Elfin Cove Seaplane Base

Elfin Cove Seaplane Base is not merely a transport hub, but a true gateway to the Alaskan wilderness, where the calm waters of a picturesque bay serve as the runway. There are no noisy terminals or long queues here; instead, passengers disembark from seaplanes directly onto the wooden docks of a cosy fishing settlement. Landing here transforms into a breathtaking aerial excursion, revealing stunning views of ancient forests and rugged rocky shores before the aircraft even touches the water.

Features and Advantages of the Airport:

The main feature of Elfin Cove is its unique location and mode of operation. Since the settlement has no roads, seaplanes are a vital link to the outside world, delivering not only tourists but also mail and provisions.

Travellers appreciate this seaplane base for its atmosphere of complete seclusion. Immediately after landing, you find yourself in the centre of the action: famous fishing lodges and walking trails are just a few steps from where the plane moors. The absence of complex security checks and bureaucracy makes the flight easy and pleasant, allowing you to focus on the beauty of the surrounding landscapes.

Since Elfin Cove Seaplane Base (ELV) is essentially a seaplane dock without a full-scale terminal or permanent on-site staff, the primary point of contact for travellers is the operating airline, Alaska Seaplanes, which conducts scheduled flights, as well as the Alaska Department of Transportation (the facility owner). For up-to-date information on flights and services, it is recommended to contact the carrier directly.

• Official Website (Main Carrier): flyalaskaseaplanes.com
• Help Desk Phone: +1 907-789-3331 (Alaska Seaplanes support line for flights to Elfin Cove)
• Seaplane Base Address: Elfin Cove Seaplane Base, Elfin Cove, AK 99825, USA
• Email: info@flyalaskaseaplanes.com (general inquiries and booking)
• Social Media:
  • Facebook: facebook.com/AlaskaSeaplanes
  • Instagram: instagram.com/alaskaseaplanes
• Lost Luggage Information: Contact the Alaska Seaplanes cargo office by phone at +1 907-789-3331 or via email at cargo@flyalaskaseaplanes.com
• Passenger Support Contacts: +1 907-789-3331 (available Mon-Sun from 7:00 to 16:00 local time)

Getting to Elfin Cove Seaplane Base is nothing like a trip to a typical capital city aviation hub. You will not find multi-level car parks, metro stations, or dedicated taxi lanes here. Logistics in this part of Alaska are dictated by nature and the absence of roads. The entire village of Elfin Cove is connected by a system of wooden boardwalks, so the main methods of movement here are your own feet or a boat.

How to get to the boarding point (dock):

Since seaplanes moor directly at the docks in the centre of the settlement, the journey to the "airport" usually takes just minutes on foot from any guest house or lodge located in the main bay.

• On Foot: This is the primary mode of transport. If you are in the central part of Elfin Cove, the walk to the seaplane will take between 2 to 10 minutes. The wooden paths are convenient but can be slippery from rain, so comfortable footwear is recommended.
• Water Taxi and Lodge Transfers: If your accommodation is in a secluded cove away from the main dock, your lodge (fishing base) will organise a transfer by skiff. This is usually included in the accommodation cost or arranged separately. Travel time by water is typically 5–15 minutes.

Public Transport and Taxis:

In the conventional sense, public transport does not exist in Elfin Cove. There are no buses, trains, or taxi services (Uber/Lyft). The role of a "shuttle" is performed by mail boats or charter skiffs, which must be arranged in advance with locals or lodge administration.

Car Rental and Parking:

There are no roads connecting Elfin Cove to the outside world, and no road network within the settlement itself. Consequently:

• Car Rental: Impossible and unnecessary.
• Parking: Non-existent. If you are travelling on your own yacht or boat, the "parking" will be guest moorage, the availability of which should be checked with the Harbormaster.

Important Pre-departure Recommendations:

When planning your departure from Elfin Cove, keep in mind that the seaplane schedule is highly dependent on weather conditions (fog, wind, tides). Always allow extra time. You will need to carry your luggage to the plane along the boardwalks yourself or use a hand cart if one is available at your lodge.

Nearby Transport Hubs:

Elfin Cove is a terminal point, usually reached from larger transport hubs. Most often, tourists first arrive in the state capital or other major Alaskan cities, and from there take a seaplane flight. The nearest major hub with regular flights to Elfin Cove is Juneau International Airport. The flight from there takes about 45–60 minutes and costs approximately $200 one way.

