The Diving

Locals dive the waters of Sitka Sound year round. The late Winter and early Spring are considered the best times to dive due to the increased visibility which can often times exceed 100 feet. Sitka Sound owes its wonderful visibility to the fact that we are far removed from the glaciers and large rivers that are found along the mainland coast. During the summer months, there is still great diving to be had in Sitka, but the seasonal plankton blooms can decrease the visibility to 30 feet or less.

To say that marine life is prolific in the Sitka area would be a gross understatement. In fact, Sitka Sound is home to a bountiful ecosystem that allows divers the opportunity to see a variety of invertebrates as well as fish and sea mammals.

Some of the invertebrates that we encounter here on a regular basis are sea stars, nutibranchs, octopus, cucumbers, jelly fish, sea anemones and tunicates -- just to name a few.

Although many of the larger game fish in the area are rarely seen by divers in open water, we regularly see wolf fish and a plethora of rock fish.

We encounter marine mammals as well. The Stellar Sea Lion being the pinnacle of many dives in the area. Although Stellar Sea Lions are ferocious predators, encounters with divers are usually a thrilling a playful experience as the curious Sea Lions like to get up close and personal with divers. An encounter with a large Sea Lion is something that will not be forgotten soon. Their grace, speed and agility underwater are truly something to marvel at.