MERTZ ISLAND
Sitka, Alaska $3,000,000 3.75± Acres
INTRODUCTION Welcome to Mertz Island, an extraordinary private island retreat in the heart of Alaska’s renowned Sitka Sound, where natural beauty, thoughtful craftsmanship, and complete self-sufficiency create one of Southeast Alaska’s most exceptional island properties. Located just a 10± minute boat ride from Sitka, this rare offering provides the ideal balance of accessibility and privacy, allowing convenient access while preserving the serenity of Alaska’s coastal wilderness. Surrounded by clear waters, Sitka spruce and western hemlock forests, secluded beaches, and abundant wildlife, Mertz Island offers two distinctly different views. One side overlooks the open waters of Sitka Sound and nearby islands, while the other faces a protected cove. Whales, sea otters, bald eagles, harbor seals, sea lions, deer, and numerous seabirds are common throughout the area, while coves, tide pools, and forest trails provide opportunities for exploration year-round. The property features two distinctive turnkey residences that comfortably accommodate up to sixteen guests. The waterfront guest cabin sits just steps from the private dock with panoramic views of the protected bay. Above the shoreline, the custom Pan Abode main residence combines exceptional craftsmanship, warm natural finishes, and sweeping views across Sitka Sound. Designed for reliable year-round living, the property is supported by a modern off-grid infrastructure, including solar power, battery storage, backup generators, filtered rainwater collection, high-speed Starlink internet, and full plumbing systems. Workshops, storage buildings, utility facilities, and extensive maintenance equipment further enhance the property’s functionality. Whether envisioned as a private family estate, executive retreat, or exclusive vacation residence, Mertz Island offers a rare opportunity to own a self-sufficient island property where privacy, comfort, and Alaska’s remarkable coastal landscape come together in an unforgettable setting.
Mertz Island | Sitka, Alaska
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QUICK FACTS • • • • • • • • • • • • • •
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Mertz Island is located in Sitka Sound, approximately 3 miles southwest of Sitka, a quick 10± minute boat ride 1,556± SF custom-built Pan Abode home with two distinct water views; one overlooking Sitka Sound and one of the protected cove 1,013± SF private waterfront guest cabin with direct views of the protected bay Both homes are offered fully turnkey, including furnishings, washer and dryer, linens, cookware, maintenance equipment, and professional tools Secure private boat dock with convenient boat ramp access Modern conveniences include full plumbing, hot showers, flush toilets, filtered rainwater, dishwasher, and septic systems Expansive waterfront sun deck with panoramic turquoise-water views Exceptional wildlife viewing including whales, sea otters, otters, bald eagles, herons, mink, and deer Multiple scenic pathways connect the homes, including a cedar boardwalk along the shoreline 6,000-gallon filtered rainwater cistern accessed directly from the kitchen High-efficiency wood stove and 36,000-BTU heat pump provide year-round comfort Off-grid power system includes a 15 kW Generac generator, Honda backup generators, solar panels, battery bank, and Victron inverters High-speed Starlink internet Two outbuildings for maintenance and storage, and a 1,000-pound davit for equipment handling
www.fayranches.com | 800.238.8616 | info@fayranches.com
Mertz Island | Sitka, Alaska
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SCENIC VISTAS Mertz Island showcases breathtaking views in every direction, from the turquoise waters of its protected cove to the expansive vistas of Sitka Sound. Towering spruce forests, secluded beaches, and panoramic waterfront scenery frame both residences, while floor-to-ceiling windows and spacious decks provide front-row seats to spectacular sunsets and abundant Alaska wildlife.
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www.fayranches.com | 800.238.8616 | info@fayranches.com
Mertz Island | Sitka, Alaska
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BUILDINGS Custom Pan Abode Main Residence The 1,556± square foot Pan Abode residence offers waterfront living with views of Sitka Sound and the island’s protected cove. Built with classic Pan Abode cedar block construction and a metal roof, the home features prow-front windows, a wraparound cedar deck, thermal-pane windows, stucco walls, knotty pine ceilings, Douglas fir doors and trim, imported tile, bamboo flooring, a 36,000-BTU electric heat pump, and a high-efficiency wood stove. The gourmet kitchen includes Gaggenau appliances, a five-burner cooktop, a commercial convection oven, custom hickory cabinetry, and German granite countertops. The floor plan includes spacious living areas, a guest bedroom with a king bed, an office or optional third bedroom, and an upper-level primary suite with panoramic Sitka Sound views, a walk-in closet, and a built-in window bed. The ensuite bath features a double vanity, a two-person steam shower, and a soaking tub where one can watch passing whales. The residence combines quality construction, functional design, and exceptional waterfront views.
