Port Wells Featured

Surprise Cove

Excellent Holding Easy Approach
📍 60.7590°N · 148.3830°W

Surprise Cove — Anchorage Guide

Overview

Surprise Cove is one of the most celebrated and popular anchorages in Prince William Sound — a perfectly protected State Marine Park basin tucked into the western side of the mouth of Cochrane Bay. This anchorage offers complete protection from the swell and waves of Port Wells, making it a premier safe haven for vessels transiting the western Sound.

Approach

From Passage Canal or Port Wells: transit east-southeast past Decision Point to the mouth of Cochrane Bay. The entrance to Surprise Cove opens to the west-southwest.

Entrance width: The entrance channel is narrow but deep, with a gravel spit extending from the south side. Favor the north side of the channel to clear the shoals. Once inside the basin, standard NOAA charts do not show major underwater obstructions, though mariners must monitor depth sounders for uncharted features.

Anchoring

The bottom is soft mud and sand, providing excellent holding. Anchor in 25–45 feet of water anywhere in the inner basin. The cove offers space for multiple vessels to swing safely. There are several stern-tie rings set into the rocky shoreline by the State Park to allow vessels to secure their sterns and prevent swinging in tight quarters.

Protection

Outstanding protection. The surrounding high timbered ridges block winds from most directions, generally offering calm shelter from wind and swell, though local gusting and dragging vessels may still occur during heavy storms.

  • N/NE winds: 5/5 protection
  • S/SE winds: 5/5 protection
  • Katabatic risk: Low

Wildlife

The park and surrounding waters are home to abundant wildlife. Sea otters and harbor seals are frequently seen inside the cove. Pods of orcas occasionally transit the deep waters of Cochrane Bay just outside the entrance. Black bears are sometimes seen foraging on the beach during low tides.

Notes

  • Cell service is generally unavailable or extremely marginal inside the cove.
  • The State Marine Park features upland tent platforms and bear-proof food storage containers for kayakers and campers.
  • Fresh water can be obtained from the small stream at the head of the cove (treatment required).
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Add to Your Trip Plan

Include Surprise Cove as a stop or destination in your active cruising plan.