Other regional airports that may be useful when planning a complex itinerary across Alaska and Canada:

• Sitka Airport (140 km) — a popular tourist port and airport on Baranof Island.
• Kake Seaplane Base (198 km) — another access point to remote settlements.
• Yakutat Airport (240 km) — known among surfing and fishing enthusiasts.
• Whitehorse Airport (289 km) — a major transport hub in neighbouring Canada (Yukon).

Terminals and Airport Structure

The structure of Elfin Cove Seaplane Base differs radically from familiar international hubs. There is no division into Terminals A, B, or C, no confusing corridors or jet bridges. The entire "airport complex" is effectively a single open-air service zone consisting of docking infrastructure.

Zoning and Navigation:

Navigation in Elfin Cove is intuitive and requires no maps or signs. The airport consists of the following functional elements:

• Seaplane Float: The main area where take-off, landing, passenger disembarkation, and luggage unloading take place. This is a wooden or metal platform floating on the waves.
• Ramp: An inclined walkway connecting the floating dock to the stationary pier on the shore. The angle of the ramp changes depending on the tide level.
• Waiting Area: There is no waiting lounge with seats and flight screens as such. Passengers await the aircraft's arrival either directly on the dock (in good weather), under the shelter of the nearest building, or in the lobby of their lodge if it is nearby.

Features of Transitions and Zones:

Since there is no separation into "sterile" and public zones in Elfin Cove, movement between the "terminal" (dock) and the village is free. Those meeting passengers can approach almost to the very spot where the plane moors.

• Arrival Zone: You step off the seaplane float directly onto the dock. The pilot unloads luggage right there. The entire journey from the aircraft seat to the "city exit" takes less than a minute.
• Departure Zone: Boarding is carried out on a first-come, first-served basis or as directed by the pilot, who distributes passengers in the cabin to properly balance the aircraft.

Check-in and Pre-flight Procedures

Procedures in Elfin Cove are simplified to the maximum, which is one of the main advantages of flying on seaplanes in the Alaskan wilderness. There are no metal detector frames or luggage scanners in the conventional sense.

Formalities Timeline:

• Check-in: It is recommended to arrive at the dock 20–30 minutes before the scheduled departure time.
• Inspection and Weighing: This is the most important part of the process. The pilot or airline representative visually inspects the luggage. Passengers and their bags may be asked to stand on scales, as precise calculation of take-off weight is critical for small aircraft.
• Boarding Ends: Usually 10 minutes before departure.

Navigation and Safety Recommendations:

Be careful when moving around the seaplane base area. Wooden boardwalks and ramps are often wet from spray or rain, becoming very slippery. Hold onto the handrails when crossing from the shore to the floating dock, especially during low tide when the ramp angle becomes steep. Listen carefully to the pilot's commands when boarding the plane: approaching rotating propellers is strictly prohibited.

The history of Elfin Cove Seaplane Base (ELV) differs radically from the chronicles of major international aviation hubs. You will not find dates for the laying of a terminal's foundation stone or a ceremonial ribbon-cutting on a concrete runway here. The history of this place is a chronicle of the settlement of wild Alaska, the development of small-scale shipping, and, of course, the heroic era of "bush pilots" who made the most remote corners of the state accessible.

Origins and Early Years

The settlement of Elfin Cove itself began to form in the 1920s and 1930s as a safe harbour for fishermen who decided to settle closer to the rich fishing grounds of Icy Strait. In those days, the only connection to the outside world was by boat. The need for aviation arose as the settlement grew and the need for prompt delivery of mail, medicines, and seasonal workers increased.

The actual "opening" of the airport can be considered the start of regular seaplane flights to this region, which occurred in the post-war period (late 1940s — 1950s). It was then that small aviation in Alaska experienced a boom, and the calm bay of Elfin Cove became a natural runway created by nature itself.

Stages of Infrastructure Development

For a long time, the airport's "infrastructure" was limited only to the skill of the pilot capable of landing the machine on water and taxiing to a private pier. However, over time, a systemic approach became necessary:

• Mid-20th Century: Official recognition of the bay as a seaplane landing zone. Inclusion of the facility in the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) registries.
• 1960s–1980s: Installation of state floating docks. The Alaska Department of Transportation took on the obligation to ensure safe mooring, separating the zone for planes from numerous fishing vessels.
• Modern Stage: Constant modernisation of docking structures. In the harsh maritime climate, salt water, and strong tides, wooden and metal constructions require regular replacement and repair.

