A trip to Sitka, Alaska, would be incomplete without experiencing the coastal waterways and wilderness by boat. After all, it is a town where more than 40% of the area is traversed by water. However, determining what type of boat tour is best might prove challenging. If you are planning a trip to Sitka and know you want to do a boat tour of some type, ask yourself the following:
What do I want to see?- How big or small of a boat would I like to be on?
- How long do I want to be on a boat?
- Do I want a guide, or would a DIY approach suit my skill set?
These are just a few considerations for planning time on the waters of Sitka. Your answers will make it easier to determine which tour(s) you want to include in your itinerary. A sightseeing tour? A whale watching tour? A photography and videography tour? A trip to Kruzof Island? Or perhaps, a mix of all of it!
Tips for Preparing for Your Sitka, Alaska Boat Tour
When planning for a time in Alaska, keep the weather in mind. The temperature typically varies between 33° and 66° F – depending on the time of year. When on the water, you can expect it to be somewhat cooler. Due to the speed of the boat and the wind chill coming off the water, you’ll likely want to choose a boat tour with a comfortable heated cabin, good visibility, and the comfort of a bathroom on board. Coastal Tours Sitka has you covered with checks in each of those boxes. Welcome aboard the Goleta!
With water travel in mind, there are specific items we recommend you include in your luggage.
1. Comfortable, waterproof shoes and warm socks. Boat decks can get slippery with occasional sea spray. Having shoes that provide traction makes it easier to walk and stand. Warm socks keep you from getting cold toes and feet.
2. Clothes easily layered. A lightweight, long-sleeve shirt is a great base piece, then add several other layers that can be easily removed should you get too warm. Be sure to have a warm coat for the outer layer.
3. Don’t forget the accessories! Accessorizing for a Sitka, Alaska boat tour is not about making a fashion statement but staying warm. Keep your head, ears, and hands warm. If you remove your hooded coat, having a hat will protect your ears. Gloves and a neck gator or scarf for the lower half of your face will protect against windburn.
4. Long, warm pants – Shorts, jorts, skirts, and other summer wear may be okay on a warmer day, but depending on the weather when you visit, consider long pants in denim or Gore-Tex. These thicker fabrics will help block the wind.
5. Sunglasses and sunscreen- It might be chilly on the water, but you will still get burned when the sun is out. Protecting your eyes and skin from the sun will make your time in Alaska more pleasurable.
6. Binoculars and cameras are a must! Whether going on a whale-watching tour, fishing for salmon, or an excursion to see area wildlife, don’t forget your camera and binoculars! There is so much to see aboard the boat, and you don’t want to miss anything.
There are many different boating tours in Sitka. But a tour with Captain Rick aboard Goleta of Coastal Tours Sitka will ensure you see a wide range of wildlife with the benefit of a personalized, narrated tour to make your experience a unique, life-long memory. Our guests typically see sea lions, whales, otters, eagles, and other wildlife. Book your Alaskan adventure today. You will be glad you did!