A dramatic, steep-walled fjord-like bay on the wild east coast of Baranof Island, Takatz Bay is ringed by waterfalls and snow-fed granite cliffs, offering well-sheltered anchorage just off Chatham Strait.
Takatz Bay indents the east shore of Baranof Island about 4 miles north of Baranof Warm Springs, opening onto Chatham Strait. The bay reaches westward beneath steep, forested walls and granite faces, with multiple waterfalls cascading down the slopes and a drying flat at the head where a creek drains from hidden falls and the high country toward Lake Takatz.
It is a spacious anchorage with room for many boats and good holding, frequently rated among the most beautiful in Southeast Alaska. Wildlife is abundant: eagles, returning salmon, and sea lions are common, and the head of the bay can be explored by dinghy at high tide.
The setting is alpine and dramatic rather than cozy, and because the bay is fairly large some fetch and chop can build under strong winds, so cruisers often tuck toward the southwest shore near the waterfall for better shelter.
Approach notes, hazards to watch for, and what's available once you're tied up.
Approach from Chatham Strait on the east coast of Baranof Island. The principal hazard is a 1.5-fathom (about 9 ft) rock in the entrance, marked by kelp; vessels should favor the east shore on entering. A kelp patch is sometimes reported about 200 yards south of the rock. Water is deep through much of the bay, so anchoring is generally toward the head or in the southwest corner.
During severe southeast gales, strong williwaws (violent downslope gusts) are felt off the high surrounding terrain, and the larger outer basin can build fetch and seas. Do not take a deep-draft vessel onto the extensive drying flat at the head of the bay.
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 Takatz Bay with approach photos, depth notes, and points of interest — written by members who have been here recently.
Member-uploaded images of this anchorage.
Real first-hand reports and questions answered by members who have actually been here.
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