Significant Events and Role in Community Life

For Elfin Cove, the seaplane base has always been something more than just a transport facility. It is a true "lifeline".

• The Postal Era: One of the most important stages in the airport's history was the establishment of regular mail flights. The delivery of correspondence and parcels by seaplanes remains a critically important service for local residents to this day, especially in winter when ship navigation is difficult.
• Tourism Boom: Since the 1990s, when Elfin Cove began to gain fame as the world capital of halibut fishing, passenger traffic through the seaplane base has increased sharply. This required carriers to increase flight frequency and use larger aircraft such as the de Havilland Otter and Beaver.

Interesting Historical Facts

There are several remarkable details in the history of this modest seaplane base that surprise tourists:

• The Name "Gunkhole": Initially, the bay and settlement were called "Gunkhole" (literally a "muddy hole" or "quiet backwater"), and early pilots navigated by this unharmonious name. Only later did the more poetic name Elfin Cove stick to the place, which was also reflected in aviation documents.
• No Controllers: Throughout its existence, there has never been a control tower here. Pilots historically rely on visual landmarks and radio communication between aircraft (on the CTAF frequency), coordinating landing in the narrow bay themselves.
• Rescue Missions: The seaplane base's waters have repeatedly been the starting point for emergency medical evacuations (Medevac). The settlement's history records cases where pilots landed in the most difficult weather conditions to transport patients to the hospital in Juneau, literally saving lives.

Today, Elfin Cove Seaplane Base continues to write its history, remaining a symbol of reliability and the only fast link between this secluded corner and the rest of the world.

The infrastructure and service at Elfin Cove Seaplane Base (ELV) are dictated by its specifics: it is a remote landing site in the wilderness where a wooden dock serves as the terminal. You will not find the usual comforts of major international hubs here, such as Duty Free or business lounges. All "airport amenities" are essentially the amenities of the village itself, located within walking distance of the seaplane mooring point.

Restaurants, Cafés, and Shops

There are no food outlets directly on the floating dock. However, since the dock is in the centre of the settlement, access to food and shopping is literally a couple of minutes' walk along the wooden boardwalks:

• Shops: The only place for shopping is the local General Store. Here you can purchase basic groceries, snacks, beverages, souvenirs with Alaskan symbols, and essential items.
• Dining: Most tourists eat in restaurants at their fishing lodges (usually included in the tour package). For independent travellers, a small seasonal café or dining spot may be open, but their schedule depends on the time of year and weather. It is recommended to carry a supply of water and a snack in case of flight delays.

Financial Services and Communication

You should travel to Elfin Cove prepared, as typical urban services are absent here.

• Banks and Currency Exchange: There are no banks, currency exchange points, or ATMs at the airport or in the village. Credit cards are accepted at the store and lodges, but for small expenses and tips, it is strongly recommended to carry US dollars in cash, withdrawn in advance in Juneau or Anchorage.
• Wi-Fi and Device Charging: There are no public power outlets on the dock. You can only charge your phone at your place of accommodation. Mobile coverage in this area is unstable and depends on the operator. Wi-Fi is available primarily in lodges (often via satellite connection), but speed may be limited.

Waiting Areas and VIP Service

The concept of a VIP lounge in Elfin Cove is replaced by nature itself. There are no special enclosed rooms for waiting for departures on the dock. Passengers await the plane in the fresh air, enjoying views of the bay, or in the lobby of their hotel if it is nearby. In case of bad weather, shelter can be found under the awnings of nearby port buildings.

Services for Passengers with Children

Travelling with children to the seaplane base requires increased attention from parents. There are no mother-and-child rooms or play areas here. The main task is safety: there are no railings on the docks, and the water is icy, so children must be held by the hand and wear life jackets if required by your carrier's rules.

Passengers with Reduced Mobility

The infrastructure of the seaplane base presents challenges for citizens with limited mobility. The main obstacle is the ramps (inclined walkways) between the shore and the floating dock. During strong low tides, the angle of inclination can be very steep.

• Assistance with Boarding: Airline staff are always ready to provide physical assistance when boarding the seaplane, but there is no special lift equipment.
• Movement: The wooden boardwalks of the village are generally suitable for wheelchairs but can be slippery. The need for assistance should be notified to the airline (usually Alaska Seaplanes) at least 48 hours before departure.

