Bear Viewing Tours in Katmai National Park, Alaska
The Kittiwake IIThe Boat | The Crew | Trip Info | Planning Your Trip | Rates & Reservations The M/V Kittiwake II was built for the U.S. Army in 1944 for patrol work in the Aleutian Islands. After the war it was transferred to the Federal Aviation Administration for work maintaining the many radar stations along the Pacific coast. It was subsequently transferred to Alaska Department of Fish and Game and was used for research and monitoring. We purchased the boat from the State in late 1986 and have been doing custom marine charters ever since. The boat has been wonderfully maintained by all the owners since it was built and provides a great platform for plying the coast of Alaska. The Kittiwake II is 73 feet long with a deep displacement hull. It is considered a very seaworthy design with a high bow and a fine horseshoe stern. It was designed for heavy work hauling men, barges and materials around Alaskan waters.
The wheelhouse is equipped with all the modern electronic navigation aids and radio equipment. Two radars, two sounders, two VHF radios, two GPS's, computerized charts and an autopilot assure safe navigation and communications. The Boat | The Crew | Trip Info | Planning Your Trip | Rates & Reservations |
The living quarters on the boat are roomy by small boat cruising standards. Each bunk is at least 27' by 78" with a reading light and storage. The galley and eating areas are clean, bright and well maintained. There are two heads and a shower with plenty of hot water. A washer and dryer are on board also. A reverse-osmosis water maker provides excellent quality water. We have two skiffs for transportation to and from the shore and handheld VHF radios for communication. Skiffs carry emergency gear and safety equipment. The Kittiwake II is Coast Guard approved for commercial use and carries all required safety equipment including 3
life rings, a 15 man life raft, a rapidfix GPS interfaced EBIRB, ample fire extinguishers, first aid kits and flares. A small library, computer,
VCR, cassette and CD player are also on board. Our crew is well experienced and will provide you and your family with a high quality and safe wildlife viewing experience.
