Australia to Alaska

[jim_thomsen]

We are trying to decide where to go next. We are thinking about Alaska. We could go east from New Zealand staying about30-35s until we can turn north to Tahiti and then Hawaii and Alaska.

We have not really considered a circumnavigation of the pacific up thru Japan and around or a more direct route from ,Vanuatu to Hawaii.....but maybe we should?

Has anyone done any of these routes? What would you suggest?

Thanks!

[Pelagic]

Hi Jim… I have circumnavigated the whole Pacific a few times from Alaska to NZ so there are plenty of options.
You did not mention any time frame, so I am hoping you don’t have one.

My favorite route would be:
From Cairns to PNG clearing in at Alotau, Milne Bay. (This offers you some of the best scenery/diving in the world as you slowly work your way up the east coast of PNG towards Yap and Palau.

After Palau heading to southern Japan and moving north in concert with the Cherry Blossom Season, you will experience a totally different level of hospitality than anywhere else in the world.

Early June departure from Japan towards Alaska you have many options for landfall as the various weather systems that will overtake you either help or hinder visiting the best part of SE Alaska, which is Prince William Sound.

prince william sound - Google Search

[jim_thomsen]

Pelagic,

Thanks! That does sound like a good idea and would take us places we have not visited. And yes, we have no time schedule other than weather concerns.

I'll start looking at that route today.....way more fun than fixing a water maker.

[SariTimur]

If you do the Palau run you have two more choices. You can head to the PI for some fantastic cruising before eading up to Japan or come over to Guam. If you hrry we can buddy boat up to Japan. Guam is good as you meet many Japanese sailors heading home as well and they make the hospitality even greater than it already is. Heading to Hawaii from NZ is doable but a hard bash to windward most of the way. Falling off a bit as Pelegic says makes for some great stops on the way.

[NoTies]

Originally Posted by jim_thomsen

Pelagic,

Thanks! That does sound like a good idea and would take us places we have not visited. And yes, we have no time schedule other than weather concerns.

I'll start looking at that route today.....way more fun than fixing a water maker.

WHAT? Still fixing your watermaker?
Also consider the Aleutians, I've never been there but our Cat 1 inspector (John Lidgard) said it was his most memorable cruising.

[boatman61]

Originally Posted by NoTies

WHAT? Still fixing your watermaker?
Also consider the Aleutians, I've never been there but our Cat 1 inspector (John Lidgard) said it was his most memorable cruising.

HHappy New Year... has it stopped raining yet...ey...

[Astrid]

Also consider the Aleutians, I've never been there but our Cat 1 inspector (John Lidgard) said it was his most memorable cruising.

The Aleutians are a definite plus to visit. You have a long chain of islands that are varied and beautiful, and a number of safe harbours if you have to take shelter. The Japan current and the Westerlies make sailing good if you begin in June.

[captain58sailin]

Pelagic, I love your routing, one small correction, Prince William Sound is not considered SE Alaska, that starts in the pan handle. With regards to cruising the Aleutians, one needs to be very careful of the rips that run between the islands, I have seen 6' standing waves on flat calm days. Rip tides bear watching though out Alaska, due to the large tides, you will do well to mind the tide book. If you come by Homer, we will roll out the welcome mat!

[Nicholson58]

Any advice regarding visiting Japan? I have heard some horror stories resulting from a lack of understanding of customs and check-in. We also have been intrigued by the possibility of visiting China but that sounds like a logistical nightmare.

[NoTies]

Originally Posted by boatman61

HHappy New Year... has it stopped raining yet...ey...

To you too boatman. Lying in a hotel room in Santo listening to the rain as I type.

[jim_thomsen]

Pete, yes still fixing the watermaker. It needed a new speed controller and I waited to buy a new one until we went back to California for Christmas. Parts are a lot cheaper in the US.

I'm excited to visit Alaska! Probably have to stay a couple of seasons.

[44'cruisingcat]

Thought sewing machines were your speciality!

[NoTies]

Alaska via Japan and the Aleutians is on our bucket list but our little boat needs to grow some. A bigger boat is on the five year plan.

[alaskansailer]

Recommend Sitka, AK, which is in SE Alaska, as a destination. Ideally situated on the Outside coast of SE, prettiest town in Alaska.

[kjames]

Jim, this couple's experiences might be of interest. Illywhacker - Home Page
Cheers