Medical Services

There is no medical centre or pharmacy at the airport. The village has limited first aid capabilities provided by local volunteers (EMS). In the event of serious health problems, the only solution is emergency evacuation by seaplane or helicopter to a hospital in Juneau.

Accommodation: Hotels near the Airport

The concept of an "airport hotel" here is as literal as it gets — accommodation is located within a 2–10 minute walk from the plane's steps. The main type of accommodation is Fishing Lodges, offering full board:

• Tanaku Lodge — known for its hospitality and proximity to the dock.
• Waters Edge Lodge — located right by the water, offering comfortable accommodation and fishing tours.
• Elfin Cove Resort — another popular option for fishing enthusiasts.
• Private Rentals: It is possible to rent a room or cabin from locals through booking platforms, but this must be done several months before the trip, as places are scarce.

Business Services

There are no conference rooms or business centres in Elfin Cove. This is a place for digital detox and relaxation. If you need to hold a meeting, the only option would be to arrange the use of a dining hall in one of the lodges during hours free from meal service.

The gastronomic experience at Elfin Cove Seaplane Base (ELV) is as unique as the water landing itself. It is important to note immediately: there are no familiar food courts, chain coffee shops, or restaurants inside the "terminal," as the terminal itself does not exist. The entire spectrum of dining is concentrated a few steps from the dock, on the village's wooden walkways. The choice of establishments is extremely limited but is compensated by the exceptional freshness of the products and the colourful atmosphere.

Location and Accessibility

Since there is no division into "airside" and "landside" zones in Elfin Cove, all establishments are accessible to any passenger until the moment of boarding the plane. All dining points are within walking distance (1–3 minutes walk from the seaplane mooring spot).

Main Establishments

Typically, one or two public places operate in the village where you can eat without being a guest of a private lodge. The most famous and popular is the Coho Bar & Grill.

• Coho Bar & Grill: This is the heart of social life in Elfin Cove. The grill is located right by the water. Here you can have a full lunch or dinner surrounded by local fishermen and pilots. The interior is simple and rustic, but the view of the bay is worth a million dollars.
  • Opening Hours: Depend on the season (usually open only in summer, from May to September). Approximately from 11:00 until late evening.
  • Average Bill: Above average. Lunch will cost $25–40 per person excluding beverages. Prices in Alaska are high due to complex food delivery logistics.

Local Cuisine and Signature Dishes

The gastronomic calling card of Elfin Cove is fish and seafood caught literally a few hours ago. If you find yourself here, you must try:

• Halibut and Chips: The freshest white fish fillet in batter. The local quality standard.
• Grilled Salmon: Wild Alaskan salmon (Coho or Chinook), prepared simply but tastefully.
• Burgers: The grill serves hearty American burgers, which are excellent for satisfying hunger after a flight or fishing.

Dietary Catering (Vegetarian, Halal, Gluten-Free)

Passengers with strict dietary restrictions should be prepared for an extremely limited selection.

• Vegetarians: Will be able to find French fries, salads (coleslaw or green salad), and possibly a vegetarian burger, but this is not guaranteed.
• Vegans: Selection is practically non-existent. It is recommended to carry your own snacks.
• Halal and Kosher: There are no specialized dishes. Tourists strictly observing these norms should limit themselves to vegetarian options, seafood, or bring food with them.
• Gluten-Free: Due to the small size of the kitchen, the risk of cross-contamination is high. There is no special gluten-free menu, but you can order fish without breading with vegetables (check the composition of sauces with the waiter).

Quick Snacks and Shops

If you do not have time to wait for an order at the grill or want to save money, the only alternative is the local store.

• General Store: A general store located on the boardwalk next to the fuel dock.
  • Assortment: Chips, chocolate bars, sodas, jerky, canned goods, and a basic set of products. There is usually no hot takeaway food here.
  • Recommendation: An excellent place to buy water and snacks before departure, as meals are not provided on board seaplanes.

Recommendations for Passengers

For a quick snack before the flight, stop by the General Store 10–15 minutes before departure. If you have an hour or more to spare, feel free to head to the Coho Bar & Grill for the atmosphere of real Alaska. However, remember that service can be leisurely. Always warn the staff that you have a flight soon so they can estimate the cooking time.

