Thanks Darryl > not a citizen of either Canada or the US As it happens, I am a Canadian citizen (born & lived in Montreal for 30 years); but I wouldn't expect to get any special treatment - one way or the other ;-) It's looking increasingly like we'll be crossing both borders (Canada & US) within 24 hours of arrival, so I'll let you all know how we get on ;-) After an intensive planning session this past weekend, it looks like the best route from Vancouver to Sitka involves heading down to Bellingham, Washington to join the AMH (Alaska Maritime Highway) ferry system. 'Best', as always, being defined as the usual 'individual blend' of speed, cost, hassle, discomfort, scenery and dream. I had initially thought of going from Vancouver to Prince Rupert (both in Canada) and then catching an AMH service from PR into Alaska - to Petersburg & then on to Sitka. I hoped that there would be an easy connection between Vancouver and Prince Rupert. Actually, there is an easy connection; but it's by plane - so not very scenic - and not cheap. You can also do it by Greyhound (cheap but 25 hours straight), train (not cheap and about 3 days) or one-way car rental (only one company and costs more than I usually spend on a kayak). The only Canadian way I've found by sea is via Nanaimo & Port Hardy, using two ferries and two bus companies that I think promise to connect in Nanaimo. Can't be sure, as neither bus company has an online presence - which seems a bit retro in 2010. Unfortunately, that also gets me into Sitka 4 hours after the last AMH boat to Sitka (for a week) leaves. Bummer! So, we'll bypass Prince Rupert and do an AMH branch-line connection from Petersburg to Sitka. Anyone have any comments on the merits of museums or architectural remnants of Russian America (or any other must-see/do sights/activities) in these two towns ? Of course, I shall investigate online; but a personal memory often adds some realism to internet hype ;-) With Natasha's current level of concern about BEARS; before launching the K2 north out of Sitka, we might also be looking for a religious institution (preferably one with a guarantee ;-) Best Regards Paul Hayward, Auckland, New Zealand *************************************************************************** PaddleWise Paddling Mailing List - Any opinions or suggestions expressed here are solely those of the writer(s). You must assume the entire responsibility for reliance upon them. All postings copyright the author. Submissions: PaddleWise_at_PaddleWise.net Subscriptions: PaddleWise-request_at_PaddleWise.net Website: http://www.paddlewise.net/ ***************************************************************************Received on Mon Mar 22 2010 - 04:53:46 PDT
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