BUILDINGS CONT. Waterfront Guest Cabin Located steps from the private dock on the protected bay, the 1,013± square foot waterfront guest cabin features expansive water views, vaulted ceilings, large windows, knotty pine finishes, and an openconcept design. The remodeled kitchen includes a Bertazzoni propane range, propane refrigerator, and island seating. The cabin also includes a cast-iron wood stove, walk-in shower, spacious waterfront deck, two main-floor bedrooms, a large utility room that can serve as a third bedroom, and a loft sleeping area with four twin beds and a queen bed. The living room includes a king-size sofa, with additional outdoor deck space overlooking the cove. Mechanical Building The mechanical building houses the island’s utility systems and equipment, providing centralized support for the residences and property operations. Storage Shed The storage shed provides additional space for tools, equipment, supplies, and general property storage, supporting ongoing maintenance and island living.
Storage Shed
INFR ASTRUCTURE Power Source The property’s power system includes a 15 kW Generac generator, two 3,000-watt Honda backup generators, an eight-battery 48-volt battery bank, eight solar panels, and two Victron inverters providing 220-volt power. The expandable solar-electric system includes app-based remote monitoring and control, providing reliable energy for both residences with the ability to support future power needs. Water Source Both residences are supplied by rainwater collection systems with filtration and storage. The main house includes a 6,000-gallon filtered cistern accessed through a kitchen floor hatch, along with a 2,000-liter storage tank. Propane on-demand water heaters and filtration systems serve both homes, which feature full plumbing, conventional fixtures, and flush toilets. Septic System Both the main house and the guest cabin have septic tanks receiving all black and gray water. Effluent runs through a submersible 4-inch waste pipe toward the bay, flushed by the tides twice daily. EM1 microorganisms are added during occupancy in place of pumping. Fuel Storage The property includes on-site propane storage to support the generators and off-grid systems. Propane usage averages one 100-gallon tank per month, with approximately 80 usable gallons per fill.
Bay-Side Utility Deck Positioned adjacent to the waterfront, the utility deck is equipped with a heavy-duty 1,000-poundrated davit, providing a practical solution for moving building materials, supplies, fuel, equipment, and recreational gear between the dock and the property. This valuable feature simplifies island logistics while enhancing the property’s functionality. Dock & Boat Landing The secure private dock serves as the primary gateway to the island, providing protected moorage in the sheltered cove. A convenient boat ramp leads directly from the dock to the expansive waterfront deck, offering easy access for guests, supplies, and recreational equipment while showcasing beautiful views of the turquoise waters below. Private dock, 42 feet by 16 feet – 672± square feet - in a deep, protected cove, well-maintained and ready for the season. Boat ramp to an expansive porch deck. Communications & Controls Starlink connectivity allows remote access to system monitoring and management capabilities. Highspeed internet by Starlink serving both houses.
EQUIPMENT • • • • • • • • •
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2022 Hewescraft 27-foot aluminum cabin boat 2024 Mercedes Sprinter passenger van (11 passengers) Two 2022 Toyota Sienna Hybrid vans (7 passengers each) 2016 Toyota Tundra 4x4 pickup 2 – one-person kayaks 1 – two-person inflatable kayak 2 - Paddle Boards 12-foot inflatable boat Fishing Gear - 5 rods for Halibut and Salmon
www.fayranches.com | 800.238.8616 | info@fayranches.com
Mertz Island | Sitka, Alaska
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E XCURSION S & ACTIVITIES • • • • • • •
Exclusive private island experiences World-class wildlife viewing Premier whale watching Exceptional saltwater fishing Sea kayaking through protected waters Cruise ship shore excursions Eco-tourism adventures
Mertz Island offers an exceptional gateway to the best of Southeast Alaska, where guests can enjoy exclusive private island experiences surrounded by pristine wilderness and breathtaking coastal scenery. From world-class wildlife viewing and premier whale watching to exceptional saltwater fishing and sea kayaking through protected island passages, the region provides unforgettable outdoor adventures for every visitor. Established cruise ship shore excursion partnerships bring thousands of travelers to Sitka each season, while the area’s growing reputation for eco-tourism continues to attract visitors seeking authentic, small-group experiences that showcase Alaska’s remarkable landscapes, abundant marine life, and rich natural heritage. Mertz Island offers a rare combination of adventure, exclusivity, and sustainable tourism opportunities.
