Our Top Reasons for Why We Go to SE Alaska

Bonni Nutter has written this blog post. Visit her blog and website, The Galley Gal. She and her husband Norm travel the Inside Passage on New Adventure, Pacific Mariner 65.

by Bonni Nutter

This summer we spent four months traveling to Alaska and we are planning to go again in 2020.  This was our second trip to Alaska and there are many reasons for going and spending the summer. 

We spent most of our time around Sitka, and we had guests up to join us four times during the summer.  Our furthest point north was Hoonah, Alaska, and a big highlight of the trip was our time at Anan Wildlife Observatory in Wrangle.  Most of our time was spent on the hook.

SE Alaska's Natural Beauty

Why Alaska you might ask.  Well we find it to be one of the most beautiful spots in the PNW.  The scenery is breathtaking, whether a sunrise or sunset, or just a beautiful waterfall. 

We often found ourselves the only boat anchored in a beautiful anchorage.  Waking in the morning and seeing a whale feeding alongside your boat as you drink your morning coffee or watching eagles fish right outside your window is amazing.

Photography in SE Alaska

The photo opportunities with wild life, ice bergs, glaciers, waterfalls are beyond comparison.  My cameras were set up and ready to use at all times.  Our day trip to Anan Wildlife Observatory was a big highlight of the trip for us.

Also, our day in Tracy Arm, exploring the icebergs and glaciers in Miss Adventure, our fishing boat was memorable. It was pure joy to watch the seals frolic among the ice bergs.

The People of SE Alaska

The people of Alaska are warm and inviting.  We so enjoyed spending time meeting people in towns.  We were in Sitka enough to get a real feel for life there and the people were so friendly.  We love Hoonah because everyone is so kind and welcoming.  We learned so much about Alaskan history and life in very small towns. 

We Love Fishing in SE Alaska

Fishing is usually good in Alaska, although this year might have been an exception.  The salmon run this year was small and late, but despite that we caught salmon, halibut, rock fish and ling cod. 

Sitka's Annual Music Festival

Last but not least was the Music Festival in Sitka.  First class musicians flood Sitka the entire month of June.  There are formal concerts in the evenings and restaurant venues in the afternoons.  The music was extraordinary.  
 
Our four months were fantastic.  The weather this year was truly beautiful, very little rain or wind. We are looking forward to returning in 2020.  If you are even thinking about going to Alaska, I encourage you to get your boat ready and go north.

Planning on cruising to SE Alaska in the future? You'll find these posts helpful:

• Managing Dixon Entrance's Sea Conditions
• Dixon Entrance Hidey Holes When Planning for Customs
• Staying Healthy on Long Cruises
• Top Things to Consider When Rounding Cape Caution