Description
A ten-minute boat run from Crescent Harbor, three miles southwest of Sitka, Mertz Island sits in the protected waters of Sitka Sound with two entirely different outlooks -- one across open water toward the islands and the far shore, the other into a sheltered cove where the docks lie. Sitka spruce and western hemlock, secluded beaches, tide pools, and forest paths make up the 3.75+- acres. Whales, sea otters, bald eagles, harbor seals, sea lions, herons, mink, and deer are common throughout the year. Two turnkey residences accommodate up to sixteen. The 1,556+- SF custom Pan Abode main home sits above the shoreline, finished in warm natural materials with sweeping views across the Sound. The 1,013+- SF waterfront guest cabin stands steps from the water, facing the protected bay. Both convey fully furnished -- furniture, linens, cookware, washer and dryer, professional tools, and maintenance equipment, less the owners' artwork and personal effects. Marine access is the heart of the property. A secure private dock with boat ramp receives arrivals steps from the guest cabin, while a separate utility dock handles freight and equipment -- a 1,000-pound davit lifts outboards, generators, and supply loads directly from the water without crossing the guest landing. Two docks mean the working side of island life never interrupts the living side. The island is engineered for year-round independence. Solar panels, battery bank, and Victron inverters carry the load; a 15 kW Generac and Honda units stand behind them. A 6,000-gallon filtered rainwater cistern feeds the kitchen directly. Full plumbing, hot showers, flush toilets, dishwasher, and septic. A high-efficiency wood stove and 36,000 BTU heat pump hold comfort through winter. Starlink delivers high-speed internet. Two outbuildings serve workshop, storage, and utility functions. An expansive waterfront sun deck opens onto turquoise water, and a cedar boardwalk runs the shoreline connecting the residences. Rarely does a private island of this caliber come to market ten minutes from a town like Sitka -- Alaska Airlines jet service, year-round restaurants, three grocery stores, hardware and marine supply, and a full-service harbor. Whether held as a family estate, an executive retreat, or a private residence, Mertz Island offers self-sufficiency without isolation and wilderness without compromise. Offered as real property. Access by vessel -- weather- and tide-dependent.
