ACTIVITIES
A MARITIME WAY OF LIFE
Floating History
In Sitka , the roadways go beyond the pavement . The vast ocean water is its own set of streets , navigated by a fleet of fishing vessels , kayaks , skiffs , and ships . With five city-run harbors and over 8 miles of dock , Sitka is known as the largest small boat harbor in Alaska . And with an ocean that stretches farther than the eye can see , it ’ s no surprise that boating is more than just a hobby for this island community ; it ’ s a way of life .
THE SITKA MARITIME HERITAGE SOCIETY
As an island town , it ’ s no surprise Sitka ’ s boats and nautical history run as deep as the surrounding ocean waters , and The Sitka Maritime Heritage Society aims to preserve that history and educate visitors and locals alike . Currently , one of their main projects is the restoration of the Japonski Island Boathouse , which served as a Navy marine railway and boat repair shop during WWII . The renovation will convert this old boathouse into a heritage center , where visitors can explore hands-on exhibits and
maritime programs . History buffs and boat enthusiasts who visit in the summer can also take advantage of the Sitka Maritime History Walking Tour . Small groups visit sites like the Russian Boatyard , Alaska Native Brotherhood ( ANB ) Hall , and Herring Rock . Those who visit any time of year can also take a walk along the Sea Walk or Katlian Street to view and have a go at identifying the boats docked in the harbors .
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Alaska Native Brotherhood Camp no . 1 located at ANB Harbor