Community, Yachting & Wellness in Sitka

A Town That Welcomes the Sea

When M/Y Unbridled docked in Sitka, Alaska, it wasn’t the rare sunshine or dramatic backdrop that first struck Captain Liam Devlin and his crew — it was the people. The town of just 8,000 opens its arms to visitors in a way that lingers long after departure.

“You can be here and it can be raining and it could be the worst weather… but I feel like it’s the people, the people that welcome you into the community.”— Emily Davis, Cruise Line Agencies of Alaska

From Minnesota to Sitka

Emily’s own story echoes that theme of welcome. Moving from Minnesota in fifth grade, she quickly discovered that Sitka’s diverse, tight-knit culture had a rhythm of its own. Today, she not only represents yachts and cruise ships through her work with Cruise Line Agencies of Alaska, but also invests deeply in the town’s wellbeing through her fitness and wellness business, The Studio by Emily.

“I just love learning and continually learning. I feel like I’m on this earth for that reason — to learn, to teach, and to give back.”— Emily Davis

Yachting Meets Community

Sitka is gaining recognition among yacht owners and captains, with more superyachts arriving than expected in the past season. While large cruise ships double the town’s population on some days, yachts bring a quieter impact, seeking authentic experiences with locals.

“We had maybe 13 yachts this season — more than expected — and sometimes they just show up. People are finding out this place even exists, and it’s taken this long to put us on the map.”— Emily Davis

That surge has created opportunities for local businesses, from provisioning to cultural experiences. For many yacht guests, what makes Sitka memorable isn’t the itinerary but the interactions — with fishermen on the dock, with families running lodges, or with instructors like Emily who bring wellness directly to the crew and guests.

The Rise of Wellness in Yachting

Beyond logistics, Emily’s passion lies in health and wellness. At The Studio by Emily, she has spent 17 years teaching yoga, Pilates, and group fitness, and is now expanding to a new location closer to the harbor. For her, wellness isn’t a trend — it’s a way of life that resonates with visiting yachts.

“My highlight of the whole season was when one of the yachts asked if I knew anyone who taught yoga. It meant so much to connect them with someone local and bring that experience onboard.”— Emily Davis

Captain Liam agreed, noting that yachts like Unbridled are increasingly blending traditional adventure with wellness retreats. Yoga, Pilates, and mindful downtime are becoming as much a part of the charter experience as fine dining or water toys.

Sitka’s Natural Riches

While wellness brings balance onboard, Sitka’s nature offers its own therapy. From the towering totems at Totem Park to the quiet seclusion of Twin Islands Retreat, the town delivers world-class experiences within minutes of the harbor.

“Within five minutes you’re into nature right away. Huge trees, salmon streams, peaceful trails — it’s just world-class.”— Captain Liam Devlin

Fishing also remains central to Sitka’s identity, even as tourism grows. Emily’s four sons all spent time on fishing boats, and she notes that while the work is demanding, it keeps Sitka rooted to the sea.

The Studio by Emily

As Sitka looks ahead to another season, Emily’s studio represents the blending of local culture and global yachting. Offering memberships, group classes, and even a recovery room with infrared therapy, her business reflects both the resilience of Sitka’s community and the evolving expectations of yacht guests.

“I’m ready just to be — not moving anymore. This will be my last studio, a place where people can feel healthy, connected, and part of something.”— Emily Davis

A Place Like No Other

For yachts seeking more than a destination, Sitka Alaska is increasingly a port of choice — not just for its stunning scenery, but for its people. In conversations like this one, it’s clear why crew, captains, and guests alike are finding reasons to return.

“It’s tough to find good quality people when you travel a lot… but here in Sitka, you really do feel welcome.”— Captain Liam Devlin

Sitka is not just a stop on the map. It’s a community that weaves visitors into its story — one handshake, one yoga class, one shared meal of fresh salmon at a time.