Surprise Cove — Anchorage Guide
Overview
Surprise Cove is one of the most celebrated anchorages in Prince William Sound — a perfectly protected basin tucked into the southeastern shore of Esther Island. The name suits it: first-time visitors are invariably surprised by how completely the surrounding spruce forest seals off the cove from any swell or wind.
Approach
From the south: enter Esther Passage on the eastern side. The cove entrance opens to the east approximately 2.5nm north of Esther Island’s southern tip. Watch for a visible kelp bed on the starboard side at the entrance — favor the port side to clear it at lower tides.
Entrance width: ~150ft. No hazards inside once past the kelp.
Anchoring
The bottom is soft mud over sand — excellent holding. Anchor in 25–40 feet anywhere in the central basin. Room for 6–8 vessels comfortably. Two or three stern-tie rings are set in the rocks on the north shore (USFS).
Recommended gear: Primary + all-chain rode. Scope 5:1 adequate in all but storm conditions.
Protection
Outstanding all-around protection. The surrounding ridgeline blocks all but direct northerly outflow events. In 15 years of detailed logging by cruisers, sustained winds above 25 knots inside the cove are essentially unknown.
- N winds: 5/5 protection
- SE winds: 5/5 protection
- Katabatic risk: None observed
Wildlife
The cove and its approaches are outstanding wildlife habitat. Sea otters are year-round residents — often dozens visible from the anchorage. Steller sea lions haul out on the small rocky islets at the cove entrance. Orca pods transit Esther Passage regularly in summer; anchor-watch sightings are common. Black bears are frequently spotted on the shore at dusk.
Hiking
A USFS trail begins at the stern-tie rocks and climbs the ridge to the north — approximately 1.5 miles to an open summit with a panoramic view of Esther Passage, Port Wells, and the eastern sound. Allow 2 hours round trip. Unmaintained but well-traveled.
Notes
- No VHF relay — Whittier traffic may be marginal from inside the cove
- USFS Esther Island Cabin is 1.8nm north — available on recreation.gov
- Fresh water stream at the head of the cove (treat before use)
- No cell service
Add to Your Float Plan
Include Surprise Cove as a waypoint or destination in your float plan for this trip.