The sound nurtures a rich marine ecosystem. In addition to the charismatic mega fauna – whales, seals, sea otters – vast numbrs of other creatures favour Alaska’s chilly waters, which are among the most productive in the world. You can scuba dive in the sound, but the semi-submersible M.V. Sea Life Discovery offers a warmer option. Passengers sit in a glass enclosed hull while a guide provides a running commentary and points out myriad creatures.

Hundreds of boats ply Sitka Sound and more distant coastal waters. A large majority of them cater to anglers dreaming of hooking a halibut or a salmon in this fish friendly habitat. A few boats offer tours of the sound, the coast, and the many islands.

You will see sea otters floating on their backs, munching shellfish or cuddling their pups. If the seas are not rough, the boat may head to St. Lazaria Island, which forms part of the Alaska Maritime National Wildlife Refuge, a conglomerate of 2,500 coastal islands, spires, rocks, and headlands stretching all around Alaska.