|
|
|
Can I drive to Kodiak?
No, however the Alaska State Ferry System serves Kodiak with service on the M/V Tustemena & M/V Kennicott. The ferry ride from Homer (on the Kenai Pennisula) takes about 12 hours.
How far is the airport from downtown Kodiak?
The airport is 6 miles from downtown Kodiak. Rental cars (rates vary) are available at the terminal & regular taxi cab service ($20-$25 fare to Kodiak)
Do I need to charter a boat to Spruce Island?
Boat rides are volunteered by licensed skippers, and a donation is welcome to help offset fuel costs. Boats range from small craft to commercial fishing vessels. Boats leave from Oscar’s Dock (St. Paul Harbor) in downtown Kodiak at 8:00 a.m. and return at various times. Boat schedules will be posted the day before the pilgrimage at Holy Resurrection Cathedral and on the beach at Spruce Island. Plan on leaving Kodiak at 8:00 a.m. and returning around 4:00 p.m.
Pilgrims wishing to hire a private boat may contact the Kodiak Visitor’s Bureau for a list of local charter boats.
Life preservers (vests) are required for every person. Holy Resurrection Cathedral has a limited number available. It is wise to bring your own life vest if you are able to access one.
All pilgrims will be required to sign a waiver of liability form before embarking to Spruce Island.
Do you provide shuttle (bus) service around Kodiak?
Bus service to and from St. Mary's Gymnasium (for the Grand Banquet & St. Yakov's Tea) WILL be available. However, transportation to and from hotels, stores, the airport etc... is NOT provided.
What about hotel shuttle service?
Check with the hotel you have reservations with about their shuttle service availability.
If you are staying at the Comfort Inn, (formely the Buskin Inn) you will need to plan on renting a car or taking a local taxi because of it's location next to the airport. (6 miles from downtown Kodiak)
The other hotels are within walking distance of the Cathedral & Seminary.
How far in advance should I make my reservation?
The sooner the better! The few hotel rooms in Kodiak fill up fast in the summer months. While there are bed & breakfast places around town, many of these are booked over a year in advance.
Is this event handicap accessible?
Yes! Events at the Cathedral, Seminary, and St. Mary's Gymnasium are all handicap accessible.
Please contact Holy Resurrection Cathedral if you have special needs and plan to attend the events on Spruce Island. You will be directed to a specific vessel for the trip.
Is there a fee for any of the events?
There is a fee for the Grand Banquet. Tickets are $30 for individuals and $50 for couples/families. Tickets may be purchased at the gift shop at Holy Resurrection Cathedral and at the door.
Where can I make a donation?
There will be many opportunities to make a general donation for the church or a donation earmarked for a specific work. Donations made at Spruce Island are used for the upkeep of the facilities there and for the establishment of the monastery foretold by Saint Herman. Donations for the boat trip should be made directly to the skipper upon your return to Kodiak.
How long should I plan to stay?
While the pilgrimage itself is only 3 days, it is worth your time and resources to come a few days early, or stay a few days after. There is so much to see and do in Kodiak!
What else will be offered at the Pilgrimage?
Educational talks and tours will be offered, as well as time for pilgrims to pray quietly at the relics of St. Herman. A pilgrimage guide will be offered to every pilgrim with the schedule of events and made available online to help you prepare for your pilgrimage.
Both the Cathedral Gift Shop and Monk’s Rock Café & Bookstore will be open for the purchase of gifts, icons, crosses and Orthodox books.
|
|
Latest Update: Friday, April 16, 2010
Official web site of the Diocese of Alaska, Orthodox Church in America
Copyright © 2010 All Rights Reserved
|
|
|
