and caring. Eric quietly brilliant and Sarah, sweet and an endless fount of knowledge. JA and MA
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We can't really think of any way you could have made the trip better than it was. The scenery, the animals, the geography were enhanced by the warmth and hospitality of our hosts, wonderful meals, knowledgeable crew, cozy accommodations and the loving restoration of the Catalyst. I especially enjoyed viewing our daily progress from the warmth and comfort of the pilot house, hearing conversations about the birds, the bees, and the engine, and watching computer screens. Captain Bill, you have an impressive scope of knowledge. CR and WR

Testimonials and Recommendations: 2008
What a wonderful trip! We each had such a fun and relaxing trip with you aboard the Catalyst. I write because I felt as though I was invited into your home. The thoughtful components that went into making this trip memorable were noticed and appreciated. From the little comforts such as bedding that was cozy (and stayed put! when made) and the flowers in or rooms to the amazing mooring spots you chose for each night’s stay. Terrific. You and your crew’s ability to include a 10 ½ year old was very appreciated. We couldn’t have asked for a better introduction to Alaska and its beauty.
njoy… (without electronic items nearby).
LJ 2008
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I cannot tell you what an unbelievable time we had on the Catalyst. I
have my (Catalyst) hat on right now & people are always asking what the Catalyst is - a smile comes over my face and the stories flow. What an
experience for our family. When friends hear the things we did, they
say what a way to see Alaska & what exposure for the kids. For them
to hang with people like Bill, Ensan, Newt, & Sarah - plus meet
researchers & wilderness rangers (by kayak) - means so much to their
exposure of the great possibilities out there - to work at what you
love doing.
KK 2008
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The ship was beautiful! This trip was so special – the size makes all the difference. Loved the kayaking. Thank you, Shannon for your incredible patience as we bounced our way into and out of the kayaks. The calving glacier was amazing. I could have stayed there forever. It was also fun listening to the whales. Everyday was so unique. Anne Catherine, the food was terrific. Thank you all so much. You are such a kind and giving group, I wish you well. You’ve got a job most would envy and your knowledge and resourcefulness are very impressive.
KE 2008
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It was a perfect rip. We were so lucky to a have a playful captain and an incredibly talented naturalist. There was no stress or pressure, just fun every single day. Thanks for a great trip.
LH 2008
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The crew was perfect in my opinion. All were knowledgeable, friendly and down to earth. They were a catalyst (no pun intended) for the visiting group without making things awkward. The concern for the natural setting and environment is obvious in the briefings and actions. The Catalyst, as well, was equipped with all necessary items. Books and reading materials were always at hand and the reference to the daily schedules gave me something to look at when I wanted to know what was next or even when a particular thing happened. I can’t imagine seeing Alaska and getting a feel for it without the Catalyst and it’s crew.
BZ and PZ 2008
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Bill and Shannon, I include both of you in our note of thanks because I know you both have worked hard to make our week such a success. Thank you for opening this window of rich, outdoor experiences and Alaska’s natural beauty. We have memories and photos to carry with us and relive this “once in a lifetime experience”. Thanks to you and your gracious crew who are uniquely talented.
MW and JW 2008
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Thank you all so much for making this trip one of the best and most unique experiences of my life. I loved every minute, even (I mean especially), the cookie scavenger hunt. I also loved finding wildlife that conveniently matched my red boots (i.e. pigeon guillemots and blood starfish). All of this was made possible due to you all and the Catalyst. I’m glad I chose Alaska as my graduation present. I now have so many great memories to start college with in the fall.
SB 2008
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Thank you so much for the unforgettable trip of a lifetime. Your gift for helping us to discover Alaska can not be underestimated. All of you are warm, caring, funny people, who are a joy to spend a week with. Thank you for taking care to make (my daughter) feel included and special. All of you are gifted at your individual positions and blend together to make a phenomenal team.
JB 2008
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One of the best trips we have ever taken! We loved Cap’n Bill and his crew.
KB 2008
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We loved your Catalyst and the care you give to her and the care you gave us. We made many memories and all the crew was wonderful.
PB and DB 2008

Testimonials and Recommendations: 2007
"Each day seems to have generated more and more energy and with each extraordinary event- humpbacks so close we were breathing each others air -soul touching, time stopping -orcas to watch in their mastery of their world.
The entire landscape separates us from the ordinary and immerses each of us into our own imagination as we live out "real" life so different from what can only now be understood as mundane from where we were before.
We leave parts of soul and heart here for nurturing and healing and will try to take some of this with us for use when we need it and revel in the memory."
