After leaving Juneau, Glacier Bay, and Icy Strait we headed 'outside'
down the coastline to Sitka. The Russians made Sitka the first capital of
Alaska under Baranof, an influential Russian merchant. Sitka is on Baranof
Island, one of the three large islands known as the ABC's (Admiralty, Baranof,
and Chichagof). On the opposite side of the island we stopped into one of
the many hot springs in the area: Baranof Hot Springs.
|
|
|
|
We had a wonderful sail to Sitka running in 20 knot winds.
|
|
|
|
This Russian Cathedral gives a historical, religious significance to Sitka, the first capital of Alaska.
|
|
|
|
Baranof, a Russian merchant, changed Alaska forever, and extended Russia's empire in the process.
|
|
|
|
Local Tlingats displayed this war canoe in Sitka.
|
|
|
|
Purse seiners fished the local waters.
|
|
|
|
|
|
This waterfall roared at Baranof Hot Springs harbor.
|
|
|
|
A Trident Seafood tender bought fish from local fishermen.
|
|
|
|
Baranof Hot Springs soothed our weary bones.
|
|
|
|
A Blizzard of Phalaropes at tip of Admiralty Island getting ready for migration.
|
|
|
|
Rainshowers show up on the radar screen as blue, scattered clouds.
|
|
|
|
|
|
Rocky Pass was well-marked with navigation aids.
|
|
|
|
This sun star came up with the anchor! Beautiful!
|
|
|
|
El Capitaine Passage was a long, narrow channel that demanded special attention.
|
|
|
|
The Cruising Guides said "passable with care". We could see shallow water on either side of the boat.
|
|
|
|
This is Lunch in the cockpit while going through El Capitaine Passage.
|
|
|
