Dutch Harbor to Kodiak, Alaska
After a few days in Dutch Harbor where we meet the rare sailboats arriving from Japan, we head to Sanak Island, 150 miles to the East. The uninhabited island hosts numerous herds of wild cows and horses. The green grass dotted with flowers and the good weather accompanying our walks finally give us the feeling that summer has arrived! In the distance, the mountain range of the peninsula stands out against the blue sky, and the Shishalgin volcano is erupting. We then take advantage of the north wind to reach the Shumagin Islands archipelago, bordered by beautiful white sand beaches. Unfortunately, a lot of plastic waste washes up on these shores, but we also find some small treasures like blown glass balls used by old Japanese fishing boats, which are quite sought after here. We then head to Agripina Bay on the peninsula; a favorite anchorage. Surrounded by snow-capped peaks, we can observe grizzly bears waiting for salmon at the river mouths. The walks on land are varied and allow us to observe rich flora and fauna.
We then cross the Shelikof Strait to reach Alitak Bay at the southwestern tip of Kodiak Island. On the vast pebble beach that closes the lagoon, we meet some locals organizing a summer camp for young people to promote the transmission of ancestral traditions. We arrive on the day of the seal hunt!
We then anchor at Old Kakuyak and then at Three Saints Bay, where we stock up on wild raspberries before heading to Old Harbor and then Amee Bay to observe Kodiak bears, the largest land carnivores.
A quick return to the town of Kodiak for two days to stock up on fresh produce and get an internet connection before continuing our journey up the peninsula to Prince William Sound.
