Port Wells

A broad, deep ocean corridor in the western Sound, serving as the gateway to the massive glaciers of College Fjord, Harriman Fjord, and surrounding bays.

📍 148.200°W · 60.950°N 4 Active Anchorages 2 Cruising Routes

Region Overview & Navigation

Port Wells is a prominent geographic feature in western Prince William Sound. Running north-south, this wide and deep fjord-trunk leads boaters from Whittier into the high-contrast glacial wilderness of the north, including the world-famous College Fjord and Harriman Fjord.

Navigation & Safety

  • Weather & Sea State: Port Wells can experience rapid weather transitions. Southerly winds funnelling up from the open Sound can create a steep, confused chop when meeting outgoing tidal currents.
  • Aquaculture Traffic: The southern portion near Esther Island is a hub of commercial purse-seining activity during the summer salmon runs, centered around the Wally H. Noerenberg Hatchery in Lake Bay. Watch for active nets and seine skiffs.
  • Anchorages: Port Wells is home to several premier anchorages including Bettles Bay, Ziegler Cove, Entry Cove, and the Quillian Bay basin in South Esther Island State Marine Park.

Key Region Highlights

College Fjord Glaciers
Wally Noerenberg Hatchery
South Esther Marine Park
Bettles Bay Wilderness

Anchorages in Port Wells

⚓ Bettles Bay State Marine Park
Good Holding Depth: 30-70ft 📍 60.9500°N, 148.2500°W
⚓ Entry Cove State Marine Park
Good Holding Depth: 20-40ft 📍 60.8300°N, 148.2500°W
⚓ South Esther Island State Marine Park
Good Holding Depth: 40-90ft 📍 60.7933°N, 148.0661°W
⚓ Ziegler Cove State Marine Park
Good Holding Depth: 40-60ft 📍 60.8500°N, 148.2000°W

Cruising Routes in/through Port Wells

🚢 Harriman Fjord Expedition

Cruising from Whittier to Harriman Fjord · 62 NM

ADVANCED 8 Hours
🚢 Whittier to Culross Passage

Cruising from Whittier to Culross Passage · 28 NM

BEGINNER 3.5 Hours