FB/ CM 2007
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"We are very lucky people - to have the experience of our five senses being engaged in such an active way, at all times with, what was for us, the joy of discovery and wonder is an extremely rare opportunity. But the feeling of friendship, fueled by enthusiasm, excitement and, above all, a warm and generous spirit - shared equally among the guests and crew (to a person!) - made the voyage truly special."
JG / KG 2007
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"It is harder to put in words than catching on film the wonderful time, sights and experiences we have had on the Catalyst. Everything about our trip lived up to expectations and way beyond and our adventure to Alaska was completed by the amazing crew and the new people we have met. Thank you."
SB /SB 2007
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"What a boat, what a crew, what a trip! This is one of the most amazing vacations we have ever had. Alaska is breathtaking. The activities you planned for us were so varied and dun. You have provided experiences that we will reflect on for years to come."
JE/ JE 2007
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"Awesome memories. Indelibly etched in joy. Peace, balance, beauty.
Heightened awareness. Contrasts of light, sounds, color. Gentle reflections.
Catalyst cruises. Natures adventures await. Seventy Five years. Thank you for a spectacular week."
CH 2007
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"We had a glorious time. We will never forget the experience. I can't believe they're out there doing it again. Lucky dogs!"
- MW 2007
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"It was a privilege to be on your much-loved and well cared for vessel and to share your family's passion for the beautiful waterways of SE Alaska. Thanks for creating a journey from Juneau to Petersburg that gave us such a variety of natural wonders at every turn -- quiet inlets filled with bird life, thundering glaciers, colorful cliffs, amazing marine life below our feet, and let's not forget the eagles."
- JT/AT 2007
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"Just as it's difficult to describe the majesty of Alaska, it's also difficult to adequately express our gratitude to you and your crew for making this trip everything we had hoped for and so much more. Thank you for an experience we will always cherish."
- DH/MH 2007
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"What a fantastic adventure. You guys are the greatest! We will remember this trip always. We will be back. Thanks for everything!"
-BF 2007
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"Each one of you was equally important and totally awesome in helping to make this trip a total lifetime experience. For that I thank you. I will always remember you and look forward to the next time I see you."
-JL 2007
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"Thank you for providing us with a very memorable, relaxing and educational Alaska experience! The trip was far above our expectations. Your crew went out of their way to make us feel comfortable and part of the "family". This experience was certainly a trip of a lifetime."
-RD/CD 2007
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Poem:
Aboard the good ship Catalyst we sailed out to see,
Everything we could,
We saw to be,
The devil in the kitchen,
Cooking up a storm,
Her style be bitchin',
And her tasty food warm,
Down below the engineer hides,
His barbeque shirt on fire,
To everyone free skiff rides!
And his need for edibles dire.
What's that up above starting the laughing row?
Why it's Cappie and his hat,
A one beard show,
Think fast! Reflexes like a cat!
(but why the dent in the bow?)
But what's that we see?
Or maybe we don't,
Since camouflage his pants be,
Its gear boy and his kayak toy,
Floating around the big blue sea.
So with a hearty crew we sail,
With bellies full of a delicious meal,
Beyond the waves of time set loose from towering ice,
A chunk of which mended a bruise,
From an oar that wasn't nice,
Then, not 2 or 3, but four,
Four bears we saw through tide's slim door.
Hungry for another sighting,
On a bear hunt we went,
A bear peeking though the grass sure scared me,
But wait, that's not all we'd see.
Whales, whales, whales
-Yes Cotton, the humping kind-
Jumping and bubbling in glee.
Oh, then what luck, a kiss from the lion of the sea,
Left us speechless,
Mo in love,
A match like a glove.
Deep sea fishing,
Rain or shine,
Our dinner thanks to me,
(maybe a little credit to the devil, flamer, and Cappie 3)
Now through the waters,
Flying sea pickles once more,
Whales galore.
Oh now it's almost through,
Boohoohoo,
But the laughs of galley dancing,
campfires, and seal romancing,
-well linda, that's on my list-
I'm only 15,
so keep it clean,
if you catch my gist.
Oh Cappie remember the skiff,
The look on your face,
-You looked quite miffed-
Left high and dry,
Oh Cappie, we laughed so hard we thought we'd cry.
but never fear,
Our strong guests are here!
They set the skiff free...
Oops, it was almost empty.
Now, my long wind is almost done,
Thanks for the sun,
and the little sliver of Cappie's promised sun.
Now we enjoy the tats and laughs,
of our captain's ball hats.
Don't forget, dear crew,
The sushi made with no rules,
We're American you see.