Travelling through Elfin Cove Seaplane Base is a unique experience that has little in common with standard flights on large airliners. Here, unwritten rules and laws apply, dictated by the specifics of small aviation and the changeable Alaskan weather. To ensure your flight goes smoothly, we have collected the most important practical tips.

Optimal Arrival Time

Unlike major international hubs, there is no need to arrive 2–3 hours early here. However, being late is not an option either, as seaplanes fly on a tight schedule dependent on daylight hours.

• Arrival: Be at the dock 20–30 minutes before departure. This time is sufficient for the pilot to mark you on the list and prepare luggage for loading.
• Why this is important: The pilot needs time to calculate the aircraft's centre of gravity. If you rush in at the last minute, it may delay the departure for all passengers or even lead to your luggage flying on the next flight.

Check-in, Weighing, and Security

Forget about shoe scanners and metal detector frames. The screening procedure here is visual, and the main emphasis is on weight control.

• Weighing: Be prepared to stand on the scales together with your hand luggage. This is not a whim, but a strict safety requirement for small aircraft. Do not understate your weight when booking — the pilot will verify it anyway.
• Documents: Despite the informal atmosphere, keep your identification (passport or driving licence) with you. The pilot is obliged to ensure they are transporting the passenger listed on the manifest.

Choosing a Seat on the Plane

In seaplanes (usually De Havilland Beaver or Otter), there is no option to select a seat online when buying a ticket. Seating is directed exclusively by the pilot, based on weight distribution (balancing).

• Tip: If you want to sit in the co-pilot seat for the best views, politely ask the pilot before boarding. If the balance allows, they may accommodate you.
• Flexibility: Be prepared to be asked to move seats to level the aircraft. Arguing with the pilot in this case is useless and unsafe.

Hand Luggage and Baggage: What is Allowed and Prohibited

Seaplane luggage compartments have non-standard shapes (luggage is often loaded directly into the floats), so proper packing is critical.

• Type of Bags: We strongly recommend using soft bags or backpacks. Hard suitcases on wheels are difficult to place in limited space, and they may not be accepted on board if the load is full.
• Dangerous Items: It is strictly forbidden to carry bear spray, fuel for burners, and unregistered weapons in the cabin. The presence of such items must be reported to the pilot before loading — they will be placed in the external cargo compartment of the float.
• Electronics: Keep your camera and phone with you or in a small bag on your lap. There will be no access to main luggage during the flight.

Recommendations for Connecting Flights

Elfin Cove is located in a zone with a complex climate, and delays due to fog or wind are commonplace. If you have a connecting flight to the "mainland" from Juneau:

• Time Buffer: Allow a minimum of 2–3 hours between the arrival of the seaplane and the departure of your next flight.
• Insurance: The ideal option is to arrive in Juneau a day before your flight home, especially if you have an expensive international ticket.
• Luggage: There is usually no through-check for luggage. You will have to collect your bags at the dock in Juneau and independently (by taxi or shuttle) get to the main airport terminal to check in your luggage.

Customs Control

Elfin Cove serves primarily domestic flights. There is no border control here. If you are flying from Canada on a private seaplane, you must first land at an official Port of Entry, such as Juneau or Ketchikan, to complete customs formalities, and only then fly to Elfin Cove.

How to Save Time and Money

• Book in Advance: In summer, flights fill up quickly with fishermen and tourists. Buying a ticket several months in advance guarantees a seat.
• Bring Provisions: Prices in the local store are high due to complex logistics. Buy snacks, water, and, if needed, specialty items or beverages in a Juneau supermarket before flying to Elfin Cove.
• Avoid Excess Weight: Tariffs for excess baggage in small aviation are very high ($1–2 per pound). If you have a lot of gear or frozen fish, inquire about the possibility of sending cargo on a separate cargo flight — this is often cheaper.

What to Do in Case of Flight Delay

Weather in Alaska dictates its own rules, and delays should be treated philosophically.

• Stay in Touch: In case of non-flying weather, the airline (Alaska Seaplanes) contacts passengers. Keep your phone on or stay near the lodge office.
• Do Not Wander Far: "Windows" of good weather can open suddenly. If the pilot says "we fly in 15 minutes," you must be on site.
• Waiting Comfort: If the wait drags on, it is best to wait it out at the Coho Bar & Grill or in the lobby of your lodge, where there is warmth and hot drinks, rather than freezing in the wind on the dock.