The Yacht

The unusual name, Sumdum, has intriguing origins in one of Southeast Alaska's most beautiful, rarely visited regions, Endicott Arm, site of the abandoned Tlingit village of Sumdum. Over one hundred years ago, John Muir visited this village on a trip that resulted in the discovery of Glacier Bay. Awed by a grandeur that silenced even the Indians of the region, Muir wrote eloquently about several "first-class glaciers," the luxurious vegetation, purest blue icebergs, numerous chamois, and greatest array of sheer cliffs and waterfalls he had ever beheld in Alaska. Unlike many once remarkable areas, the magnificence of the Sumdum region has endured. John Muir's journal could have been written yesterday.

The SUMDUM is not simply a yacht designed for sunnier climes, then transported to Alaska. Rather, it is engineered for comfort in a climate subject to rapid and unexpected changes and for the negotiation of the demanding waters in this region.

The 80-foot yacht was completed in 1987 by seasoned builder Tom Nelson of Seattle. Based on a sound knowledge of conditions in Alaskan coastal areas, the owner and builder have incorporated structural specifications, engineered systems and materials which customize the craft for exceptional safety and comfort.

In addition, Sumdum now has four new double kayaks and a new crow's nest on the fly bridge for 360-degree viewing with the Sumdum's high-powered marine binoculars.