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www.fayranches.com | 800.238.8616 | info@fayranches.com
FISHING • • • • • • • • • • • •
Chinook (King) Salmon Coho (Silver) Salmon Pink Salmon Chum Salmon Sockeye Salmon Pacific Halibut Lingcod Rockfish (multiple species) Pacific Cod Dolly Varden Cutthroat Trout Steelhead (seasonal, in nearby freshwater systems)
Mertz Island is located in Sitka Sound, an area known for exceptional saltwater fishing opportunities. The surrounding waters provide access to five species of Pacific salmon, including king, silver, pink, chum, and sockeye salmon, along with halibut, lingcod, rockfish, and other marine species. The island’s protected waters and proximity to productive fishing grounds allow for convenient access by boat directly from the property.
Mertz Island | Sitka, Alaska
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WILDLIFE & HUNTING Wildlife and Hunting • Bald Eagles (including nesting pairs on the island) • Whales (including gray, humpback and orcas) • Sea Otters • Sea Lions • Harbor Seals • Deer • Puffins • Herons • Coastal birds • Seabirds and shorebirds • Sea Stars • Abalone • Other marine tide pool species Wildlife Mertz Island is surrounded by a diverse coastal ecosystem supporting abundant marine and terrestrial wildlife. The island and surrounding waters provide habitat for bald eagles, whales, sea otters, sea lions, harbor seals, deer, mink, and a variety of coastal birds. Tide pools, beaches, forests, and protected coves offer opportunities to observe marine life, including sea stars, abalone shells, and other intertidal species throughout the property. Hunting The Sitka area offers access to diverse Southeast Alaska hunting opportunities, including Sitka blacktailed deer, coastal brown bear, and waterfowl. The surrounding islands, coastal forests, and rugged mountain terrain provide remote hunting environments accessible by boat from Mertz Island. Local guides and charter services are available to assist with transportation and field access. 16
www.fayranches.com | 800.238.8616 | info@fayranches.com
Mertz Island | Sitka, Alaska
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INCOME OPPORTUNITIES Mertz Island presents a rare opportunity to acquire an established hospitality and tourism business with multiple complementary revenue streams in one of Southeast Alaska’s premier visitor destinations. The property combines luxury private island experiences, guided eco-tourism, cruise ship shore excursions, and direct booking channels to create a diversified seasonal business with significant potential for future growth. A signature Private Island Experience is capped at five events per season by choice, not permit limits, preserving exclusivity. Priced from $5,000 ($1,000/guest for six hours), it leaves room for future owners to expand capacity or pricing. The business also runs varied guided tours – bears & raptors, marine wildlife, scenic, and land-andsea combinations – with water tours a steady revenue source and rising eco-tourism demand across Southeast Alaska fueling further growth. Approximately 98% of guests arrive via cruise ship, supported by established relationships with seven major cruise lines. These partnerships provide a consistent flow of seasonal visitors and position the business to benefit from the continued growth of Alaska’s cruise industry. Three land vehicles carry up to 87 guests per day, with peak-season utilization running at approximately 90%. Existing demand suggests additional revenue opportunity through expanded capacity or added departures. The Tongass National Forest special use permit runs through 2033, with state and local authorizations renewing annually. With established infrastructure, recognized branding, and increasing demand for immersive Alaska experiences, Mertz Island offers a proven tourism enterprise with multiple avenues for continued growth and long-term income potential. The tourism business, including the vessel, tour vehicles, and cruise line relationships described above, is offered separately and is not included in the island list price. 18
www.fayranches.com | 800.238.8616 | info@fayranches.com
Mertz Island | Sitka, Alaska
