Our Story
What began with one apartment for visiting fishermen has grown into a family of vacation homes on Knudson Cove—built, furnished, and cared for by Wanda.
We look forward to welcoming you to the place we’ve proudly called home for many years.
How We Got Here
Hi, I’m Wanda. Alaska has been my home since 1975, when my late husband Darrell and I packed up and drove north from California. We landed in Ketchikan after a few years on Annette Island, and this place has had my heart ever since.
Almost Home got its start in 1986, when I turned an apartment into a place for visiting fishermen to stay. That grew into Totem Bight Inn, which my son and his wife now run. A few years later, Darrell and I built Knudson Cove Retreat and Knudson Cove Lodge on our property overlooking the marina — and some of the same groups have been coming back for over 30 years.
I fill every property with the little things that make a house feel like home. And I still wake up every morning to the same water and mountains that made us fall in love with this place.
What Sets Us Apart
Every home is one of ours — Knudson Cove Retreat and Knudson Cove Lodge — built and furnished by our own family, not managed on someone else's behalf.
Well-stocked kitchens, gas barbecue grills, and HE washers and dryers — everything you need to feel at home after a day out.
We live right here in Ketchikan. Questions about fishing spots, tides, or where to eat get answered by someone who actually knows.
Our properties overlook Knudson Cove, with water and mountain views right outside your window.
We check every detail before you arrive — clean linens, stocked kitchens, and a home that's ready the moment you walk in.
Whether it’s just the two of you or a group of 10 or more, we have a home that fits — take a look and find yours.
Wildlife, Fishing & Fjords — All Nearby
Cast into pristine waters and reel in unforgettable memories.
Witness magnificent whales in their natural Alaskan habitat.
Spot Alaska’s iconic bald eagles soaring above the coastline.
Paddle through serence waters surrounded by breathtaking views.
Discover Scenic trails and untouched landscapes at your own pace.
Explore the dramatic beauty of Alaska’s mistry fjords.
Cruise the coastine and experience Alaska’s from a whole new perspective
Capture the raw, natural beauty of Alaska’s wild landscapes.
You walk in tired from a day on the water, and everything you need is already there. The kitchen is stocked, the grill is ready, and there’s a spot on the deck with a view of the cove for whenever you want to sit down and just breathe.
We furnished these homes the way we’d want to find them ourselves — comfortable, well-kept, and ready for whatever your day looked like.
Whether it’s a week of fishing or a few days of slowing down, our homes are built to feel like Almost Home from the moment you walk in.
Answer a couple quick questions and
we’ll point you to the property that fits.
Knudson Cove Retreat’s 1-bedroom is your match – a comfortable, quiet stay on the water, with room for up to 7.
You’ll want the 3-bedroom at Knudson Cove Retreat — plenty of space for the group, with the same water views.
Knudson Cove Lodge is built for groups of all sizes, right on the cove.
Knudson Cove Lodge is built for groups of all sizes, right on the cove.
Arrive and let the fresh, mountain air, sea breezes, and breathtaking scenery transport you to a simpler time – our cozy, inviting accommodations make for the perfect home base for exploring our pristine area
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