SITKA
- Latitude: 57.0507 •
- Longitude: -135.332 •
- Alaska •
- Port in US
Address: Sitka AK US
Sitka Port Overview
General Information:
- Name: Sitka Port
- Location: Sitka, Alaska, United States
- Coordinates: Latitude 57.0531° N, Longitude 135.3300° W
- Oceans/Seas: Pacific Ocean, specifically located in the Sitka Sound
- Time Zone: Alaska Standard Time (AKST), UTC -9 hours
Port Facilities:
- Type: Coastal Natural
- Operational Authority: Managed by the Sitka Port and Harbors department under the City and Borough of Sitka.
Navigational Details:
- Approach: The port is accessible via the Sitka Sound which provides natural protection from the open Pacific Ocean. Navigation into the port typically requires local knowledge due to the presence of numerous nearby islands and complex tidal patterns.
- Depths:
- At Berth: Varies from around 25 feet (7.6 meters) to 30 feet (9.1 meters), depending on the exact location within the harbor.
- Anchorage: Depths in the anchorage areas vary, generally ranging from 30 feet (9.1 meters) to 60 feet (18.3 meters), suitable for larger vessels.
- Maneuverability: Adequate maneuvering space for medium-sized cargo and passenger vessels, but careful handling required due to navigation constraints and depth variations.
Facilities and Services:
- Cargo Handling: Primarily serves fishing vessels and smaller cargo ships. Facilities include piers suitable for these operations. No dedicated container terminals.
- Passenger Services: Sitka is a popular stop for cruise ships. Facilities for disembarking passengers are available but mainly serve smaller to moderate-sized cruise ships.
- Fueling and Supply: Availability of marine fueling services and various marine supplies. Fuel docks cater to both commercial and recreational vessels.
- Repair Services: Basic repair services are available, but major repairs would need to be redirected to larger facilities outside Sitka.
Additional Features:
- Fishing Industry Hub: Sitka serves as a crucial port for Alaska’s maritime fishing industry, including the commercial fleet handling halibut, salmon, and crab.
- Tourism: Besides its commercial usage, Sitka is a significant tourist destination, offering picturesque landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and historical sites.
- Waste Disposal: Waste disposal and recycling services are available for vessels docking at the port.
Security and Safety:
- Port Security: The port follows standard U.S. port security protocols, including liaison with the United States Coast Guard.
- Weather: Subarctic climate with cool, wet weather, frequent heavy rain, and mild summers impacting operations and navigation.
Development and Future Planning:
- Expansion Projects: Ongoing and planned projects aim to improve infrastructure and increase the capacity to handle additional vessels, primarily focusing on enhancing the tourism and fishing sectors.
Summary
Sitka Port serves a critical role in the fishing industry and as a tourist gateway in Southeast Alaska. While it doesn't support large-scale cargo operations, its strategic location and natural beauty ensure a continuous influx of cruise passengers and fishing activities. Its facilities, though limited compared to larger ports, sufficiently support its predominant commercial uses.