North Landing River's Gentle Embrace: A Sunset Photography Boat Tour
North Landing River, Virginia Beach
While the Saltwater Retreat in Virginia Beach offered a wealth of photographic opportunities from the pier to the gardens, one experience truly stood out was the sunset boat tour on the North Landing River with Moore to See Expeditions. This wasn't just another shoot; it was a journey into a different side of coastal Virginia, a tranquil escape where nature's beauty unfolded before our very eyes.
Reflected Clouds and Pocosin Marsh
Red-winged Blackbird
Pocosin Swamp
Swamp Iris
Leaving the ocean behind, we embraced the peace of the river, where the calm waters became our canvas. As we glided along, we were immediately enveloped by the ancient grandeur of the river's ecosystem. The rare Bald Cypress - Tupelo Swamp gracefully framed the shoreline, creating a picturesque boundary to this vital waterway.
Bald Cypress - Tupelo Swamp, North Landing River, Virginia Beach
One of the most captivating aspects of the tour was the incredible wildlife viewing. We spent a significant amount of time observing my favorite raptor, the osprey. Our guide expertly positioned the boat, allowing us to watch these skilled hunters with fascination as they took off and landed from their channel marker nests, their powerful wings beating against the glowing sky. It was a masterclass in birdwatching, offering fantastic opportunities for capturing their impressive flight and fishing prowess. And the excitement didn't stop there; we were also incredibly fortunate to spot majestic bald eagles perched high in the trees, their white heads standing out against the green foliage, overseeing their domain.
Osprey in nest, North Landing River, Virginia Beach, VA
Osprey landing on nest, North Landing River, Virginia Beach, VA
Bald Eagle, North Landing River, Virginia Beach, VA
As the sun began its final descent, the sky transitioned into a calm blue sunset. The deep, serene tones of the blue hour skies reflected perfectly on the calm water of the river, creating a mirror image that was simply breathtaking. The peaceful boat ride allowed us to soak in every moment of this tranquil farewell, culminating our week of chasing light with a profound sense of calm and visual splendor. It was an absolutely unforgettable way to cap off our retreat, reminding us of the diverse beauty that Virginia Beach's natural waterways hold.
Sunset Boat Ride, North Landing River, Virginia Beach, VA
Dusk, North Landing River, Virginia Beach, VA