Everyone don't forget to break out a car dance move,
Bob the flamingo,
Dance the devil's t-rex,
-get on your groove-
All the way to Petersburg,
Look an orca whale!
Yet another bergie bit on the horizon,
Just remember the good ship Catalyst,
and the laughs we've been though...
and always remember...
it sucks to be poo.
-KB 2006
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What our 2006 passengers had to say...
"Such a lovely boat - it's hard to believe she's 74 years old - she doesn't have that old, damp boaty smell. Altogether a very comfortable boat, and for me, personally, the trip around the San Juan Islands was perfect. Captain and crew were great, the food was fabulous. I'm so happy to know the Catalyst is still in service and available for cruising and I do plan on coming up again as soon as I can - can't thank you enough!" CB-Fall 2006
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Essay written by a 2006 guest:
The best memories happen when you are inside a small space and outside of yourself. While the rest of the boat slept, tired from a day of sea kayaking, Adrian, the engineer, Erica, the cook, and I sat around the kitchen table. It was 9:30 and the afterglow of sunset still hung on the horizon. They were both knitting, and Erica told stories about her grandmother. Their hands moved skillfully in tune with the clicking needles. I smiles at Adrian, the twenty-nine year old guy knitting a hot pink bikini for his girlfriend, when he suggested that I learn. Kayaking, yes, hiking with bears - expected, but learning to knit in Alaska? Not what I had anticipated. I asked, "How do you start?"
Erica chuckled and said, "There's no turning back now."
She taught me how to cast on and then delicately showed the steps to knitting. I started very slowly, but as the night wore on our needles were clicking in a three part harmony with our stories and laughter as the background music. As the hat I was knitting took shape, I learned about Erica's year spent working at the South Pole, where she met her husband. Adrian shared that in his boredom one day he turned his backyard into a garlic garden. We were outside of ourselves spread out in the kitchen air, tied together with the soft yarn we knitted into a hat, a bikini, and a sweater.
The next morning we woke to a cold, windy rainstorm. We slipped into our already exhausted rain gear and climbed into our kayaks. We made our way through what the Stickeen Indians call "skookum chuck, skookum chuck" or "strong water, strong water," and after some hard paddling, we arrived in an isolated cove. The crescendo of the humming waterfalls intensified as we glided further into seclusion. Guided by a team of bald eagles and protected by the snow capped mountains, we were untouchable. A pair of dolphins escorted us out of the cove, as we watched nature in its purest form. We were paddling toward the boat, wet and cold, when a speck of slick black skin broke the water's surface next to my kayak. Almost as an applause for enduring the rain, the now familiar sound of a whale spout followed. I stopped paddling and allowed the minki whale to satisfy its curiosity, before turning back toward the warmth of the Catalyst.
Adrian, Erica, and I sat again thawing our fingers in our knitting and warming our insides with hot chocolate. As Erica fixed on of the many mistakes I made as a beginning knitter, I glanced out the window to see humpback whales spouting and breeching against a backdrop of blue crystal icebergs. My eyes followed the water to the top of a mountain while the smell of chocolate chip cookies filled the small room. Nature was at the same time outside and away from us and inside and a part of us, in one way making us feel small and insignificant and in another large and empowered.
-RM- 2006
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"Thanks again for a simply awesome trip...words can't describe it. We look forward to our next trip with you!" MB and family/2006
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"We had a trip of a lifetime! Other than maybe seeing a bear feeding on salmon we did experience and see so much. Being in the center of humpback whales bubble net feeding, lunge feeding, tail slapping/lobbing, breaching and listening to their songs was a highlight. We really saw the wilderness of Alaska - the fjords, the wildlife, the rainforest -and experiencing it at a level to appreciate it. The crew was so accommodating, fun, knowledgeable, pleasant, welcoming with excellent food, wonderful information about Alaska, appreciation for the CATALYST (its age and beauty), and confidence in the captain and crew. Instead of interfacing with a buffet, we had a unique experience of interfacing with wonderful people and the beauty of Alaska. Thank you one and all. You really attended to every detail." AZ and PZ/2006
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"We didn't think it could get any better than our 2000 trip on the WESTWARD…but it did! We liked the CATALYST- as a ship- much better.
