South Harbor Space 629: Fishing, Travel, and Community
South Harbor sits on the edge of Mitkof Island in Petersburg, Alaska, where Wrangell Narrows and Frederick Sound meet. It’s one of the town’s busiest spots and an essential part of daily life, especially for people who work or travel by boat. One specific slip—Space 629—shows just how much this harbor helps the community.
South Harbor is one of three marinas in Petersburg and has all kinds of boats, from fishing vessels to tour boats and small private boats. It’s close to important places like the town’s police station and coffee shops, making it super convenient for boaters. Space 629 is part of the harbor’s organized system and helps keep everything running smoothly.
In 2024, South Harbor got a major upgrade. A big project, led by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, made the water deeper and safer for boats. Previously, shallow spots made it difficult for some boats to enter and exit. Thanks to the dredging project, Space 629 is now easier to use, even during low tides.
Because Petersburg isn’t connected to any roads leading out of town, boats are crucial for bringing in supplies and navigating the area. That’s why the harbor, especially spots like Space 629, plays such a big role. The slip is located near fuel stations, marine repair shops, and even local businesses like coffeehouses and bookstores, providing boaters with what they need just steps away.
Space 629 is often used by fishing boats. Fishing is a huge part of life in Petersburg, and the harbor helps fishermen unload their catch and get ready for their next trip. During the dredging, more than 100 boats had to be moved, but everyone worked together, and the harbor stayed open.
Tourism is growing too. A cruise company wants to build a new floating dock near South Harbor for small cruise ships. Boats like the American Constellation and American Constitution are visiting more often. This new dock would help attract visitors while still providing locals with access after the cruise season ends.
To protect the harbor’s future, the town created a special zone that ensures the waterfront is used exclusively for boat-related activities. That way, slips like Space 629 won’t be turned into something else and will stay open for fishing, traveling, and traditional uses.
The harbor also considers nature. During the improvements, crews made sure not to harm the nearby sea life and habitats. The space also helps the Petersburg Indian Association, which uses the harbor for traditional subsistence activities.
Even though it’s just one berth, Space 629 plays a big part in Petersburg’s life. It supports fishing, tourism, and local traditions, and with all the recent improvements, it’s ready for whatever the future brings.
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