Shawn O'Fallon
Google
For about 8 years we had a boat and spent available weekends hiking and kayaking from our boat in Prince William sound. There are many available protect anchoring spots immune to waves. The hiking and views is world class if a bit rough with few established trails, something we prefered. Once above tree line you can pretty much go where you want although getting to the tree line can be a challenge.
The kayaking is also world class. Whales, sea otters, dolphins, bear, glaciers and much more are regularly seen or found. The fishing is spectacular. Hop out to Montegue, drop a line and a few minutes later a halibut dinner is ready to make. Salmon, Yellow Eye, cod and more seemed easily caught and I am not much of a fisherman.
The seas here are more protected than most places in Alaska. With Hichinbrook and Montegue Islands actings as barriers we rarely found seas above 4 feet, althoughwe tended to run away or stay away when they were larger, which seemed seldom at least compared to other places. That said we did spend one kayaking only trip on one beach as the seas never calmed enough to do the passages we had planned.
The boat launch in Whittier often got complaints. Newbies and the attention deficient would often slow things down. I was once a newbie and remember the patience and guidence some of the regulars had and offered me. In general a little patience and an appreciation for conversation with other friendly people seemed to make it all very acceptable. Even the view from the boat launch is spectacular in my book.
As a long time resident of Alaska I find myself in awe of Prince William sound. We have been going there for over 20 years. When we find ourselves in other countries or places with spectacular views and wildlife we appreciate Prince William sound even more. A truly amazing place.