We absolutely loved our trip on the CATALYST - one thing we very much liked was the connection between the crew and guests - we very quickly felt we were traveling all as a group - not as crew and passengers. It was a great trip, it just passed too fast!" WR and BR/ 2006
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"Wanted to let you know that my family had THE MOST WONDERFUL, WONDROUS trip with Bill and the crew. Among the eight of us, you can imagine that we had built up a huge reservoir of anticipation. The trip was everything we hoped it would be… and more! We never imagined what an immense treat, for example, the food would be! Erica is both an artist and magician in the galley!" LD/ 2006
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"We had a wonderful trip... came home very relaxed, with great pictures and stories to tell. Enjoyed the crew and other guests." PD and DD/2006
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Letter from some 2005 M/V Catalyst adventurers:
"We would like to thank you and the crew of the Catalyst for a wonderful vacation. What a beautiful vessel and an incredible journey on
the Inside Passage!
It was great to experience every exciting minute of "What spectacular
scenery will we see next? Where are we kayaking and hiking? What
wildlife will we see? How fortunate we were to be able to join you on this wonderful voyage. The trip was perfect.
We particularly enjoyed being with you and the rest of the crew. Both of
us felt that we were among friends instead of on a charter. Each of you
made that possible." AL and DL
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As most of you know, Frank and I took a special trip this year, one that was high on our list: we did an Alaska cruise. It was so great I have to tell you about it.
First of all, it was not a cruise in the usual sense. We were on a small boat, the Catalyst, built in 1932 and first used for oceanic research. It has the sheen and shine of a beautifully maintained antique. On our trip there were 8 passengers and 4 crew; 12 people out there in the fiords and inlets of the Inside Passage of S.E. Alaska. We were out 8 days and on 4 of those we never saw another boat. We saw the Alaska wilderness in ways that few other trips afford.
We put in at Juneau, amid the big cruise ships, but left them far behind within a matter of minutes. That first afternoon we saw icebergs and even a grizzly on a far shore. Each night we had wonderful gourmet meals with wines specially selected by the Captain. Each day we motored to a new and remote inlet, then ventured by kayak or skiff into hidden coves or hiked through rain forests to highpoints. And each day brought us a new life-enhancing experience; truly, each event was so unique, so special, so dramatic that you couldn't help but feel changed, transfixed.
One day it was hiking to a point where we could watch a glacier calve. But this was not just a chunk of ice falling; this was the entire face of the glacier, 250' high and 500' across, crumbling, crashing to the sea, creating an upsurge (and a bang) like a bomb; this went on in a sequence for about 10 minutes! Then, as the exposed part of the glacier had fallen, huge underwater chunks of it came exploding to the surface like enormous blue whales! Later that afternoon, in a practice kayak run, we saw another bear, lots of harbor seals and bald eagles. And that was one day.
Bears were, obviously, another highlight. Over several days, we saw a grizzly mom with 2 cubs, several bears along the shores as we were kayaking in a cove, then a large papa grizzly who also saw us - 50 yards off; he stopped to crane his neck and open his jaws at us, then, apparently decided we were not worth any effort, meander off into his woods. We sat there in the kayaks, quietly awestruck.
But maybe the most in-your-face exciting experience was the whales! We had expected/hoped to see whales, of course, and especially orcas. But what we saw, during the eight days of the trip, was no less than spectacular. First, a pod of Humpbacks, about 100yds off, blowing and cavorting together; they seemed to be mostly young males. Then a bit later, Orcas off the starboard: both males and females, blowing and diving, showing us their flukes.
Another day- and this was a mindblower - 3 pods of Humpbacks coming toward the boat from 3 different directions! They gathered together, as though for a convention, just 50 yards off the bow. Captain had the hydrophone on, so we heard their conversations: powerful! Next thing we know, 3-4 Orcas appear at the starboard, as though they were about to attack the Humpbacks. They didn't, but apparently have been known to...
More whales stories: One afternoon, after a rough patch of seas (with several folks down...)
A mother and baby Orca came up close at the stern, having snatched up a baby sea lion. Momma O proceeded to teach Baby how to catch a seal, including tossing it up in the air and catching it on her nose! (Just like SeaWorld...?) Another mindblower occurred when 6 of us were in the skiff on the way to an island hike in a fantasyland moss forest... But I diverge.
So, off about 150 yes, there goes a Humpback in a total breech: jumps completely out of the water and throws in a half-twist while in the air! Then his buddy does the same thing! Then another one, a little smaller, tries it. Believe of not, they go on for 10 minutes, breeching, diving, surfacing, and breeching again. Even the Captain had never seen anything like that.
I could go on, but I think you get the idea: this was one spectacular trip. And all this time we're eating well, drinking fine wines, sleeping like babies in the sea air, laughing like crazies at the wit and humor of our indomitable engineer, Bill.
So I'd recommend it. And so would Frank. He's adding some photos to this so you'll believe we really did it! |