We are proud to call Shearwater Cove a wilderness Eco-lodge, but what does the term ‘eco-lodge’ actually mean?
Like many terms attached to travel and tourism, ‘eco-lodge’ is a descriptor for an accommodation that meets specific criteria. The term ‘eco-lodge’ represents both the style and value system of overnight accommodations built in a natural or rural area that work just as hard to protect the environment as they do to create a meaningful atmosphere and set of activities for guests.
To be classified as an ecolodge, properties must be located in an undisturbed, remote natural area with a heavy emphasis on having the lowest impact possible in all facets of operation. Additionally, owners, staff, and guests are all active participants in protecting nature, wildlife, and culturally sensitive areas.
An eco-lodge should follow these basic principles:
Complement the physical, natural, and cultural environments through attention to design and landscaping, and if possible, with building materials
Utilize practices for renewable energy, waste management, and water acquisition
Offer opportunities for staff and guests to explore, learn, and participate in activities related to the area’s historical or cultural significance and conservation efforts
Shearwater Cove’s commitment to sustainability and the environment:
Yurts were chosen early on as the ideal accommodation for our remote location in order to have the lowest possible impact on the land. In addition, our yurts are made locally in Homer, Alaska. We believe that resiliency in small business comes through supporting each other, and we have used locally made products and building materials wherever possible.
Foot traffic is concentrated on wooden boardwalks and foot paths which were built to move with, and around, the natural contours of the landscape. Guests are asked to remain on our boardwalks and foot paths in order to preserve the natural vegetation surrounding the yurts.
Reusable containers and earth-friendly, biodegradable toiletries are provided for guest use. You won’t find any single-use, throw-away plastics here!
Recycling bins are provided in each yurt. Recycling is sorted and transported back to Seward for proper disposal.
The well-designed layout of the yurts allows us to collect and use rainwater for showers, and to provide excellent water pressure simply with gravity.
A solar array and batteries purchased from a renewable energy dealer in Fairbanks provide the electricity needed for lighting and heating in the Premier Yurts. Future renewable energy developments at Shearwater Cove include a hydroelectric system to supply power to all 7 yurts.
Composting toilets are used to reduce water usage and avoid disturbing the landscape with a septic system. Black waste is transported back to Seward for proper disposal.
The main activities at Shearwater Cove of sea kayaking and hiking are low-impact and enable guests to experience this pristine area in a sustainable way. Sea kayaking is a culturally significant skill of the Indigenous Peoples who inhabited this area.
We are committed to recognizing and honoring the Indigenous Peoples who have lived on this land since time immemorial. Read more about our land acknowledgment on our Home page.
We recognize that some non-renewable fuels are still necessary to operate Shearwater Cove including propane for heat and cooking, and fuel for our boats. We purchase efficient appliances to reduce fuel consumption, ask guests to turn off their heaters at night and when they are not in their yurts, and consolidate boat trips as much as possible to reduce our carbon footprint.