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EDITORIALS Forbes Liechtenstein How Bumble Expeditions Built an Economic Moat in Alaska Tourism https://forbesliechtenstein.com/how-bumble-expeditions-built-an-economic-moat-in-alaska-tourism/ Business Insider Bumble Expeditions Announces Alaska Tourism Expansion After Securing Seven International Cruise Line Contracts https://markets.businessinsider.com/news/stocks/bumble-expeditions-announces-alaska-tourism-expansion-aftersecuring-seven-international-cruise-line-contracts-1036291237 Grit Daily From Spam-for-Dinner to an Alaska Private Island: How Bumble Expeditions Built One of Alaska’s Most Unconventional Tourism Businesses https://gritdaily.com/bumble-expeditions-alaska-unconventional-tourism-business/ Luxury Travel The Private Island Experience in Alaska is Reserved for Just Five Groups Each Season https://www.luxurytravelmagazine.com/news-articles/the-private-island-experience-in-alaska-is-reserved-for-just-fivegroups-each-season USA Today Visit a Private Island https://www.bumbleexpeditions.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/GoEscapeWest_Outdoor-Therapy.pdf MSN Everyone talks about the private island. The real story is the people behind it https://www.msn.com/en-us/news/other/everyone-talks-about-the-private-island-the-real-story-is-the-people-behindit/ar-AA295aw5?ocid=socialshare MSN The most memorable part of an Alaska vacation isn’t what you think https://www.msn.com/en-us/news/other/the-most-memorable-part-of-an-alaska-vacation-isnt-what-you-think/arAA295ERk?ocid=socialshare 20
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Mertz Island | Sitka, Alaska
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www.fayranches.com | 800.238.8616 | info@fayranches.com
TESTIMONIALS Cole was super kind and professional, the boat was comfy. Coles knowledge of the waters and what to look for and show us…otters w babies, sea lions, eagle, harbor seal and WHALES…grey and humpback! Highly recommend. - Stacy S The island is gorgeous. Situated just a short boat ride from Sitka proper, you have everything you could possibly need. Spectacular views! Sea life! And the tremendous hospitality of Sara and Cole who provide a welcome and cheerful home away from home. I love the place. Highly recommend it anyone. - Ryan Harms Our family stayed here and we had a blast! Sara and Cole are amazing hosts and the island is beautiful. The fishing is great in the area as well. Tons of wildlife and gorgeous sites to see. I highly recommend visiting! - Connor Cole and Sara are so much fun to go out on the water with. They are careful and safe and know what they are doing. Getting out on the water is really the best way to see Sitka and the area. The wildlife if so awesome and so much fun to see. You won’t want to miss this opportunity to experience Sitka this way. Gerri Guthrie
Mertz Island | Sitka, Alaska
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AREA HISTORY Mertz Island is a small island located in the Alexander Archipelago of Southeast Alaska, just south of Sitka. The island was named in 1880 by the U.S. Navy in honor of Lieutenant Albert Mertz, U.S. Navy, and was later recorded on official charts and Coast Pilot publications. Like many of the islands surrounding Sitka, Mertz Island’s history is closely tied to the maritime traditions, Indigenous cultures, and natural resources of the region. The waters surrounding Mertz Island have been inhabited and traveled for thousands of years by the Tlingit people, whose ancestral lands encompass much of Southeast Alaska. The area’s sheltered waterways, abundant fisheries, and rich coastal ecosystems supported communities that relied on fishing, hunting, gathering, and extensive maritime trade. European influence arrived in Southeast Alaska during the 18th century as Russian explorers and traders entered the region, followed later by American interests following the 1867 Alaska Purchase. The nearby community of Sitka became a major historical center, serving as a Russian colonial capital and later as an important American port, fishing hub, and gateway to Southeast Alaska. Today, Mertz Island remains part of a remote coastal landscape defined by old-growth forests, rugged shorelines, marine habitat, and abundant wildlife. The surrounding waters continue to support commercial and recreational fishing, while the islands and channels of the Alexander Archipelago preserve a legacy of wilderness, Indigenous heritage, exploration, and resource stewardship.
