TAKU HARBOR
- Latitude: 58.0682 •
- Longitude: -134.017 •
- Alaska •
- Port in US
Address: Taku Harbor AK US
Taku Harbor, Alaska - Marine Port Description and Specification
Location:
- Taku Harbor is a scenic cove situated on the eastern shore of Stephens Passage, about 22 miles southeast of Juneau in the state of Alaska, USA. Its coordinates are approximately 58°03′N 134°00′W.
Harbor Facilities:
- Docking: Taku Harbor boasts a public float and dock managed by the Alaska Department of Natural Resources. The float and dock facilities provide mooring for recreational and fishing vessels. However, docking space can be limited, especially during peak seasons.
- Moorings: There are no permanent mooring buoys within Taku Harbor, so vessels typically anchor or tie up to the available dock infrastructure.
- Anchorage: The harbor has well-sheltered anchorage with good holding ground for anchoring vessels. Mud and sand seabeds provide a secure point for anchor placement.
- Depth: Taku Harbor has variable depths. Near the dock area, depths range from 20 to 40 feet at mean low tide. Mariners are advised to consult navigational charts and tide tables to account for tidal variations.
- Navigational Aids: The entrance to Taku Harbor is marked, ensuring safe navigation into the harbor. Mariners should exercise caution, especially in poor weather conditions.
Key Services:
- Utilities and Amenities: Taku Harbor is relatively remote and does not offer extensive marine services. There are no fuel docks, water supplies, repair facilities, or provisioning services available within the harbor itself. Vessels must be self-sufficient in terms of supplies and fuel.
- Harbor Management: The harbor is overseen by local government authorities, with periodic patrols to ensure safety and compliance with maritime regulations.
Environmental and Scenic Considerations:
- Scenery: Taku Harbor is famed for its dramatic Alaskan landscape, offering spectacular views of surrounding wilderness, marine wildlife, and the nearby Taku Glacier. It is a popular spot for outdoor activities such as fishing, wildlife viewing, and hiking.
- Wildlife: Visitors can expect to see an array of wildlife, including seals, sea birds, and occasionally whales in the surrounding waters. The adjacent forest areas are home to bears, deer, and other native fauna.
Navigational Concerns:
- Weather: The weather in Taku Harbor can be unpredictable, with potential for strong winds, fog, and heavy rainfall, particularly outside of the summer months. Mariners should be prepared for sudden weather changes.
- Tides and Currents: Tides in Taku Harbor are significant, with substantial tidal ranges that can impact docking and anchoring. Understanding local tidal patterns is crucial for safe navigation.
Accessibility:
- Access: Access to Taku Harbor is primarily via sea, with Juneau being the nearest urban center. It is also accessible by air, with floatplane services available from Juneau.
Taku Harbor's remote charm and natural beauty make it an attractive destination for adventurous seafarers. Despite the lack of extensive facilities, the harbor serves as a gateway to the pristine wilderness of southeastern Alaska, offering a quintessential Alaskan maritime experience.