Nestled far in the back of Saginaw Bay on Kuiu Island, Gunkhole provides great protection and scenic views all around.
This anchorage consists of two connected pools at the very back of Saginaw Bay. The first pool is well charted althought we found it to hold it's depth further to the edges than charts depicted with 20' almost up to the rock face and close to 25' close to the island's shoreline. Holding is typical Alaskan mud and sand with good holding for two possible more boats.
The second pool transits a 20' deep saddle and opens into a large pool with an averge of 30'. Please note these are several rocks on your port side as you enter which cover and uncover with tides, we found these well marked on both TimeZero and Garmin charts. There is also significant and rapid shoaling on the east side of the inner pool so favor the west side.
We saw black bears, eagles and herons along the surounding shoreline.
Approach notes, hazards to watch for, and what's available once you're tied up.
The approach is straightorward with deep channels inbetween long islands and rock formations alongside. Several charted rocks are well charted and apparent at low tide.
Wind protection summary and tide planning at a glance. Full per-direction and 7-day detail with Plus.
Live readings from the nearest OpenWeather station and WorldTides; refreshed every few minutes.
Source: OpenWeather One Call API + WorldTides.
A curated photo + map walkthrough showing approach, mooring options, and points of interest.
A guided walkthrough of Gunkhole with approach photos, depth notes, and points of interest — written by members who have been here recently.
Real first-hand reports and questions answered by members who have actually been here.
Great spot, very scenic and well protected in almost all weather.
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Cruising-distance picks near this anchorage.