Baranov Castle, Sitka, Alaska 24
www.fayranches.com | 800.238.8616 | info@fayranches.com
Mertz Island | Sitka, Alaska
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LOCATION Mertz Island is located in Southeast Alaska’s Alexander Archipelago, approximately 10 minutes by boat from Sitka. Positioned within Sitka Sound, the island offers direct access to the protected waters, islands, and wilderness of the Tongass National Forest.
AIRPORT SERVICES Sitka is accessible by commercial air service through the Sitka Rocky Gutierrez Airport, which offers daily scheduled flights connecting to Seattle-Tacoma International Airport and other Southeast Alaska communities. The airport supports commercial passenger service, private aviation, and air taxi operations. Sitka can also be reached by the Alaska Marine Highway System, providing passenger and vehicle ferry connections throughout Southeast Alaska.
GET TING THERE Mertz Island is accessed by boat from Sitka, located approximately 10 minutes away. A private dock and boat ramp on the property provide convenient access.
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Mertz Island | Sitka, Alaska
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www.fayranches.com | 800.238.8616 | info@fayranches.com
Mertz Island | Sitka, Alaska
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CLIMATE Southeast Alaska experiences a temperate maritime climate characterized by mild, wet winters and cool, relatively dry summers. Average winter temperatures hover around 20-30°F, while summer temperatures range from 50-60°F. Climate charts courtesy of https://www.city-data.com/city/Juneau-Alaska.html
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www.fayranches.com | 800.238.8616 | info@fayranches.com
Mertz Island | Sitka, Alaska
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CON SERVATION | STEWARDSHIP Each of us at Fay Ranches loves the land and wants to see it remain a productive agricultural ground and a quality fish and wildlife habitat. Through promoting thoughtful land stewardship, Fay Ranches has guided owners toward a legacy of conserving wide-open spaces, enhancing and creating fisheries and wildlife habitats, and implementing sustainable agricultural operations. Fay Ranches is proud to say that since our company began in 1992, our clients’ conservation ethics and land-use practices have significantly enhanced our work landscape.
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www.fayranches.com | 800.238.8616 | info@fayranches.com
Mertz Island | Sitka, Alaska
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SUMMARY Mertz Island is a private Southeast Alaska retreat offering two distinct residences, turnkey accommodations, and a fully self-contained island lifestyle. Located approximately 10 minutes by boat from Sitka, the property provides convenient access to town while maintaining the privacy and character of a remote coastal setting. Surrounded by Sitka Sound, private beaches, old-growth forest, and abundant wildlife, the island offers exceptional opportunities for fishing, boating, kayaking, wildlife viewing, and exploring the natural beauty of the Alexander Archipelago. With quality construction, modern amenities, and a unique combination of comfort and wilderness, Mertz Island provides a rare opportunity to own a private Alaska island retreat.
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www.fayranches.com | 800.238.8616 | info@fayranches.com
Mertz Island | Sitka, Alaska
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CONTACT
PRICE $3,000,000
TERMS Cash Conventional Financing 1031 Exchange
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This is an exclusive co-listing with Fay Ranches, Top Shelf Realty LLC, and CopperlineCo. LLC. Please contact Troy Dana at (360) 4025500 | tdana@fayranches.com, Yvan Corbin at (907) 301-0875 | yvan@alaskatopshelfrealty.com, or Suzanne Jasso at (907) 7388544 | suzanne@copperlineco.com to schedule a showing. An agent from Fay Ranches, Top Shelf Realty LLC, or CopperlineCo. LLC must be present at all showings unless otherwise noted or other arrangements are made. To view other properties we have listed, please visit our web page at www.fayranches.com.
NOTICE Offer is subject to errors, omissions, prior sale, change or withdrawal without notice, and approval of purchase by owner. Information regarding land classification, carrying capacities, maps, etc., is intended only as a general guideline and has been provided by the owners and other sources deemed reliable, but the accuracy cannot be guaranteed. Prospective purchasers are encouraged to research the information to their own satisfaction.
www.fayranches.com | 800.238.8616 | info@fayranches.com
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