After passing between the islands of Baranof and Chichagof, through Kakul Narrows, Salisbury Sound, and the Pacific Ocean, Sergius Narrows finally narrows into Neva Strait and Olga Strait, the entrance and exit to Sitka. Sergius Narrows, which begins at Hoonah Sound, is a passageway for small ships from the open Pacific Ocean to the Alaskan Inside Passage. Only 300 feet wide in one spot, and only 24 feet deep, this narrow channel is extremely dangerous due to its strong currents and whirlpools. At slack tide, when currents are at their weakest, all ships begin their maneuvers. It’s a winding, narrow path that cuts through the densely wooded highlands of the Tongass National Forest. This thrilling route is filled with peaceful forested islands where tourists can see bears, black-tailed deer, otters, whales, bald eagles, and the rocky shoreline below.
