Although the wreck of the ALEUTIAN is the primary draw for technical divers, the waters of Uyak Bay and surrounding areas offer an astounding variety of diving opportunities for divers of all skills level and ability. Abundant marine life including fish, corals, anemones, sea stars and other saltwater invertebrates afford colorful and interesting dives as shallow as 20 feet. Spear fishing for halibut, cod, rockfish and salmon is available for underwater hunters. In addition to the Parks Cannery, there are a number of other abandoned canneries close by where artifact divers may collect antique bottles and other treasures in shallow water close to shore.

For the underwater photographer, the clear, cold waters off Kodiak combine with abundant marine life to provide outstanding photo and video opportunities. In addition to the ALEUTIAN there are other—shallower—shipwrecks within ten miles of the site, affording the “wreck diving experience” to visitors who lack the advanced training needed to visit the ALEUTIAN.

Above water, there are many opportunities for adventure and discovery. The fishing is fantastic! In Uyak Bay, anglers can experience world-class saltwater fishing for salmon, halibut and other species, then switch to freshwater gear and catch trout and grayling in the many streams that feed the bay. Kodiak offers excellent deer hunting in season, and the hills and beaches surrounding the bay abound in wildlife.

For photographers, bear watching is a favorite pastime as the giant Kodiak grizzlies make their way to the shoreline to feast on returning salmon. Whales and porpoises often visit the waters nearby, and can be seen spouting and breaching on the surface. There is a seal rookery close by, and in the spring the rocks are alive with the chubby, frolicking pups. Thousands of migrating sea birds nest in the rocks and cliffs of the bay, raising their young and growing fat from the bounty of the rich North Pacific ecosystem.

The protected waters of Uyak Bay are perfect for sea kayaking, and there’s no better way to get close to wildlife than in the stable, silent, maneuverable craft that have descended from the Native baidarkas (skin boats) used by Alutiiq people in the area for thousands of years. With a few minutes of instruction and a little practice, anyone who has ever ridden a bicycle or paddled a canoe can experience the thrill of gliding through the calm, sheltered waters of the bay.