Question from an Alaskan newbie

[pmc059]

Leaving this Saturday for Alaska, but one question. What the heck is calving? They talk about calving when it comes to the Hubbard Glacier. Just wondering what I am needing to look for. Thanks!!!:confused:

[O2B@C]

Calving is when big chunks of ice break off the end of the glacier and fall into the water. It is very dramatic, especially if the chunk is really large - they can be as big as a car or larger! What I had not expected was that it is accompanied not only by splashing but also by a sound like deep rumbling thunder, which is made by the ice cracking apart. It's fascinating and beautiful to watch. Hope you have a good day for it, and enjoy your cruise!

[maxout]

"Calving" is the breaking off of large chunks of ice from the face of the glacier.

 

Here's a link to some video of it...

 

http://uk.encarta.msn.com/media_121624761_761574629_-1_1/Glacier_Calving.html

[RichardK]

Usually the glacier meets the water as a sheer cliff-like wall. When pieces of that wall break off, and fall straight down into the water, that is know as "calving".

[Krazy Kruizers]

Keep your camera handy -- beautiful!!!

[dakrewser]

Check this video from Glacier Bay at youtube...

[TravelinGrandma]

dakrewser, that was a great video!

 

Thanks.

[dvdfreakmc]

Hi PMC,

 

This is the other P. MC. -- I believe you are on the Oosterdam this coming weekend. I don't believe we have connected yet, but if you're interested we are doing the wave at 2:30pm on Saturday, Deck 5 Starboard side -- or if that doesn't float your boat, then stop by the CC Meet and Greet Sunday in the Oak Room at 11am.

 

Hope to see you there.

[mr green]

Just before you get to the glacier in Glacier Bay, you will pass a great many kittiwake gulls. Those birds are there for the shrimp which get tossed to the surface of the water after a big chunk of ice goes in. Watch them at work.

 

john