Gulf of Alaska mariners’ coastal guide available online

March 9, 2016

Photo by Terry Johnson. Approach with caution — small icebergs float in Icy Bay.

After navigating and researching the daunting central and western Gulf of Alaska coast, Terry Johnson, Alaska Sea Grant marine recreation and tourism specialist, has completed an online guide for recreational boaters.

Over several years, while operating a variety of recreational boats from a 40-foot tri-cabin trawler to a 15-foot Runabout, Johnson compiled information for navigating, anchoring, handling typical weather conditions and more.

The guide is appropriate for adventurers, fishermen, sailors and recreational boaters. “It is a spectacular trip in good weather, with opportunities to experience the scenery, the solitude, geology, human history, wildlife and excellent angling,” said Johnson.

Beginning at Cape Spencer near Glacier Bay and running west along the coast all the way to Homer, Alaska, vessel traffic is sparse, communities are few and exposure to the North Pacific is challenging.

The website includes maps, photos, location information and basic safety tips.

ON THE WEB: http://seagrant.uaf.edu/map/recreation/gulf-of-alaska-coastal-travel/index.php.

ADDITIONAL CONTACT: Terry Johnson, 907-274-9695, tljohnson@alaska.edu